40 Masai Mara National Park Safari Tours By AJ Kenya Safaris Ltd
Imagine a world where endless plains meet abundant wildlife, where the Maasai people’s rich culture intertwines with Africa’s raw beauty, and where life moves to the rhythm of the great wildebeest migration. Welcome to Masai Mara, Kenya’s premier safari destination!
In this post, we’ll guide you through the marvels of Masai Mara, exploring its diverse ecosystem, things to do, captivating attractions, unique experiences, and top-notch accommodations. But before then, let us share our contact details and our most booked Masai Mara National Park safaris.
Contact Us To Start Planning Your Masai Mara Safari
The time to plan your Masai Mara Safari is now! We invite you to contact us via WhatsApp or phone at +254-704-532-105.
We are also available through email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com.
If you prefer, you can leave us your details by filling our “Book a Safari Form” and we will get back within 12 hours.
Masai Mara Video - Filmed by James Gatheru, Our CEO:
Our Most Booked, Luxury Masai Mara Packages
Masai Mara National Reserve, also known as the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and sometimes referred to as Masai Mara National Park, is a world-renowned Kenya safari destination where nature’s magic unfolds before your eyes.
With its abundant wildlife and sweeping plains, it’s no wonder that Masai Mara is considered one of the world’s most incredible wildlife areas. From the big cats that roam the land to the great wildebeest migration, the national reserve guarantees a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Must-See Attractions in Masai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara is home to some of the world’s most captivating natural wonders and wildlife spectacles, making it a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast. In this section, we’ll explore the must-see attractions in Masai Mara, including the awe-inspiring Great Wildebeest Migration, the fascinating Mara Triangle, and the chance to encounter the legendary Big Five in their natural habitat.
The Great Wildebeest Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration is an annual natural spectacle that takes place between July and mid-September, featuring a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traversing the plains of Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing lands. This breathtaking event has been described as one of the “greatest shows on Earth,” as it offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the circle of life unfolding before your eyes.
The dramatic river crossings, where enormous crocodiles lurk beneath the water’s surface, are particularly thrilling and not to be missed. Ensure a peak experience by scheduling your Masai Mara safari during the height of the migration season.
The Big Five and Other Wildlife Encounters
Masai Mara is not only famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration but also for being home to the legendary “Big Five” – the African elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any Masai Mara safari. In addition to the Big Five, the reserve boasts an incredible array of other wildlife species, including:
- Giraffes
- Cheetahs
- Hyenas
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
As well as over 450 bird species.
Prepare your binoculars and camera for an unparalleled wildlife experience.
Exploring the Mara Triangle
The Mara Triangle, a lesser-known but equally captivating region of Masai Mara, is a must-visit for any wildlife enthusiast. This pristine area, located in the southwest corner of the reserve, offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including the chance to spot the Big Five in a single day.
The Mara Triangle is also known for its breathtaking scenery, with its pristine riverine forests, rolling hills, and sweeping plains providing a picturesque backdrop for your wildlife encounters. Remember to include a visit to this hidden gem while planning your Masai Mara adventure.
Unique Activities to Enhance Your Masai Mara Experience
No Masai Mara safari is complete without indulging in some unique activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories. In this section, we’ll introduce you to some extraordinary experiences that will enhance your Masai Mara adventure, such as hot air balloon safaris, cultural encounters with the Maasai tribe, and horseback safaris and nature walks.
Let’s explore the array of exciting activities that await you in the magical Masai Mara:
Hot Air Balloon Safaris – Our Special Offer
Imagine floating above the African savannah, witnessing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Masai Mara from a bird’s-eye view. Hot air balloon safaris offer just that, providing a unique perspective on the reserve’s incredible wildlife and scenery. These safaris typically last for an hour and are followed by a luxurious champagne breakfast in the bush.
While the experience comes with a price tag, it’s an unforgettable adventure that’s well worth the investment. A hot air balloon safari is the perfect addition to your itinerary if you seek a truly unique Masai Mara experience. Those who book a Kenya safari with us between June and August get to enjoy a Masai Mara hot air balloon safari for just USD 395 per person.
The Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration: Mara River Crossing
The Masai Mara Wildebeest Movement has traditionally been considered the most important migration in human history. Almost 1.5 million wild animals from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania migrate to the Masai Mara annually. Masai Mara wildebeest migration is the dramatic river crossing between Serengeti and Mara River. The Masai Mara Migration safari runs between July and October and herd moves from Serengeti to the Masai Mara via the Mara River. This extraordinary event has helped to make the reserve one of South Africa’s most beautiful safaris.
