Masai Mara Balloon Safari & Game Drives

Safari game drive in the Maasai Mara, Kenya

4 Days Masai Mara Photographic Big Five Safari

August 16, 2026

Maasai Mara National Reserve landscape, Kenya

5 Days Masai Mara, Nakuru & Amboseli Big Five Explorer

Home / 3 Days Masai Mara Balloon Safari & Big Five Game Drives

3 Days Masai Mara Balloon Safari & Big Five Game Drives

Tour Overview

This 3-day itinerary adds a different perspective to a standard Masai Mara safari: a sunrise hot air balloon flight drifting silently over the plains, followed by a traditional bush breakfast, alongside classic Big Five game drives. Balloon safaris depend on calm early-morning conditions, which are generally more consistent during the two dry seasons than during the long or short rains.

The itinerary is carefully designed to provide a balance between game drives, wildlife observation, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Guests stay in a selection of lodges and tented camps that combine comfort with proximity to wildlife habitats. Each park visited offers a distinct landscape and unique species encounters, creating a dynamic safari experience. The 10-day journey is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers seeking to experience Tanzania’s rich natural heritage in a structured yet flexible format.

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Detailed Itinerary: 3 Days Masai Mara Balloon Safari & Big Five Game Drives

Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara & Afternoon Game Drive

A scenic transfer into the reserve is followed by an afternoon game drive across its varied terrain, from riverine forest to open grassland. Guides on this route often time the drive to intercept herds moving between grazing areas, since movement patterns can shift noticeably within a single day.

Day 2: Sunrise Balloon Safari & Afternoon Game Drive

Before dawn, you'll board a hot air balloon for a silent flight over the plains as the sun rises, landing to a traditional bush breakfast set up in the open savannah. An afternoon game drive follows to continue the search for the Big Five. Drifting silently at treetop height before rising for sweeping views over the plains, the flight typically lasts around an hour before a gentle landing and a champagne toast at the bush breakfast site.

Day 3: Morning Game Drive & Return to Nairobi

One more circuit through the reserve at first light rounds out the trip before the drive back to Nairobi begins. Because the previous day's balloon flight already mapped where herds were concentrated, this drive often heads directly for those same areas on the ground.

Tour Includes

Safari Park fees
All Tour activities
All Tour accommodation
A professional driver/guide
All transportation ( To & From )
All Taxes/VAT
Everyday Meals ( As specified )
Drinking water ( On all days )

Tour Excludes

International flights ( From / to home )
Additional Accommodation
Tips
Personal items(Souvenirs, etc.)
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Gov increase of taxes and/or park fees

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