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3-Day Kenya Safari Tours

An African safari, even for three days, is a dream come true for many people. This incredible experience was pioneered by Kenya, which still ranks as one of the top safari countries today. With its long history of catering for the safari industry, Kenya has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re embarking on your first trip into Africa, or you’re a seasoned traveler feeling the call of Africa over and over again. A 3-day safari is short, but you’ll no doubt make some precious memories. The key to a successful trip is to plan your time carefully and not be overambitious with what you want to achieve. Avoid too much driving from place to place. It’s better to have one in-depth experience than to try to tick off a checklist of highlights.

3-Day Amboseli -Tsavo East -Mombasa Midrange Safari

$640 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Tsavo East NP, Mombasa (End)

Bienvenido Kenya Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.5 /5  –  76 Reviews

3-Day Fly in Fly out Masai Mara National Reserve

$1,635 to $1,943 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Kameraz of Afrika   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  97 Reviews

3-Day The Famous Mara - Luxury

$1,150 to $1,690 pp (USD)

Spirit of Kenya   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  483 Reviews

3-Day Magical Trip to Tsavo East & Taita

$682 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Lodge

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Tsavo East NP, Taita Hills WS, Nairobi (End)

Ways Of Africa Travel   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  64 Reviews

3-Day Safari from Mombasa Tsavo East, Saltlick Lodge

$946 to $990 pp (USD)

You Visit: Mombasa (Start) , Tsavo East NP, Taita Hills WS, Mombasa (End)

Back of Africa Adventure   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  84 Reviews

3-Day Private Luxury Tour to Masai Mara National Reserve

$1,095 to $1,469 pp (USD)

5.0 /5  –  16 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Classic Wildlife Safari Adventure

$385 to $627 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Tented Camp

Jungleroam Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  12 Reviews

3-Day Amboseli Tented Camp Safari Midrange Tour

$842 to $880 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Leo Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  20 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Eco Camp Flying Safari

$1,364 to $1,650 pp (USD)

BuyMore Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  31 Reviews

3-Day Tsavo East and West National Park Tour

$638 pp (USD)

You Visit: Mombasa (Start) , Tsavo East NP, Tsavo West NP, Mombasa (End)

Kenya Bush Expeditions   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.7 /5  –  64 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Adventure Joining Safari from Nairobi

$682 to $704 pp (USD)

Lamara Tourism   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.7 /5  –  32 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Private Midrange Jeep

$858 to $1,238 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Resort

Mountain Hiking Ventures   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  8 Reviews

3-Day Little Governors' Camp Flying Package

$1,716 to $3,234 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Tented Camp

Kenya Tulia Safari Holiday Arcade   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  48 Reviews

3-Day Ol Pejeta Luxury Private Tour

$990 to $1,210 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Ol Pejeta (Laikipia) , Nairobi (End)

Africa Bed of Roses Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  1 Reviews

3-Day Samburu Sopa Lodge Tour

$523 to $659 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Samburu NR, Nairobi (End)

Balu Travel   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.8 /5  –  48 Reviews

3-Day Safari Van Masai Mara Group Joining

$352 to $554 pp (USD)

Axis Africa Expedition & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

4.9 /5  –  1087 Reviews

3-Day Best of Kenya

$590 to $1,089 pp (USD)

Simba Paka Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  32 Reviews

3-Day Honey Moon Mara Package

$913 to $1,652 pp (USD)

Antonio Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  34 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Joining Group Africa Safari Tour

$473 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Mara River, Nairobi (End)

Let's Venture Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Kenya

5.0 /5  –  25 Reviews

3-Day Maasai Mara Thrilling Vacation Group Budget Tour

$605 to $825 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Maasai Village (Cultural Village) , Jomo Kenyatta Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  122 Reviews

Related Searches

• 3-Day Safari Itineraries
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• Kenya Luxury Tours
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• 3-Day Tsavo East Tours
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• 3-Day Nairobi to Masai Mara
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5 Questions About 3-Day Kenya Safaris

Answered by

Ariadne van zandbergen.

Is a 3-day safari in Kenya worthwhile?

“Although a 3-day safari in Kenya is quite short, it is definitely worthwhile. If you have the option, I would recommend adding a few extra days though. Additional time gives you a chance to get into the rhythm of the bush and settle in. However, if time or budget constraints allow only a short trip, you should still go. You can see a lot on a 3-day safari, and you’ll have an opportunity to get a feel for what it is all about. Hopefully you’ll be able to return one day to spend more time on safari. However much time you have available, try not to cram too much into your itinerary. With only 3 days, you might be tempted to race between destinations. But remember that less is often more, and there is no point in spending most of your safari traveling between places rather than taking time to savor them. As long as you are practical about what you can achieve on a 3-day safari, it is certainly worth going.”

Where should I go on a 3-day safari in Kenya?

“Many 3-day safari packages are on offer in Kenya, giving you a variety of options on where to go on your trip. As you will be away for only two nights, I would recommend sleeping both nights in the same place. The most popular option for a 3-day Kenyan safari is the Masai Mara National Reserve. The flight from Nairobi gets you there in about 45 minutes, but a road safari is also feasible. With an early start, you should be in the Mara in time for an afternoon game drive. A 3-day safari to Amboseli National Park, at the base of Mt Kilimanjaro, is also a good option. While the Mara is best for big cats, you can expect elephant sightings in Amboseli. And on clear days, Kilimanjaro creates a perfect backdrop for your photographs. Another option is to head for the highlands of Laikipia Plateau. There are several excellent private reserves worth visiting here, but Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a great choice. It’s home to all the Big Five, and offers easy encounters with both black and white rhino. People on a beach holiday around Mombasa or elsewhere on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline often opt to add a short safari to their itinerary. The most popular choices for this are Tsavo East or West National Parks, which together form the largest protected area in Kenya. The vast open spaces of Tsavo give an opportunity to see far and wide. Elephant and giraffe are usually within sight.”

What accommodation can I expect?

“Kenya, with its established tourism industry, has accommodation options to suit everybody’s needs. For a 3-day safari, you can choose from camping or high-end luxury accommodation, and everything in between. For the budget-conscious, camping is a popular option. The campsites are often in prime locations and you’ll feel totally in tune with nature. If camping isn’t your thing, you can also opt for a budget lodge tour. These usually use lodges that are located just outside the parks, which can be an effective base for game drives. You can spend a bit more for mid-range accommodation, offering more comfort with great locations inside or outside the parks and reserves. When it comes to luxury lodgings, the sky is the limit, especially where food and service are concerned. Some of Kenya’s most exclusive lodges are rustic in feel and blend into the bush with a minimal footprint. Others are more conventionally luxurious with all the mod cons including air-conditioning and swimming pools. These high-end lodgings are usually booked on a fly-in safari package. ”

Which animals am I likely to see?

“Which animals you’re likely to see on a 3-day Kenyan safari depend on which parks or reserves you visit. Kenya offers incredible wildlife viewing. The Masai Mara NR is home to all of the Big Five. You’ll see lots of lion in the Mara, and leopard sightings are quite common too. Rhino are more difficult to find. To see rhino in Kenya, you should consider going to one of the reserves in Laikipia. Amboseli NP is great for elephant, giraffe and buffalo, but big cat sightings are less common here and rhino is absent. Tsavo is an amazing wilderness area with all of the Big Five present, but wildlife densities are lower. Even so, you’re likely to see elephant, giraffe, several antelope species and maybe lion. ”

How much will this safari cost?

“Expect a starting price of US$400 per person for a 3-day Kenyan budget camping tour, going up to US$700 per person for a mid-range lodge tour. Luxury tours start at around US$900 per person. The price of a 3-day safari in Kenya depends on a lot of factors. The level of accommodation has a big influence on the overall cost. Most cost-effective is a camping safari, but there are budget lodge safari options too. A high premium is paid for top-of-the-range luxury lodgings on a fly-in safari. Road safaris are generally cheaper than fly-in safaris. The price will also depend on whether you go on a group safari where costs are shared, or a private safari. A great way to save costs is to visit out of the high season. The shoulder months are often a good compromise, but you can even choose to go in the low season, which corresponds with the rains. Although wildlife is harder to find at that time, it’s a beautiful season and you might even have the place to yourself. It’s always a good idea to get a few quotations from a variety of operators before making a decision.”

3 DAYS MASAI MARA SAFARI

Enjoy a thrilling 3 days Masai Mara Safari tour starting and ending in Nairobi and using quality mid range safari lodges or tented camps, typically located inside or close to the main Maasai Mara National reserve. This 2 night, 3 day tour includes road transport from Nairobi with upto four private Safari game drives inside the reserve. The trip may also include extra options such as a visit to a Maasai village. Full day game drives can be had at no extra charge for the second day of the itinerary in Masai Mara.

The typical Safari Itinerary is listed below. Note that prices vary depending on the month or season of travel, with July to October being peak season while April to mid June is low season.

2 Nights Masai Mara

Day 01: Start of your Safari from Nairobi

Your Driver-Guide reports to your hotel for start of the safari to Masai Mara with a 7.30am to 8am departure for a picturesque drive descending the Great Rift Valley and onwards to Maasai Mara, Kenya's famous game reserve. ( Drive time 5.5 hours). You will be in a private safari vehicle. Stop for some time at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint on the way, to enjoy the amazing views of the largest Valley in the world, said to be visible from outer space. Arrive at Masai Mara for lunch at your lodge or camp. The afternoon game drive at 3.30pm allows spotting of the magnificent wildlife in the park ranging from the Big Cats such as Lion, Leopard & Cheetah to Rhino, Elephant and Wildebeest. Return to your lodge by 6.30pm. Dinner and overnight at Keekorok Lodge [ Option of Sarova Mara Camp, Basecamp or Masai Mara Sopa Lodge or similar, in case of unavailability ].

Day 02: Enjoy Full day in Masai Mara

You will be taken on two safari game drives today, one in the morning from 6.15am to 9am, followed by breakfast and the other in the late afternoon after lunch from 3.30pm to 6.30pm. The wildlife is usually more active during these times of the day. As your Masai Mara safari is private, your gamedrive timings will be flexible, useful if you are travelling with children, or are on a honeymoon. You may also choose to have a full day game drive [ one for the whole day] with a packed picnic lunch at no extra cost. Return in the evening for dinner and overnight at the lodge. Dinner and overnight at Keekorok Lodge [ Option of Sarova Mara Camp, Basecamp or Masai Mara Sopa Lodge or similar, in case of unavailability ].

Day 03: Return to Nairobi

After a relaxed breakfast and check-out. Depart for return road transfer back to Nairobi with a shortened morning game drive en-route. Arrive Nairobi by early afternoon [typically by 2.30pm]. Drop off at your hotel or free onward transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Rates are per person sharing in US Dollars.

Rates depend on number of people travelling together in one vehicle hence 2 [two people] , 4 and 6 persons. Seasonal surcharges may be applicable on top of prices below

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's included.

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary on Full board* basis in the lodge
• Exclusive transport in a Safari Tour Microbus with a Gameviewing roof hatch and UHF radio
• 03 Private Safari gamedrives for the tour
• Services of a certified Professional, English-speaking Driver~Guide including all his expenses & allowances
• Fuel, driver and car park fees, driver's allowance
• All Park entry fees for clients, driver~guide and vehicle
• 24 hour Back Up support if required

What's not included

• International flight tickets and visa costs.
• Tips, drinks, laundry, calls, and all such costs of a personal nature.
• Credit Card Surcharge of 5 to 7% will apply or Bank Transfer Fees of USD 50.

Contact us using the form below to book the tour or for any questions We reply immediately

Add an Experience

Maasai Village Visit

US$ 40 per person

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Starting from US$ 485 per person

Dinner at the Carnivore Restaurant

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

3 Day Kenya Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 3 day Kenya tour with TourRadar. Choose from 238 trips with 154 customer reviews, that range from one day up to 3 days.

238 Kenya 3 day tour packages with 154 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

3 Days Classic Masai Mara Safari Offer- Loyk

Chris, our guide in Nairobi, was very knowledgable and always on time. We never had to worry about anything. He took us to Wilson airport for our flight to Masai Mara and stayed with us all the way through check in and was waiting for us on our return. Amazing service. Classic arranged for us to stay at the Mara Ngenche camp and I cant even begin to describe the experience there. Our safari guide, Francis, was amazing and the service at the camp, especially the restaurant, was among the best we have ever received in 5 star hotels around the world. Hug shout out to Classic for personalizing our trip and making us feel so special.

3 Days, 2 Nights Masai Mara Group Joining Safari from Nairobi

Great trip. Great driver and guide. Camp good. My recommedation to others is to get on this short trip adventure. Have fun!

• Great Migration

3 Days Masai Mara Wildlife Safari

Maasai Mara is a good place and would really like to tour the park over and over again...The tour guide(mr maxwell) is also a mice person , courteous , he kept in touch with us through out the booking process untill the safari ended.we appreciate his role in organizing the safari ...the trip was awesome and memorable, we saw the big five , camping and food at the parks restaurants are awesome too....I recommend Africa adventure safaris without any hesitation

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Flying Safari

3 Days Masai Mara flying Safari - Nairobi

The Mara is incredible! Unique experience. Highly recommended!!!

