7-Day Masai Mara & Diani Beach Classic Safari

Masai Mara & Diani

Rates From $3,690

About This Tour

This safari balances the wide plains of the Masai Mara with the soft coastline of Diani Beach. The journey moves from the deep greens and gold of the bush to the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. It suits travellers seeking a steady rhythm of wildlife followed by rest.

The journey begins in the Mara for three nights of immersive wildlife viewing before flying south to the coast. Three nights in Diani offer a gentle slowdown by the sea. The flow is designed to build energy in the wilderness and release it on the beach.

Each segment provides a different sense of place and pace. The transition from the interior plains to the coastal breeze feels natural and restorative. Guests travel with ease through two of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes.

Our Community Impact

This safari supports local livelihoods by prioritising lodges that employ from nearby communities. A portion of every park and conservancy fee contributes directly to the protection of these vital ecosystems. We partner with properties that engage in local education and health projects, ensuring your visit leaves a positive trace.

Our Sustainability Promise

We focus on reducing our environmental footprint by using scheduled internal flights and minimizing plastic waste. Our partners are selected for their commitment to solar power and water conservation. We believe in quiet, responsible travel that respects the natural balance of the bush and the sea.

Why This Safari Works

The routing follows a logical flow that respects energy levels and travel time. Starting with the early mornings of a safari and ending with the relaxed mornings of the coast prevents travel fatigue. Flying between the Mara and Diani removes the strain of long road transfers. This balance of activity and stillness works well for first-time guests and couples. The chosen lodges provide reliable comfort and a warm atmosphere without unnecessary complexity.

Your Trip at a Glance

A snapshot of your entire experience, from key highlights to where you'll stay and what to expect each day.

  • 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • All-Inclusive Meals
  • Beach Activities
  • Big Five Experience
  • Couple
  • Cultural Visits
  • Family
  • Flight Transfer (Fly-in)
  • Friends
  • Game Drives
  • Great Migration
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari

Trip Summary

  • Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara
  • Day 2: Experience Masai Mara
  • Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
  • Day 4: Masai Mara to Diani by Flight
  • Day 5 & 6: Diani
  • Day 7: Diani to Nairobi by flight

Destinations

  • Masai Mara National Reserve
  • Diani Beach

Where You Stay

  • 3 Nights: Entim Mara
  • 3 Nights: Southern Palms Beach Resort

Safari Highlights

  • Morning light across the Mara plains
  • Quiet wildlife sightings from a private vehicle
  • The sound of the bush at night
  • Flying over the Great Rift Valley
  • A soft landing on the Diani coastline
  • Warm Indian Ocean breezes
  • Powder-white sands of Diani Beach
  • Sunsets over the savanna and the sea

Featured Destinations

Where You Stay

Route Map

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Itinerary Highlights

  • Morning flight to the Mara

  • Afternoon game drive in the reserve

  • First evening in the bush

Itinerary information

The journey starts with a morning flight from Nairobi, landing in the heart of the Masai Mara. The air is fresh, and the landscape opens into vast grasslands. After settling into the camp, the first game drive takes place as the heat of the day begins to fade. The Mara is home to a high density of wildlife, and the afternoon provides a gentle introduction to its residents. The day ends with a quiet dinner under the stars.

  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Entim Mara

Itinerary Highlights

  • Full day of wildlife viewing

  • Morning and afternoon drives

  • Picnic lunch on the plains

Itinerary information

The day follows the rhythm of the wild with an early start. Morning drives offer the best chance to see predators before they seek shade. The landscape is dotted with acacia trees and herds of grazing animals. A picnic lunch allows for more time in the field without returning to camp. The afternoon drive captures the soft golden light, perfect for observing animal behaviour.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Entim Mara
Masai Mara

Itinerary Highlights

  • Deep exploration of the reserve

  • Optional balloon safari at dawn

  • Evening reflections by the fire

Itinerary information

This day allows for a deeper exploration of different sectors of the Mara. The movement of the herds provides a constant sense of life and change. Guests can choose to take a hot air balloon flight for a different perspective of the plains. The final evening in the Mara is a time to appreciate the silence and the vastness of the Kenyan sky.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Entim Mara
Departure to Nairobi

Itinerary Highlights

  • Final morning game drive

  • Midday flight to the coast

  • Evening arrival at Diani Beach

Itinerary information

A final morning drive provides a last look at the Mara’s wildlife. After lunch, a scheduled flight travels directly to the coast. The transition from the dry bush to the humid, tropical air of Diani is striking. The evening is spent settling into the beachfront resort and listening to the waves.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Southern Palms Beach Resort

Itinerary Highlights

  • Relaxation by the Indian Ocean

  • Optional water sports

  • Coastal walks at sunrise

Itinerary information

The pace slows down significantly at the coast. The day is free for guests to enjoy the resort facilities or walk along the white sands. The ocean is warm and inviting for a midday swim. It is a time for rest and reflection after the early starts of the safari.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Southern Palms Beach Resort
5 Days Budget Bush and Beach Safari

Itinerary Highlights

  • Day at leisure

  • Beachfront dining

  • Explore local markets

Itinerary information

Another day is dedicated to the calm of Diani. Guests might choose to visit the nearby sacred forests or take a dhow trip to see dolphins. The resort offers various ways to unwind, from the pool to the spa. The evening atmosphere is relaxed with the scent of jasmine and the sound of the breeze.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Southern Palms Beach Resort
Diani to Nairobi

Itinerary Highlights

  • Morning beach time

  • Afternoon flight to Nairobi

  • Departure from Jomo Kenyatta International

Itinerary information

The final morning is spent enjoying the last moments of the coast. After lunch, a flight returns to Nairobi. The journey concludes with a transfer to the international airport for the flight home.

  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Accommodation: Departure

JohnBow Safari Expert Insight

❝ We find that starting with the energy of the Mara and ending with the calm of Diani offers the most balanced Kenyan experience for our guests. ❞

~Johnbow Travel Expert

Rates

Competitive rates for unforgettable experiences

SeasonDate Range2 Guests4 Guests6 Guests
Shoulder seasonJan – March, 2026$4,070$3,775$3,690
Peak SeasonJuly – Aug, 2026$5,190$4,865$4,770

Important Rate Notes

  • Lodge substitutions of a similar standard may be offered if the listed properties are full.
  • Internal flight times may vary and luggage is restricted to 15kg in soft bags.
  • Single room supplements apply for guests travelling alone or in odd-numbered groups.
  • Child policies vary by lodge and will be confirmed at the time of booking.

What's Included

  • Full board accommodation.
  • Domestic flight tickets
  • Airport transfers
  • Game drives
  • Curated spirits, house wines, beers, and soft drinks
  • Park fees
  • Bed night fees
  • Laundry – except under garments

Optional Addons

  • Hot air balloon safari in the Masai Mara
  • Maasai village cultural visit
  • Dhow excursion and snorkeling in Diani
  • Guided forest walks

What's Not Included

  • International flights and entry visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Premium drinks and champagnes
  • Laundry services for undergarments
  • Gratuities and tips
  • Personal expenses and curios

Ready to start planning your Safari? Tell us your travel dates, who you are traveling with, and what matters most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, internal flights require soft-sided bags with a weight limit of 15kg per person.
Extra nights in Diani or lodge upgrades can be arranged to suit your preferences.
The Masai Mara and Diani are rewarding year-round, but the dry months from July to October offer the best wildlife viewing.

See What Our Travellers Have To Say

info@johnbowtoursandtravel.com
Kenya Cinema Plaza, 3rd Floor Room 3-8. Moi Avenue, Nairobi