Masai Mara National Reserve Kenya is considered a “must see” for any new visitor traveling on a safari to Kenya. It is on the “to do” list for many Kenyans and visitors alike because the park is graced by a wide variety of unique birds and wildlife including lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, giraffes and more. Unlike the other big cats, lions live in prides of 20-30 members. Each pride may have one to three males. You are guaranteed to see Kenyan lions on a Kenya safari tours to the Masai mara National Reserve. Other wildlife of interest includes wildebeest great migration.
Mara 2-day safari luxury $495, Standard USD495 Budget USD395 per person
Mara is famous for its big game and its great scenic beauty; the landscape is dominated by the big five (elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, leopard). Daily departure from Nairobi.
3 Days Maasai Mara Safari Itinerary
A 3-day safari to the 🐘 Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular short wildlife trips from Nairobi. It usually includes transport, accommodation, park fees, meals, and game drives.
Below is a typical 3 Days / 2 Nights Masai Mara safari itinerary.
Day 1: Nairobi → Maasai Mara
- Early morning pickup in Nairobi (around 7:00–8:00 AM).
- Drive through the Great Rift Valley with a scenic viewpoint stop.
- Arrive in Maasai Mara National Reserve around lunchtime.
- Check in at lodge or tented camp.
- Afternoon game drive (3–6 PM).
Possible animals:
- Lions
- Elephants
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Cheetahs
Dinner and overnight at the lodge/camp.
Day 2: Full-Day Safari
- Early sunrise game drive (best time for predators).
- Breakfast at the camp or packed breakfast.
- Full-day game viewing inside the reserve.
Animals you may see:
- Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino
- Wildebeest and zebras
- Hyenas and cheetahs
Optional activities:
- Hot air balloon safari (extra cost).
- Visit a Maasai village to experience local culture.
Day 3: Maasai Mara → Nairobi
- Early morning short game drive.
- Breakfast at the camp.
- Depart for Nairobi.
- Arrival in the afternoon (around 3–5 PM).
Average Price (3 Days Safari)
Typical prices depend on vehicle and accommodation:
- Budget safari: $240 – $400 per person
- Mid-range safari: $500 – $1200 per person
- Luxury safari: $1500+ per person
Usually includes:
- Transport in safari vehicle
- Accommodation (2 nights)
- Park entrance fees
- Game drives
- All meals
Best Time to Visit
The best wildlife viewing is June – October during the dry season and the famous Great Migration when millions of animals cross into the Mara.
Tip: Morning and evening game drives give the best wildlife sightings because animals are more active when temperatures are cooler.
If you want, I can also show you:
- Best 3-day Masai Mara safari packages from Nairobi (cheap, mid-range, luxury)
The top lodges and camps in the Masai Mara