This exclusive flying safari to the Masai Mara offers a seamless blend of luxury, comfort, and world-class wildlife experiences. Designed for discerning travelers, this package eliminates long road transfers and maximizes your time in one of Africa's most iconic safari destinations. Expect breathtaking landscapes, exceptional wildlife encounters, and personalized service throughout your journey. The Masai Mara National Reserve is globally renowned for its high density of predators, the Great Migration (July–October), and the chance to see the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
Low Season
USD $1,800
per person sharing
April – June | November
High Season
USD $2,090
per person sharing
July – October | December – March
Why Choose This Safari
- Time-saving fly-in experience with no long drives – direct flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport
- Access to prime wildlife viewing areas in the Masai Mara with expert guides
- Ideal for luxury travelers, couples, and honeymooners seeking privacy and comfort
- High chances of spotting the Big Five, including leopards and black rhinos
- Carefully designed for comfort and efficiency – maximize game drive time
- Stay at La Maison Royale Masai Mara – elegant tented camp with full board
Destination Overview – Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara is one of Africa's most famous wildlife reserves, known for its rich biodiversity and open savannah landscapes. It is home to the Big Five and hosts the spectacular Great Migration – over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras crossing from the Serengeti. The reserve offers some of the best game viewing and photography opportunities in the world. The Mara River is famous for dramatic crocodile attacks during migration crossings. The reserve is also a birdwatcher's paradise with over 470 bird species, including ostriches, secretary birds, and fish eagles. Night game drives and hot air balloon safaris are popular optional activities.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara (Fly-in Experience)
Flight over Rift Valley Afternoon game drive Luxury camp
Transfer to Wilson Airport (Nairobi) for your scheduled morning flight to the Masai Mara. The scenic flight takes approximately 45–60 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the Great Rift Valley, volcanic craters, and rolling hills. Upon arrival at the Mara airstrip, you will be met by your safari guide and transferred to La Maison Royale Masai Mara with a short game drive en route. After checking in, enjoy a delicious lunch. In the late afternoon, venture out for your first afternoon game drive in the reserve. The Masai Mara is known for its high concentration of wildlife, offering chances to see elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and spotted hyenas. Return to the lodge as the sun sets for dinner and overnight stay.
Flight: 45-60 min
Afternoon game drive: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: La Maison Royale Masai Mara
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: La Maison Royale Masai Mara – Request rates
Day 2: Full Day Safari Experience
Early morning game drive Great Migration (seasonal) Big Five
Begin the day with an early morning game drive (06:00 – 09:00) when wildlife is most active and the light is perfect for photography. Return to camp for a full breakfast. You have two options: relax at the lodge enjoying the pool and views, or opt for a full-day game drive with a packed lunch to explore deeper into the reserve. The Masai Mara is home to the Big Five and is famous for its open plains, making wildlife viewing exceptionally rewarding. Depending on the season (July–October), you may witness the Great Migration river crossings at the Mara River – one of the most remarkable wildlife events in Africa. You will also see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, topis, and Thomson's gazelles. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Morning game drive: 3 hours
Optional full day: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Masai Mara to Nairobi
Final morning serenity Return flight Seamless transfer
After breakfast, check out from the lodge. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a short final game drive. Transfer to the airstrip for your return flight to Nairobi. Arrive at Wilson Airport and transfer to your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for onward connections. End of safari.
Flight: 45-60 min
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: La Maison Royale Masai Mara
La Maison Royale Masai Mara is a luxury tented camp situated in a private area within the Masai Mara ecosystem. It offers spacious double rooms with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and private verandas overlooking the savannah. The camp features a restaurant, bar, and outdoor swimming pool. All meals are provided on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). The camp is known for its personal service, comfortable beds, and proximity to prime game viewing areas. Night game drives and bush dinners can be arranged upon request.
Optional Experiences (Available at Extra Cost)
Hot Air Balloon Safari
Float above the Masai Mara at sunrise for a bird's-eye view of wildlife and the savannah. The experience includes a champagne breakfast in the bush. Price: USD $550 per person.
Maasai Village Visit
Visit a traditional Maasai manyatta to learn about their culture, dances, and way of life. Price: USD $25 per person.
Safari Package Inclusions & Exclusions
Price Includes
- Return flights from Nairobi (Wilson Airport) to Masai Mara
- Full board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Game drives in a shared safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Park entrance fees for Masai Mara National Reserve
- Airstrip transfers in the Mara
- Services of a professional English-speaking guide
- Bottled water during game drives
Price Excludes
- International flights to/from Kenya
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Optional activities (balloon safari, village visit)
- Tips and gratuities
Best Time to Visit Masai Mara for This Flying Safari
The dry season (July to October) is the peak time for wildlife viewing, coinciding with the Great Migration river crossings. Wildebeest and zebras congregate along the Mara River, and predators are highly active. The weather is pleasant with sunny days and cool nights. The green season (November to May) offers lower rates, fewer tourists, and lush landscapes. This is an excellent time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive from Europe and Asia. The calving season (January to February) brings newborn wildebeest and dramatic predator-prey interactions. However, April and May are the long rains, and some roads become muddy – but the experience is still rewarding for the adventurous.
Migration crossings: July-October
Peak predator activity: July-October
Calving season: Jan-Feb
Low season (best rates): April-June, November
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private safari?
Game drives are in a shared safari vehicle (max 6 guests) to keep costs efficient. Private vehicle upgrades available on request.
What is the luggage allowance on the flight?
Maximum 15 kg per person in a soft-sided bag. Hard suitcases are not permitted on light aircraft.
Can I see the Big Five in 2 nights?
Yes, the Masai Mara has excellent Big Five viewing. Lion, elephant, buffalo are common; leopard and black rhino require some luck but are regularly sighted.
What should I pack for a flying safari?
Neutral-colored clothing, a warm jacket (morning drives can be chilly), sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, and comfortable walking shoes.
Do I need a visa for Kenya?
Most nationalities require an e-visa before travel. Apply online at the Kenya e-visa portal.
Is the hot air balloon safari worth it?
Yes, it provides a unique perspective of the Mara's landscapes and wildlife. Includes a champagne breakfast in the bush. Highly recommended for honeymooners and photographers.
Photography Tips for Your Masai Mara Flying Safari
Bring a telephoto lens (200-400mm or longer) for wildlife. A wide-angle lens (24-70mm) is perfect for landscapes and balloon sunrise shots. Use a fast shutter speed (1/500+) to freeze action during migration crossings. Early morning and late afternoon light provide the best colors. A polarizing filter reduces glare on water scenes. Always carry spare batteries and memory cards – you will take many photos. For balloon safaris, use a lens with image stabilization.
Conservation & Responsible Travel in the Masai Mara
Your safari directly supports conservation efforts in the Masai Mara. Park fees fund anti-poaching units, habitat restoration, and community projects. The Mara Elephant Project and Lion Guardians work to reduce human-wildlife conflict. By choosing a fly-in safari, you reduce carbon emissions compared to long road transfers. We encourage guests to respect wildlife, maintain a safe distance, and avoid littering. Support local Maasai communities by purchasing authentic crafts and respecting their culture.
Prices are per person sharing a double room. Single supplement available on request. Terms and conditions apply. Seasonal price variations apply – contact us for exact dates.
