3 Days Maasai Mara Private Safari at AA Lodge from Nairobi

If you’re considering a trip to Kenya’s iconic Maasai Mara, you’ll want an experience that’s both intimate and packed with wildlife encounters. This 3-day private safari at AA Lodge, organized by Perfect Wilderness Tours and Safaris, offers an excellent way to see the savannah’s most famous residents without the crowds. We’ve gathered insights from travelers and detailed the itinerary to help you decide if this adventure is right for you.

What we love about this tour is its personalized approach—a private guide makes all the difference in spotting elusive animals and tailoring your game drives. The accommodation at AA Lodge Mara is praised for its comfort and relaxed vibe, perfect after a day of wildlife viewing. The inclusion of all meals and round-trip transfers from Nairobi ensures a hassle-free experience. However, one point to consider is the optional activities, like hot air balloon safaris and Maasai village visits, which come at extra costs, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits those eager for a focused wildlife experience, interested in seeing the Big Five, and valuing flexibility in their schedule. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, all-inclusive package with personal attention in the wilderness.

Key Points

• Private tour provides flexibility and personalized guiding.
• All-inclusive package covers accommodation, meals, and park fees.
• Expert guides like Ambrose and Nathan are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Optional extras like hot air balloon safaris and Maasai village visits are available for an additional fee.
• Comfortable lodge stay at AA Lodge Mara offers a restful base after game drives.
• Strategic itinerary balances wildlife viewing with cultural experiences.

How the Maasai Mara Safari Unfolds

Day 1: Journey and Arrival

The adventure kicks off early at 7 a.m. with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or airport. The drive to Maasai Mara takes around three hours, but the scenery along the way makes the journey part of the experience. You’ll stop at a viewpoint overlooking the Great Rift Valley where you can gaze at Mt. Longonot, which used to be active but is now dormant. It’s a stunning view that sets the tone for the trip.

The drive through the Kenyan countryside is comfortable, with a custom vehicle featuring a pop-up roof—perfect for game viewing and photography. According to reviews, the transportation is smooth and professional, with travelers noting that the vehicle makes game spotting easier and more enjoyable.

Upon arrival at Maasai Mara, the landscape opens up with vast grasslands dotted with acacia trees. The first game drives often yield zebra, giraffes, topi, and other residents of this savanna. The lodge, AA Lodge Mara, is described as well-furnished, providing a cozy spot to unwind after the travel.

Day 2: The Heart of Wildlife and Optional Balloon Safari

The second day revolves around full-day game drives, with the Mara River as a key stop. Here, visitors can observe hippos and crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks—an image that often sticks in travelers’ minds. The day is packed with searching for the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Many reviews mention seeing all five, with some lucky enough to witness a cheetah kill, an extraordinary event.

A highlight for many is the optional hot air balloon safari, available at a discounted USD 380 per person. Participants describe it as worth every penny for the aerial perspective of the plains and wildlife. The calm and serenity of floating above the savanna tend to leave a lasting impression.

The day’s picnic lunches allow you to stay in the reserve longer, maximizing wildlife sightings. Reviewers like Ambrose, the guide, are praised for their knowledge, helping guests spot elusive animals and providing insightful commentary.

Day 3: Cultural Encounters and Return

On the final day, after a late breakfast, the safari winds down with a visit to a Maasai community near Sekenani. This cultural stop is a hit with travelers keen to learn about Maasai traditions and way of life, offering a meaningful contrast to the wildlife focus of the trip.

The journey back to Nairobi usually takes around three hours, with a drop-off at your hotel or preferred location. Reviewers cite the organization and professionalism of the trip as standout features, with one mentioning that everything was handled smoothly from start to finish.

What Sets This Safari Apart?

Private and Flexible Experience

Unlike larger group tours, this private safari offers a higher degree of flexibility. Guides like Ambrose and Nathan are highlighted for their dedication, friendliness, and expertise. This means you can tailor the game drives to your interests, spend more time spotting your favorite animals, or skip certain stops if you prefer.

Comfortable Accommodation and Meals Included

Staying at AA Lodge Mara means enjoying a relaxing environment after long days in the wild. The lodge is praised for its furnishings and laid-back atmosphere, making it a great base for unwinding. The meal plan includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with reviews confirming that the food is timely and satisfying, adding value to the overall experience.

