This 4-Day Maasai Mara Safari takes you on a scenic drive from Nairobi into one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. The reserve spans over 1,510 km² of open savannah, riverine forests, and rolling plains, home to the legendary Big Five and abundant birdlife.
During the safari, you’ll enjoy multiple game drives led by an experienced guide, visit a traditional Maasai village, explore the Mara River on a guided nature walk, and have the option to experience a sunrise hot air balloon safari (at an additional cost). If you travel between July and October, you may also witness the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration.
Extensive game drives in Kenya’s top wildlife reserve
Chance to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo
Visit the Mara River, home to hippos and crocodiles
Cultural interaction with the Maasai community
Over 470 bird species across diverse habitats
4-Day Maasai Mara Safari Itinerary
Your safari begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by our professional Nelwen Tours safari guide. You will travel in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle, enjoying scenic views of the Great Rift Valley and rural Kenya along the way.
Upon arrival in Maasai Mara around midday, you will check in at your lodge or safari camp and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch. In the afternoon, you will head out on your first game drive, where you may spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and big cats such as lions and cheetahs.
After the game drive, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Overnight: Safari lodge/camp in Maasai Mara
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
After an early breakfast, you will depart for a full-day game drive with a packed lunch. This day is dedicated to exploring deeper parts of the Maasai Mara, maximizing your chances of spotting the Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
You will visit the famous Mara River, home to hippos and crocodiles, and a key crossing point during the Great Wildebeest Migration. Your guide will share insights about wildlife behavior, ecosystems, and conservation efforts.
In the late afternoon, you will return to your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
Overnight: Safari lodge/camp in Maasai Mara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Start your morning with breakfast before heading out for a guided nature walk along the Mara River with a trained ranger. This walk allows you to learn about smaller wildlife, plants, animal tracks, and the natural environment of the reserve.
After returning to the lodge for lunch, you will visit a traditional Maasai village. Here, you will interact with the Maasai people, learn about their culture, customs, traditional dances, and way of life, an authentic cultural experience arranged by Nelwen Tours and Safaris.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy another game drive, perfect for photography as wildlife becomes more active during golden hour.
Overnight: Safari lodge/camp in Maasai Mara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After an early breakfast, you will enjoy a final morning game drive, giving you one last chance to spot any animals you may have missed. For those interested, an optional hot air balloon safari can be arranged at sunrise (extra cost).
You will then return to the lodge for lunch before beginning your journey back to Nairobi, arriving in the evening. Our team will drop you off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of your memorable safari with Nelwen Tours and Safaris.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
What activities are included?
Multiple game drives and a cultural visit to a Maasai village.
What animals can I see?
Lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos, cheetahs, wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and hundreds of bird species.
Where will I stay?
Comfortable mid-range lodges such as Mara Sopa Lodge, Keekorok Lodge, or similar.
Is the safari physically demanding?
No. The safari involves vehicle-based game drives and short walks, suitable for most travelers.
What should I pack?
Light clothing, warm layers for mornings, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and a camera.
Maasai Mara National Reserve