Masai Mara Safaris From Nairobi
Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife diversity, and the annual Great Migration, the Masai Mara offers an unparalleled safari experience. For many visitors, the journey to the Masai Mara begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital city. Whether you’re arriving from the other side of the world or already in Nairobi, the safari adventure of a lifetime is just a few hours away.
Why Start Your Safari from Nairobi?
Nairobi is the main gateway to the Masai Mara, and starting your safari here offers several advantages:
- Accessibility: Nairobi is well-connected to international destinations via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), making it easy for travelers from around the world to begin their safari adventure.
- Convenience: Starting your safari from Nairobi allows for easy logistics, with numerous options for transportation, accommodations, and safari packages tailored to suit different budgets and preferences.
- Diverse Experiences: Before heading to the Masai Mara, Nairobi offers unique cultural and wildlife experiences, such as visiting the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, the Giraffe Centre, or Nairobi National Park.
Getting to Nairobi: Your Gateway to the Masai Mara
Your journey to the Masai Mara typically begins with your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. JKIA is a major hub in East Africa, serving numerous international airlines and connecting flights to various destinations across the continent. Upon arrival, our safari team will be there to welcome you and assist with your transfer, whether it’s to your hotel or directly to the Masai Mara, depending on your arrival time.
Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)
As you step off the plane and into JKIA, you’ll immediately feel the excitement of your upcoming adventure. JKIA is a modern airport, equipped with all the amenities you need after a long flight. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you will be greeted by our professional safari guide who will be holding a sign with your name.
Depending on your arrival time, we will either take you directly to your hotel in Nairobi to rest or, if you arrive early in the morning, we can start your journey to the Masai Mara right away.
Starting Your Safari Adventure from Nairobi
For most of our guests, the Masai Mara safari begins the day after arrival. This allows you to rest and acclimatize after your international flight. Here’s what you can expect on the day your safari adventure begins.
Morning Pick-Up and Briefing
Your safari day begins with a pick-up from your Nairobi hotel around 9:00 AM. Our professional guide will meet you in the hotel lobby, where you'll receive a short briefing about the day's itinerary, including what to expect on the journey and the details of your stay in the Masai Mara.
After the briefing, you’ll set off for the Masai Mara, with the option to travel by road or by air. Both options offer distinct experiences, and your choice will depend on your preferences and budget.
Option 1: Journey by Road
The Scenic Drive to the Masai Mara
Traveling by road from Nairobi to the Masai Mara offers a unique opportunity to experience the changing landscapes of Kenya. The journey covers approximately 250 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
The road trip is an adventure in itself, as you’ll pass through diverse terrains, from the bustling streets of Nairobi to the serene countryside. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to stop at the viewpoint of the Great Rift Valley, offering spectacular panoramic views and photo opportunities.
Highlights of the Road Journey
- The Great Rift Valley: The drive takes you through the escarpments of the Great Rift Valley, a geographical and cultural landmark that stretches from Lebanon to Mozambique. The viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the valley and is a perfect spot for a short break and some photos.
- Local Culture: As you drive through small towns and villages, you'll get a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle. You may see Maasai herders with their cattle, bustling markets, and children waving as you pass by.
- Wildlife Spotting: Depending on the season, you might spot wildlife along the way, particularly as you get closer to the Masai Mara. Zebras, giraffes, and antelopes are often seen grazing near the roadside.
Arriving at the Masai Mara
After the scenic drive, you’ll arrive at the gates of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Depending on the time of arrival, you may check into your lodge or tented camp before heading out for your first game drive. The excitement truly begins as you embark on an afternoon game drive, where you’ll start spotting the iconic wildlife that the Masai Mara is famous for.
Option 2: Journey by Air
The Quick Flight to the Masai Mara
For those looking to maximize their time in the Masai Mara, flying from Nairobi is the most efficient option. The flight departs from Wilson Airport, a smaller and more accessible airport than JKIA, and takes about 45 minutes to reach the Masai Mara.
Highlights of the Flight Journey
- Aerial Views: The flight offers stunning aerial views of Nairobi’s cityscape, the vast Kenyan plains, and the winding rivers that snake through the savannah. As you approach the Masai Mara, keep your camera ready for the chance to capture some incredible shots of the landscape below.
- Quick and Convenient: With a flight time of just 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at the Masai Mara in time for a morning game drive, giving you more time to enjoy the park’s wildlife.
- Masai Mara Airstrips: The Masai Mara is served by several airstrips, including Keekorok, Olkiombo, and Musiara. Depending on your chosen accommodation, you’ll land at the most convenient airstrip and be transferred to your camp or lodge.
Arriving at the Masai Mara
Upon landing, you’ll be met by our safari guide and transferred to your lodge or camp. Since the flight is so quick, you’ll have the opportunity to start your safari activities immediately, either with a morning game drive or a leisurely lunch before heading out in the afternoon.
The Masai Mara Experience: What to Expect
The Masai Mara offers one of the most prolific wildlife experiences in Africa, with an abundance of animals including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros). Here’s what you can expect during your time in the reserve.
Game Drives
Game drives are the heart of the Masai Mara safari experience. You’ll typically embark on two game drives per day—one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon. These are the times when wildlife is most active, increasing your chances of spotting a wide variety of animals.
