5 Day – Living with the Maasai: A herding adventure in the Mara

Why Choose This Safari?

  • A perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and conservation.
  • Visits to iconic destinations like Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and Maasai Mara.
  • Opportunities to witness the Great Migration (seasonal).
  • Support for local communities and conservation efforts.

Pricing

Estimated Budget:

  • Budget:800–800–1,200 per person (basic-Manyatta accommodations).
  • Mid-Range:1,500–1,500–2,000 per person (comfortable tented camp).
  • Luxury: $2,500+ per person (luxury tented camp, exclusive experiences).

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Nairobi

  • Meet your Guide, Airport transfer to hotel for a brief rest and orientation.
  • Welcome dinner with a preview of the adventure ahead.
  • Optional activities (at extra cost):
  • Visit the Giraffe Centre ($15 per person)
  • Karen Blixen Museum ($14 per person)
  • Overnight at the hotel
  • Luxury: Hemingways Nairobi / Villa Rosa Kempinski
  • Mid-range: Tamarind Tree Hotel / Four Points by Sheraton / Crowne Plaza
  • Budget: Sarova Stanley / Eka Hotel

Day 2: Nairobi to Maasai Mara – Welcome to the Village

  • Morning departure from Nairobi to Maasai Mara (approx. 5-6-hour drive).
  • Traditional welcome ceremony with singing, dancing, and a blessing from the village elders.
  • Introduction to your host family and orientation about life in the village.
  • Enjoy a traditional Maasai dinner (nyama choma – roasted meat, maize, and vegetables).
  • Overnight in a traditional Manyatta or a comfortable tented camp near the village.

Day 2: A Day in the Life of a Maasai Herder

  • Early morning wake-up call to join the warriors for herding.
  • Learn how to identify and care for different cattle breeds, which are central to Maasai culture.
  • Participate in milking cows and goats, and preparing traditional dairy products.
  • Afternoon break for a hearty lunch and storytelling session with the elders.
  • Evening nature walk to learn about local plants, wildlife tracks, and survival skills.
  • Dinner and overnight in the village.

Day 3: Herding and Cultural Immersion

  • Spend the morning herding cattle across the savannah, keeping an eye out for predators.
  • Learn how the Maasai use their environment sustainably, including water sources and grazing patterns.
  • Afternoon cultural workshop: Make traditional Maasai jewelry, learn beadwork, or craft a spear.
  • Evening Maasai dance performance around the campfire.
  • Overnight in the village.

Day 4: Game Drive and Wilderness Exploration

  • Morning game drive in the Maasai Mara to witness the incredible wildlife, including the Big Five.
  • Picnic lunch in the bush with stunning views of the Mara plains.
  • Return to the village for an afternoon of relaxation or optional activities (e.g., archery, spear throwing).
  • Farewell dinner with the village community, featuring traditional songs and dances.
  • Overnight in the village.

Day 5: Departure – Carrying the Spirit of the Maasai

  • Morning farewell ceremony with the village elders and your host family.
  • Receive a small token of appreciation (e.g., a beaded bracelet or necklace) as a memento of your experience.
  • Transfer back to Nairobi or your next destination, with a heart full of memories and a deeper understanding of Maasai culture.
  • Accommodation in a traditional Manyatta or nearby tented camp.
  • All meals (traditional Maasai cuisine and some modern options).
  • Guided herding activities and cultural workshops.
  • Game drive in the Maasai Mara.
  • Cultural performances and storytelling sessions.
  • Items of personal nature i.e. beverages, laundry, telephone, souvenirs etc.
  • Travel / medical / cancellation insurance
  • Tips / gratuities for driver / guide and Camp staff
  • Additional activities at the Camp such as private sundowners, guided walks, village visits etc.
  • Exclusive use of vehicle in the Mara
  • Accommodation, meals and excursions in Nairobi
  • Extra cost incurred if change in itinerary
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari: Experience the Maasai Mara from above, followed by a champagne breakfast.
  • Community Contribution: Participate in a community project, such as building a school or water well.

Book This Safari