How long are the regional flights?

Flights are short light-air hops — typically 45–90 minutes depending on routing and airstrip. Exact sector durations will be confirmed at booking.

Can I add a hot-air balloon over the Mara?

Yes — the balloon is optional and charged extra. It’s highly recommended and should be booked in advance due to seasonal demand.

Do we need to pay park fees separately?

Park fees are included only if listed under “Cost Includes.” We will confirm inclusions in your quotation and itinerary.

Is this itinerary family-friendly?

Yes — the flying format reduces road time and is good for families and travellers who prefer shorter transfers. We can adapt drive lengths for children or older guests.

What wildlife is unique to Samburu?

Samburu is known for its “Special Five”: Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Grévy’s zebra, Samburu ostrich and reticulated (Somali) giraffe — species more typical of northern Kenya.

What should I pack for a flying safari?

Light luggage (small soft bag preferred for light aircraft), neutral-coloured clothing, binoculars, camera with extra batteries, sun protection and a light fleece for early mornings.

5-Day Classic Wings Safari — Samburu & Maasai Mara (Flying Safari)

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Overview

Experience the best of Kenya in just five days on this luxury Classic Wings Safari, which fast-tracks you by light-air flights from Nairobi to Samburu and the Maasai Mara. Enjoy pop-roof game drives, intimate wildlife encounters and expert guides — ideal for travellers who want maximum wildlife in minimal time.

This flying format reduces road travel and increases wildlife time: expect excellent sightings of Samburu’s northern species and the Maasai Mara’s iconic plains. Stay in quality lodges, savour scenic flights, and add a hot-air balloon over the Mara for an unforgettable finale.

Highlights

Fast regional flights linking Nairobi → Samburu → Masai Mara → Nairobi.
Samburu specialities: Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Grévy’s zebra, Samburu ostrich and reticulated (Somali) giraffe.
Masai Mara Big Five viewing and potential Great Wildebeest Migration sightings (seasonal).
Pop-up roof safari vehicles for unobstructed game viewing and photography.
Overnight stays at Sarova Shaba Game Lodge (Samburu) and Sarova Mara Game Camp (Masai Mara).
Optional sunrise hot-air balloon over the Masai Mara (seasonal; supplement applies).

Day 01 :

Nairobi → Samburu National Reserve (flight)

Take a quick regional flight from Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve and arrive by mid-day. After lunch, head out on your first afternoon game drive in this dramatic landscape—keep an eye out for lions, elephants, zebras and Samburu’s “special” species such as Beisa oryx and the reticulated (Somali) giraffe. Dinner and overnight at Sarova Shaba Game Lodge.

Day 02 :

Samburu National Reserve (full day)

Enjoy early-morning and late-afternoon pop-roof game drives with time at leisure during the heat of the day. Samburu offers excellent sightings of big cats, kudu, dik-dik, waterbuck and prolific birdlife. Return to Sarova Shaba Game Lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 03 :

Samburu → Maasai Mara (flight)

A short flight transports you from Samburu to the world-famous Maasai Mara. En route to camp, enjoy a mid-morning game drive introducing you to the Mara’s plains and wildlife. Expect close encounters with grazing herds and predators. Dinner and overnight at Sarova Mara Game Camp.

Day 04 :

Maasai Mara (full day)

Spend a full day in the Mara with early morning and afternoon game drives. The Mara supports more than 450 species of animals and is renowned for its concentrations of predators and, seasonally, the Great Wildebeest Migration. Optional full-day game drives with picnic lunches or a hot-air balloon at sunrise (extra fee). Dinner and overnight at Sarova Mara Game Camp.

Day 05 :

Maasai Mara → Nairobi (flight & departure)

Enjoy a final morning game drive or optional balloon safari, then fly back to Nairobi. Arrive in time for onward flights or a hotel transfer — your driver will deliver you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or your Nairobi hotel. End of services.

5-Day Classic Wings Safari — Samburu & Maasai Mara (Flying Safari)

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

Maasai Mara National Reserve

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Maasai Mara National Reserve

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