This is the simplest way to see the Masai Mara without paying for a private vehicle. You join other travellers on a set departure from Nairobi, share a 4x4 with a pop-up roof and a driver-guide, and split the cost.
The pattern is the same as our private Mara trips: an afternoon drive when you arrive, a full day in the reserve, and an early drive before heading back. The difference is that the schedule is fixed for the group and you stay at budget tented camps. It suits solo travellers, backpackers and anyone who enjoys meeting other people on safari.
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MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Shared vehicle and guide - lower cost per person
A full day of game drives in the Masai Mara
Rift Valley viewpoint on the way
Set departures from Nairobi
Morning pick-up in Nairobi, where you meet the rest of your group. The road drops into the Rift Valley, with a stop at the viewpoint, then continues through Narok to the Mara. Lunch at camp, then your first game drive in the afternoon.
A full day in the reserve with your group, either as morning and afternoon drives or as a longer outing with a packed lunch, depending on where the wildlife is. Between July and October your guide may head for the Mara River in case of a crossing.
A short game drive at first light, breakfast at camp, then the drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
Planning tip: see our guide on Best Time to Visit the Masai Mara: A Month-by-Month Guide.
Accommodation: Budget tented camps and simple lodges near each park, twin-share, full board. Single rooms can be arranged at extra cost, and you can upgrade to mid-range camps while still joining the shared vehicle.
Vehicle: Shared 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
The Mara has wildlife all year, so the best month depends on what you want.
Full Masai Mara National Reserve destination guide »
You share the vehicle and driver-guide with other travellers on the same departure
Departures run on set dates from Nairobi - we confirm the next available date when you enquire
Prefer your own vehicle? The same route can be booked as a private safari
Group sizes vary by departure. We confirm how many travellers are booked on your date when you enquire.
Yes. Group safaris are popular with solo travellers. Twin-share is standard; a single room can be arranged at extra cost.
The route and game-drive time are similar. On a group safari the timings are set for everyone, and you share the vehicle.
Send us your travel dates and group size and we'll confirm availability and pricing.