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

3 Days Masai Mara flying Safari - Mombasa

Our 3-day flight safari with Mombasa Air Safari was organized by Brian Kazungu. Everything went well. The transfer from the hotel to the airport, the domestic flights and the Governeurs Camp were a complete success! The tents of the camp are located directly on the river Mara. If you step out of the tent, you can admire hippos and crocodiles in the river. The camp has no fencing, so some warthogs ran through the tents. But occasionally hippos should be on the road at night. But no fear! There are always rangers with guns near the tents. Lunch at the camp is served outdoors. The service and the quality of the food is great! From the table you can see the Masai Mara and of course the animals! Giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs and zebras could be seen relatively close. Dinner is served by candlelight in an open tent. A very nice atmosphere! Coffee and cookies are served at the tent in the morning. Then it goes on morning game drive. We did not have the right breakfast at the camp, but in the wild on the hood of our Jeep. This is not only very adventurous, but also saves a lot of time, so that our Frühpirsch lasted 5 hours in a row! There are animals in huge herds! How many lions we saw, then we did not count! Unfortunately we have not seen a rhino, but 2 leopards. It was just unforgettable hours in the Masai Mara! We can only recommend this tour! Book with Bryan and you will spend wonderful days!

Masai Mara Walk

3 Days Masai Mara Safari (in a 4x4 JEEP with FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

Our 10-day group joining safaris to Kenya and Tanzania gave us a great experience of a number of national parks. The tour consultant Mr. John and the driver were great. Some days involved a bit of driving but that was expected. We also made new friends and the most amazing memories. Would definitely recommend this joining safari tour to any age group.

3-Day Kenya Lodge Safari - Amboseli Park

Great tour to Amboseli. Communication with Exiting Africa Holidays was efficient and easy. Alex, the guide and driver was wonderful... Great at finding great sightings and a good driver. Accomodation at Kibo Lodge was also super. Overall a great experience

3 Days, 2 Nights Masai Mara Group Joining Safari From Nairobi with Complimentary Airport Pickup.

Great tour. Full day game drive and masai Village tour. We were to do an evening game drive also but that was cancelled due to issues beyond anyone's control. I thought the one full day drive was enough anyway. Did a short little game drive on last day prior to leaving. Included all meals, transport, accommodation and guide. Excellent value for money. Food was really good. Had a lovely permanent tent with ensuite for accommodation. Couldn't fault anything. Driver got us back to Nairobi by 3.00pm as we had a tight schedule for an air flight. Driver and company arranged a swap to airport transport. No waiting, all went super smooth.

3 Days Kenya Budget Safari to Masai Mara

Our driver was zack. He was great, very patient and very understanding. He reached us a lot about the animals and the culture of masai people. He was always there, when we needed him. I definitely recommend zack. Albert was also the main reason the safari happened, he helped us very much.

3 Days /2 Nights Masai Mara via The Great Rift Valley (Luxury)

Across Africa Tours & Travel is the best company to book a trip with. I had a group 3-day trip to Maasai Mara via the Great rift valley with them and they did not disappoint my expectations. The guide was very nice, the accommodation at the camp was good. I really enjoyed and love your services. I can not want to miss on the next adventure trip with

3 Day Amboseli Adventure All Inclusive

perfectly organised, smooth ride and plenty of adventure made our Safari so interesting. Thank you Ernest for the great job!

3 Day All Inclusive Masai Mara Camping Adventure

prompt response and well planning made my safari a memorable one. i loved it

3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE

The 3 Days Samburu tour is amazing because this is the park you can see the 4 Special rare animals (Gerenuk gazelle, reticulated giraffe, Gravy's Zebra & Somali ostrich)

3-Day Maasai Mara Safari at Sopa Lodge from Nairobi

My review will not give justice to the amazing job done by George at Perfect Africa Safari. From the time we contacted George he has made this experience nothing less than perfect. George at Perfect Africa Safaris was not just a tour guide he was a host, travel agent and has become a life long friend. He first connected us with previous visitors who went on the Safari to give us an idea and it truly made the difference. Due to COVID our flights were changed and he was very flexible to provide the best experience possible. He also stayed in touched leading up to our flights to Kenya. He scheduled all of our accommodations while in Africa as well as arranged our pick ups and drop offs to the airport. From the time we landed in Kenya George made us feel at home. George was very prompt and extremely knowledgeable. He gave us an amazing experience while educating us on the culture, the people and way of life. He said ask any question and he always had an answer. On the Safari tours we were able to see all of the Big 5 some animals were so close that at arms length it felt as though we could pet them. (not allowed to pet them because they are wild) One of the greatest highlights was visiting the Maasai Village and learning first hand from the villagers about the culture. I can write paragraphs about this life changing trip but I’ll some it up with book with George at Perfect African Safari this has been one of the best experiences of my life so far .

What people love about 3 Day Kenya Tours

Don’t go with anyone else. They do not disappoint. We felt safe the whole time and had the best experience. It was more than we could have hoped for.

Many tourists who visit Masai Mara national park may be a bit snobby about their fascinating experience in this park, but I confess to a soft spot for Masai Mara. It is East Africa's most popular and best-known park, with easy access from Nairobi and plenty of cheap accommodation options. It was my first time to visit the park and I can still remember the thrill of seeing my first Lioness walking royally in the middle of the road with a queue of safari vehicles lined up waiting for her to move. The fact that we had the chance of seeing an elephant for the first time was really amazing. The cheaper and incredible services offered by the tour guides, combined with cheap accommodation in this place makes it seem as if the tourists here outnumber the animals. Our tour was so amazing that we even took photos of some animals and learnt much about wildlife. This place was really nice and worth our visit. I would recommend more tourists to visit this park and bare witnesses of incredible services.

Regions in Kenya

• Masai Mara National Reserve (61)
• Amboseli National Park (26)
• Amboseli National Park (21)
• Tsavo National Park (18)
• Samburu National Park (6)
• Masai Mara (60)
• Central Kenya (9)
• Mount Kenya (10)

Other Regions in Kenya

• Masai Mara National Reserve 3 day Tours (61)
• Masai Mara 3 day Tours (60)
• Lake Nakuru National Park 7 day Tours (60)
• Masai Mara National Reserve 7 day Tours (53)
• Masai Mara 7 day Tours (52)
• Mount Kenya 7 day Tours (30)
• Central Kenya 7 day Tours (29)
• Amboseli National Park 3 day Tours (26)
• Amboseli National Park 3 day Tours (21)
• Tsavo National Park 3 day Tours (18)
• Amboseli National Park 7 day Tours (16)
• Lake Nakuru National Park 1 month+ Tours (11)
• Mount Kenya 3 day Tours (10)
• Central Kenya 3 day Tours (9)
• Masai Mara National Reserve 3 week Tours (8)
• Masai Mara National Reserve 1 month+ Tours (8)
• Kenya Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Ultimate Safari Experience

2 Nights, 3 Days Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi Itinerary

Are you looking for the perfect way to spend a holiday in Kenya? A 3 days Masai Mara safari from Nairobi is a great option! You will get to experience the diverse wildlife, landscape, and culture of this incredible area.

On your 3-day Masai Mara guided safari from Nairobi, you will have the opportunity to view a variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and more. You can also take time to relax and take in the breathtaking views of the Mara landscape. 

If you are on a budget, there are various 3-day cheap Masai Mara safari packages that offer great value for money. These typically include travel from Nairobi, accommodation in the area, and game drives. 

For those looking to stay longer, there is also a 4 days Masai Mara itinerary and 5 days Masai Mara itinerary available. These include more activities such as cultural visits to local communities and bush walks.

How to Book Masai Mara Safari 3 Days, 2 Nights Tour

So, what are you waiting for? Come to the Masai Mara National Reserve and experience this unique African destination! Book your 3-day Masai Mara safari today ! You can reach us at +254-748-258-880 through WhatsApp/phone or [email protected] or [email protected] through email. We offer the best safari in Masai Mara and Kenya in general.

The Summarized, 3 Days Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi

The detailed 2-night, 3-day masai mara guided safari from nairobi .

Experience the best of Mara with our 3 days Masai Mara budget safari from Nairobi. Our budget-friendly safari package includes travel to and from Nairobi . Here is the detailed itinerary for the 3 days tour to Masai Mara Game Reserve.

Day 1: Pickup from Nairobi, Transfer to Masai Mara, & Afternoon Game Drive

Your 3-day Masai Mara tour begins early with our professional driver/guide picking you at Nairobi – JKIA, hotel, or apartment. The guide briefs you about the safari and then welcomes you to your exclusive safari land cruiser. 

The journey sees us take the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, with a stop at the Great Rift Valley View Point. From there we head straight to Narok Town, where we will stop for a few minutes for last-minute shopping.

We will then head to Masai Mara and check-in the hotel . You will have time to take lunch, relax, and then head out for an afternoon game drive. The game drive will end at around 6 pm. We will head to the hotel for dinner and night rest.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives at Masai Mara National Reserve with Picnic Lunch

Today you will start with an early breakfast and head to the jungle to look for wildlife. You should have covered a lot of ground by the time the sun gets hot, which will be the ideal time to enjoy a picnic lunch.

Later you continue with the game drive till late evening. You will return to the hotel, have dinner, and rest.

Day 3: Morning Game Drive, Visit a Maasai Village, & Transfer to Nairobi

We pray that you have seen lions, giraffes, elephants, cheetahs, hippos, zebras, cheetahs, leopards, gazelles, hyenas, and different bird species. Today we start late by checking-out of the hotel and heading through the park for game drives until 9am. (WHEN STAYING INSIDE THE RESERVE)

From here, the guide will take you to Maasai village, where you will interact with the local people and buy souvenirs. You will then enjoy the road trip to Nairobi with lunch at  Narok town . You should be in Nairobi at around 4 pm.

What’s Included in the Price of the 3 Days Masai Mara Safari Price?

• Pickup from JKIA on day 1
• Services of professional safari guide 
• Exclusive use of a 4×4 safari land cruiser
• All park fees and government taxes 
• 3 meals during the safari – breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• 3-night accommodation at Masai Mara
• Afternoon game drive at Masai Mara on day 1
• Full-day game drive at Masai Mara on day 2 
• Visit a Maasai village on day 3
• Lunch at Narok town on day 3
• Transfer to Nairobi on day 3

What’s Excluded from the Price of the 3 Days Masai Mara Safari Cost?

• Traveling insurance, expenses such as excess baggage fee, laundry charges, airtime, and luxury drinks such as champagne or other meals not indicated in our itinerary
• The optional hot air balloon safari at USD 500 Per Person 
• Optional tips for porters and game guides
• All other alcoholic drinks except Tusker, Kenya’s flagship beer
• Pre-travel expenses where applicable – Passports and eTA
• Money transfer fee
• Return flight tickets at USD 430
• Holiday and festive supplements 

2 Nights, 3 Days Masai Mara Safari Price Per Person – Based on 2 Pax 2024

The above price is based on 2 adults traveling together sharing a safari vehicle and a double room. Reach us for a personalized quote for the safari if you are a solo traveler or more than two.

We are travel. We are local.  We are your wildest safari expectations fulfilled. We show you Kenya better than anyone.

Itineraries

• 3 Days in Masai Mara
• 4 Days Masai Mara
• 18 days Kenya Family safari
• 18 Days Kenya Safari
• 16 days kenya safari
• Diani Beach
• Amboseli Park
• Booking Terms and Conditions

More guides

• Mombasa beach
• Kenya Safari
• Kenya Photo safari
• Kenya wildlife safari
• Kenya Adventure
• Kenya Migration Safari
• Honeymoon Packages
• Kenya, Kiambu County, Ruiru Town Greec Towers, Office Number D7 and D8
• +254-704-532-105
• [email protected]

03 days Masai Mara safari from Nairobi, Kenya

• Deals and Discounts
• Nairobi Safari Tours
• Wildebeest Migration Safaris

This 3 days Masai Mara Safari is the best package for anyone who can only get a short amount of time for a safari tour in Kenya or those who have a limited budget. The 3 days safari in Masai Mara starts and ends at Nairobi where you can be picked up straight from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport if you have got an early arrival. You can also be picked up from your hotel within the Nairobi Central Business district and the city’s environs.

It is a road safari so you will be driving through the highway that leads to Lake Nakuru and Naivasha then branch towards Narok in the Great Rift Valley; the home of the world famous Masai tribe. Safari to Masai Mara National Reserve Can be done in a regular safari van or a 4×4 Land cruiser depending on your preferences and Budget. Please let us know what you prefer.

3-day Masai Mara safari outline

Day 1 – Pick up from Nairobi, transfer via Narok to the Masai Mara Game reserve

Day 2 – Full day safari in Masai Mara, or morning and afternoon game drives with a break for lunch.

Day 3 – Morning safari in Masai Mara, on your way out of the park. Transfer back to Nairobi.

