Safari Overview
Embark on a transformative Masai Mara adventure that blends the thrill of the wild with the heart of ancient traditions. This 4-day immersive safari at Oldarpoi Mara Camp is designed for the discerning traveler who seeks more than just a sighting; it is an invitation to inhabit the rhythm of the savanna. Located within the pioneering Nashulai Maasai Conservancy, your journey eliminates the standard tourist crowds, offering a private, soulful connection to Kenya’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary.
Your sanctuary, Oldarpoi Mara Camp, embodies the essence of authentic Masai Mara hospitality. Here, “bush-to-table” dining, sundowners under acacia trees, and starlit dinners meet the raw beauty of the plains. This award-winning eco-camp offers unparalleled access to the wild, serving as a gateway to both the community-led Nashulai lands and the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve. Imagine waking to the dawn chorus of the bush, sipping freshly brewed Kenyan coffee on your veranda, and preparing for a day of discovery led by those who have called this land home for centuries.
The Nashulai Experience: What to Expect
A typical day on this immersive safari begins as the savanna awakens. After a light breakfast, you’ll head out in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser to catch predators while the air is still crisp. The golden light provides a perfect canvas for photography as you track lions, leopards, and elephants. Unlike standard tours, your experience includes exclusive night game drives in Nashulai, revealing the mysterious world of nocturnal hunters – a hallmark of a true Masai Mara deep-dive.
The midday hours offer a different kind of enrichment. Return to Oldarpoi Mara Camp for a sumptuous lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients. Instead of just observing from a vehicle, you will transition to a walking safari led by a Maasai Warrior. This “boots-on-the-ground” perspective allows you to see the finer details of the ecosystem – from medicinal plants to ancient tracking techniques. You will also visit a local village to participate in the Sekenani River Restoration, witnessing firsthand how community-led conservation is securing the future of the Mara.
As the sun mellows, enjoy a signature sundowner at a panoramic viewpoint, followed by a traditional bush dinner under a canopy of stars. Reflect on the day’s sightings – perhaps the Big 5 in the main reserve or a rare caracal in Nashulai – while sharing stories around the campfire. This seamless blend of adventure, conservation, and authentic indulgence defines the ultimate Masai Mara experience.
Safari Highlights:
- Nashulai Maasai Conservancy & Mara National Reserve Access: Enjoy the best of both worlds -private conservancy intimacy and the vastness of the main reserve.
- Cultural Walking Safaris: Step out of the vehicle and walk the plains with a Maasai Warrior for an up-close look at the bush.
- Night Game Drives: Experience the thrill of tracking nocturnal wildlife, an activity exclusive to the conservancy.
- Conservation in Action: Direct involvement in tree planting and river restoration projects at the Sekenani River.
- Authentic Bush Dining: From sunrise bush breakfasts to atmospheric dinners under the African sky.
- Expert Maasai Guides: Learn from guides with a profound, ancestral knowledge of animal behavior and the Mara ecosystem.
From the thrill of a Nashulai night safari to the legacy of Sekenani River restoration, this 4-day immersive adventure is where your footprints make a difference. Space at Oldarpoi Mara Camp is limited to ensure an intimate, low-impact experience for every guest.
Iconic Big 5
Experience a full-day game drive in the Masai Mara to spot Kenya's most famous wildlife.
Active Conservation Impact
Join tree planting and river restoration to support community-led wildlife protection.
Authentic Warrior Walks
Explore the savanna on foot led by Maasai warriors for a deep cultural connection.
Thrilling Night Safari
Track elusive nocturnal wildlife in the private Nashulai Conservancy after dark.
Safari Route Map
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to the Heart of Nashulai Maasai Conservancy
Depart 7:30 AMYour journey begins with a morning pick-up in Nairobi by your professional guide in a 4×4 Land Cruiser. Upon arrival at Oldarpoi Mara Camp, settle in before heading out for your first afternoon game drive within the Nashulai Maasai Conservancy. As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic sundowner followed by a traditional bush dinner and an adventurous night game drive to spot nocturnal wildlife.
Day 2: Conservation and Ancient Traditions
Full DayStart with a sunrise bush breakfast in the wild before embarking on a morning game drive. In the afternoon, transition from the vehicle to a walking safari led by a Maasai Warrior to see the finer details of the bush. You will also visit a local Maasai village and participate in the Sekenani River Restoration and tree planting programs to witness community-led conservation in action.
Day 3: The Great Masai Mara National Reserve
Full DayDedicate this full day to a comprehensive game drive within the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. This is your best opportunity to witness the “Big 5” and the vast savanna landscapes. For a unique perspective, you may choose to add an optional early morning hot air balloon flight.
Day 4: Morning Game and Return to Nairobi
ReturnSavor a final early morning game drive to catch predators while they are still active. After a hearty breakfast at the camp, begin your journey back to the city. Your safari concludes with a comfortable drop-off at your preferred location in Nairobi.
What's Included & Excluded
Included in Your Safari
- 3 nights Full board accommodation at Oldarpoi Mara Camp.
- Pick up and drop off at Nairobi
- Park fees & Conservancy fees
- One night game drive
- Transport in a private 4x4 safari landcruiser vehicle
- Water during game drives
- Bush breakfast, Bush Dinner & a Sundowner
- Maasai Village visit , walking safari with a Warrior & river restoration/tree planting programs.
Not Included
- International flights and visa fees
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips and gratuities for driver-guide
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
Frequently Asked Questions
Nashulai is the first community-owned conservancy in the region. It focuses on the coexistence of the Maasai people and wildlife, offering more private sightings and unique activities like night drives and walking safaris not permitted in the main reserve.
While highly recommended for an immersive experience, participation in the Sekenani River Restoration and tree planting is optional. It is a wonderful way to leave a positive footprint on the ecosystem.
We recommend neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, tan), a warm jacket for early morning drives, comfortable walking shoes for the safari walk, a hat, sunscreen, and high-quality binoculars.
Absolutely. It offers a bird's-eye view of the savanna at sunrise, usually followed by a champagne breakfast. It is a bucket-list experience for many visiting the Masai Mara.
Traveler Reviews
"Absolutely incredible experience! Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate. We saw all of the Big Five within the first two days. The camp was comfortable and the food was excellent. Highly recommend Bison Safaris!"
"Best safari experience of my life. The attention to detail and personal service made this trip truly special. The sunrise game drive was a highlight I will never forget."