2-Day Maasai Mara Safari from Nairobi: Game Drives & Lodge Stay

Summary

Short Maasai Mara Safari with Game Drives & Local Markets

If you want real wildlife moments without losing days on travel, this 2-day Maasai Mara safari packs in big game drives, local flavor, and a cozy lodge stay—all easy to fit into a short trip from Nairobi.

What’s the experience like?

Leaving the city behind, we set out early from Nairobi—windows down, the air still cool and a bit dusty. The drive to Maasai Mara is long but never dull; you’ll pass roadside fruit stalls, herds of cattle, and kids waving as you go by. Our guide, Peter, knew every shortcut and even pointed out giraffes grazing near the fence before we reached the park gates. By afternoon, we were bouncing along red-dirt tracks inside the reserve, eyes peeled for movement in the tall grass.

The first game drive felt unreal—zebras crossing right in front of us, a pride of lions lounging under an acacia tree. You can actually hear the low grunts and birds calling overhead. Sunsets here aren’t just orange—they’re streaked with purples and deep reds that seem to last forever. That night at Jambo Mara safari lodge, I could still hear distant hyenas while eating dinner outside. The rooms are simple but comfy, with hot showers and mosquito nets (trust me, you’ll want those).

Next morning’s wake-up call came before sunrise—worth it for the cool air and golden light over the savannah. We spotted elephants moving quietly through the mist and watched hippos yawning in the river. On our way back to Nairobi, we stopped at the Maasai Market for souvenirs; it’s noisy and colorful, with beadwork everywhere and vendors happy to chat or haggle a bit if you’re up for it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nairobi to Maasai Mara

• Afternoon game drive

Day 2 — Maasai Mara to Nairobi

• Early morning game drive
• Return to Nairobi

Top questions

Is this safari suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

Yes! Vehicles and accommodations are wheelchair accessible, plus there are infant seats available if needed.

What animals will I likely see during the game drives?

You’ll probably spot lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes—and if you’re lucky—cheetahs or rhinos too. Wildlife sightings vary by season.

How many people are usually on this tour?

Group sizes can change depending on bookings but it’s usually small enough that everyone gets a window seat for viewing.

What meals are included?

Dinner on your first night and breakfast before heading back to Nairobi are both included in your stay.

What’s included

Your tour covers all transportation from Nairobi to Maasai Mara and back, two guided game drives with a local expert, overnight accommodation at Jambo Mara safari lodge (with dinner and breakfast), plus stops at local markets along the way. Everything’s sorted so you can just focus on enjoying your trip.