Cultural Experiences with the Maasai Tribe
A visit to Masai Mara wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Maasai tribe. These traditional pastoralists offer a unique insight into their way of life, customs, and traditions, providing an unforgettable cultural experience.
During your visit to a Maasai village, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Learn about their unique customs
- Participate in traditional activities like dancing and singing
- Purchase beautiful, handmade beadwork as a memento of your visit
Ensure a holistic Masai Mara adventure by including a cultural encounter with the Maasai tribe.
Horseback Safaris and Nature Walks
For those seeking a more intimate connection with nature, horseback safaris and nature walks offer an up-close and personal encounter with the flora and fauna of Masai Mara. Riding through the African savannah on horseback provides a thrilling and exhilarating adventure, allowing you to:
- Get closer to wildlife than ever before
- Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the savannah in a unique way
- Feel the rhythm of the land beneath you as you ride alongside zebras, giraffes, and other majestic animals
- Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature
Nature walks, on the other hand, offer a leisurely way to explore the wilderness, with opportunities to spot wildlife by their footprints and dung while learning about the local plants and ecosystems. Both activities provide a unique perspective on the wonders of Masai Mara, ensuring a truly memorable experience.
The Rich Ecosystem of Masai Mara
The thriving ecosystem of Masai Mara is a product of its diverse habitats, making it a prime safari destination. The key factors that contribute to the ecosystem’s health and biodiversity include:
- The semi-arid climate
- The Mara River
- Acacia trees
- Elephant Pepper Trees
These elements create a perfect environment for various animal species to thrive. Additionally, the balance between the natural and human environments, including controlled grazing and zoning, helps maintain the ecosystem and support the wildlife population around safari camps in Masai Mara.
Although the Masai Mara ecosystem, including the Mara North Conservancy, faces challenges such as declining herbivore diversity and the effects of climate change, it remains a beautiful example of the savannah and one of the best-protected reserves in Africa.
The Maasai People: Guardians of the Land
The Maasai people, a traditional pastoralist group, play a vital role in preserving the land and wildlife of Masai Mara through their sustainable practices and cultural heritage. They are known for:
- their bright red robes
- intricate beadwork
- unique way of life, which includes living in traditional cow-dung, mud, and human urine huts called “manyattas”
Their well-preserved culture is one of the best in East Africa, and a visit to a Maasai village offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Maasai culture, making it an essential part of any Masai Mara safari.
Our Masai Mara Safaris – An Option for Every Traveller
No two Masai Mara safaris are the same, as this magical place offers a wide array of options for every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly tour, a mid-range package, or a luxurious experience, there’s a safari in Masai Mara that’s tailored just for you.
From game drives to bush walks with experienced guides, staying in luxurious tented camps, or even traditional Maasai Mara homes, your journey through Masai Mara will be nothing short of unforgettable.
Budget-Friendly Safari Options
Budget-friendly safaris in Masai Mara offer a more affordable way to experience the wonders of this incredible place without compromising on quality and wildlife encounters. For instance, Masai Mara Budget Safari Tours and accommodations outside the park provide cost-effective options for travelers on a tight budget.
On average, a 3-day/2-night budget safari, including accommodation, can cost around $600 to $800 per person. These packages usually come with transportation in a tour vehicle, park entrance fees, meals, and game drives with a professional guide/driver, ensuring you enjoy the best of Masai Mara without breaking the bank.
Mid-Range Safari Packages
Mid-range safari packages provide the perfect balance between comfort and affordability, allowing you to enjoy comfortable accommodations and exciting activities without stretching your budget too far. A 3 days/2 nights mid-range safari package can cost anywhere from \$900 to a few thousand dollars, depending on the type of accommodation and activities included.
While staying at mid-range lodges and campsites, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as:
- lions
- elephants
- giraffes
- zebras
- cheetahs
- wildebeests
- hippos
Plus, the Masai Mara is well-known for its abundance of birdlife, with over 450 species recorded in the area. So, with our Masai Mara safari packages, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Masai Mara without breaking the bank.
Luxury Safari Experiences
For those seeking a truly unforgettable and exclusive Masai Mara experience, luxury safari lodges and tented camps like Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp offer top-notch accommodations, personalized services, and unparalleled comfort. These magnificent retreats provide a more intimate and secluded safari experience, allowing you to enjoy the African wilderness in style.
