Maasai Mara is a renowned safari destination in Africa, known for its expansive grasslands, diverse wildlife, and the vibrant Maasai culture. A safari tour there offers a unique and unforgettable experience, highlighted by the incredible Great Wildebeest Migration.
Visitors can also witness millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles crossing the Mara River, braving predators in search of greener pastures. Alongside this natural spectacle, Maasai Mara tours are home to the majestic Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), as well as cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and a variety of bird species.
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The best Maasai Mara Safari Tours
Price of Maasai Mara Safari Tours?
The cost of Masai Mara Safari Tours can vary based on factors such as tour duration, accommodation options, transportation, and additional activities. On average, a 3-day safari package may range from around $600 to $1,200 per person, while longer tours spanning 5 to 7 days could cost between $1,200 and $2,500 per person.
Exclusive or luxury safaris may exceed $3,000 per person. These estimates generally cover park fees, game drives, accommodations, meals, and the services of an experienced guide.
Additional expenses may arise from optional activities like hot air balloon rides or cultural excursions. It’s recommended to consult reputable safari operators or travel agencies for more accurate pricing tailored to your specific preferences and needs.
Tour breakdown for Maasai Mara safaris
Safari tour highlights
- See the incredible phenomenon of the Great Wildebeest Migration, an awe-inspiring natural event.
- Discover the iconic Big Five in their pristine habitat and head on thrilling game drives, traversing the picturesque landscapes of the National Reserve.
- Find the rich Maasai culture, with opportunities to visit traditional villages and interact with the locals.
- Dramatic river crossings by wildebeest and zebras at the Mara River.
- Stunning sunsets that paint the savannah in golden hues, providing unforgettable photographic moments.
- Experience a unique perspective by opting for a hot air balloon safari, floating above the vast expanse of the Mara.
Tour inclusions
The following details typical tour inclusions and exclusions on the best Maasai Mara safari packages:
| Tour inclusions | Tour exclusions |
|---|---|
| Game drives per the itinerary as well as pick-up and drop-off | Visa fees, laundry services, drinks including mineral water at the hotels |
| Experienced english-speaking guide and driver | International/domestic flights |
| Transport and park entrance fees | Activity add-ons |
| Accommodation (full-board safaris) | Tips to the driver guides, waiters and porters |
| Park fees | |
| Breakfast, lunch, dinner and bottled water | |
| Government taxes |
Safari essentials and information
Days recommended for a Masai Mara safari tour?
A suggested timeframe for a Masai Mara tour is at least for 3 to 4 days, ideally longer, to allow for a comprehensive exploration of the reserve’s vast landscapes and abundant wildlife.
During this period, visitors can partake in multiple game drives, providing ample opportunities to spot the Big Five and potentially witness the incredible Great Wildebeest Migration if the timing is favorable.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, additional days can be added to engage in cultural encounters, visit Maasai communities, or enjoy optional activities like hot air balloon safaris. On your safari trip, you can even break up the drive to or from each park with an overnight stay at the Amboseli NP or Tsavo East National Park.
Accommodation offered on a Maasai Mara safari?
A Masai Mara safari presents diverse accommodation options to cater to various preferences and budgets. Choose from luxurious lodges, comfortable tented camps, or mobile campsites that bring you closer to nature.
Luxurious lodges offer well-appointed rooms or suites, often with breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Tented camps provide an authentic safari experience, blending comfort with a closer connection to the natural environment.
Mobile campsites offer flexibility and adventure, allowing you to relocate based on wildlife movements. Regardless of your choice, each accommodation ensures a memorable stay in the Masai Mara, providing easy access to game drives and exceptional wildlife encounters.
Animals on a Masai Mara safari?
A Masai Mara safari offers a captivating opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife including the Big Five in their natural habitat with the reserve renowned for its thriving population of majestic big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
The expansive plains are also home to elephants, buffalos, and graceful giraffes, while the annual Great Migration unveils impressive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.
Additionally, you can spot hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species during your safari adventure. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the diverse avian species, with more than 450 recorded in the area.
Fly or drive to start a Maasai Mara safari?
To begin your Masai Mara safari, you have the option of flying or driving to the reserve. The main international airport serving the region is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya. From Nairobi, you can take a domestic flight taking 1 hour to either Mara Serena Airport (MRE) or Keekorok Airport (KEU) within the Masai Mara.
Alternatively, you can opt for a direct flight from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi to one of the airstrips in the Masai Mara, such as Musiara Airstrip or Ol Kiombo Airstrip, which takes around 1 hour.
By road, the distance between Nairobi and the Masai Mara is approximately 180 miles (290 kilometers), with a travel time of about 5-6 hours, however flying is a more convenient and time-saving choice.
Driving allows you to enjoy the scenic route and explore the landscapes en route, but keep in mind that the roads can be challenging, particularly during the rainy season. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the journey.
FAQs
How much does a Masai Mara trip cost?
The cost of a Masai Mara trip can vary depending on factors such as accommodation, duration, and activities. Prices typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 per person or more, excluding international flights.
Which month is best for Masai Mara?
The optimal time to visit Masai Mara is during the Great Migration, which takes place between July and October. However, other months also offer fantastic wildlife sightings and fewer crowds.
How many days are enough for Masai Mara?
For a fulfilling Masai Mara experience, it is recommended to allocate a minimum of 3-4 days. This allows for multiple game drives, exploration of different areas, and increased chances of encountering wildlife. Of course, longer stays provide added advantages and more extensive wildlife encounters.