3 Days Group Joining Safari to Maasai Mara Lodge Safari

If you’re dreaming of spotting lions lounging in the grass, elephants wandering across plains, and witnessing the spectacular wildebeest migration, a trip to the Maasai Mara is hard to beat. This 3-day group safari offered by SHAGAMI KENYA TOURS AND SAFARIS promises an authentic adventure filled with wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and comfortable lodge stays—all from Nairobi. While it’s a quick trip, it packs enough excitement to leave you dreaming of your next Kenyan safari.

What we really like about this tour is its strong focus on classic wildlife experiences—think Big Five sightings, a full-day game drive, and the chance to witness nature’s greatest spectacle, the wildebeest crossing. Plus, the inclusion of a lodge stay inside the reserve means you’ll enjoy a more immersive experience, rather than just passing through on a day trip. That said, a potential consideration is the USD400 park entry fee, which adds to the overall cost, but is typical for safari adventures here. This tour will suit travelers who want a well-organized, value-packed safari with a taste of Maasai Mara’s legendary wildlife, all within a manageable time frame.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot the Big Five and witness the wildebeest migration.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay overnight in a well-fitted lodge within the reserve.
• Guided Expertise: Enjoy the knowledge of professional driver-guides with local insights.
• Full-Day Game Drive: Experience a comprehensive exploration of Maasai Mara’s most scenic areas.
• Flexible Payment Options: Book now, pay later, and cancel easily if plans change.
• Additional Costs: Budget for park entrance fees and optional extras like hot air balloon rides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Maasai Mara Safari Experience

How the Itinerary Comes Together

This 3-day safari is designed to give you a solid taste of what makes Maasai Mara a top safari destination. Starting with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or airport, the journey begins with a scenic drive across the Great Rift Valley, where panoramic views of the escarpment set the tone for this wildlife adventure. It’s worth noting that this drive isn’t just a transit; it’s part of the experience, offering chances to snap photos of the Rift’s dramatic landscapes.

Arriving in the reserve around lunchtime, you’ll check into Mara Jambo Lodge or a similar accommodation. The lodge’s location within the reserve means you’re close to the action—and that you can head out for your first game drive later that evening. The guides are praised for their expertise, with some reviews mentioning guides like Bernard, who are not only knowledgeable about the animals but also good at spotting elusive predators like leopards tucked in trees or lions resting under shade.

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

The first day is about settling into the safari rhythm. After a hearty lunch, your evening game drive kicks off. This is when the real magic begins—you’re likely to spot elephants munching on acacia trees, graceful giraffes, and maybe a lurking lion or two. The guides are skilled at tracking animals, and with their local knowledge, they often share stories about animal behavior or Maasai culture.

Some travelers mention how the open-sided 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof makes spotting wildlife easier and more fun. Expect to spend several hours in search of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—each sighting being a highlight in itself.

Day 2: Full-Day Maasai Mara Exploration

The second day is dedicated to a full-day game drive—a chance to really cover ground and see the reserve’s diverse landscapes. The guides often take you to the Mara River, famous for the wildebeest crossings. Witnessing hundreds of animals crossing the river, with crocodiles lurking below and hippos basking on the banks, is a photographic feast.

Most reviews highlight how much of the day is spent observing wildlife, with picnic lunches served in scenic spots. One reviewer remarked how the guides’ sharp eyes and years of experience made spotting animals like cheetahs or elusive leopards possible, even in dense bush. The area is teeming with resident hippos and crocodiles, especially along the Mara River, adding to the sense of being in the midst of nature’s grandest show.

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Day 3: Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Maasai Mara. The journey back includes a complimentary lunch en route, giving you a relaxed end to your safari. The drive offers more chances to enjoy the landscape and reflect on your adventures. Upon returning to Nairobi, your guides will drop you at your hotel or the airport, making sure your trip ends on a smooth note.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This safari’s strength lies in its combination of comfortable lodge accommodation, expert guiding, and the classic Maasai Mara experience. Reviews frequently mention the guides’ extensive local knowledge—some even recalling moments when the guide expertly explained animal behaviors, enriching the safari beyond just spotting animals. The lodge’s location within the reserve means you’ll wake up close to the wildlife, rather than in a distant hotel, which is a big plus for many travelers.

