

Maasai Mara game drives · Big Five wildlife viewing
Starting from
USD 850 / person
Explore the destinations included in this safari
The Maasai Mara is one of Kenya's most celebrated safari destinations, known for open grasslands, abundant wildlife and dramatic predator-prey encounters.
This 4-day itinerary gives you enough time to experience the reserve without rushing between several destinations.
Starting and ending in Nairobi, the safari focuses on the Maasai Mara once you arrive.
TipFour days provides a good balance for a Mara safari, giving you several opportunities to explore different areas of the reserve.
Depart Nairobi in the morning and travel toward the Maasai Mara.
The journey takes you through the Great Rift Valley and into the changing landscapes of southwestern Kenya.
After arriving in the Mara region, settle into your accommodation before heading out for an afternoon game drive.
Possible wildlife sightings include:

NoteWildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Your guide will use current animal movements and local knowledge to determine suitable areas to explore.
Return to your camp or lodge for dinner and overnight.
Wake early for a morning game drive across the reserve.
The early hours are often productive for wildlife viewing because temperatures are cooler and many animals are active.
Return for breakfast before continuing with a longer safari through the Mara.
You may explore different sections of the reserve in search of predators, elephants, giraffes and large herbivore herds.
TipA full-day game drive gives your guide more flexibility to spend time observing interesting wildlife encounters instead of returning to camp at midday.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in an appropriate designated area before continuing the safari.
Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon.
Start with another early morning game drive.
Having a second full safari day gives your guide another opportunity to explore areas that may have been less productive on the previous day.
The day can focus on:
Safari vehicle observing a pride of lions resting beneath an acacia tree on the Maasai Mara plains during the early morning.
WarningNever leave the safari vehicle unless your guide confirms that the location and activity are safe and permitted.
An optional cultural visit to a Maasai community can also be arranged where appropriate.
Return to camp or lodge for dinner and overnight.
Enjoy an early morning game drive before breakfast.
This final drive provides one last opportunity to explore the Mara and photograph wildlife in the cooler morning light.
Return to the lodge or camp for breakfast before beginning the journey back to Nairobi.
Arrive in Nairobi later in the day, with drop-off available at:
NoteRoad travel times can vary depending on traffic, weather and road conditions.
This safari is designed for travelers who want to experience the Maasai Mara properly without adding several destinations to the itinerary.
Instead of spending most of the trip driving between parks, you stay within the Mara ecosystem and use the additional time for wildlife viewing.
TipThe itinerary can be adjusted for budget accommodation, upgraded lodges or luxury safari camps.
The Maasai Mara is a year-round safari destination.
| Travel Period | Typical Experience |
|---|---|
| Dry periods | Often easier wildlife viewing |
| Green season | Lush scenery and fewer visitors in some areas |
| Migration period | Large concentrations of wildebeest may be present |
| Early morning | Cooler temperatures and active wildlife |
| Late afternoon | Good wildlife viewing and photography conditions |
NoteThe Great Migration follows natural animal movements, so sightings and river crossings cannot be guaranteed on specific dates.
This tour is suitable for:
Comfortable safari camps offering essential facilities and good access to the reserve.
Well-appointed camps and lodges with comfortable accommodation, meals and convenient access to safari areas.
Premium safari camps and lodges offering upgraded accommodation, personalized service and a more exclusive wilderness experience.
NoteExact accommodation depends on availability, travel dates and the selected budget category.
Bring:
WarningWildlife should never be approached, fed or disturbed. Always follow your safari guide's instructions.
ZikaraLink Travel can customize this safari around your preferred accommodation, travel dates and budget.
Planning can include:
NoteFour days gives you the time to slow down, explore different parts of the Mara and experience Kenya's wildlife without turning the safari into a race between destinations.