Travelers dreaming of Kenya’s iconic wildlife and vast savannahs often hear about the Masai Mara. This 3-day private tour, operated by Africa Kenya Safaris, promises an intimate encounter with Africa’s legendary animals, guided by expert locals, with a mix of comfort, adventure, and authenticity. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the reviews and itinerary sketch a compelling picture of what to expect.
What immediately strikes us about this experience is the personalized touch—only your group will be part of the tour—and the focus on authentic wildlife viewing. We love how this tour offers unlimited game drives, giving you maximum chances to see lions, elephants, cheetahs, and perhaps even the elusive rhino.
Another highlight: the inclusion of local guides known for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which can make all the difference when spotting wildlife and learning about the land.
A potential consideration? At $2,650 per person, it’s a significant investment, but from the reviews, it appears to deliver solid value—especially considering the private nature, multiple meals, and expert guidance. That said, the trip is best suited for those who value personalized, in-depth safaris and are comfortable with the pace of long game drives.
If you’re after an authentic, well-reviewed safari experience in Kenya that combines comfort, education, and wildlife spectacle, this tour looks like a strong candidate.
- Key Points
- Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
- Day 1: From Nairobi to Masai Mara—A Scenic Start
- Day 2: Full Throttle Safari—Wildlife at Its Most Active
- Day 3: Last Safari and Return to Nairobi
- What Sets This Tour Apart
- The Private and Personalized Experience
- The Focus on Wildlife and Authentic Encounters
- Well-Selected Accommodation and Meals
- Experienced Guides and High Customer Satisfaction
- High Value for Money
- Transport and Comfort
- Timing and Group Size
- Meals and Rest Stops
- Reviews and Authentic Experiences
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- The Best Of Nairobi!
- More Private Tours in Nairobi
- More Tours in Nairobi
- More Tour Reviews in Nairobi
Key Points
- Private and personalized experience, with only your group involved
- Expert guides with extensive knowledge of wildlife and terrain
- Unlimited game drives for maximum wildlife sightings
- Comfortable accommodations and meals included
- Excellent reviews highlight the professionalism, friendliness, and wildlife expertise of guides
- Good value for money considering all inclusions and personalization
👉 See our pick of the 16 Best Tours & Things To Do In Nairobi (With Prices)
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Nairobi
Day 1: From Nairobi to Masai Mara—A Scenic Start
The adventure begins early at 7:30 am with pickup from your hotel or location of choice in Nairobi. This flexibility is a big plus—no need to change hotels or stress about transportation. The ride takes you past the Great Rift Valley escarpment, offering striking views and a taste of Kenya’s diverse landscape. Rest stops along the way allow you to stretch your legs and take photos of the rolling hills and plains.
Once nearing the reserve, you might spot herdsmen in colorful shukas, a wonderful cultural touch that reminds you you’re entering Masai country. After arriving around lunchtime, you’ll settle into your lodge or tented camp, which promises a balance of comfort and adventure. The first game drive, starting in the afternoon, offers your initial glimpse of the wild—a chance to see animals in their natural habitat and get the lay of the land.
From the reviews, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making these drives not just about spotting animals but also understanding their behaviors and the landscape. Expect to see herds of wildebeests, zebras, and elephants, with the possibility of spotting predators like lions or cheetahs if luck is on your side.
Day 2: Full Throttle Safari—Wildlife at Its Most Active
The second day kicks off early—dawn is the best time to see the park waking up. Guides will take you across the vast savannahs, focusing on maximizing wildlife encounters. This is when you’ll have unlimited game drives—a real perk for those eager to see as much as possible.
During this day, you’ll be tracking big cats—lions stalking or resting in the shade—and other iconic animals like giraffes, buffalos, and hippos in the Mara River. If your timing aligns with the Great Migration (roughly July to October), you’ll witness thousands of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle crossing the river—an unforgettable spectacle. The reviews mention that guides are skilled at finding animals and pointing out small details that enrich the experience, like bird species or animal behaviors.
The scenery is described as spectacular: endless plains dotted with acacia trees, rolling hills, and the ever-changing light of the early morning or late afternoon. This day promises to be a highlight for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.
Day 3: Last Safari and Return to Nairobi
The final morning begins with one last early game drive, offering another opportunity to spot any wildlife you may have missed or to capture that perfect shot. After breakfast, you’ll enjoy one more drive before heading back to Nairobi.