Luxury safaris in Masai Mara typically cost around US$450 to US$1500 per person per night during low season. From private game drives to bush dinners and sundowners, a luxury safari in Masai Mara promises a truly memorable adventure that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Top-Notch Accommodations in Masai Mara
Masai Mara offers a wide range of top-notch accommodations to suit every budget and preference. From budget-friendly lodging options to luxurious safari lodges and tented camps, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect place to rest your head after a day of thrilling wildlife encounters.
In this section, we’ll introduce you to some of the best accommodations in Masai Mara, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this magical place.
Budget-Friendly Lodging Options
If you’re looking for budget-friendly lodging options in Masai Mara, there are plenty of choices available that offer basic amenities and services without compromising on your safari experience. Some popular options include:
- Oseki Maasai Mara Camp
- Talek Bush Camp
- Greenwood Safari Camp
- Fairmont Mara Safari Club
These accommodations provide comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, hot water showers, and electricity, ensuring you have a pleasant stay while exploring the wonders of Masai Mara.
With the average cost per night for budget accommodations ranging from around £40 to £150, you can enjoy Masai Mara without breaking the bank.
Mid-Range Lodges and Campsites
For those seeking a balance between comfort and affordability, mid-range lodges and campsites in Masai Mara offer the perfect solution. Comfortable accommodations, excellent services, and a range of activities ensure a memorable experience in this stunning reserve. Some popular options include:
- Cottars 1920s Safari Camp
- Mara Bush House
- Sarova Mara Game Camp
- Porini Mara Camp
These mid-range accommodations provide a range of services and activities, such as:
- Game drives
- Bush dinners
- Breakfasts
- Lunches
- Guided walks
- Sundowners
With prices typically ranging from $150 to $250 per person per night during low season, mid-range lodges and campsites provide a comfortable and enjoyable Masai Mara experience without stretching your budget too far.
Luxury Safari Lodges and Tented Camps
For the ultimate Masai Mara experience, luxury safari lodges and tented camps offer unparalleled comfort, exclusivity, and personalized services. Some of the best options include:
- Mara Intrepids Tented Camp
- Sentinel Mara Camp
- Mara Serena Safari Lodge
- Mara Engai Wilderness
These magnificent retreats provide a truly unique and secluded experience, allowing you to enjoy the African wilderness in style.
With prices starting from US$385 per person per night, luxury accommodations ensure that your stay in Masai Mara is truly unforgettable. From private game drives to bush dinners and sundowners, a luxury safari in Masai Mara promises a truly memorable adventure that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Before embarking on your Masai Mara adventure, familiarize yourself with travel tips and practical information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From determining the best time to visit, choosing the right transportation options, to navigating health and safety considerations, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before setting foot in this magical land.
Best Time to Visit Masai Mara
Your preferences and priorities determine the best time to visit Masai Mara. The dry season from July 1st to October 30th is considered the ideal time to visit, as wildlife sightings are at their peak, and the weather is generally pleasant. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more budget-friendly experience, the months of January to March offer mild and dry weather, with lower crowd levels. Ultimately, the best time to visit Masai Mara will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.
Getting to and Around Masai Mara
There are several transportation options for getting to and around Masai Mara. The most convenient option is to fly from Nairobi to Masai Mara, with airlines such as:
- Airkenya Express
- Safarilink
- Kenya Airways
- Buzz Air
- Hahn Air Systems
These airlines offer flights that take around 50 minutes. The cost of flying from Nairobi to Masai Mara can vary from £130 to £362 per person, depending on the airline and availability.
Alternatively, you can opt for a road transfer or self-drive option, with the driving distance from Nairobi to Masai Mara ranging from 225 km (140 miles) to 275 km (170 miles), depending on the gate or entry point you use.
Health and Safety Considerations
Prioritizing your health and safety is crucial when planning a trip to Masai Mara. Before your trip, it’s essential to ensure you’re up-to-date on vaccinations, such as:
- Yellow fever
- Diphtheria
- Hepatitis A
- Poliomyelitis
- Tetanus
It’s also a good idea to consider comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical, evacuation, and activities like wildlife safaris and hot air ballooning.
Lastly, familiarize yourself with safety precautions, such as avoiding traveling after dark in isolated places, keeping valuables safe, and following the instructions of your guide. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a worry-free and enjoyable Masai Mara experience.
