6-Day Masai Mara and Malindi Photographer’s Bush & Beach Safari

Masai Mara National Reserve, Malindi

Rates From $3,000

About This Tour

This photography-led journey balances the raw energy of the Masai Mara with the quiet coastal light of Malindi. It is designed for travellers who value steady pacing and the time needed to capture the changing moods of the Kenyan landscape. The rhythm is intentional, allowing for deep immersion in the bush before transitioning to a restorative seaside finish.

The journey begins with a road transfer into the heart of the Mara plains for focused wildlife observation. After the intensity of the savanna, a flight connects the safari to the white sands and blue waters of the coast. This sequence ensures a gradual slowdown, moving from the active early mornings of the bush to the relaxed afternoons by the ocean.

Every transition is managed to maintain a sense of calm and comfort. The blend of road and air travel reduces fatigue while providing different perspectives of the country. It offers a grounded experience that prioritises natural beauty and unhurried movement.

Our Community Impact

Johnbow prioritises lodges that actively employ from local communities, ensuring the benefits of tourism stay within the region. Your stay contributes to community levy fees that support local infrastructure and education projects near the Masai Mara. We believe in quiet, tangible contributions that respect the people living alongside these wild spaces.

Our Sustainability Promise

We partner with properties that demonstrate a commitment to low-impact operations and sustainable energy use. By including conservancy fees in your package, we help fund the protection of vital wildlife corridors. Our goal is to provide a premium experience that leaves a minimal footprint on the natural environment.

Why This Safari Works

The itinerary is built on a logic of contrast and recovery. By starting in the Masai Mara, guests engage with the highest energy wildlife experiences while their focus is fresh. The mid-trip flight to Malindi removes the strain of long-distance driving, acting as a soft bridge between two very different environments. This structure respects the traveller’s energy levels and ensures the safari ends on a note of complete rest. It works best for photography enthusiasts, couples, and those seeking a balanced, midrange pace.

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
  • Beach Activities
  • Big Five Experience
  • Couple
  • Cultural Visits
  • Family
  • Flight Transfer (Fly-in)
  • Friends
  • Full Board
  • Game Drives
  • Great Migration
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari

Trip Summary

  • Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara by road
  • Day 2: Masai Mara Experience
  • Day 3: Masai Mara to Nairobi for flight connection in JKIA
  • Day 4: Malindi
  • Day 5: Malindi
  • Day 6: Malindi to Nairobi by flight

Destinations

  • Masai Mara National Reserve
  • Malindi Coast

Where You Stay

  • Soroi Luxury Migration Camp (2 Nights)
  • Diamonds Dream of Africa Malindi (3 Nights)

Safari Highlights

  • Soft morning light across the open Mara plains
  • Deep immersion in the world of the Big Five
  • Quiet evenings by the campfire at Soroi
  • A scenic flight from the bush to the coast
  • The transition from golden savanna to white sands
  • The transition from golden savanna to white sands
  • The steady rhythm of guided game drives
  • Lakeside calm and coastal breeze

Featured Destinations

Where You Stay

Route Map

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Itinerary Highlights

  • Drive through the Great Rift Valley

  • First afternoon game drive in the Mara

  • Sunsets over the savanna

Itinerary information

The journey begins with a road transfer from Nairobi, descending the escarpment into the Great Rift Valley. The landscape opens into the wide plains of the Masai Mara, where the first afternoon is spent observing wildlife in their natural habitat. The pace is steady, allowing for a calm introduction to the bush.

  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Soroi Luxury Migration Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Full day of photography and wildlife viewing

  • Observations of predators and plains game

  • Afternoon tea and campfire nibbles

Itinerary information

A full day is dedicated to the rhythms of the Masai Mara. Game drives follow the movement of the herds, focusing on the soft light of the early morning and late afternoon, which is ideal for photography. The day feels full but unhurried, with time to appreciate the small details of the ecosystem.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Soroi Luxury Migration Camp

Departure to Nairobi

Itinerary Highlights

  • Final morning game drive
  • Flight connection through Nairobi
  • Arrival at the Indian Ocean coast

Itinerary information

After a final morning in the bush, the safari moves toward the coast via a flight through Nairobi. The air transition offers a quick shift from the golden tones of the Mara to the vibrant blues of Malindi. The evening is spent settling into the coastal atmosphere.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Diamonds Dream of Africa

Itinerary Highlights

  • Restorative days by the sea
  • Optional water activities or town visits
  • Unlimited selected drinks and relaxation

Itinerary information

These days are designed for complete rest. The pace slows significantly, allowing guests to enjoy the beachfront ease and the resort’s amenities. It is a time to reflect on the safari experiences while enjoying the warmth of the coast.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Diamonds Dream of Africa
5 -Day Tsavo, Elephant & Beach Safari

Itinerary Highlights

  • Quiet morning on the beach
  • Flight back to Nairobi
  • Final transfers for onward travel

Itinerary information

The journey concludes with a final morning by the ocean before a flight back to Nairobi. All transfers are assisted to ensure a smooth transition for your departure.

  • Meals: Breakfast

  • Accommodation: End of Safari

JohnBow Safari Expert Insight

❝ We designed this route to balance the high-energy photography of the Mara with a soft coastal landing, ensuring you return home feeling rested rather than fatigued. ❞

~Johnbow Safari Expert Team

Rates

Competitive rates for unforgettable experiences

SeasonDate Range2 Guests4 Guests6 Guests
Peak SeasobnJuly – Oct, 2026$3,335$3,095$3,000

Important Rate Notes

  • Rates vary based on seasonal availability and rooming configurations.
  • Single room supplements may apply for solo travellers.
  • Child policies differ across lodges and require confirmation at the time of booking
  • Internal flight times may vary, but all connections are fully assisted

What's Included

  • Accommodation and meals as listed
  • Private 4x4 Land Cruiser for all ground transport
  • All ground and airstrip transfers
  • Internal flight tickets from Mara to Malindi and back to Nairobi
  • Game drives in Masai Mara
  • All national park and community levy fees
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Bottled water in the safari vehicle

Optional Addons

  • Hot Air Balloon Safari in the Masai Mara
  • Guided Malindi town and heritage tour
  • Snorkelling or diving excursions in Malindi
  • Lodge room upgrades

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visa fees
  • Premium spirits, whiskies, and select wines
  • Gratuities and tips for guides and staff
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Items of a personal nature

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

This itinerary is well-suited for families with older children who appreciate a mix of active wildlife viewing and beach relaxation.
Yes, all domestic flights between the Masai Mara, Nairobi, and Malindi are included in the package price.
You will have a private 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, specifically designed for unobstructed photography in the bush.

See What Our Travellers Have To Say

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