herd of antelopes on grass field
AfricaSafariWildlife

Nairobi

Starting point for Maasai Mara safaris

Plan with AISee the 1 itineraryPhoto by sutirta budiman on Unsplash
Best timeJuly to October for the wildebeest migration.
Typical trip length5 days
On travli1 itinerary
Getting around4x4 vehicles in the reserve, taxis in Nairobi.
CurrencyKenyan shilling (KES).

About Nairobi

Nairobi is Kenya's capital and the common starting point for wildlife trips. The city has a dense center with traffic and markets. Its southern edges open onto reserves. Nairobi National Park lies adjacent to the urban area. The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre stand nearby for animal encounters. The Karen Blixen Museum occupies a former farm in the Karen suburb.

Maasai Mara National Reserve draws travelers for extended game drives. This place suits safari itineraries that mix short city stops with days in the bush.

Why travelers love it

Nairobi National ParkNairobi National Park protects wildlife on the edge of the city.David Sheldrick Elephant OrphanageRescue center for orphaned elephants inside Nairobi National Park.Giraffe CentreThe Giraffe Centre is a sanctuary where visitors feed Rothschild's giraffes.Karen Blixen MuseumFormer home of Danish author Karen Blixen, now a museum in Nairobi's Karen suburb.Maasai Mara National ReserveKenya's major wildlife reserve bordering Tanzania, known for the Great Migration.

Top attractions

Nairobi National Park
ParkNairobi National ParkNairobi, Kenya
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
ParkDavid Sheldrick Elephant OrphanageNairobi, Kenya
Giraffe Centre
ParkGiraffe CentreNairobi, Kenya
Karen Blixen Museum
MuseumKaren Blixen MuseumNairobi, Kenya
Maasai Mara National Reserve
ParkMaasai Mara National ReserveNairobi, Kenya

1 Nairobi itinerary

Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, KenyaSafari in the Maasai Mara5 days · By travli

Nairobi questions

Is 5 days enough for Maasai Mara?

Yes. Book a flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport to an airstrip inside the reserve to maximize time for game drives.

Do I need to book a hot air balloon safari ahead?

Yes. Reserve at least two weeks in advance through operators based in the Mara. Expect costs near 450 USD per person.

How do I get from Nairobi to Maasai Mara National Reserve?

Take a 45-minute scheduled flight or a 5-hour road transfer arranged through your lodge. Road transfers require an early start to reach afternoon game drives.

Do I need a visa for Kenya?

Most travelers need an e-visa. Apply online through the official Kenyan immigration site at least seven days before departure.