Practicalities and Value

At a price of $895 per person, this safari offers good value considering the inclusions: transportation in a 4×4 with a pop-up roof, all meals, park entry fees (USD400), and a professional guide. The accommodation in a comfortable, tented lodge ensures a taste of the safari lifestyle without sacrificing comfort. The hot showers, good linens, and mosquito nets add to the experience, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking adventure but not roughing it.

While the price seems high, it’s comparable to other guided safaris, especially when you factor in park fees and inclusive meals. The optional extras, like a hot air balloon ride for USD540 or visiting a Maasai village for USD20, are available if you want to extend your adventure.

What Could Be Better?

A consideration is the park entry fee of USD400 per person, which significantly adds to the overall cost. Travelers should budget for this separately. Plus, since the tour is group-based, you might find the size of the group influences the intimacy of the experience—though reviews suggest guides manage group dynamics well.

Another point to consider is timing: the wildebeest migration is most active from July to November, so if viewing this spectacle is a priority, plan your visit accordingly. Outside of migration season, the reserve still offers excellent wildlife sightings, but the migration spectacle itself is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This tour is ideal for those seeking a value-packed, guided safari that balances wildlife viewing, comfort, and authentic experience. It suits travelers with limited time who want to see the Big Five and witness the wildebeest crossing, especially if you’re comfortable with group travel. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to Kenya will find this trip an excellent introduction to Maasai Mara’s splendor.

If you’re after luxury or private tours, you might want to explore other options, but for an organized, well-reviewed, and immersive experience, this safari delivers most of what you’d want from Kenya’s safari capital.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Maasai Mara safari offers a compelling combination of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and comfortable lodge stays. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to tick off the Big Five, witness the wildebeest migration, and enjoy guided commentary from experienced local guides—all without overextending their travel budget. The inclusion of a full-day game drive and inside-reserve lodging makes this a more immersive experience than a simple day trip, allowing you to truly soak in Maasai Mara’s natural beauty.

While the USD400 park fee adds to the price, it’s a standard part of the safari experience and reflects the access to Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve. The guides’ local knowledge and the scenic drives are highlights that help maximize your chances of memorable sightings. The lodge’s location inside the reserve ensures that you wake up to the sounds of nature—an experience few other trips can match.

This safari is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore Kenya’s wildlife-rich landscapes without sacrificing comfort or organization. It offers a practical, authentic, and memorable introduction to Maasai Mara’s legendary wildlife and terrain—perfect for first-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike.

FAQ

What’s included in the price?
Your package covers transportation in a 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, lodge accommodation, three meals per day during the safari, a professional driver-guide, and bottled water.

Are park entry fees included?
No, the USD400 park entry fee is payable separately, either in advance or on the spot, for each traveler.

What accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay at Mara Jambo Lodge or a similar lodge, which offers comfortable tents with beds, linens, showers, and toilets inside. Mosquito nets and hot showers are also included.

Can I pay later or cancel?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on wildlife viewing and outdoor activities suggests it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with vehicle rides and outdoor environments.

Are optional extras available?
Yes, you can opt for a hot air balloon safari for USD540 or visit a Maasai village for USD20, among other options.

How long is the drive from Nairobi?
The drive from Nairobi to Maasai Mara is scenic and takes approximately 6-7 hours, including a stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint.

What’s the best time to visit Maasai Mara for the migration?
The wildebeest migration occurs mainly from July to November, with the crossing of the Mara River being the highlight. Visiting during these months maximizes your chances of witnessing this incredible event.

This safari delivers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters, making it an attractive option for those eager to explore Kenya’s crown jewel with a reliable guide and good value.

You can check availability for your dates here: