Masai Mara 3Days Joining Safari at Sopa Luxury Lodge by Jeep

If you’re dreaming of spotting lions, elephants, and rhinos all in one breathtaking landscape, a 3-day safari to the Masai Mara with Sopa Lodge is a splendid way to do it. This tour, offered by Dyjany Tours and Safaris, combines comfort, adventure, and some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife experiences.

We’re especially drawn to the chance to see the Big Five, the spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley, and the luxury lodge accommodations that promise a restful retreat after long days of game viewing. A potential downside? The park fees are not included, which adds to the total cost, but the overall experience remains a solid investment for wildlife enthusiasts. This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of comfort and authentic safari encounters, especially if it’s your first visit to Kenya or you’re eager for a quick but memorable escape.

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Key Points

Stunning Views: See the Great Rift Valley from a scenic viewpoint on the way to Masai Mara.
Big Five Encounters: Full-day game drives increase chances of spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and leopards.
Wildlife Migration: Witness the famous wildebeest migration, a phenomenon unique to the Masai Mara.
Luxury Stay: Two nights at Mara Sopa Lodge offer comfort amid the wilderness.
Flexible Booking: Keep your plans open with the option to reserve now and pay later, plus full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Family & Solo Friendly: Suitable for all travelers looking for an accessible, guided safari adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect During Your 3 Days in Masai Mara

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Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara — The Scenic Drive Begins

The adventure kicks off early in the morning with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or the airport. The drive to Masai Mara is approximately 5-6 hours, but it’s far from boring. You’ll stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, where the vastness and geological wonder of the largest valley in the world will leave you awe-struck. From this vantage point, you might just feel like you’re viewing the earth’s biggest construction project—truly a sight to behold.

Following the picturesque stop, the journey continues through rolling savannahs, giving you a taste of Kenya’s iconic landscape. The guide, often praised for their knowledgeable insights, will narrate stories about the land and wildlife, making the drive both educational and entertaining.

Arriving at the lodge around lunchtime, you’ll settle into the luxurious Mara Sopa Lodge. The lodge is known for its comfortable rooms, stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, and welcoming atmosphere. After a hearty meal, the afternoon is reserved for your first game drive. Expect to visit the waterholes where animals gather to drink—an excellent opportunity to see herds of elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and perhaps some hyenas or wild dogs moving around.

Day 2: Full Day of Game Viewing and Wildlife Encounters

The highlight of your trip is the full-day exploration of the Masai Mara. Your guide will take you through the reserve’s open grasslands and wooded areas, hunting for the Big Five. The guides are praised for their expert knowledge—spotting lions resting under a tree or cheetahs stalking prey is often a team effort, and their insights add a lot to the experience.

You’ll stop for a picnic lunch in the reserve, probably near the Mara River. The river is famous for its wildebeest crossings during migration season, but here, it’s also a peaceful spot where resident hippos and crocodiles lounge, and elephants come down to cool off. Many reviews mention how calming and scenic this spot is, making it ideal for a break amid the wildlife action.

Along With the big cats and elephants, you might see hyenas, wild dogs, or even leopards. The full-day schedule maximizes your chances of encountering diverse animals, and the experience of guided game drives is often described as exhilarating because of the expert guides and their keen eyes.

Day 3: Return to Nairobi — Reflecting on Your Safari

After an early breakfast, you’ll start your journey back to Nairobi. This drive takes roughly 5-6 hours, giving you one last chance to enjoy the scenic views of the Rift Valley and perhaps catch some final glimpses of wildlife along the way.

Upon arrival in Nairobi, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, making this a smooth, hassle-free conclusion to your adventure. Some reviews note that the early morning start can be tiring but worth it for the sights and stories you’ll take home.

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What’s Included and What to Budget Extra For

The package covers your transportation in a safari minivan, two nights’ accommodation at Mara Sopa Lodge, and daily game drives led by an English-speaking guide. Meals are provided as per the itinerary, which typically means breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the lodge.

However, note that park fees are not included in the base price:

From January 30th to June, expect to pay $200 per person for two entries.
From July 1st to December 31st, the fee rises to $400 per person.

Also, extra expenses include drinks, alcohol, and optional activities like a visit to a Maasai village ($20 per person).

The tour’s price of $1,195 per person offers good value considering the included lodge, guided game drives, and the iconic wildlife experience. When you add in the chance to see the Great Rift Valley and the Big Five, the overall experience becomes quite a bargain.

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Practical Tips for Your Safari Adventure

What to Bring:

Comfortable shoes for walking around the lodge and viewing areas
Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Camera and binoculars for wildlife spotting
Water bottles to stay hydrated during game drives

Things to Remember:

Smoking in the vehicle is not allowed, so plan accordingly
Wear light, breathable clothing and layer for early mornings and evenings
Book early if you want to secure your spot, especially during peak migration season

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

Many travelers mention how knowledgeable guides made the experience more enriching, with detailed explanations about animal behaviors and the landscape. One reviewer praised the “amazing views” from the lodge, describing the sunsets over the plains as unforgettable.

Others appreciated the timing and organization—early pickups, well-planned game drives, and the flexibility to pay later. Several reviews highlighted the delicious meals and the comfort of the lodge, making the safari feel like a true luxury experience.

A recurring theme was the wealth of wildlife sightings. Multiple guests noted that the guides’ sharp eyes and local knowledge meant they rarely left the reserve without seeing the Big Five, lions on the hunt, or herds of elephants.

The Sum Up: Is This Safari Worth It?

This 3-day Masai Mara safari offers a fantastic balance of adventure and comfort. The opportunity to witness the Big Five, experience the wildebeest migration, and take in panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley all from the comfort of Mara Sopa Lodge makes it a compelling choice.

If you’re someone who wants a guided, hassle-free trip with luxury amenities and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour is well worth considering. The price reflects the quality of accommodations and guided expertise, and the added value of visiting one of Africa’s most famous reserves is undeniable.

However, keep in mind that park fees are extra, and the overall cost will increase slightly depending on the season. The tour’s flexibility, with options to reserve now and pay later, makes planning easier, especially during busy periods.

Ideal for first-timers, wildlife lovers, or even seasoned safari veterans looking for a quick escape into Kenya’s wilderness, this package offers a memorable safari experience packed into just three days.

FAQ

Are park fees included in the price?
No, park fees are not included and must be paid separately. They range from $200 to $400 per person depending on the season.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at Mara Sopa Lodge, which offers comfortable rooms and great views, providing a relaxing retreat after days of game viewing.

How long is the drive from Nairobi to Masai Mara?
The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, with a scenic stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
The tour is designed to maximize sightings of the Big Five—lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards—as well as other animals like hyenas, wild dogs, and crocodiles.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, this safari is suitable for all types of travelers seeking an accessible, guided wildlife experience.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, camera, and water.

Can I cancel or postpone my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and keep your plans flexible with the reserve-and-pay-later option.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals as per the itinerary are included, typically breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the lodge.

Is it possible to visit a Maasai village?
Yes, there’s an optional visit to a Maasai village for $20 per person, offering an authentic cultural experience.

In summary, this safari delivers a well-rounded and accessible introduction to Kenya’s wildlife, blending comfort with adventure. Whether you’re seeking your first safari or adding another chapter to your wildlife adventures, the Masai Mara with Sopa Lodge promises a memorable, authentic journey into Africa’s wilderness.