herd of antelopes on grass field
Nairobi, Kenya · 5 days itinerary

Safari in the Maasai Mara

Photo by sutirta budiman on Unsplash

This trip covers initial stops at Nairobi wildlife sites before moving into the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The order places city visits first to allow immediate transition to game drives, river crossings, balloon safari, and village tour. It concludes with Nairobi National Park on the final morning.

5 daysMaasai MaraNairobiSafariGame drivesBy travli· Checked by the travli team, September 2026

Day by day

Day 1

Nairobi

  1. 11:00David Sheldrick Wildlife TrustNairobi National ParkSight
  2. 13:30LangataSight
  3. 15:30KarenSight
Day 2

Into the Mara

  1. 10:00NarokDay trip
  2. 16:00Afternoon game driveMaasai MaraSight
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Day 3

The Mara River

  1. 6:30Mara RiverMaasai MaraSight
Day 4

Balloon and village

  1. 5:30Hot air balloon safariMaasai MaraSight
  2. 14:00Maasai village visitMaasai MaraSight
Day 5

Back to Nairobi

  1. 6:30NairobiSight
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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.

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