The Masai Mara Game Reserve at a glance ( 3 Days Masai Mara Safari )

Maasai Mara National Reserve is arguably the most famous and most celebrated game reserve in Africa; an area of preserved savannah wilderness in southwestern Kenya, bordering Tanzania. Masai Mara Game Reserve is famous for many animal species that include lions, giraffes, leopards, cheetahs, buffalos, elephants, zebras, hyenas and hippos.

Masai Mara’s landscape has grassy plains and rolling hills and the area has beautiful panorama especially after the rains season when vegetation is green and beautiful.  The Wildebeest herds in Masai Mara traverse its plains during their annual migration and the river crossings happen at the Mara and Talek rivers.

The best time for the 3 Days Masai Mara Safari in Kenya

This 3-day safari in Masai Mara can be taken any time of the year if you like, but the best time to visit Masai Mara is July to end of September which is the dry season in Kenya but also it coincides with the Great Wildlife Migration .

December to March is also good time to visit Masai mara and therefore good time to go o this 3-day safari in Masai Mara. April and May be the long rains season and therefore not the best time to visit Masai Mara but you can take advantage of the lowest lodge rates in those two months.

Masai Mara Wildebeests Migration Season

Masai Mara is famous for the annual wildebeests migration also referred to as the Great Migration, which has been recognised as one of the 7 wonders of the world. The best wildlife spectacle on earth, Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration sees more than 1.5 million herds of wildebeests accompanied by thousands of Zebras and thompson gazelles roam the wilderness covering thousands of kilometers from Southern Serengeti in Tanzania and ultimately covering the crocodile infested waters of Mara River.

3 Days Masai Mara Safari and more..

This same Masai Mara Safari can be extended to up to 4 or 5 days depending on your preference and wishes. Please let us know by email and we shall get back to you as soon as possible with the best safari price. Check out our 4 Days Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru National Park .

The price for the safari is on request and it depends on which accommodations that you choose to use. You can stay at Standard luxury, Deluxe/Top end lodges or tented camps, or cheaper mid range lodging or even do the tour staying at budget lodges or tented camps available.

Get in touch with our travel experts for free advice on Kenya safaris and tours or on this particular 03 Days Masai Mara Safari !

Additional information

3 days masai mara safari itinerary, nairobi - masai mara.

On the first day of your safari you will be picked from your Nairobi hotel and embark on your journey to Masai Mara, about 3.5 hours drive. You will have a brief stop at the Rift Valley Viewpoint before where you will be treated by stunning sights of the Great Rift Valley below as well as the Mountains, Susswa and Longonot on the horizon. We will then continue with our drive until Mai Mahiu where you also have a brief stop (if you wish to see the hot springs). We drive further via Narok town and enter Masai Mara with game drives en route and arrive in time for lunch at the lodge/Camp. After lunch we will continue with game drives in Masai Mara in search of the big cats as well as other big game animals. Masai Mara is famous for the Great Wildebeests Migration but also for an amazing concentration of animals and birds species that can be spotted all year round. Overnight at Zebra Plains Mara Camp. Lunch and dinner included.

(Other middle class/cheaper accommodation or even more deluxe/luxurious options can be included depending on your preference and budget).

Safari in Masai Mara Game Reserve

We wake up in the Masai Mara Plains so we can choose to go for an early morning game drive to see the nocturnal predators retire from a night out as well as the plain game animals wake up for a new dawn. (If you wish). After breakfast we then go back for a full day of game drives in Masai Mara Game Reserve . Among the animals we expect to spot includes all the big cats, cheetah, lion, and leopards as well as elephants, giraffes, zebras, impalas, dik diks, and of course the wildebeests. Apart from the resident wildebeests and depending on the time of travel we expect also to witness the annual Migration herds and if lucky we might witness the spectacular crossing of River Mara. In the late afternoon we will return to the lodge/camp for dinner and overnight. Overnight at Zebra Plains Mara Camp. All meals included.

Masai Mara – Back to Nairobi

This day also we can go for an early morning game drives if you wish then drive back to the lodge/camp for breakfast. Alternatively after breakfast we will go for a morning game drive on our way out of the Game Reserve as we drive back to Nairobi City where the safari starts and ends. Breakfast and Picnic Lunch included. 

If you are on a fly in safari to Masai Mara, then you will be transferred to the nearest Airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi or Mombasa. 

End of your tour.

This package can be customized with midrange , standard luxury or top luxury lodges and tented camps depending on your preference and budget. Get in touch with our safari experts for free advice on how to make the most of your 3 days lodge safari in Masai Mara Kenya !.

3 days Masai Mara safari prices

Prices for the 3 days Masai mara safari starts from USD 530 as illustrated here below. Prices depend on the number of propel travelling together, the lodges that you stay in and the type of safari car that you use. 

Peak Season (15th Jul – 15th Sep 2022)

High Season (1st Jul – 14th Jul 2022), (16th Sep – 31st Sep 2022), (23rd Dec – 02nd Jan 2023)

Low Season (3rd Jan 2022 – 30th Jun 2022), (1st Oct – 22nd Dec 2022)

NB – You can request for prices for using Ordinary Safari Vans, and / or using cheaper mid-range lodges or tented camps, incase you wish to lower the cost of travel. Please contact our safari specialists for advice and pricing. 

Prices Include

03 Days wildlife safari in Masai Mara Game Reserve 

Transport in a customized pop up top 4 x 4 Land Cruiser jeep

English or other language speaking driver/guide.

02 x FB overnight at a lodge or camp of your choice

Game viewing drives in Masai Mara

Park entrance fees for Masai Mara Game Reserve

All meals on safari as mentioned.

Bottled drinking water in safari vehicle.

Pick up and drop off at Nairobi airport or Nairobi hotel

Prices Exclude

Visa to Kenya

Any extra alcoholic & non alcoholic beverages

Items and services of a personal nature

Tips or gratuities for the guide and lodge/ camp staff

Hot air balloon safari in Masai Mara (USD 455 per person)

International Air fare

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5-Day Safari Kenya | 5-day safari from Nairobi

4 Days Kenya Safari to Amboseli & Tsavo West

9 days Best of Kenya Safari, Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Masai Mara

3 day Kenya safari

Kenya safaris consistently rank in the top 3 destinations for safari-goers in Africa and it’s easy to see why a 3 day Kenya safari is appealing. Home to prime game viewing, the incredible Masai Mara savannah, luxury lodges, stunning beaches and the famous Mount Kenya, this east Africa wonder packs a powerful punch.

A leading travel destination in the world, due to its scenery, magnificent wildlife and pleasant year round climate, most of Kenya wildlife is contained and protected in vast National Parks and Game Reserves, in a natural, undisturbed habit.

Table of Contents

The best 3 day Kenya Tours 

Price of a 3 day kenya safari.

Expect a starting price of $400 per person for a 3 day Kenya budget camping tour, going up to $700 per person for a mid-range lodge tour. Luxury tours start at around $900 per person.

Safari packages to Kenya span a wide price range, influenced by several variables. The biggest factor determining the price of a safari is the level of accommodation. This will ultimately categorize tours as being budget, mid-range or luxury. Shared tours are usually cheaper than private tours. 

This is especially the case for single travelers. On a 3 day trip you might want to consider a fly-in safari, but these are considerably more expensive than road safaris. Check out the seasons too; low-season prices can be favorable and while you’ll probably get some rain at this time, it’s when the scenery is at its best.

Tour breakdown for a typical 3 days in the Kenya

Safari tour highlights.

• See the Big Five including the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo 
• Discover the famous Masai Mara and Tsavo East park
• Private tour guide in English and other languages
• All-inclusive tours including lodging, entrance fees, meals, and transport
• Game drives in comfortable, open top safari vehicles
• Unique accommodation including safari lodges and tented camps
• Optional activity add-ons including hot air balloon safaris

Tour inclusions

The following details typical tour inclusions and exclusions on the best 3 day Kenya safari package:

Safari essentials and information

Is a 3 day safari in kenya sufficient.

3 days is plenty to see, hear and experience the incredible wildlife and sights of Kenya. The number of days needed to properly do a Kenya safari can range from 1-2 days to 1-2 weeks, depending on how much time and budget a visitor has. 

A longer period of time would be better, however each day consists of an early morning game drive and a late afternoon game drive, certainly sufficient time to view the big 5 and incredible scenery. On a 3 day trip you can even break up the drive to Masai Mara with an overnight stay in Lake Nakuru National Park or Lake Naivasha , with the option to visit nearby Hell’s Gate National Park . 

Alternatively you can spend all of your time in the famous Masai Mara . With full days at the reserve, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to explore this iconic safari destination including a full-day dusk-to-dawn game drive that will include lunch at one of the picnic spots. 

Morning and evening game drives are rewarding as well, but on a full day you can get further into the reserve, away from the more-crowded areas. Overall, 3 days is a good amount of time for a safari in Kenya if it is part of a larger tour, but if not, allocating a few more days to your safari would be ideal if possible.

Accommodation offered on a 3 day Kenya safari?

After a long day surveying the incredible Kenyan landscape and wildlife on offer, guests can look forward to the very best safari accommodation Kenya has to offer. The accommodation here is excellent with numerous options from tented camps, luxury lodges to camping grounds. 

From camping in the bush with amenities to mid-range and luxury lodges, there’s something for everyone one here. Of particular note include the renowned Cottar’s 1920s Camp in Masai Mara, a spacious luxury safari camp in a quiet section of the park where the golden age of exploration meets modern-day adventure safaris. 

Go fishing, walking or hot-air ballooning before enjoying an outdoor bath and sundowners and dinner in the bush. 

Must do on a 3 day Kenya safari

The most popular option for a 3 day Kenyan safari is Masai Mara National Reserve . The flight from Nairobi gets you there in about 45 minutes, but a road safari is also feasible. With an early start, you should be in the Mara in time for an afternoon game drive. 

A 3 day safari to Amboseli NP , at the base of Mt Kilimanjaro, is also a good option. While the Mara is best for big cats, you can expect elephant sightings in Amboseli. And on clear days, Kilimanjaro creates a perfect backdrop for your photographs. 

Another option is to head for the highlands of Laikipia Plateau. There are several excellent private reserves worth visiting here, but Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a great choice. It’s home to all the Big Five, and offers easy encounters with both black and white rhino. 

People on a beach holiday around Mombasa or elsewhere on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline often opt to add a short safari to their itinerary. The most popular choices for this are Tsavo East or West National Parks, which together form the largest protected area in Kenya. 

Animals on a Kenya safari?

You’ll find just about everything in Kenya! The country is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo) and visitors will also find Wildebeest, Diceros, Impalas, Dik-diks, Impalas, giraffes, hyenas, African wild dogs and many more.

Endlessly intelligent and iconic, African elephants continue to capture the hearts of travelers to Kenya.In addition to watching the largest land mammals roam the savannah, you can opt to visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage where they care for young elephants and rhinos before releasing them back to the wild. 

Rhino are more difficult to find. To see rhinos in Kenya, you should consider going to one of the reserves in Laikipia. Amboseli NP is great for elephant, giraffe and buffalo, but big cat sightings are less common here and rhino is absent. 

Whilst Masai Mara is world famous for hosting the epic Great Migration, the Mara welcomes 1.5 million wildebeests onto its sprawling savannahs each July through October. Other wildlife that visitors can expect to find include abundant elephants, buffalo, giraffes, lions and cheetah alongside the migratory animals and zebra. 

How much spending money do I need for a 3 day Kenya safari?

Visitors should budget for approximately $300 for a Kenya safari per person per day, including food and accommodation. Kenya safaris can be more expensive than their continental counterparts due to the higher costs of accommodation and food.

What animals will I see on a 3 day Kenya safari tour?

Visitors on a 3 day Kenya safari will see the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo), hyenas, wildebeest, giraffes, cheetah, zebras, endangered black rhinos, hippos, crocodiles and much more.

What is the best time to go on a 3 day Kenya safari?

The best time to go on a 3 day Kenya safari is from June to October when there’s practically no rain and daytime temperatures are not too hot. With an overall moderate climate, Kenya is however considered a great year-round safari and beach holiday destination.