- Morning Game Drives: These usually start at dawn, around 6:00 AM. The cool morning air and golden light make for a beautiful start to the day, and it's a prime time to spot predators like lions and leopards as they finish their nightly hunts.
- Afternoon Game Drives: Starting around 4:00 PM, these drives are perfect for watching the wildlife as they prepare for the evening. You may witness a pride of lions lounging in the shade, elephants bathing in a river, or cheetahs stalking their prey.
The Great Migration
One of the most spectacular events in the Masai Mara is the annual Great Migration, which takes place from July to October. During this time, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing grounds.
- River Crossings: The Mara River crossing is one of the most dramatic moments of the migration. Thousands of animals risk their lives crossing the river, which is infested with crocodiles. Watching this event unfold is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Predator Action: The migration attracts predators, making it an ideal time to witness thrilling hunts by lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
Cultural Encounters
The Masai Mara is not just about wildlife; it’s also home to the Maasai people, a semi-nomadic tribe known for their rich culture and traditions. During your safari, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a Maasai village, where you can learn about their way of life, traditional dances, and the significance of their distinctive red attire.
- Maasai Village Visits: These visits offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Maasai. You’ll see their traditional mud-thatched houses, known as manyattas, and experience their warm hospitality.
- Cultural Talks: Many lodges and camps offer evening talks or performances by Maasai warriors, where you can learn about their customs, folklore, and the role they play in conserving the wildlife of the Mara.
Accommodation in the Masai Mara
The Masai Mara offers a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly tented camps. Here’s a look at some of the types of accommodations you can choose from.
Luxury Lodges
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and style, the Masai Mara has several luxury lodges that offer top-notch amenities, including spacious rooms, gourmet dining, and spa services. These lodges often have prime locations with spectacular views of the Mara River or the vast plains.
- Angama Mara: Perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, Angama Mara offers stunning views and unparalleled service. The lodge’s design is inspired by the Swahili word “angama,” meaning “suspended in mid-air,” reflecting its breathtaking location.
- Mara Serena Safari Lodge: Located on a hilltop overlooking the Mara Triangle, this lodge offers panoramic views and excellent game viewing opportunities. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, inspired by a traditional Maasai village.
Tented Camps
Tented camps are a popular choice for those who want to experience the thrill of sleeping in the wild while still enjoying the comforts of a lodge. These camps offer en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and sometimes even private verandas where you can watch wildlife pass by.
- Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp: Located on the edge of the Oloololo escarpment, Kichwa Tembo offers a classic safari experience with elegantly furnished tents and personalized service. The camp is set in a private concession, allowing for exclusive game drives.
- Governors’ Camp: One of the oldest and most famous camps in the Mara, Governors’ Camp is located along the Mara River. It offers an authentic safari experience with the added charm of a bygone era.
Budget-Friendly Options
For those traveling on a budget, the Masai Mara has several affordable tented camps and lodges that provide comfortable accommodation without breaking the bank. These options offer all the essential amenities while still allowing you to experience the magic of the Mara.
- Mara Sopa Lodge: Located on the eastern boundary of the Masai Mara, Mara Sopa Lodge offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and friendly service at an affordable price.
- Mara Springs Tented Camp: A small, budget-friendly camp, Mara Springs offers basic yet comfortable tents and a great location near the Sekenani Gate.
The Return to Nairobi
After an unforgettable safari experience in the Masai Mara, it’s time to return to Nairobi. Depending on your preferences and schedule, you can either fly back to Nairobi or take the scenic road trip.
By Air
Flying back to Nairobi from the Masai Mara is the quickest option. Flights from the Mara’s airstrips to Wilson Airport take around 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax before catching your international flight from JKIA or exploring more of Nairobi.
By Road
If you prefer to take in more of Kenya’s landscape, the road trip back to Nairobi is a great option. You’ll have the opportunity to revisit the Great Rift Valley and perhaps stop at a local market for some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Extending Your Stay in Nairobi
If you have extra time before your flight home, Nairobi offers a variety of activities and attractions to explore. Here are some recommendations for making the most of your time in Kenya’s vibrant capital.
Nairobi National Park
Just a short drive from the city center, Nairobi National Park is a unique wildlife sanctuary that offers the chance to see lions, rhinos, and other animals with the Nairobi skyline in the background. It’s a great way to end your safari experience on a high note.
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
This renowned elephant orphanage is a must-visit for animal lovers. Here, you can learn about the efforts to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants and even adopt one as part of the conservation program.
Giraffe Centre
Get up close and personal with endangered Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Centre. You can feed them by hand and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these gentle giants.
Karen Blixen Museum
For a taste of history, visit the Karen Blixen Museum, located in the former home of the famous author of "Out of Africa." The museum offers insights into the life of Karen Blixen and the colonial history of Kenya.
A Masai Mara safari from Nairobi is an unforgettable experience that offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and luxury. Whether you choose to travel by road or air, the journey from Nairobi to the Mara is an integral part of the safari, offering stunning landscapes and a glimpse into the rich heritage of Kenya.
From the moment you arrive at JKIA to your first game drive in the Mara, every aspect of your journey is carefully curated to provide a seamless and enriching experience. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of witnessing the Great Migration, the tranquility of the Mara’s vast plains, or a deep connection with the Maasai culture, the Masai Mara promises an adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime.
