Maasai Mara Great Migration Safari - 7 Days

Depart after an early breakfast and journey westward through the fertile highlands of Kenya. Descend the Great Rift Valley escarpment with a stop at the viewpoint for panoramic photographs of this geological wonder. Continue through Maasai land, observing traditional villages and livestock herding. Arrive at the Maasai Mara National Reserve by lunchtime. After settling into your luxury tented camp, embark on your first afternoon game drive across the golden savannah plains, searching for lions, cheetahs, elephants, and the vast herds of wildebeest and zebras.

Wake before dawn for an exhilarating early morning game drive when predators are most active after their nocturnal hunts. The Maasai Mara boasts one of the highest lion densities in Africa, and morning is prime time to witness lions with fresh kills or cheetahs beginning their hunts. Return to camp for a hearty bush breakfast. Optional hot air balloon safari available (additional cost) offering breathtaking aerial views of the endless plains and wildlife below. Afternoon game drive focuses on locating leopards in the riverside forests and exploring different sectors of this 1,510 square kilometer reserve.

Today focuses on the main event - the Great Migration. Your expert guide will use their knowledge and radio network to position you at the Mara River where wildebeest congregate before crossing. Witness the heart-pounding drama as thousands of wildebeest plunge into the crocodile-infested waters, driven by ancient instincts to reach fresh grazing. The chaos, dust, and primal energy of a river crossing is one of nature most spectacular events. Between crossings, search for hippo pods, massive Nile crocodiles, and the predators that follow the herds. Note: Migration movements are seasonal (July-October); outside this period, we focus on resident wildlife.

Begin with a focused morning game drive targeting the Maras famous big cats. Your guide will share tracking techniques and behavioral insights as you search for lions, leopards, and the fastest land animal - the cheetah. After lunch, visit an authentic Maasai village (manyatta) for a genuine cultural experience. Learn about the Maasai warriors legendary courage, their traditional cattle-herding lifestyle, beadwork artistry, and their remarkable coexistence with wildlife. Participate in traditional songs and dances, and gain insight into their sustainable conservation practices. Return for a special bush dinner under the African stars.

Enjoy one last early morning game drive to capture any remaining wildlife sightings and photographs. The soft golden light of dawn creates perfect conditions for photography. After a leisurely brunch at camp, bid farewell to the Maasai Mara and begin your scenic drive back to Nairobi. Stop at local curio markets for authentic Kenyan souvenirs - wooden carvings, soapstone sculptures, and Maasai crafts. Arrive in Nairobi by late afternoon with time to freshen up before dinner.

After breakfast, enjoy leisure time for last-minute shopping or optional Nairobi city sightseeing including the Giraffe Centre or Karen Blixen Museum (additional cost). Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight. Kwaheri na safari njema - goodbye and safe travels! We hope to welcome you back to Kenya soon.