THREE WAYS TO PLAN AND BOOK YOUR SAFARI WITH AFRICANMECCA

TRAVEL & OPERATIONS OFFICES

• United States
• United Kingdom

Learn More On AfricanMecca Safari Tier Ratings & Experiences

1. andBeyond Bateleur Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 2. Angama Mara - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 3. Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 4. Cottar's Bush Villa - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 5. Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier - 3 Days 6. Elewana Sand River Masai Mara - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 7. Governors IL Moran Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 8. Mahali Mzuri - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 9. Mara Bushtops - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 10. Mara Expedition Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 11. Mara Plains Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 12. Ngare Serian - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 13. Ol Seki Hemingways Mara - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 14. Olare Mara Kempinski - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 15. Richard's Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 16. Sala's Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 17. Sanctuary Olonana - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 18. Saruni Mara - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 19. Saruni Wild - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 20. Serian - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier 21. Serian Nkorombo Mobile Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 1 Premier

1. Acacia House - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 2. andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp (CT) - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 3. Encounter Mara - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 4. Entim Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 5. Entumoto Safari Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe - 3 Days 6. Governors Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 7. Governors Private Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 8. Karen Blixen Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 9. Kicheche Bush Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 10. Kicheche Mara Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 11. Kicheche Valley Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 12. Kilima Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 13. Little Governors Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 14. Mara Bush Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 15. Mara Bush Camp - Private Wing - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 16. Mara Bush House - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 17. Mara Ngenche Safari Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 18. Naboisho Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 19. Naibor Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 20. Neptune Mara Rianta Luxury Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 21. Offbeat Mara Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 22. Porini Cheetah Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 23. Porini Lion Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 24. Porini Mara Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 25. Rekero Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe 26. Sentinel Mara Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 2 Deluxe

1. Basecamp Masai Mara - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 3 Value 2. Eagle View Basecamp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 3 Value 3. Ilkeliani Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 3 Value 4. Mara Serena Safari Lodge - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 3 Value 5. Speke's Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 3 Value - 3 Days 6. Tipilikwani Mara Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 3 Value 7. Wilderness Camp - Masai Mara Explorer Safari - Tier 3 Value

View Itinerary +

Andbeyond bateleur camp - masai mara safari from nairobi.

ANGAMA MARA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

COTTAR'S 1920S CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

COTTAR'S BUSH VILLA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

ELEWANA ELEPHANT PEPPER CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

ELEWANA SAND RIVER MASAI MARA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

GOVERNORS IL MORAN CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MAHALI MZURI - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA BUSHTOPS - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA EXPEDITION CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA PLAINS CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

NGARE SERIAN - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI - 4 DAYS

OL SEKI HEMINGWAYS MARA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

OLARE MARA KEMPINSKI - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

RICHARD'S RIVER CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

SALA'S CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

SANCTUARY OLONANA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

SARUNI MARA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

SARUNI WILD - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

SERIAN - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI - 4 DAYS

SERIAN NKOROMBO MOBILE CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI - 4 DAYS

MARA ACACIA BUSH HOUSE - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

ANDBEYOND KICHWA TEMBO TENTED CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

ENCOUNTER MARA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

ENTIM MARA CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

ENTUMOTO SAFARI CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

GOVERNORS CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

GOVERNORS PRIVATE CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

KAREN BLIXEN CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

KICHECHE BUSH CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

KICHECHE MARA CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

KICHECHE VALLEY CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

KILIMA CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

LITTLE GOVERNORS CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA BUSH CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA BUSH CAMP - PRIVATE WING - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA BUSH HOUSE - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA NGENCHE SAFARI CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

NABOISHO CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

NAIBOR CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

NEPTUNE MARA RIANTA LUXURY CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

OFFBEAT MARA CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

PORINI CHEETAH CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

PORINI LION CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

PORINI MARA CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

REKERO CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

SENTINEL MARA CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

BASECAMP MASAI MARA - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

EAGLE VIEW BASECAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

ILKELIANI CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

MARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

SPEKE'S CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

TIPILIKWANI MARA CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

WILDERNESS CAMP - MASAI MARA SAFARI FROM NAIROBI

Destination experiences for masai mara explorer safari.

• Masai Mara National Reserve - Experience Big 5 game drive safaris, Mara River with its seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration, river birdwatching and balloon safari flights
• Masai Mara Private Conservancy - The private conservancies of Masai Mara offer an isolated wilderness with undisturbed predator-prey interactions. Unique safari experiences include night drives, bush walks, Maasai cultural tour & community visits

Tour Experiences For Masai Mara Explorer Safari

• Expert Tour Guide & 4x4 Vehicle: Seat-in game viewing services will be provided by an expert and experienced safari guide in a shared 4x4 vehicle for the full duration of your tour
• Logistical Transfers: You will be transferred in scheduled charter flights. A total of 2 scenic safari flights are included to save time for fast and convenient access to and from the wilderness. The scheduled charter flights will save you 8 hours of driving time e.g. Nairobi to Masai Mara each way
• Trip Theme: Wildlife & Nature, Active Adventure, Culture & History
• Trip Suitability: Couple, Family Friendly, Honeymooners, Solo
• Start Date Flexibility: You can start this tour on any day you prefer
• Customization Options: You can tailor-make this tour to add additional destinations in Africa, extra nights stays, make logistical changes, accommodation swaps, add-on activities etc.
• Traveler Impact & "SEARCH For Africa" Benefit: 3 Options - Excellent (Premier Tier 1), Very Good (Deluxe Tier 2) & Good (Value Tier 3). Read More

CONTACT AND TALK TO OUR SAFARI EXPERTS TODAY TO KICK-START YOUR TOUR PLANNING PROCESS

Request Kenya Custom Or Tailor-Made Safari Pricing Based On Your Specific Travel Dates At Your Preferred Safari Tier Camp Or Lodge

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AFRICANMECCA REVIEWS

On behalf of myself, my wife and my two adult daughters, I want to sincerely thank you and AfricanMecca Safaris for our fabulous recent safari to Amboseli National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

Robert Schenkein - prVision Photography Studio - Colorado, United States

Dear Raza, The accommodations you recommended were superb. We loved them all -- Giraffe Manor, Wilderness Trails, Governor's Il Moran, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Mnemba Island Lodge.

Pat Bernard, Vice President, Global Channel Sales, Novell Corp - New Hampshire United States

Jambo Altaf and Raza! We are back on earth now after our fabulous honeymoon. This is to say THANK YOU so much for organising a week in Kenya that we will never forget.....!

Dr Krina Zondervan, Oxford University - United Kingdom

Jambo Raza!!! The safari trip was spectacular! Everything went off without a hitch. We loved the Masai Mara. The migration was awesome. You listened to what I wanted and delivered it perfectly.

Judi & Chaim Platt - Toronto, Canada

I cannot say enough about the quality of AfricanMecca. Their teams in Kenya and Tanzania were top notch. Raza, again thanks to you and your entire organization! We will be repeat customers.

Dan Kobick - Managing Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers - New York, United States

Jambo Raza, The Lake Nakuru outing was great! We saw lots of pelicans, some flamingos, both black and white rhino... We've already recommended a Kenya safari to friends and relatives. Thanks again

Scott Aaronson - Associate Professor, M.I.T - Boston, United States

This is to let you know my guests, The Bryant's, had a wonderful time on the trip Samburu, Masai Mara/Kenya, Chobe/Botswana & Victoria Falls/Zambia. Everything was perfect! Thank you..

Christine Milan - MT Carmel Travel - Connecticut, United States

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The Perfect 3-Days in Nairobi

By Jennifer Dombrowski 19 Comments

Nairobi doesn’t have to be just the city you fly in and out of on your way to a safari in Kenya. Nairobi is definitely worth a couple days of your time, and you might even be surprised to discover that you can go on safari right in Nairobi. There’s no where else in the world with big game wildlife practically roaming the city itself (and sometimes those curious cats do get out and lions can be seen roaming Nairobi’s busiest roads). If you’re wondering exactly what to see in Nairobi and how to go on safari in the Kenyan capital, follow our 3-day itinerary for the best things to do in Nairobi for wildlife lovers.

Day 1: Nairobi

Nairobi is a long way from just about everywhere. Africa is a massive continent and even arriving from other destinations within Africa can mean quite a long journey.

Take it easy and recuperate from the long trip for the better part of the day. A few hours spent poolside soaking up some sun is just what the doctor ordered so you can feel refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for a lot of very early mornings as you head out on game drives (what a safari is typically called in Africa) to see what you’ve come all this way to see: sub-Saharan Africa’s incredible wildlife.

Eat a Beast of a Feast at Carnivore Restaurant Nairobi

Carnivore is Nairobi’s most famous restaurant and really deserves a spot on your Nairobi sightseeing itineary. It opened in 1980 and was immediately popular with both locals and tourists alike. Deemed a “beast of a feast”, the restaurant is known for it’s massive barbecue bit where all kinds of meat are skewered and cooked on traditional Maasai swords.

The concept is an all-you-can-eat meat feast, though there is a vegetarian option available too. It’s similar to the Brazilian-style restaurants we’ve been to where a variety of salads are offered, but the stars of the dinner show are the various types of meat brought around on swords. You can try what you like, and as much of it as you like. Then when the meat sweats start and you finally call mercy, you take down your flag in surrender.

When Carnivore in Nairobi first opened, it had all sorts of exotic game meat on offer. Kenya banned the sale of wild game meat in 2004, and Carnivore updated it’s menu to include domestic animals like chicken, beef, pork, turkey and some farm-raised exotic meats like ostrich and crocodile.

Carnivore is also famous for their Dawa, a Kenyan cocktail that they make table side with a bit of fun pomp and circumstance. Dawa is Swahili for medicine, though this cocktail tastes nothing like a medicinal-like alcohol you cringe at. It’s vodka with honey, lime and sugar.

Cocktails in order, our meal started with a small bowl of the soup of the day. It was a carrot and cucumber soup on the day we visited. You also receive a two-tiered lazy susan laden with various sauces on the top tier, and salads like a garden salad, couscous and seasonal vegetables on the bottom tier.

Before long a hot cast iron plate arrived and one of the servers with roasted potatoes was hot on our waiter’s heels. Then you just wait for the swords of meat to start making the rounds.

Each meat-wielding server explains exactly what they’ve got. If you’re just not in to that particular meat, you’re more than welcome to turn it down. We went with the attitude that we’d at least try everything, even the ox balls – which was honestly the only thing that didn’t sound appealing to me.

The servers also recommend which of the sauces go best with the various meats. The crocodile, which we put the garlic sauce on as recommended, ended up being the favorite. It’s a white meat and has a firmer texture than chicken. We happily accepted seconds when more crocodile came around.

We’ve had ostrich before. It was actually fairly regularly available at a grocery store near our house in Italy, and there’s an ostrich farmer that sells the eggs and burgers made with ostrich meat on the Cambridge Market where Tim lives currently in England. We like it and looked forward to having it. It’s actually a red meat and tastes similar to venison or prime beef.

The ox balls weren’t terrible, but I could have done without them. They were sliced in to discs like a slice of sausage. The moniker “tastes like chicken” definitely doesn’t apply here, and it was really the chewy texture that I didn’t like about them. But at least I tried it.

When you finally have your fill and have tasted everything you want, you pull the little flag out of the top of the lazy susan to indicate you’re done. And if you have room, dessert and Kenyan coffee or tea are included.

It is indeed a beast of a feast. But when it comes to what to do in Nairobi, it’s one of those fun and delicious experiences you simply must have. We definitely recommend you make a reservation, which you can easily do on their website, because it is always busy.

We took an Uber from our hotel in Nairobi city center and it only cost around $4 USD each way. There are tours that include hotel pick-up and drop off if you’re not comfortable using an Uber in Nairobi, but if you go that route we recommend this one because you’re just paying for the transportation. You’ll pay Carnivore directly for the meal. Beware of booking tours that include the price of the restaurant because we noticed that they were all very marked up in price.

Day 2: Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Nairobi is known as the wildlife capital of the world thanks to its unique national park sitting right on the edge of the city. There’s no where else in the world like it, and our second day was all about Nairobi’s wildlife.

We booked a Giraffe Centre and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage half day small group tour . Both centers are located around a 40-minute drive from Nairobi city center. Though you could easily take an Uber or taxi and visit these two wildlife centers on your own, going with a knowledgeable local guide added to our experience.

Joy visits the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage regularly with small groups and she knew exactly the best spots to position us, as well as was an expert photo and video taker. With her expert guidance on what to expect in advance, our small group could all thoroughly enjoy these busy and popular Nairobi attractions.

Get a Giraffe Kiss at the Nairobi Giraffe Centre

You simply can’t miss a visit to the Giraffe Centre . It’s one of the most fun places to visit in Nairobi, particularly if the giraffe is one of your favorite animals. And going with a local guide on a small group tour means you’ll have an expert photo and video taker to help capture your giraffe interactions on camera.

Founded in 1979 as part of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW), the Giraffe Centre came about through the passion of a British-American couple in Kenya. Jock and Betty Leslie-Melvile discovered the plight of the critically endangered Rothschild giraffe.

Only 120 Rothschild giraffes existed at the time on an 18,000 acre ranch in Western Kenya and this sub-species of giraffe is only found in East Africa. That ranch was an area scheduled for urban development to resettle squatters, and the Rothschild giraffes were about to lose their habitat. It was a certain death sentence for the Rothschild giraffes.

The couple decided to take action to attempt to save the species and brought two of the young Rothschild giraffes to their land in a suburb of Nairobi on the edge of Nairobi National Park. At that time, they founded the AFEW and the history of the Giraffe Centre was born.

The Giraffe Centre is located in Langata and you’ll find the world-famous Giraffe Manor on the edge of the Giraffe Centre’s sanctuary. It’s the Giraffe Centre’s Rothschild giraffes that go over to the manor each morning expecting guests to share their breakfast. So even if you can’t get a reservation or the nightly room rate at Giraffe Manor is just a bit too steep, you can enjoy the very giraffes that rule the Manor.

