This is the short private version of a Masai Mara trip: your own 4x4 and driver-guide, a mid-range tented camp in or bordering the reserve, and a schedule that is shaped around your group rather than a shared departure. It is the trip we most often suggest to people with a long weekend, or to travellers who want the Mara before a beach stay on the coast or in Zanzibar.
In practice you get one afternoon drive on arrival, a full day in the reserve and a final early drive on the way out. The full day is flexible - between July and October your guide may spend time near the Mara River watching for crossings; at other times of year you cover the open plains where the resident lion prides, cheetah and elephant are found. An optional Maasai village visit can be added on day two.
If you want to compare what you would gain with more time, the 4-day Mara and Lake Nakuru safari adds a second park, and our article on how many days you need for a Kenya safari explains the trade-offs.
Journey at-a-glance:Customize This Journey. Request More Information »
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Private 4x4 with pop-up roof and your own driver-guide
A full day in the Masai Mara National Reserve
Mid-range tented camp in or bordering the reserve, full board
Optional Maasai village visit on day two
Leave Nairobi after an early breakfast. You drive over the Rift Valley escarpment and through Narok, where there is time to stretch your legs and pick up anything you need.
You arrive at camp for lunch, then go out for your first game drive as the afternoon cools. Back at camp for dinner.
An early start for the morning drive, when predators are most active. Most guests return to camp mid-morning to rest through the heat, then go out again in the afternoon to a different part of the reserve. Your guide may also suggest a packed lunch and a longer outing if the animals are in a distant area.
In migration season that often means the Mara River; at other times the Central Plains and the Musiara area are typical choices. An optional visit to a Maasai village can be fitted in today.
A last early game drive on the way out of the reserve, breakfast back at camp, then the drive to Nairobi. You usually arrive in the early to mid afternoon, and we can drop you at your hotel or at the airport.
Planning tip: see our guide on Best Time to Visit the Masai Mara: A Month-by-Month Guide.
Accommodation: A mid-range tented camp in or on the edge of the reserve: canvas tents with proper beds and en-suite bathrooms, on a full-board basis. You can upgrade to a luxury camp when booking - the itinerary stays the same.
Vehicle: 4x4 safari Land Cruiser 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 »
It gives you a full day plus two shorter drives, which is enough for a good introduction. If you want to explore more of the reserve or add a conservancy stay, look at our 5- and 7-day itineraries.
Yes. We run private departures and shared group joins, where you travel with other guests at a lower cost per person. Tell us your preference when you enquire.
The Mara has resident wildlife all year, so the trip works in any month. River crossings are most likely between July and October, which is also the busiest and most expensive period.
Yes. Scheduled light aircraft fly from Nairobi's Wilson Airport to airstrips in the Mara in about 45 minutes. It costs more but saves two long road days.
Send us your travel dates and group size and we'll confirm availability and pricing.