Value for Money

At $970 per person, the package covers most essentials—park fees, guiding, transportation, and accommodation. Travelers generally agree this is a solid value considering the access to prime wildlife viewing and the comfort provided. The inclusion of round-trip transfers further simplifies planning, especially for those unfamiliar with local transport.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

From reviews, it’s clear that wildlife sightings are plentiful and well-timed. The guides’ local knowledge often results in impressive sightings like lions resting in the shade or herds of elephants grazing in the background. The chance to see the Great Migration (if timed correctly) adds a once-in-a-lifetime element.

Practical Details and Insights

Transportation and Timing

The journey from Nairobi to Maasai Mara is done in a customized vehicle with a pop-up roof, crucial for panoramic views and capturing photos. Starting early at 7 a.m., the drive is optimized for wildlife activity, which peaks during the cooler parts of the day.

Accommodation

Staying at AA Lodge Mara means you’re in a well-furnished setting, praised for its comfort and chill vibe. After long game drives, returning to a cozy lodge with good amenities makes a significant difference in how relaxed you feel.

Wildlife and Cultural Experiences

Day 2’s full-day game drives maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, especially with knowledgeable guides like Ambrose. The optional balloon safari offers a unique aerial perspective, with many reviewers emphasizing its worth.

Visiting a Maasai community adds a cultural layer, which is highly valued by travelers seeking more than just wildlife viewing. It provides a chance to learn about local traditions directly from the Maasai people.

Cost Breakdown and Extras

While the base price covers most essentials, extras like hot air balloon rides (USD 380) and Maasai village visits are optional and paid separately. This flexibility allows you to customize your experience based on your interests and budget.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Ambrose and Nathan, for their knowledge, attentiveness, and friendly approach. The organization of the trip is also commended, with many noting the seamless coordination from pickup to drop-off.

A traveler described their experience as “beyond expectations,” highlighting the professionalism and dedication of the team. Another mentioned witnessing a cheetah kill—highlighting how close and rewarding the wildlife encounters can be.

Final Thoughts: Is This Safari Right for You?

This 3-day Maasai Mara safari is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a personalized, well-organized wildlife adventure. The private setup ensures you get the guide’s full attention, increasing your chances of memorable sightings. The inclusion of comfortable accommodation and all meals makes it a convenient package that balances adventure and relaxation.

It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic wildlife encounters and are eager to explore Maasai culture, without sacrificing comfort or convenience. If you’re keen on an itinerary that offers flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to see the Big Five, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more budget-conscious, group-based safari, you might want to explore other options. The optional extras, like the balloon safari and Maasai village visits, are worth budgeting for if they appeal to you.

Ultimately, this safari offers a well-rounded, immersive experience in one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife destinations, making it a worthwhile investment for safari enthusiasts and first-timers alike.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $970 per person?
The cost covers 2 nights at AA Lodge Mara, all meals, park entrance fees, transportation in a customized vehicle, guided game drives, and airport/hotel transfers within Nairobi.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, being a private tour, guides can tailor the schedule somewhat, especially regarding game drive timings or cultural visits like the Maasai village.

Is there an option for a balloon safari?
Yes, a hot air balloon safari can be organized at a discounted USD 380 per person, typically early morning. It’s highly recommended by travelers for the unique perspective it provides.

How long is the drive from Nairobi to Maasai Mara?
The drive takes approximately three hours each way, with scenic views en route. Starting early helps maximize your wildlife viewing opportunities.

What type of vehicle is used?
A customized vehicle with a pop-up roof is used, ideal for game viewing and photography, ensuring you have unobstructed views of the wildlife.

What cultural experiences are included?
A visit to a Maasai community near Sekenani is included on the last day, offering insight into Maasai traditions and daily life.

To sum it up, this private Maasai Mara safari offers a thoughtful, well-organized route into Kenya’s most famed wildlife reserve. With expert guides, comfortable lodging, and flexible options, it’s designed to suit travelers eager for authentic encounters and a touch of luxury. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable African adventure, this tour has much to offer—and plenty of chances to bring home incredible stories and photos.