10 Things You Might Not Know about Giraffes

The Giraffe Centre serves two main purposes. It’s a breeding center for the Rothschild giraffe, and as of today there are now over 600 Rothschild giraffes that are located throughout Kenya and breeding in the wild. It’s also an education center, both for Kenya school children and visitors from far and wide, and educates visitors on Kenya’s wildlife and environment.

The Giraffe Centre is nothing like a zoo or a tourist gimmick that exploits animals. You do have the opportunity to get up close with the world’s tallest animal, feed them and even get a giraffe kiss if you want. But the giraffes are bred, raised until they are 2-3 years of age and old enough to survive on their own, then placed in a safe area in seclusion where they learn to feed themselves before eventually being re-homed to the wild. To date, 40 Rothschild giraffes born at the center have been re-located to the wild.

There’s usually around 20 Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Centre at any one time, which is the maximum capacity that the center can accommodate to give them the food sources and space giraffes need. You won’t interact with 20 giraffes, though. Only a handful are social. And it’s a good thing, because it minimizes the human interaction and giraffes’ association of humans with food.

The social ones are mainly gentle giants. The guides, like our guide Joy, and staff at the Giraffe Centre know each and every giraffe by name and their unique markings. The giraffes do have unique personalities, like the one giraffe that isn’t at all fond of kids.

A staff member is nearby with a bucket of giraffe pellets and they’ll give you a handful. You’re instructed to feed the giraffes one pellet at a time, though some giraffes get a little impatient and will swipe your whole handful with a flick of their tongue.

There’s a platform to bring you face to face with the giraffes. Brave souls that don’t mind a wet, slobbery kiss can put a pellet in between your lips to lure a giraffe in for a kiss. It’s really not that bad! Just keep your lips clamped shut and at most you get a little bit of a lick around your face.

There’s a sink at the bottom of the platform to wash your hands and face with soap and water.

You’ll also notice warthogs running around everywhere. They’re well and truly wild, coming in to the Giraffe Centre’s grounds from Nairobi National Park.

The warthogs and giraffes have a symbiotic relationship. Warthogs depend on giraffes to be able to spot predators from far away. They know that if giraffes start running, they need to flee too. But warthogs have an attention span of about 45 seconds, and they quickly forget why they’re running in the first place.

Giraffe Centre staff give short talks all about the giraffes, their plight and provide a lot of really interesting information about the breeding program. It’s well worth taking the 20 minutes to hear the talk and ask any questions you may have before leaving the Giraffe Centre.

If you do go on your own, we recommend arriving about 20 minutes prior to opening. One of the most popular attractions in Nairobi, people are already waiting before the Giraffe Centre even opens. And it just gets busier throughout the day. It’s also good to know that cash is not accepted. You can pay the 1000 Kenyan shillings (about $10 USD) non-resident Giraffe Centre entry fee by debit card.

See the Adorable Babies at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage

While Nairobi National Park doesn’t have elephants in it, you can still see elephants while visiting Kenya’s capital – and the most adorable baby elephants at that. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant and Rhino Orphanage (DSWT) was founded in 1977, and are renowned as the world’s most successful elephant rescue and rehabilitation center.

Thankfully Joy, our guide, had prepared us for what to expect otherwise we might have been wondering a bit. It was the most crowded and busiest of any of the attractions in Nairobi we visited. The elephant orphanage is one of the best places in Nairobi, and it feels like every tourist in the entire city has turned up.

But with good reason. The David Sheldrick elephant orphanage only opens to the public for 1 hour daily, in order to minimize the human-elephant interaction. Once the milk-dependent baby elephants are old enough and rehabilitated, they are released back to the wild.

During the 1-hour long visit, visitors to the Nairobi elephant orphanage gather around a large roped area and are asked to be quiet. This is both for respect of and to not startle the baby African elephants, and in order to be able to hear the presentation.

The presentation educates visitors on the Nairobi elephant orphanage program and introduces visitors to the baby elephants currently in the elephant nursery. On the day we visited, many of the elephants were orphaned as a result of human-wildlife conflict.

We learned the name of each and every elephant, and the story of how they’d come to be at the DSWT. While some were found alone and some had to be rescued from wells, one thing was clear with each and every story: these elephants would not be alive today with the intervention of the DSWT.

They help elephants by rescuing them from situations in which the elephants wouldn’t have otherwise survived on their own, and rehabilitate them by hand-raising the elephants on milk until around 3 years of age. At that point, they are re-homed to become wild elephants in Kenya again.

The DSWT also sometimes rescues baby rhinos and similarly raises and rehabilitates them as with the elephants. We met Maarifa, a 4-month old baby white rhino who had to be rescued as she was stuck in the mud in Meru Rhino Sanctuary. Her mother had been unable to free her, and her efforts were actually making the situation worse.

While rangers were able to free her, the mother had moved off and left the baby alone. Rangers tried reuniting them over the course of three days, but the mother didn’t pay any attention to little Maarifa’s cries or scent. The DSWT had to intervene before it was too late. They believe from the little rhino’s small size that she was likely born only the day before she fell into and became stuck in the muddy hole.

She’s doing well now and is a spunky little thing. Maarifa put on quite a show charging at full speed playfully toward her keepers and having a good ‘ol time rolling around in the dusty red dirt.

You can adopt an elephant for a minimum of $50 USD per year and the funds go toward the project and raising the orphaned baby elephant. You get a monthly email update about your baby elephant. And one of the special perks of adopting an elephant is that you can book an appointment to visit from 5pm – 6pm.

This visit to the elephant orphanage in Nairobi is open to adopters only. What happens is the adopters gather in a space between the forest and the elephant nursery where the baby elephants sleep at night. Your orphan will be pointed out as the babies pass and you’re welcome to take photos. Then you can meet your baby in the elephant nursery. Do know that only the keepers are permitted to actually feed the elephants their bottles of milk and enter the individual stables where the elephants sleep.

No matter whether you adopt an elephant before your trip and arrange an adopter visit, end up adopting one while visiting the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, or just visit for the day, the baby elephants will melt your heart. The proceeds go to an excellent cause. And despite being crowded, the elephant orphanage is one of the most fun things to do in Nairobi and well worth it.

Go on Safari in Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park was established in 1946 and was Kenya’s first national park. Located just four miles from the city center of Nairobi, it’s unique in that urban development knocks on the door to this park. Nairobi is the only capital city in the world that co-exists with big game wildlife like this and it is home to four of Africa’s Big Five : lion, leopard, rhino and Cape buffalo. Only the elephant, the fifth to make up the Big Five, is missing. The park is too small and there is not enough woodlands to sustain an elephant population with food.

The park gives visitors a glimpse of what Kenya was like just over 100 years ago, when elephants and all the other Kenyan wildlife roamed and migrated across these plains. Nairobi was only established as a city in 1899. At that time all of Nairobi was a lush landscape with acacia tree dotted plains, steep gorges, forests and thick vegetation along the Embakasi River.

Nairobi is Africa’s fastest growing metropolis. To put things in to perspective, the population was 188,976 in 1948 and had reached 1.5 million by 1997. Nairobi’s population exploded in less than 50 years.

Today over 4 million people call Nairobi home. Urbanization encroaches on Nairobi National Park and threatens this unique place on our planet. Not even 20 years ago, you could see herbivores like wildebeest that numbered in the 10,000s in the park. Today there’s only a few hundred of them left in the park because their migratory routes have been cut off by urban development.

That’s precisely why it’s important to visit. The park is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and a portion of the proceeds from the Nairobi National Park entrance fees, which are currently only $43 USD per person for non-residents, go to community outreach programs that help to manage human-wildlife conflict.

Yes, the Masai Mara had been incredible. But the problem is that when you leave, you want more. Like Karen Blixen, you can’t help but fall head over heels for Africa. Luckily, Nairobi National Park delivers and is rightly billed as one of the top things to do in Nairobi.

When you go with the best guides and visit at the right times, Nairobi National Park is a gem teeming with wildlife. The 17.21 square kilometers (28,963 acres) park is home to 80 species of mammals, 450 species of birds, 40 species of amphibians and 500 species of trees.

It’s also a sanctuary for the critically endangered black rhino, with nearly 100 of Kenya’s 540 black rhino residing in the park. The rhinos are heavily protected by armed guards in Nairobi National Park and the park re-homes rhinos to other parks in Kenya.

A Nairobi Safari Experience at The Emakoko

You can have a full experience of going on safari in Nairobi thanks to the stunning boutique lodge, The Emakoko . It’s one of just a handful of safari-style camps and lodges in Nairobi National Park (technically that sit on the edges of Nairobi National Park). The Emakoko ( read the TripAdvisor reviews ) sits on the un-fenced eastern edge of the park and enjoys animals roaming right on to the property, including rhinos that regularly come for a drink from the pool. It’s definitely one of the adventurous places in Nairobi to stay.

Nairobi National Park lodges like The Emakoko make going on safari accessible for everyone. A safari is something that is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people, and carves a large chunk out of your bank account with even the most budget-friendly options.

Nairobi National Park Game Drive and Activities

The Emakoko is more than just a unique place to stay in Nairobi. They provide guests with an opportunity for a Nairobi National Park safari and the experience is just like being on safari with a luxury tented camp in the famous Masai Mara. Our guide from The Emakoko picked us up in one of their four Land Cruiser safari vehicles and whisked us the four miles from the always chaotic Nairboi center to Nairobi National Park.

Like being picked up from an airstrip, the route doesn’t have to be a direct one straight to the lodge. You design your time at The Emakoko with the experiences you want. If it’s wildlife, they deliver with a Nairobi National Park game drive. The animals are most active early in the morning and then again from late in the afternoon as the sun dips lower on the horizon and the scorching temperatures cool down. Our guide, Rajesh, asked us if we wanted to go a game drive and there was no hesitation about that answer.

The famous pictures you often see with giraffes in front of Nairobi’s skyline of skyscrapers are taken not far from Nairobi National Park’s main gate. This is also the busiest section of Nairobi National Park and where the majority of visitors spend their time.

Patience is key to capturing that shot.  While the Nairobi National Park animals include just about everything but elephants, our knowledgeable guide pointed out that it’s pretty common to be able to capture the Nairobi skyline with animals like zebras, wildebeest and gazelles fairly easily. Bigger animals like giraffes are harder. And patience is essential to waiting for lions or rhinos to perfectly line up for that particular shot.

You can book a half day Nairobi National Park tour with a number of companies, but these are typically small group tours of up to 8 people per vehicle and last 3 hours. You won’t be able to sit waiting for animals to wander to exactly the right spot for your photo. Since we were designing our own time at The Emakoko, we could wait out possibly getting the perfect photo. And it was our luck and persistence that two southern white rhinos were grazing while heading in the direction of just the right place.

Our guide was in touch with another Emakoko guide who’d just come across Nairobi National Park’s two oldest dominant male lions, Sam and Cheru. They’d killed a buffalo early in the morning and the duo were having a drink of water at a watering hole. We rushed off to see them.

The brothers are Nairobi National Park’s oldest of the estimated 39 lions in the park and the central part of the park is their territory. They’re well-known by many guides and you can distinguish them by their manes. Sam has the all golden mane and Cheru has a dark and golden mane.

Neither seemed bothered by the presence of the cars, but Cheru is reputed to have quite a short temper. He’s well-known for running other lions out of their territory and even out of the park. He’s also an escape artist. Cheru is the lion that broke out of the fence that runs along the northern border of the park, and was spotted along the Mombasa Road, one of Nairobi’s busiest, in 2016.

The rarest sighting of all was the African Rock Python that just slithered across the road right in front of us. It’s Africa’s largest snake (also one of the six largest snake species in the world) and can grow up to 20 feet in length (6 meters). My guide estimated that this particular one was “pretty good size” at around 3 meters (over 9 feet) in length and that it was female.

An African Rock Python this size would weigh in between 97 – 121 lbs (44 – 55 kilos) and can easily swallow an impala or antelope whole. It’s a non-venomous snake and coils around its prey to choke it to death. The prey probably dies of a heart attack rather than actual asphyxiation, though.

Our guide joked: “Ready for a bush walk?”

Before we’d even reached The Emakoko, we’d had a 3-hour Nairobi National Park game drive and saw giraffes, three southern white rhinos, the duo of the park’s oldest dominant male lions, a python, zebras, antelope, buffalo and a genet cat.

Game drives aren’t the only thing to do at The Emakoko, though. You can also arrange visits to the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, which are both located on the edges of Nairobi National Park. Hiking is also available. Many guests are also repeat visitors and stay just for the quiet, unique setting.

The Emakoko’s Lodge

The main lodge is the heart of all things at The Emakoko. Crossing the wooden bridge across the Emakoko River, which gives the boutique lodge its name, it’s where you’re welcomed by owners Anthony and Emma themselves.

Open air with views looking out to the hills beyond where we saw buffalo and giraffes grazing, there’s big overstuffed couches to relax on in front of a fireplace. There’s also a bar, where expert barmen serve up wine, beer and cocktails. They’ll happily oblige you with a dawa, my favorite Kenyan cocktail.

