Safari Overview
Experience the drama of the Great Migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara on this focused 5‑day classic safari. Spend three full days inside the Mara with morning and afternoon game drives, expert guiding, optional hot‑air balloon flight at dawn, and an authentic Maasai cultural visit. This itinerary is designed for maximum wildlife viewing with comfortable transfers and flexible add‑ons for photography and private guiding.

Highlights
• Witness wildebeest river crossings and predator action (peak July–October) .
• Optional sunrise hot‑air balloon with champagne bush breakfast (reserve early) .
• Intimate game drives in Mara conservancies to avoid crowds.
• Maasai village visit and cultural exchange.
• Professional driver‑guide, tailored game‑drive routes for photography.

Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions
• Park and conservancy fees; Mara entry and vehicle fees (included).
• All game drives as per itinerary in a pop‑up roof 4×4 vehicle.
• Accommodation: budget lodge/camp (Budget), mid‑range tented camp (Mid‑range), luxury tent/camp or lodge (Luxury).
• Meals as stated (full board while in Mara for Mid‑range and Luxury; limited for Budget).
• Professional English‑speaking safari guide/driver.
• Road transfers between Nairobi and airstrip, or scheduled light aircraft transfers (where specified in Luxury).
• Bottled water on game drives.
Exclusions
• International flights to/from Nairobi.
• Visa fees, travel insurance, personal expenses, gratuities.
• Optional activities: hot‑air balloon (unless Luxury includes it), night drives where applicable, spa treatments, premium drinks.
• Items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry unless specified).

Activities Included
• Morning and afternoon/evening game drives (flexible duration).
• Full‑day Mara exploration with long picnics on wildlife days.
• Maasai village visit and cultural presentation.
• Optional hot‑air balloon safari and balloon landing breakfast (book early; seasonal availability).
• Photography stops, birding, and interpretive talks by your guide.

Why Choose This 5‑Day Safari?
• Optimised for migration viewing with concentrated game‑drive time in prime conservancies and reserve sectors.
• Short, efficient program ideal for travelers with limited time who still want immersive wildlife experiences.
• Flexible upgrade path: add private guiding, balloon, or extra nights.
• Works well as a standalone escape or as an add‑on to other East Africa plans.

Day‑by‑Day Itinerary 
Day 1 — Nairobi Arrival and Briefing
• Arrive Jomo Kenyatta International Airport; transferred to Nairobi hotel.
• Afternoon welcome briefing with your safari manager and guide: trip overview, vehicle info, packing tips, health and safety.
• Overnight in Nairobi; early night recommended.
Day 2 — Nairobi to Masai Mara (Fly or Road)
• Option A: Early morning scheduled flight to the Mara airstrip (40–50 min) for spectacular aerial views; road transfer to lodge/camp.
• Option B: Scenic drive via the Great Rift Valley (approx. 5–6 hours) with picnic lunch and viewpoint stops.
• Afternoon game drive upon arrival; sunset drinks and briefing for next day’s river‑crossing strategy.
• Overnight in Mara camp/lodge.
Day 3 — Full‑Day Mara: Migration Focus
• Early morning game drive when predators and crossings are most active.
• Return to camp for lunch or enjoy a picnic in the reserve.
• Afternoon drive concentrated on riverine areas and known crossing points; guide monitors migration intel and shifts location accordingly.
• Evening optional short night drive where conservancy rules allow (depends on your chosen area).
• Overnight in Mara.
Day 4 — Optional Balloon + Village Visit + Game Drives
• Optional pre‑dawn hot‑air balloon flight with a champagne breakfast on landing (must be reserved well in advance; availability seasonal).
• Late‑morning rest then mid‑day Maasai village visit to meet community members, learn beadwork traditions, and discuss conservation partnerships.
• Sunset game drive back to camp focused on predators returning to dens.
• Overnight in Mara.
Day 5 — Final Morning Drive and Return to Nairobi / Departure
• Early morning game drive for last‑minute sightings and photography.
• Return to camp for checkout and transfer to the airstrip or begin road transfer to Nairobi.
• Drop off at Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta Airport for onward flights.

Supplier Notes and Seasonal Considerations
• Peak river‑crossing activity occurs July–October; exact crossing locations move with the herds.
• Book conservancy entry and balloon operator slots well before peak season; balloon operators have limited daily capacity and can book out months ahead.
• Many operators position guests in private conservancies during migration for reduced vehicle density and better viewing compared to public reserve areas.

Booking Instructions (Best Practices)
1. Choose travel dates and confirm whether you prefer flight or road transfer to Mara.
2. Select pricing tier and specify optional balloon and private‑vehicle upgrades.
3. Provide full passenger names as on passport, nationality, and preferred contact details for reservation forms.
4. Pay deposit (40%) to secure camp, balloon, and conservancy reservations—peak months fill quickly.
5. Final balance due 30 days before travel, depending on our policy.
6. Receive a detailed pre‑departure pack: meeting point, guide contact, vehicle details, packing list, and emergency numbers.

Practical Tips and Packing
• Carry a small soft duffel (charter baggage limits apply on internal flights).
• Essential gear: binoculars, 300mm+ lens (or 70–200 with extender), hat, sunscreen, warm fleece for mornings, neutral clothing, rain layer.
• Health: malaria prophylaxis recommended; consult your clinician.
• Cash: small USD notes for park tips, purchases, and conservancy/community contributions.
• Respect wildlife: stay seated in vehicles unless instructed by guide; do not approach or feed animals.