From Nairobi to the Mara

Your safari begins at Nairobi Wilson Airport, where you board a scenic flight to the Masai Mara. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, carrying you from Nairobi into the heart of Kenya's spectacular wilderness.

On arrival at the Mara airstrip, you will be met by the Sand River Masai Mara safari team and begin your journey towards camp by 4x4. The drive itself offers your first opportunity to encounter the wildlife of the reserve, with the possibility of spotting zebra, giraffe, elephant and antelope along the way.

Arrive at Sand River

Arrive at Sand River Masai Mara and settle into your luxurious tented suite, taking in the peaceful riverside setting and the atmosphere of this classic safari camp. Inspired by the golden age of African travel, the camp's elegant interiors and intimate surroundings evoke the romance of safari in a bygone era.

Enjoy lunch at camp before taking some time to relax, explore the property or cool off in the swimming pool.

Your First Game Drive

Later in the afternoon, head out on your first game drive into the Masai Mara. As the afternoon light softens across the plains, begin your search for the reserve's abundant wildlife.

Return to camp in time for a refreshing sundowner before enjoying your first dinner surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

Sunrise Safari

Wake to the sounds of the wilderness and begin the day with an early morning game drive, when the Mara is at its most atmospheric and wildlife is particularly active.

As the sun rises over the plains, explore the surrounding savannah in search of the Masai Mara's iconic wildlife. The reserve is renowned for its exceptional populations of lion, leopard and cheetah, alongside elephant, buffalo, giraffe and numerous species of plains game.

A Relaxed Morning at Camp

Return to Sand River for breakfast and time to relax. Enjoy the tranquillity of the Sand River, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or simply unwind in the peaceful surroundings of camp.

Afternoon in the Mara

Later, head out for another game drive, exploring a different part of the reserve and following the day's wildlife activity. During the Great Migration season, you may have the opportunity to witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebra moving through the Mara.

Return to camp as the light begins to soften and enjoy a sundowner before dinner.

Another Day in the Wild

Today offers another full day to experience the Masai Mara, with the flexibility to make the most of the wildlife, landscapes and experiences available around camp.

Begin with an early morning game drive, heading deeper into the Mara in search of wildlife. Every drive is different, and the open landscapes provide endless opportunities for memorable encounters and photography.

Time to Unwind

Return to Sand River for breakfast and a relaxed morning. Enjoy the swimming pool, spend time on your veranda overlooking the river or simply soak up the atmosphere of this secluded camp.

For those looking for something different, a bush dining experience can be arranged, allowing you to experience the wilderness away from the main camp.

Sunset in the Mara

In the afternoon, set out once again with your safari guide. Your route can be shaped around recent wildlife sightings and the animals you are hoping to encounter.

As evening approaches, pause for a sundowner in the heart of the Mara before returning to camp for your final dinner beneath the African sky.

Early Morning Safari in the Mara 

Rise early for your final game drive in the Masai Mara, making the most of your last morning in the wilderness.

From the Mara to Zanzibar

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your flight to Nairobi.  From Nairobi, you will continue your journey to Zanzibar. 

On arrival, you will be transferred to Xanadu Luxury Villas & Retreat Zanzibar, your home for the next five nights

Five Nights of All-Inclusive Island Luxury

Key Features & Amenities

• Nine Private Villas: Xanadu comprises just nine individually designed and named villas, each surrounded by lush tropical gardens and accommodating between two and four guests.
• Private Plunge Pools & Personal Butlers: Every villa features its own private plunge pool and dedicated butler service, ensuring a highly personalised and discreet stay.
• All-Inclusive Dining: Enjoy gourmet all-inclusive dining prepared by local and international chefs, with meals served wherever and whenever you prefer, including the option of private dining.
• Kiota Spa: Retreat to the beachfront Kiota Spa for a selection of relaxing treatments, including massages, body scrubs and reflexology.
• Complimentary Water Sports: Paddleboards and kayaks are available for guests to enjoy, while snorkelling, scuba diving and cultural experiences can also be arranged nearby.

Farewell to Zanzibar - Fly Back to Nairobi

On your final morning in Zanzibar, You will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Nairobi. Your journey comes full circle, from the wilderness of the Masai Mara to the tropical shores of Zanzibar, before returning to Nairobi.