Phronesis Tours

Masai Mara Great Migration Safari

6 Days witnessing nature's greatest spectacle - millions of wildebeest crossing the Mara River

The Great Migration is one of the natural wonders of the world – over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in a continuous cycle across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. This safari is timed to coincide with the most dramatic phase: the Mara River crossings between July and October, when massive herds plunge into crocodile-infested waters in their desperate bid to reach fresh grazing.

The Masai Mara offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa year-round, but during migration season, it becomes absolutely extraordinary. Beyond the herds, the Mara’s resident wildlife is equally impressive – lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and rhinos all call this reserve home. With expert guides who know the migration patterns intimately, you’ll be positioned at the best locations for maximum wildlife encounters and unforgettable photography opportunities.

Safari Highlights

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

1
Day 1: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park

Your adventure begins with pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or airport in a private 4×4 safari Land Cruiser. Drive south toward Amboseli National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and postcard views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Accommodation:      Sarova Stanley Hotel or similar

Meals: Dinner

 Wildlife: Arrive in time for lunch followed by an afternoon game drive. Expect sightings of elephant, lion, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and an impressive variety of birdlife.

2
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives in Amboseli

Start early with a sunrise game drive — the best time to spot predators in action. Amboseli’s open plains make wildlife viewing exceptional and photography unforgettable.

Highlights include:

  • Massive elephant tuskers

  • Lions and cheetahs

  • Buffalo and hyenas

  • Birdlife around swamps and marshes

Accommodation:  Mara Serena Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Wildlife: Visit Observation Hill for panoramic views of the park and, if weather permits, watch Mount Kilimanjaro reveal its snow-capped peak — a truly magical African moment.

3
Day 3: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha – Rift Valley Adventure

After breakfast, journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley toward Lake Naivasha — a freshwater lake known for hippos and birdlife.

In the afternoon, explore Hell’s Gate National Park on a guided bicycle safari or walking tour. This is one of the few parks in Kenya where you can safely cycle among wildlife such as zebras, gazelles, and elands while surrounded by towering cliffs and volcanic formations.

Perfect for adventure lovers and active travelers.


Accommodation: Mara Serena Safari Lodge


Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


          Wildlife: Migration herds, river crossings (seasonal), predators hunting

4
Day 4: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara National Reserve

Begin your day with a scenic boat safari on Lake Naivasha, gliding past hippos and fish eagles.

Continue with a guided walking safari at Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, and antelope in a peaceful setting.

Later, travel to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve — Kenya’s most famous safari destination and home to the highest concentration of wildlife in the country.

Arrive for an evening game drive across the golden savannah.


Accommodation:  Mara Serena Safari Lodge


Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


          Wildlife:  Lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, rhinos (if lucky)

5
Day 5: Full-Day Masai Mara Safari – Big Five Territory

Spend the day exploring the vast plains of the Masai Mara in search of:

  • Lion

  • Leopard

  • Elephant

  • Buffalo

  • Rhino

Along with cheetah, giraffe, zebra, hyena, jackal, and countless antelope species.

If traveling between July and October, witness the world-famous Great Migration — when thousands of wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara River in one of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife spectacles.

Enjoy a picnic lunch near the Mara River, where hippos and crocodiles are often seen.

Optional Experiences (Extra Cost)

  • Maasai village cultural visit

  • Sunrise hot air balloon safari with champagne bush breakfast


Accommodation:  Mara Serena Safari Lodge


Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


          Wildlife: Aerial wildlife viewing, continued migration observations

6
Day 6: Masai Mara to Nairobi

After breakfast, depart for Nairobi with scenic views of the Great Rift Valley along the way. Your guide will highlight Mount Longonot, an extinct volcano rising dramatically above the valley floor.

Optional stop (extra cost):

  • Tea tour and gourmet lunch at Kiambethu Farm

Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon with drop-off at your hotel or transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.


Accommodation:Lake Nakuru Lodge


Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


          Wildlife:  Flamingos, rhinos (black & white), Rothschild giraffes, leopards

What's Included
What's Not Included
Starting From

$2,499

Per Person
Quick Facts

Duration

7 Days / 6 Nights

Best Time

July - October

Group Size

Maximum 6 people

Difficulty

Easy

Age Requirement

5 years and above
Need Help?

Our migration experts can advise on the best dates for your visit and current wildlife movements.