On the way out, there’s a stop for lunch and some final reflections on the trip. The drive back is a chance to discuss what animals or moments stood out, making the return journey part of the overall experience. Reviewers mention the drive back was smooth, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories and facts about the animals and land.
Arriving in Nairobi in the late afternoon, your trip concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, airport, or other location, making this a hassle-free way to enjoy a comprehensive safari without the stress of planning every detail.
What Sets This Tour Apart
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Nairobi
The Private and Personalized Experience
Unlike large group safaris, this tour keeps things intimate with only your group. This means more flexibility, personalized attention, and fewer crowds at wildlife sightings. Many reviewers highlight their guides’ friendliness and expertise, making the game drives both educational and fun.
The Focus on Wildlife and Authentic Encounters
The guides’ extensive knowledge allows for more meaningful sightings and understanding of animal behaviors. The unlimited game drives ensure ample opportunity to see the “Big Five” and other iconic species, with some reviewers mentioning they saw all but the rhino.
Well-Selected Accommodation and Meals
Included meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are appreciated as part of the package, making it easier to relax and focus on the safari. The accommodations are typically at a safari lodge or tented camp, balancing comfort with the rugged charm of the African wilderness.
Experienced Guides and High Customer Satisfaction
Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their local expertise and friendly demeanor. The ability to spot animals, share insightful stories, and make everyone feel at ease makes this experience stand out.
High Value for Money
At $2,650 per person, the tour includes transportation, meals, park entry, and guiding—factors that can add up separately if arranged independently. The private aspect and high service standards suggest this is a good deal for those seeking a curated, hassle-free safari.
Transport and Comfort
The journey in a private 4×4 safari jeep is a highlight itself—comfortable, open-sided vehicles that allow for unobstructed views and easy photography. The timing of pickups at 7:00 am and the long game drives mean you’ll spend significant time in the vehicle, so comfort is key. Reviewers mention the vehicles are clean and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth ride.
Timing and Group Size
Starting early each day maximizes wildlife sightings, especially as animals are most active in the cooler mornings. Since this is a private tour, the group size is small, which enhances flexibility—your guide can adapt to your interests or wildlife sightings.
Meals and Rest Stops
The included meals are a practical addition, ensuring you stay energized without needing to find food in remote areas. Rest stops along the way provide opportunities to stretch, take photos, or chat about the animals seen so far.
Reviews and Authentic Experiences
The glowing reviews speak volumes. Many mention professional guides like Sisto, Kimani, Charles, and Abu, who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to find wildlife. One reviewer notes, “Our driver Kimani was a master of Mara’s geography, making sure we saw all animals and scenic sites.” Others emphasize the value for money, with “great value for money with Africa Kenya Safaris,” and describe their trip as “more than we imagined.”
Several reviewers highlight seeing all the big five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—though a few mention they missed the rhino, which is common on safaris. Still, the consistent theme is exciting sightings and professional service.
The Sum Up
This 3-day private Masai Mara tour offers a well-rounded and highly praised safari experience. It’s priced on the higher side, but the private service, unlimited game drives, expert guides, and included meals make it a worthwhile investment for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a genuine, personalized adventure.
Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises beautiful scenery, intimate wildlife encounters, and a knowledgeable guide to enrich your understanding of Kenya’s natural treasures. It’s ideal for those who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and authenticity in their safari experience.
3 Days Private Tour at Masai Mara National Reserve
FAQ
Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private experience where only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexible scheduling.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes all transportation, three meals, park admission, and unlimited game drives over three days.
How early do the game drives start?
Game drives typically start early in the mornings, around sunrise, to catch animals when they are most active.
What kind of vehicle is used?
A private 4×4 safari jeep is used, providing comfort and optimal wildlife viewing.
Can I expect to see the Big Five?
Most reviews indicate that seeing all five is likely, though not guaranteed. Lions, elephants, and buffalo are very common; leopard and rhino sightings depend on luck and timing.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the safari days.
Who are the guides?
Guides like Sisto, Kimani, Charles, and Abu are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife.
Is this suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the private and flexible nature of the tour makes it suitable for families with children, provided they enjoy long game drives and outdoor activities.
This Masai Mara safari is a prime choice for those wanting a personalized, expertly guided experience in one of Africa’s most famous wildlife parks. With plenty of opportunities for great sightings and a comfortable setting, it offers a compelling way to enjoy Kenya’s natural splendor.
