7 Days Kenya Great Migration Safari – Maasai Mara

Overview

The 7 Days Kenya Great Migration Safari – Maasai Mara is a front-row seat to one of the world’s most dramatic wildlife events. Each year, vast herds of wildebeest and zebra surge into the Maasai Mara National Reserve from Tanzania’s Serengeti, triggering intense predator action and iconic river crossings along the Mara River.

This safari is purpose-built around optimal migration timing, strategic camp locations, and extended game drives that prioritize quality sightings over rushed park coverage. With expert Maasai Mara–based guides, guests experience the migration not as a checklist item, but as a living, unfolding natural phenomenon.

It is ideal for travelers who want a pure, focused Kenya migration experience, whether as a first safari or a premium repeat visit.

Safari Category Mapping

• Migration Safaris (Primary)
• Big 5 Safaris
• Luxury Safaris (optional upgrade)
• Balloon Safaris (optional)

Safari Highlights

• Witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara
• Potential Mara River crossings (seasonal)
• High density of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas
• Extended game drives with expert guides
• Optional hot air balloon safari over the Mara
• Choice of luxury lodges or prime-location tented camps

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where you are met by Safari Continents Travel and transferred to your Nairobi hotel.

Depending on arrival time, optional activities such as Nairobi National Park or the Giraffe Centre can be arranged.

Accommodation: Safari hotel, Nairobi

Day 2: Nairobi – Maasai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, depart Nairobi for the Maasai Mara, traveling through the scenic Great Rift Valley. Arrive at your camp or lodge in time for lunch.

Enjoy your first afternoon game drive, immediately immersing yourself in migration country where herds and predators dominate the landscape.

Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge, Maasai Mara

Day 3: Maasai Mara – Full Day Migration Game Drives

Spend a full day tracking the migration across key Mara regions. Guides focus on herd movement patterns, predator activity, and riverine areas.

Picnic lunches allow extended time in the field, maximizing chances of witnessing dramatic wildlife encounters.

Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge, Maasai Mara

Day 4: Maasai Mara – Mara River Exploration

Today concentrates on the Mara River ecosystem, home to crocodiles, hippos, and the most famous migration crossing points.

River crossings are unpredictable and require patience; even without a crossing, the surrounding action is intense and rewarding.

Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge, Maasai Mara

Day 5: Maasai Mara – Extended Predator Tracking

Another full day in the Mara allows flexibility to follow fresh migration reports and predator movements.

Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best conditions for photography and dramatic sightings.

Optional hot air balloon safari available at sunrise (additional cost).

Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge, Maasai Mara

Day 6: Maasai Mara – Cultural & Wildlife Balance

Enjoy a morning game drive followed by an optional visit to a Maasai community, offering insight into traditional culture and coexistence with wildlife.

The afternoon is reserved for relaxed game viewing or leisure at camp, reflecting on the safari experience.

Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge, Maasai Mara

Day 7: Maasai Mara – Return to Nairobi & Departure

After breakfast, return to Nairobi by road or optional scheduled flight. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey or extend your safari to the Kenyan coast.

Wildlife Experience

The Maasai Mara during migration season offers exceptional chances to see:

• Massive wildebeest and zebra herds
• Lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas
• Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and hippos
• Crocodile activity along the Mara River

Sightings depend on seasonal conditions, and itineraries remain flexible to follow wildlife movements.

Accommodation Style

Options include:

• Prime-location tented camps near migration corridors
• Luxury lodges with panoramic savannah views
• Mid-range camps offering excellent value

Camp selection is based on travel dates and migration positioning.

What’s Included

• Airport transfers in Nairobi
• Transport in a private safari vehicle or scheduled flights
• Services of an experienced driver-guide
• Park and conservation fees
• Accommodation on full-board basis during safari
• Scheduled game drives

What’s Not Included

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities (balloon safari, cultural visits)
• Gratuities and personal expenses

Best Time to Travel

• July–October: Peak migration and river crossings
• Late June & Early November: Fewer crowds with strong wildlife activity

Exact timing is customized to current migration patterns.

Who This Safari Is Perfect For

• Migration-focused travelers
• Wildlife photographers
• First-time safari guests
• Travelers seeking iconic Kenya experiences

Customization Options

• Upgrade to luxury flying safari
• Add Lake Naivasha or Amboseli extension
• Combine with Diani Beach or Zanzibar
• Private photographic safari vehicle

Enquire About This Safari

Migration safaris require expert timing and planning. Contact Safari Continents Travel to secure the best seasonal positioning for your Kenya Great Migration Safari.