The dining room is also located in the main lodge and is also open air looking out over the pool. On Saturdays, guests are invited to the barbecue party poolside.

There’s also a swimming pool with loungers and umbrellas situated around it. It’s perfect for a refreshing dip after an early morning game drive.

A small boutique occupies a corner of the main lodge. There’s a selection of items made locally by Masai or Nairobi designers, various books on Kenya and souvenirs like t-shirts and Emakoko embroidered fleece.

The Emakoko’s Cottages

The Emakoko has a total of 10 cottages, one of which is a family cottage, and one private house. Five of the cottages are at the main level of the lodge where the dining room and relaxation areas are located. The other five cottages are built in the cliff stretching upward with the private house crowning the clifftop.

Currently it’s a bit of steep climb to the upper cottages and private house, but a funicular is in the works to transport guests easily up and down, making all of the cottages and private house accessible.

We stayed in one of the uppermost cottages, number 8. It was already dark when we arrived since we’d stayed out on the game drive until the sun had set, but the views over the Emakoko River and to the hills beyond were well worth the climb up to the cottage.

The cottages are beautiful and spacious. A large, luxurious bed is the centerpiece and at night the mosquito netting is lowered around it just in case any critters get in. There’s also a sitting area in front of a fireplace, a desk to journal about your safari at and a balcony.

The bathroom is equally as spacious with a large double sink vanity and separate shower and bath. The bath is situated right next to a window with an incredible view and you better believe I enjoyed a bath to soak my aching bones after bumping around on an early morning game drive.

The cottages have 24 hour electricity and hot water that is supplied by The Emakoko’s solar power. They also have a back-up generator. There’s plenty of outlets to charge up devices and camera equipment. And there’s wifi throughout the property.

Wake-up calls are a tray of tea or coffee with cookies delivered to your cottage. Room service is also available if you’d like to dine in your cottage, but we always enjoy going to the main lodge where other safari goers are typically happy to exchange stories of wildlife sightings.

Dining at The Emakoko

The Emakoko’s attention to detail doesn’t stop with the cottages and main lodge. At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Steve, and he’s always adding new recipes and learning from guest chefs. The cuisine is a mix of British, French, Indian and Thai with African flair.

In our 24 hours in Nairobi National Park, we experienced breakfast, lunch and dinner at The Emakoko. Every meal was delicious. They have their own garden and salads with edible flowers are picked straight from it. They also have their own free range chickens that produce the eggs for the lodge. And local products are used as much as possible.

Breakfast is a mix of a small buffet of fresh seasonal fruits and yogurt. Freshly baked pastries and strawberry pancakes were brought to the table and we had a choice of eggs cooked to order. If you know us, then you know we can’t ever pass up eggs benedict.

Lunch was our favorite of the meals we had at The Emakoko. The menu is set each day and for lunch we had a cashew crusted red snapper filet. It was served with couscous with feta and a salad picked from The Emakoko’s garden. I want Chef Steve’s recipe for the cashew crusted red snapper! It was so good I happily accepted a second serving.

Dinner started with mushrooms and polenta, then was followed by a pork filet over a bed a seasonal vegetables with sweet potato mash. Second helpings are always offered up of everything. A passion fruit meringue was a sweet finish and coffee or tea is offered.

White, red or rosé wine is offered with each meal. And there’s a bar where you can try The Emakoko Dawa, have your favorite cocktail like a gin & tonic, or have a beer if you choose.

Day 3: Nairobi National Park

Our very last day in Kenya was spent in Nairobi National Park with The Emakoko. We arranged an early morning game drive leaving from the lodge at 6:30am. Early morning is when the animals are at their most active and there’s something magical about seeing everything waking up. It’s the best time to visit Nairobi National Park.

We explored the eastern part of the park and saw a ton of wildlife during the 4-hour game drive before breakfast. The leopard was the only animal left of Africa’s Big Five that we hadn’t seen in the Masai Mara. The Emakoko actually had a resident leopard, and she birthed a cub. She was quite old and they sadly found her body not too long ago. She likely died of old age and natural causes.

Her cub is at the age that she’s mating and she’s gone off, for now at least. Cats have a territory and everyone at The Emakoko hopes she’ll return again after she’s mated.

Rajesh searched every tree, but we never did find a leopard to complete the Big Five in Kenya. We saw so much else, though. The eastern part of the park is rhino territory and we saw eight in addition to the three rhinos from the game drive the evening before.

We found three black rhinos munching on shrubs and nearly hidden in the forest. There is actually no color difference between black and white rhinos. They’re the smaller of Africa’s two rhino species and their hooked lip distinguishes them from the white rhino.

Off in the distance a crash of rhinos (crash is the collective term for a group of rhinos) were walking slowly in a single file line. Occasionally one of the five would wander out of their formation to graze on a patch of grass that might be a little sweeter.

Then all of a sudden they seemed to change direction a bit and the crash started running toward us. It was a spectacular sight to watch the five rhinos run at full speed and pass right across the dirt track a mere 10 meters in front of us.

Why were they running? It’s hard to say. But the white rhinos were more than content to mow along the tall grass on the other side of the dirt track. What they weren’t so please about were some nearby ostriches and it a was a laugh-out-loud moment to watch one surly white rhino chase after the ostriches.

There’s a healthy population of ostrich in the park. While we had seen the occasional flock of ostriches in the Masai Mara and the Serengeti, we’d never seen as many as in Nairobi National Park.

The birders will love to know that Kenya is the second best country in Africa for birding and you can see a ton of bird species in Nairobi National Park. Thousands of giant marabou storks sat on every branch and log along the river. They’re nearly five feet tall and they’re actually quite unfortunate looking. Almost terrifying with mangled-looking red heads.

We also saw a magnificent Martial Eagle take off from one perch and land on other. It’s Africa’s largest eagle and its wingspan stretches an impressive six feet wide.

There’s also hippos and even crocodiles in Nairobi National Park. They’re mostly found along the Embakasi River, though we found a massive crocodile in one of the largest watering holes on our game drive.

Zebras, gazelles and antelope are everywhere. One of the types of herbivores we’d not come across at all anywhere in Tanzania or the Masai Mara but saw plenty of in Nairobi National Park was the hartebeest. They’re one of the large antelope species and I thought their distinctive long heads gave them a very cute face.

Definitely be sure to carry a notebook to write down everything you see, because you’ll see plenty on a safari in Nairobi. Our guide also had various spotters guides to identify any species we stumbled across that he might not know, but that was impressively only one or two of the smaller birds that have similar colors and markings.

Where to Stay in Nairobi

Nairobi is a sprawling metropolis and deciding on the best accommodation in Nairobi really comes down to what you plan to do during your time in the capital.

The Emakoko , reviewed in detail above, was our favorite and the most unique place to stay in Nairobi. With its unique location on the eastern edge of Nairobi National Park, you’re transported on safari without even leaving the city. Peaceful and tranquil, it’s easy to forget you’re in a city of over 4 million people.

If it’s city access to the sights, markets, shopping and restaurants that you want, then select a city center hotel for your Nairobi accommodation.

Serena Hotel Nairobi

Serena Hotel Nairobi , one of the 5-star hotels in Nairobi, is a nice retreat within the bustling Kenyan capital. The location makes this hotel one of the best places to stay in Nairobi for exploring the city center. It’s within easy walking distance to Nairobi city attractions like museums and the City Market and restaurants.

But the multiple onsite restaurants, including a fine dining restaurant, and excellent pool and spa more than warrant staying in to relax and feel refreshed after the long journey to Kenya. That’s precisely why we choose Serena Hotel Nairobi ( read what other travelers have to say on TripAdvisor ) to stay at when we first arrived in the city.

The rooms are stylish, spacious and well-appointed with king-size beds, in-room coffee and tea making facilities and complimentary mini-bar that is restocked daily. Our room had a view of the city skyline and overlooked the hotel’s pool and gardens.

Serena’s Mandhari fine dining restaurant is touted among the best restaurants in Nairobi. The menu changes seasonally and features both regional and international specialties. We did enjoy a meal there and tried Mandari’s specialty, which is their rack of lamb that is smoked with herbs. It’s first presented with a flourish as the lid is lifted off the braising pot and the scent of the herbs wafts out along with the steam. The rack of lamb is then taken back to be carved before it is served.

There’s also the more casual Cafe Mahgreb, which is the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. It offers both buffet and a la carte options. In addition, pool bar offers cafe-style seating outdoors around the pool.

There is an on-site spa with a menu of a wide range of services, though we did not try out the spa during our visit.

Serena Hotel Nairobi can also arrange various activities. We did inquire about a visit to the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust arranged through the hotel, but honestly found it quite expensive and booked the tour independently instead.

Often you’re departing from Nairobi for your international flight back home very early in the morning. Nairobi traffic is notorious at all hours of the day and night. If an early morning flight is on the agenda, consider a Nairobi airport hotel that offers a complimentary shuttle.

Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport

We highly recommend the Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport and spent our very last night in Nairobi there ahead of a 6:30am flight departure back home. The 4-star hotel is located just 1.4 kilometers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and offers a complimentary airport shuttle to guests.

There are several onsite restaurants including a bar with burgers and pub-style options, a restaurant and a grab-and-go food store with options such as salads and sandwiches made fresh that you can take to go or up to your room. There’s also room service available.

For us, the highlight of the Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport ( TripAdvisor reviewers agree ) is the rooftop infinity swimming pool. It’s open year round and it’s a lovely option not many airport hotels offer. There’s also a very well equipped 24-hour gym if you want to get a workout in before sitting on a plane for a long haul flight.

The rooms are spacious and well-appointed with all the modern conveniences of complimentary wifi throughout the hotel, in-room tea and coffee making facilities and a mini-fridge with complimentary water. The rooms are sound-proofed and there are black-out curtains.

Know Before You Go

Our trip to Nairobi was in partnership with Serena Hotel Nairobi, The Emakoko and Carnivore in order to bring you this story. However, Luxe Adventure Traveler maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. As always, all thoughts, opinions, and enthusiasm for travel are entirely our own. This article contains affiliate links. When you book on Booking.com , Viator or Urban Adventures through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

Ami Bhat says

March 9, 2019 at 5:51 PM

It is my dream to catch the Big Five and if Nairobi is going to let me see them, then it is the place to be. I can see that they have a well-developed tourist circuit that seems cost effective too. Loved the variety that you have captured. How many days do you reckon we plan if we want to only do the national parks there.?

Jennifer Dombrowski says

March 13, 2019 at 11:28 AM

Bush flights alone getting to the Serengeti or Masai Mara are expensive and run typically about $300 RT per person. So the fact that you can go on a full fledged safari in Nairobi really does make it a cost effective safari holiday destination.

The ticket gives you 24 hours in Nairobi National Park. While it’s small when comparing to other parks like the Masai Mara, you can easily spend 24 hours and not see the entirety of Nairobi National Park. But I’d spend the 24 hours there, which is what I did. I got in 3 game drives in that 24 hour period, two of which were 3-4 hours and one shorter game drive of 2 hours.

Stephen says

March 10, 2019 at 11:55 AM

20 Giraffes at one time! This place looks amazing. Nairboi wasn’t very high on my list of countries…. that was until I read this blog post! Nairobi looks amazing. Loved the photos!

March 13, 2019 at 11:29 AM

Nairobi is a city and the capital of Kenya. I’d never really thought about Nairobi as my destination either. Originally I didn’t even plan to spend any more than an overnight there. I’m glad my plans changed because Nairobi was truly great.

Linda (LD Holland) says

March 10, 2019 at 4:00 PM

I must admit that I had never thought of visiting Nairobi. Although I have been considering a safari. Starting with a meat feast at a place called Carnivore sounds like the perfect way to start. Hubby always likes to try exotic meats and has had crocodile before. I would love to visit the Giraffe Centre. Great that you can get a giraffe kiss. Love the safari cottages and the tub with a view. I now need to put Nairobi on the travel plans!

Indrani says

March 11, 2019 at 9:21 AM

Whoa you have tempted me enough! Good to know Nairobi has lots to offer in terms of wildlife and the interactions with them. I am in love with the giraffes, but not sure if I would be able to get that close.

March 13, 2019 at 11:35 AM

Giraffes are generally pretty curious and gentle giants!

sherianne says

March 12, 2019 at 3:18 AM

Wow, it would be crazy to see a lion roaming along a city road! Would love to check out the barbecue bit at Carnivore, it looks massive and the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage are right up my alley. Great ideas!

Linda de Beer says

March 12, 2019 at 8:27 AM

Now you’ve got me longing for the African bush! I’ve only stayed in Nairobi once on my way to Mombasa, but have always wanted to go back to explore more. Now I know where to stay, what to do, and where to get my fill of meat! And I’m very envious of you seeing that African rock python in the wild. They’ve always eluded me.

March 13, 2019 at 11:37 AM

It was totally crazy to see the python! Apparently it was quite the rare sighting, especially to see it out in the total open like that. I knew there were snakes, but I never even think about them in the African bush.

