Detail Location |
Location Here
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Tour Start Date |
2027/05/13 |
Tour End Date |
2027/05/15 |
Last Booking Date |
2021/05/03 |
Address in Map |
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A 3-day Maasai Mara safari
Day 1: Arrival and Evening Game Drive
Morning:
- Departure from Nairobi (or your preferred starting point): Early morning departure, typically around 7:00 AM. The drive to Maasai Mara takes approximately 5-6 hours, passing through scenic countryside with a stop for breakfast or lunch along the way. You’ll also get a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy some roadside views.
Afternoon:
- Arrival at your Maasai Mara camp or lodge (around 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM). Once you arrive, check into your accommodation. Depending on the location of your lodge/camp, you'll likely be welcomed with a refreshing drink, and given time to freshen up.
- Lunch: Enjoy a hearty lunch either at the lodge or in a nearby dining area, with sweeping views of the Mara plains.
Evening:
- First Game Drive (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM): After lunch and a brief rest, you'll head out for your first game drive. The evening safari is a great time to spot wildlife as the animals begin to be more active after the heat of the day.
- Expect to see: Elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, impalas, and perhaps even the elusive leopard or cheetah.
- Sunset: The drive is timed to ensure you witness the stunning Maasai Mara sunset – a perfect opportunity for some beautiful photos.
- Return to camp/lodge after the game drive for dinner and an overnight stay. You might have the option to enjoy a traditional Maasai dance or storytelling by the campfire, depending on your lodge’s activities.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive and Picnic Lunch
Morning:
- Early Wake-Up Call (5:30 AM – 6:00 AM): You’ll start your second day with an early morning game drive, typically leaving the camp at 6:00 AM. The early morning is the best time to spot wildlife as predators are active, and many herbivores are grazing.
- Breakfast in the Bush: Most safari packages include a breakfast in the bush on your morning game drive. This is usually a picnic breakfast with coffee, pastries, fruit, and eggs. It’s an incredible experience to enjoy breakfast surrounded by nature, possibly with giraffes and wildebeests in the background.
- Morning Game Drive (6:30 AM – 9:30 AM): The early game drive is a great opportunity to see predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas before they retreat into the shade. You might also catch a glimpse of elephants and other grazers, such as buffaloes, during their morning forage.
Late Morning to Afternoon:
- Picnic Lunch in the Wilderness (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM): After your morning drive, you’ll stop at a scenic spot for a picnic lunch. Some safaris offer the option of having a lunch in the Mara’s wilderness—eating outdoors with stunning views of the landscape and the chance to spot more wildlife nearby. It’s a perfect time to relax and enjoy nature’s bounty.
- Afternoon Game Drive (2:00 PM – 4:30 PM): After lunch, you’ll continue your game drive. This is an excellent opportunity to head deeper into the reserve, exploring areas with fewer tourists. If you're lucky, you might witness a predator kill or see animals migrating between the Mara and Serengeti (especially if you're visiting during the migration season, around July–October).
Evening:
- Return to camp/lodge (5:30 PM – 6:00 PM): After a full day of wildlife sightings, you’ll return to your lodge or camp for some rest before dinner.
- Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner, either a buffet or a set menu, depending on your camp/lodge. Many lodges also have a bar area where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventures with other travelers.
Day 3: Early Morning Game Drive & Return to Nairobi
Morning:
- Early Game Drive (6:00 AM – 8:30 AM): On your final day, you’ll embark on one last early morning safari. This is a great chance to catch any species you may have missed on the previous days and see the Mara in the soft light of morning.
- Breakfast at Camp (9:00 AM): After your early morning game drive, return to your camp or lodge for a satisfying breakfast.
Midday:
- Optional Activity (Optional, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): If you’re interested, some safari packages offer a visit to a Maasai village, where you can learn about the Maasai culture, their traditional lifestyle, and their connection with the land. This could be a great way to cap off your Maasai Mara experience.
Afternoon:
- Check-Out and Transfer Back to Nairobi (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM): After lunch, check out of your accommodation and begin your journey back to Nairobi. You’ll have time to relax as you travel back, taking in the landscape one last time. If you’re flying back, you’ll typically head to Keekorok airstrip or another local airstrip for your flight back.
Optional Add-Ons for a 3-Day Safari:
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: A very popular and unforgettable experience! You can opt for an early morning hot air balloon ride on Day 2 or Day 3. The balloon ride includes breathtaking views of the Mara plains at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.
- Maasai Village Visit: Learn about the Maasai tribe’s unique customs, traditions, and lifestyle. The village visit can be scheduled on Day 3 before you head back to Nairobi.
Conclusion:
A 3-day Maasai Mara safari offers a wonderful balance of game viewing, relaxation, and cultural experiences. You’ll be able to witness a variety of wildlife, experience incredible landscapes, and enjoy authentic Maasai culture. While short, this itinerary will give you a memorable and fulfilling Maasai Mara adventure.
1. Visa Requirements:
- e-Visa: Most visitors need a visa to enter Kenya. You can apply online for an e-Visa at the official website.
- Exemptions: Citizens from some countries (e.g., Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa) don’t need a visa for short stays.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination: You might need proof of yellow fever vaccination depending on your travel history.
2. Safari & Game Drive Rules:
- Use Authorized Vehicles: Game drives must be done in licensed safari vehicles.
- No Off-Roading: Stay on designated tracks; no off-road driving except in some private conservancies.
- Stay at Safe Distances: Keep a safe distance from wild animals and avoid loud noise.
- Photography: Allowed (but no drones without special permission)
3. Park Fees:
- Conservation Fees: You’ll need to pay a park entry fee when entering Maasai Mara (rates vary for residents and non-residents).
- Accommodation Costs: Costs for staying at lodges or camps vary depending on the type of accommodation.
1. Booking and Payment Terms
- Booking Confirmation: A booking is confirmed once the travel agency receives a deposit or full payment from the client. Confirmation may be provided via email or in writing.
- Deposit Requirement: Most agencies will require a deposit (usually 30-50% of the total cost) to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is due closer to the departure date (e.g., 30-60 days before travel).
- Payment Methods: Payments are typically accepted via bank transfer, credit card, or online payment systems like PayPal. Any fees for processing payments may be added to the total cost.
- Final Payment: Full payment is usually required 30-60 days before departure. If the final payment is not received by the due date, the agency may cancel the booking.
2. Cancellation Policy
- Before 60 Days: Usually, the agency will refund a significant portion of the deposit or total amount (minus a cancellation fee).
- Within 30-59 Days: You might lose part of your deposit, or the agency may charge a 50-75% cancellation fee.
- Within 30 Days: Full payment may be non-refundable, depending on the terms of the accommodation and operators involved.