MASAI MARA · 3 DAYS
3-Day Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi
The classic short safari: two nights in the Masai Mara with full game drives in search of lions, cheetahs, elephants and, from July to October, the Great Migration.
Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Parks: Masai Mara National Reserve
Style: Group or private
From $650 pp + park fees (group) · from $950 pp (mid-range)
Day by day
Day 1: Nairobi to the Masai Mara
Morning pick-up in Nairobi and drive west through the Great Rift Valley, with a stop at the viewpoint. Arrive in the Mara area around lunchtime, check in, and head out on your first afternoon game drive.
Day 2: Full day in the Masai Mara
A full day exploring the reserve with a picnic lunch, so you can follow the action without returning to camp. Look for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo and, in season, the wildebeest herds and river crossings.
Day 3: Morning drive and return to Nairobi
An early game drive when the animals are most active, then breakfast and the drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
What is included
Included
- Professional driver-guide
- Toyota Land Cruiser 4×4 with pop-up roof
- Game drives as per itinerary
- Park and reserve entry fees
- Accommodation and meals as listed
- Pick-up and drop-off in Nairobi
- Drinking water on game drives
Not included
- International flights
- Kenya eTA (entry authorisation)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and lodge staff
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Optional extras such as balloon flights or village visits
Group (budget) prices exclude park fees, which we help you pay online; mid-range prices include them. Prices are per person sharing, based on two travellers. Final price depends on travel dates, lodges and group size.
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for the Masai Mara?
It gives you one full day and two part days in the reserve, enough to see a lot. If you can, add a night: 4 days in the Mara is more relaxed.
Can I add a balloon flight?
Yes. A sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the Mara can be added at extra cost.
Where you stay
- Budget (group): a comfortable tented camp just outside the reserve, with en-suite tents and hot showers.
- Mid-range: a lodge or permanent tented camp close to the reserve gates, with full board.
- Upgrade: spend one or both nights at a luxury camp in a private conservancy.
Exact camps depend on availability and your dates; your quote names them.
Why this itinerary works
Three days is the shortest trip that still gives you a full day in the reserve. Driving from Nairobi through the Great Rift Valley is part of the experience, and you arrive in time for an afternoon game drive on day one. If you have more time, add a night in the Mara or continue to Lake Nakuru and Naivasha.
Want this safari, your way?
Send us your dates and we’ll adapt this itinerary to you, with a clear price.