MEENAKSHI J says

March 12, 2019 at 9:24 AM

Oh my…love these wildlife captures and the guided virtual tour of Nairobi. Looks like even a week-long of travel may not be sufficient to cover this list of things-to-do! Thanks for giving a glimpse into the African Rock python and those eco-friendly cottages. Love this post! Pinned it 🙂

Anneklien Meanne says

March 12, 2019 at 11:51 AM

Wow Nairobi is stunning not the mention the beast feast at Carnivore restaurant I will be there every night feasting so to speak. And the game drive looks wonderful sight seeing of the wildlife with binoculars and long lens cameras what a perfect day!

March 13, 2019 at 11:47 AM

Most of the wildlife was so close in Nairobi National Park that you could have taken photos with a phone! We got about 1 meter away from the lions and giraffes. And the crash of rhinos was the closest we’ve ever seen rhinos. We didn’t use binoculars at all, actually.

Claudia says

March 13, 2019 at 10:42 PM

Love your tips about visit Nairobi. It’s good to take it easy on the first day in any destination, but seems especially appropriate here. I can’t wait to visit Africa and see the amazing animals first hand one day! Your photos are beautiful. That elephant orphanage and giraffe centre both sound simply incredible, it’s truly a trip of a lifetime.

March 15, 2019 at 2:23 AM

I’m a huge animal lover so Nairobi looks like the perfect vacation spot for me. I love your shot of the giraffe in front of the city skyline! And that you were able to see so much wildlife so close up!

July 24, 2019 at 5:17 PM

Very excited about this post. We are heading to Nairobi in September and have booked our visit to the DSWT (our primary reason for the trip as I’m a long time supporter!) We have heard a lot about Carnivore Restaurant and would like to try it, but have had people say not to eat salads, etc., in Kenya because of health concerns. What do you think?

July 25, 2019 at 11:18 AM

How exciting to finally visit DSWT after being a supporter for so long! We’re also headed back to Kenya again in October and will be visiting DSWT again.

I ate all sorts of salads, fruit and veggies. The water is very clean in Kenya and I’ve never heard of any health concerns. I had absolutely zero issues with food or water in Kenya, though I had issues when I visited Tanzania a few years ago.

Emily Womac says

March 12, 2021 at 5:33 PM

Hi! I’m adding a few days in Nairobi at the end of our Safari next month. I have one night booked at Giraffe Manor & am thinking to go from there to the Emakoko – if I get a 10am pick up from the Emakoko staff/guides & head into the park to the Lodge, would that day & one overnight be enough to see & experience most things at the Lodge? On your 3 day itinerary, did you spend one or 2 nights there? We’ll be heading to Zanzibar after we check out from there… haven’t booked anything yet, so if you’ve got any recommendations or advice for the island, please let me know. Thanks! Emily

March 16, 2021 at 9:12 PM

I stayed one night at the Emakoko, which was perfect. I arrived in the early afternoon and did a game drive in the evening, then another game drive first thing in the morning. The wildlife is most active at those times of the day, then pretty much sleeps during the daytime while it heats up. Nairobi National Park is big, but not huge. You can easily cover most it on the two game drives.

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How To Spend 3 Days In Masai Mara, The Safari Park From The Lion King

This Kenyan national park is one of the best places in the world to see lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the wild.

When it comes to planning an African safari , TikTok can agree on one thing: Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya needs to be on your itinerary.

“The Land of the Big Cats” has a reputation as one of the best places on the continent to see lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the wild; it was one of the main filming locations of the live-action Lion King movie .

Masai Mara’s location in the Great Rift Valley gives it a leg up on wildlife diversity compared to other reserves. Its 580 miles of lush savannah is home to almost 90 different mammal species, and safari-goers have a good chance of spotting all of the African “Big Five” — lions, leopards, elephants, African buffalo, and the elusive black rhinos — as well as members of the slightly lesser-known (but equally ‘Gram-worthy) so-called “Ugly Five,” hyenas and warthogs included. If you visit in late summer, you might even see the Great Migration of over 2 million wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores crossing the Mara River from the neighboring Serengeti Desert.

This February, I spent 10 days visiting Kenya’s national parks and game reserves on an itinerary curated by EF Ultimate Break , a Gen Z and millennial tour company. After a week of bush glamping in sparsely vegetated and dusty parks throughout Kenya, Masai Mara was comparatively lush, and my safari Jeep was constantly stumbling upon families of elephants, giraffes, and lions.

If you’re heading to Kenya on safari soon or scrolling TikTok for future inspiration , here’s what’s worth doing at Masai Mara and how to spend three days at the reserve.

What To Do At Masai Mara

Day 1: hang out with baby elephants & meet the maasai tribe.

After a 20-plus-hour journey from Chicago, I stretched my legs at one of Nairobi’s most popular attractions. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Orphans Project houses baby elephants and rhinos who are currently unable to survive in the wild for whatever reason, and it’s just as cute as you’d expect. There was a collective “aw” as the tiniest baby black rhino stumbled out to meet the crowd, and we got introduced to all the baby elephants as they clumsily ran to the keepers for their bottles of milk.

The experience was more crowded and touristy than I expected, but I enjoyed learning the story behind each baby animal, seeing their personalities, and petting them. You’re also able to sponsor one of the baby elephants or rhinos until they’re ready to go back into the wild.

After hanging out with the animals, get into your safari Jeep to drive the five hours to Masai Mara. I stayed at PrideInn Mara Camp, which had glamping tents and cottages just steps from the park and Lake Talek, but there are plenty of accommodations around Masai Mara’s perimeter (including regular hotels like a JW Marriott Masai Mara if sleeping in a tent without air conditioning isn’t your vibe).

The best part of the PrideInn Mara Camp (and others in the area) is the presence of the Maasai tribe , which welcomed us with a traditional song and dance. There were also a number of warriors who worked in the hotel and who would walk us to and from our rooms if it was late at night.

Day 2: Take A Hot Air Balloon & A Drive

The park is huge, so soaring over the savannah to see the landscape and animals from above is an efficient and bucket list-worthy way to start off your safari experience.

We had to wake up at 4 a.m. to head over to the hot air balloon launch site, but I quickly stopped complaining about the early call time when we were in the balloon and the sun was rising over Masai Mara.

We got to take in bird's eye views of the Mara River (including a rare sighting of an adorable baby hippo that was splashing through it), check out a family of grazing giraffes from above, and get eye-level with the vultures in the trees. Afterward, we enjoyed an English-style brunch with unlimited mimosas in the middle of the bush, then headed back to the camp to nap it all off.

In the early afternoon, we headed on our second safari and stayed until twilight. After spending almost two weeks in Kenya, I realized it’s 100% worth doing two safari drives a day — one in the morning as the sun rises and one at dusk right before the predators are about to start hunting — to get the fullest picture of how the animals act in their natural habitat.

Depending on the time of day, you’ll also see different personalities from the lions. When I went in the morning, the lions weren’t the apex predators I’d anticipated. Instead, the pride was almost playful, with a young male lion with a dandelion mane nuzzling his father and the female lions, and cuddling with them in the sun. The only hint of their agility and quick reflexes were shown in how they quickly flipped from side to side and how alert they seemed at all times, with their heads suddenly popping above the grass when they’d been lazily napping in the sun just moments earlier.

Another day, as the sun went down, I saw a group of lionesses who’d been napping and were barely camouflaged in the long grass start to oh-so-casually make their move. They inched toward a grazing herd of wildebeests, their eyes locked on their next meal. I wouldn’t have experienced these different personalities if I hadn’t seen both in action.

Day 3: Go On A Morning Game Drive & Visit The Maasai Tribe

After going on a sunrise game drive, take an afternoon tour of the Maasai tribe’s village. Dressed in signature bright red robes, the warriors greeted us at the entrance of their village. They taught us some of their chants and performed a 10-minute celebratory song and dance that we were encouraged to take part in, which included mimicking the roaring of lions, shaking our shoulders, and competing to see who could jump the highest.

Then, they sectioned us off into groups to tour the family huts and learn about their pastoral lifestyle. Many of the Maasai people have gone into tourism and are employed by hotels and other hospitality businesses in the area, but they’re one of the few tribes where many members still practice their traditional way of life.

After the tour, we got to shop the tribe’s gorgeous beadwork, carved wooden products, and other souvenirs. I picked up a blue bracelet, a beaded choker, and some wooden coasters painted with safari animals to bring back home with me.

Ultimately, I came back to Chicago feeling relaxed, inspired, and fully ready to take advantage of my apartment’s air conditioning. I gained a deep appreciation for my proximity to wildlife during my bush glamping adventure (yes, even for the crickets and lizards in my tent).

Going on safari was life-changing for so many reasons. I was awestruck by seeing a 3-day-old hippo hanging out with his mom, and a pack of elephants racing across the savannah. I was surprised that the lions and giraffes seemed to barely take notice of our Jeep.

The safari also taught me a lesson in patience. Unlike in a zoo, you’re not able to control when or where you’ll see cheetahs, hippos, or prides of lions — which ends up making it so much more fulfilling when you do.

It’s not a question of if, but when, I’ll go back to Masai Mara on safari. And who knows — maybe this time I’ll spend more than a few days exploring Kenya’s most famous game reserve.

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3 Days Amboseli Safari by Road from Nairobi

Amboseli 3 Days Safari by road – Experience nature with awesome Big game viewing & Bird watching. But this 3 days Amboseli safari from Nairobi will also showcase what these iconic park is famous – the Mount Kilimanjaro with its Majestic peaks towering above the clouds.  Start from Nairobi back to Nairobi road safari .

Amboseli 3 Days Nairobi Road Safari Itinerary

Day 1. nairobi – amboseli.

Meet and Greet with your safari driver guide. There after you’ll have a short trip briefing before departure.

pick-up from your City Hotel, residence & Airport in the morning and begin your journey to Amboseli national park.  You’ll journey along the busy Nairobi – Mombasa road via Emali town. Enjoy beautiful golden savanna plains with dotted Masai homestead along the way.  The appearance of Mount Kilimanjaro’s towering peaks is sure sign that you have reached Amboseli national park.

After clearance with the gate keepers, your driver will welcome you to Amboseli and embark on your first game viewing. Proceed to your Lodge / Tented camp for Check-in and lunch.

Afternoon game drive with chances to see Elephants, lions, cheetahs, gazelles, wildebeests, buffalo zebras, warthogs, different species of birds and of course Mount Kilimanjaro. Also small game and flocks of bird-life will be seen during this enticing game drive.

Return to your lodge | Luxury camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 2. Amboseli National Park

Spend the whole day in Amboseli with morning and afternoon game drives. Our game drives shall take us to the observation hill to have a better overall view of the park including the adjacent marshy swamps.

Wildlife is abundant in this park together with pelicans and other bird species. Your game viewing shall be spread to cover the open plains, acacia woodland, rocky thorn bush country, swamps and marshland. Amboseli is known for its relative ease in wildlife viewing. All members of Africa’s “Big Five” are here as well as zebra, giraffe, cheetah, warthog, ostrich and many more.

Enjoy close-up encounters with wildlife in this park as we time for the clouds which cover Mount Kilimanjaro’s peaks to clear giving us one of Africa’s most striking vistas. Every thing is eye-catching while on a safari in Africa. Just before your return to your lodge, you’ll take a look at glorious sunset from the observation hill.

All meals and overnight in the same lodge | Luxury tented camp of choice.

Day 3. Amboseli Nairobi

This is our last day of our 3-days Amboseli Safari from Nairobi by road. Optional game drive before breakfast will be provided. After breakfast, check-out and proceed for another game drive. We’ll have one final view of Mount Kilimanjaro. More wildlife viewing on our way to exit.

After exit you’ll have a relaxed and most exciting drive back to Nairobi. Exchange notes on what you saw during your safari and possible consideration to make a longer trip during your next holiday trip to Kenya.  Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon & transfer to your hotel or drop-off at the airport

End of our enchanting Nairobi Amboseli 3 days Safari by road.

3-days Nairobi Amboseli safari Price information

Safari | tour seasons.

• Low season:  April to end of June
• Peak season: July to October, 23rd December -o1st January
• High season: November – 22nd December & 02nd January – end of March

Category of Lodge and Tented camps

Prices shown below depends on the number of people sharing in a vehicle, period of the year is to be undertaken and the status or category of the lodge | luxury tented camp.

Amboseli 3 Days road Safari from Nairobi – Prices

High level lodges and tented camps, safari in standard level lodges and tented camps, safari in mid-range lodges / tented camps.

•  Itinerary
•  Highlights

Safari Pricing Chart

Price will include.

• Transport by custom safari van with an open rooftop for viewing and photography
• Mineral water while on safari
• All government Levies
• Extensive and most rewarding Game drives
• All park entry fees,
• Accommodation and meals (full board basis) based on the option chosen
• Pick and drop from your hotel, residence or Nairobi Airport
• soft and alcoholic drinks
• Tips and other gratitudes
• Things of personal nature
• Costs incurred while visiting local homesteads [eg. Masai village]
• Children between 3 to 11 years pay 50% of adult price
• Children occupying own room pay 75% of adult rate
• Single room supplement will apply in all categories except on safaris tours have taken during the low season.
• This Amboseli national park 3 Days safari in Kenya can leave from any point in Nairobi city/airport.
• You can choose your own date of departure.
• Any other information you feel worthwhile knowing regarding this safari in Amboseli will be provided immediately on request.

Nairobi-Amboseli National Park – 3 Days road Safari

Pick up from your Nairobi city hotel, Residence or Nairobi international airport

Amboseli wildlife safari trip in 3 Days  departs daily from Nairobi in per suite for nature and wildlife viewing

This Amazing Amboseli wildlife safari trip shall take you to the foot of mount Kilimanjaro. Also, the park is famous for its big game and great scenic beauty. The landscape is dominated by the towering Mount Kilimanjaro.

Watch wild animals in large numbers . Lions,Leopards, Hyenas, Buffalo, Giraffe, Warthog, Jackals and many more roam free in this   iconic Kenyan Park . Pelican and other bird species will be seen on the marshy grounds .

Safar independence

Embark on this authentic Amboseli wildlife safari trip on a private comfortable safari van with open roof top for viewing and photography. You will not be mixed with other travelers whose interests & intends may differ from yours while on safari. Make your own decisions and control your own game drives.

Please note that  Eastern Vacations Kenya Safaris  offer unlimited game drives during your Amboeli 3 day Safari with unrivaled game experience. During your 3 days safari trip course; You will be hosted, guided and looked after by your own experienced driver | guide.

3 day Amboseli safari tour – Accommodation

Your   accommodation  will be offered in classes of lodge categories. They range from rugged mid-range [Economy], Standard to High level [Luxury] lodges and tented camps. Rates provided vary according to seasons [period of the year the safari tour is to be undertaken] and the number of participant.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Accommodation, Park entry fees, transport and Meals are all included in this Amboseli 3 day safari by road package. Drinks, gratitude, personal insurance, Costs to visit tribal Maasai village, hot air balloon, night game drives and any other thing of personal nature will not be included in the price .

 Safari essentials

Before you embark on this 3-days Nairobi Amboseli safari, make sure that you have your cameras, Binocular & your safari wish list book at hand. Enjoy the fun-filled exercise of wildlife viewing during your 3 days safari. Our intensive game viewing will cover the open plains, acacia woodland, rocky thorn bush country, swamps and marshland.

Like in other trips to Amboseli , we encourage guests to spare some time off your busy game drive schedule to visit one of the nearby Masai village [ extra cost]. Masai culture is one of the most celebrated in Africa because of their fascinating lifestyle.

Against the backdrop of Africa’s tallest mountain, watch elephants and other members of the “Big 5” as they roam across the rolling Amboseli savannas on this unforgettable adventure.

Amboseli 3 day Safari Trip Highlights:-

• Diverse African wildlife in their natural habitat
• Stunning location in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro
• Renowned for herds of elephants tramping through the bush and on the marshy grounds
• Several extensive game drives for the best chances to see the big five together with other wildlife & birds
• Park lodges in a prime, idyllic location for sightseeing
• Stops to buy souvenirs
• Cultural Maasai village tour[ at extra cost]

Availability & Partakers

These 3 days Amboseli safari tour can be undertaken by all age groups. Its one of our Nairobi safari tours available through out the year like many of our  related safaris . Safari inquiries will be confirmed at the time of booking.

The Amboseli ecosystem is rich in wildlife and bird-life too. The scenery has been attracting safari goers from all over the world. We do packages ranging from day trips to Multiple day safaris from Nairobi.

Amboseli national park can also explored from the Kenya coast region. We have safari tours from Diani beach covering Tsavo and Amboseli. And not only that, similar safari trip are also available from Mombasa by road.

Book with flexibility

Book your 3-days Nairobi Amboseli safari with flexibility.  Choose your own travel dates & pick up point. And you are at liberty to change the safari date should conditions necessitate to do so. You can also amend your safari and pick another Nairobi safari package  as an alternative program .

You can also opt to end your Amboseli wildlife safari trip & Fly back to Nairobi direct to avoid another road journey [at extra cost] .

Please note that this tour can also be customized to end in Mombasa & Diani beach or Namanga boarder for Tanzania safari extensions.

Contact us for further information regarding this top rated Nairobi Safari to Amboseli in 3 Days by road.

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3 DAYS MID-RANGE SAMBURU SAFARI

Enjoy an exciting 3 days Samburu Safari, which gives you a chance to visit Samburu National Reserve, which stands as one of the most beautiful Kenya Parks in Northern Circuit. It holds the most indigenous wildlife such as Grevy's Zebra, Gerenuk, Reticulated Giraffe, Somali Ostrich, Besia Oryx, Endangered Wild Dog and Pun cake Tortoise - Endangered as well as the home of African Elephants. This tour start and ends in Nairobi and using quality mid range safari lodges or tented camps. The tour includes road transport from Nairobi with upto four private game drives in the reserve. The trip may also include extra options such as nature walks or cultural visit within the area. Full day game drives can be had at no extra charge for the second day of the itinerary in Samburu.

A typical Safari Itinerary is listed below. Note that prices vary depending on the month or season of travel, with July to October being peak season while April to mid June is low season.

2 Nights Samburu

Day 01: Start of your Safari from Nairobi

Our Driver-guide will pick you from your hotel at 8:00 am or the airport, depart for the semi-arid Samburu Game Reserve. En-route stop briefly at the Equator Crossing point. Arrive Samburu in time for lunch. Relax after lunch and then take an afternoon game drive at 3.30 pm to 6.30 pm. Return to the lodge by evening. Dinner and overnight at Samburu Game Lodge or Ashnil Samburu Camp.

Day 02: Enjoy Full day in Samburu

Full day at Samburu including morning and afternoon game drives. Rest of the day at leisure. You may just want to relax by the pool or perhaps book an added activity such as a nature walk, cultural visit within the area or a relaxing massage depending on accommodation booked { extra activities at additional cost}. Dinner and overnight at Samburu Game Lodge or Ashnil Samburu Camp.

Day 03: Return to Nairobi

Enjoy an early morning safari game drive, followed by a relaxed breakfast back at the lodge, followed by an onward departure back to Nairobi by road. Arrive Nairobi by early afternoon [typically by 2.30pm]. Drop off at your hotel or free onward transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Rates are per person sharing in US Dollars.

Rates depend on number of people travelling together in one vehicle hence 2 [two people] , 4 and 6 persons.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's included.

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary on Full board* basis in the lodge
• Exclusive transport in a Safari Tour Microbus with a Gameviewing roof hatch and UHF radio
• 04 Private Safari gamedrives for the tour
• Services of a certified Professional, English-speaking Driver~Guide including all his expenses & allowances
• Fuel, driver and car park fees, driver's allowance
• All Park entry fees for clients, driver~guide and vehicle
• 24 hour Back Up support if required

What's not included

• International flight tickets and visa costs.
• Tips, drinks, laundry, calls, and all such costs of a personal nature.
• Credit Card Surcharge of 5 to 7% will apply or Bank Transfer Fees of USD 50.

Contact us using the form below to book the tour or for any questions We reply immediately

Add an Experience

Samburu Cultural Tour

US$ 30 per person

Camel Trekking Safaris

Price Upon Request

Dinner at the Carnivore Restaurant

US$ 40 per person

Nairobi, Kenya - 5 Places to See if an African Safari is on your Travel Bucket List

W ith a mix of ethnicities and nationalities worldwide, Nairobi , the capital city of Kenya, warmly embraces all her visitors and works to make you at home quickly. Yet despite having a space for everyone who visits, Nairobi still sets itself apart and offers a unique vacation to all its visitors.

If an authentic safari experience is on your bucket list, Nairobi is definitely worth considering. Here are some recommendations to make the most of your trip to Kenya.

The Nairobi Culture

Nairobi is a busy city just like any other city in the world. The streets are bustling as ever and there are tons of places to visit and see. As a Nairobian tourist, it would help to learn a few Swahili words. “ Hujambo ” for greeting or “ Habari yako ”, “ Karibu ” for “welcome”, “ asante ” means “thank you”, “ pole ” means “sorry”, and “ tafadhali ” means “please”. See the incredible thing about Nairobi, nobody expects a foreigner to be fluent in Swahili. Throw in one of the above words and continue your speech in English and that’s more than enough.

Beyond language, politeness is paramount in Nairobi. Tip your servers in the restaurants when you can. Always start all your conversations with greetings and don’t leave too many leftovers . Wasting food is looked down upon in Kenyan culture.

There is no strict dress code in Nairobi, much less for a visitor. Fridays in Nairobi are spent socializing in malls, bars, clubs, and or at restaurants for tea or coffee. If you want a never-ending nightlife, find your way to the Westlands . Indulge in some club-hopping before you retire for the night.

Things To Do In Nairobi

1. visit nairobi national park.

About an hour from the city center, you will find Nairobi National Park. Enjoy an authentic safari experience in the savannah grassland in a park teeming with lions, zebras, gazelles, giraffes, rhinos, wildebeests, and buffalo. The only animals you won’t find here are elephants. It’s an incredible sight to watch the wildlife in their natural habitat with the city’s skyline as a backdrop.

In addition to Nairobi National Park, the city has many animal sanctuaries in the region that are open to the public. Many endangered species of animals like Sokoke cats, buffalos, ostriches, flamingos , hyenas, blue wildebeest, rhinos, hartebeest, waterbuck, common warthog, and black-backed jackal can be seen – both at the sanctuaries and on safari excursions. In addition to endangered animals, some sanctuaries house endangered plants.

2. Explore Maasai Market

Immerse yourself in Maasai culture at this incredible market that changes its location every day of the week. This is in keeping with the Maasai nomadic culture. This market is a must-visit as part of the Nairobi experience. Stroll through the market and experience vibrant colors in beadwork, woven shukas, and house ornaments all handcrafted by the Maasai people.

3. Visit Nairobi National Museum

Enjoyed even by non-museum fans, the Nairobi National Museum is an excellent showcase of Kenya’s history. Located within the city, the museum is a popular destination and easily accessible. Besides Kenya’s history, the museum also takes you through a journey of human ancestors. Explore the snake park within the museum and the beautiful botanical garden.

4. Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage

Located right next to the Nairobi National Park, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is one of the animal sanctuaries that will be the highlight of your trip to Nairobi. Here you will find the most adorable baby elephants. Watch as their caretakers bring them out, feed them, and play with them. Your heart will melt at the bonds between these baby elephants and their caretakers.

5. Have breakfast at the Giraffe Manor

Can you imagine having breakfast while petting and feeding giraffes? The Giraffe Manor in Nairobi is home to the critically endangered Rothschild Giraffe. Founded in 1979, this sanctuary is one of Nairobi’s greatest gems. Meet and learn the names of the welcoming giraffes and take as many pictures as possible with these lovely creatures.

Kenyan Food You Gotta Try

Kenyan cuisine is inspired by over 44 tribes in the country of Kenya. Over time, these meals have made their way through the country and have become staples in households everywhere.

Foodies will find a haven in Nairobi as it offers dishes from just about every part of the world. From delectable and spicy Mexican dishes to creamy pasta, Kenyan dishes have made a name for themselves and serve as part and parcel of a Nairobi experience.

Sample Ugali , a meal made by adding maize flour to boiling water until it hardens. It pairs well with stews and vegetables, especially collard greens Kenyans love to call Sukuma Wiki (push the week). Ask for Pilau , a delicious traditional cinnamon, ginger, and garlic. Try chapati , a Kenyan flatbread inspired by the Indian naan. Vegans will love Kenyan cuisine for dishes such as githeri (a mix of maize and bean), mokimo (pounded potatoes, maize, and greens), matoke (cooked green bananas), and Maandazi , a sweet treat made with leavened flour.

Safety Tips

As with any big city, Nairobi has its fair share of security issues. Here are some tips to keep you safe as you visit:

• Always keep your valuables close to you. Whether it’s your handbag, backpack, or wallet, make sure it is well-kept. There are pickpockets and tourists can make for an easy target.
• Don’t walk alone at night – for the most part, Nairobi taxis are pretty safe. When you are out at night, it is safer in a taxi or any vehicle than walking alone. For more safety, you can use ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt to navigate your way through the city.
• Do a bit of research about Nairobi before arrival. This will familiarize you with the city, which should make your exploration much safer.
• Stay connected and reachable at all times. Stay online and inform your loved ones of your itinerary and whereabouts every day. Buy a local SIM card for your phone to ensure you have a reliable connection throughout your stay.

A Bucket List City

Boasting as the only city in the world with a national park within its confines, Nairobi is a mix of raw untamed wilderness and vast urban sprawl. Whether you decide to spend your days in Nairobi exploring wildlife in the national park and sanctuaries or embark on a museum blitz around the city, your stay in Nairobi is bound to be unforgettable.

Hujambo na karibu katika jiji la Nairobi!

Written by Sharon O. – a proud resident of Kenya.

Photo credit: Nairobi National Park