Bush Camping
Maasai Mara camping safaris prove a magic that does not exist anywhere else. Bush camping in Maasai Mara bring you closer to the Wild. Camping is restricted to several designated areas of the park, but a security team with 2 rangers is assigned on every camping site. Please stay within designated camping areas for extra precautions. We do offer camping gear, folding bedsheets, tools, and supplies but you can also bring your own items. We also work with some top-quality tented campsites that provide well organized Masais Mara camping safaris as well as a professional guide.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
A balloon ride will introduce you to nature beyond your imagination. The hot-air balloon safaris at Mara National Reserve are about one hour long. They take you along the savannah of Africa with arms thrown away from wildlife, meandering streams and landscapes. On board the balloon, you can see how Maasai Mara’s rivers meet the vast plain of Mara. The balloon flying distance is adjustable to get close to a maasai Mara. The balloon can also go higher to provide great views over the landscapes.
Summary
In conclusion, Masai Mara is a truly magical place that offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. From its diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife to its rich Maasai culture, the national reserve has something to offer every traveler. With various safari options, unique activities, and top-notch accommodations, your Masai Mara adventure is sure to be an unforgettable one. So, pack your bags, gather your courage, and embark on a journey through the heart of the African savannah. The wonders of Masai Mara await!
Key Highlights of a Safari in Masai Mara Kenya:
- Discover the magic of Masai Mara with a safari tailored to your budget and preferences.
- Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, Big Five, & unique activities like hot air balloon safaris for an unforgettable experience!
- Get ready for your trip by learning travel tips & health/safety considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Next, we cover some frequently asked questions about Masai Mara Safaris.
Why Masai Mara is so famous?
The Masai Mara is world-famous for its spectacular Great Migration each July through October, when 1.5 million wildebeests grace the savannahs. This beloved reserve and its many conservancies are home to an abundance of wildlife, offering safari goers a wealth of experiences.
Why is Masai Mara so expensive?
The Masai Mara is a protected wildlife reserve managed by the local Maasai communities and requires visitors to pay park entry fees to support conservation efforts, which contributes to its overall expense.
Is 3 days enough for Masai Mara?
Generally, 3 days is enough to enjoy an exciting safari in Masai Mara and explore the reserve and its surrounding areas.
Is Masai Mara a malaria area?
Yes, there is malaria in Masai Mara and it is highly recommended to take antimalarials if visiting the area.
Which is the best month to visit Masai Mara?
For the best experience in Masai Mara, July to October is an ideal time to visit. This is the long cool-dry season, but be aware that this is usually the most expensive season.
Which is the Best Month to Visit Masai Mara National Reserve?
The dry season between July 1st and September 30th is the most beautiful month for Safaris in the Masai Mara National Reserve. It was primarily because dry weather brought abundant animal habitat and better viewing opportunities within large wilderness areas.
Having your Masai Mara vacation planned this season can have some disadvantages. The first reason for the surge is the tourist traffic which means that the park is largely empty and the lodging is somewhat pricier than expected. Rains from 1 October to 15 December are an ideal time for a Masai Mara Safari Package.
Which is Better, Serengeti National Park or Maasai Mara National Reserve?
There can never be an absolute white answer; instead the solution lies at an analysis of similarities between the park sites’ game viewing opportunities. It would seem that these parks share the exact types of wildlife. Big Nine – Big Cat – Elephant and Giraffe – Hip-pods and zebras are sureties in both countries.
Although a smaller lion population exists in the Seengeti, the numbers of these animals have been much lower in the Masai Mara than in the Serengiti. In addition each wildlife refuge comprises the larger ecosystem Serengeti that extends between South-West Kenya and Northern Tanzania.
How Much Does a Masai Mara Safari Cost?
Kenya safari costs vary according to your choice of accommodation and transport options. There’s Maasai Mara safari for everyone, ranging in budget and luxurious prices. Below is our safari package list and their rates. These numbers are from lower seasons, they are just estimates.
What Animals are Known as the Big 5 in Maasai Mara?
Big Five: the animals hunters have encountered which can be dangerous to hunt. This group is found in several parks throughout Kenya such as the game reserve of Maasai Mara and includes elephants, lions, rhinos, and African buffaloes. Masari Mara National Reserve in the Serengeti is a triangular nature reserve in Kenya.
The Mara Triangle consists of the Masai Mara national reserve known for a large population the Big Five. This triangle is named for three rivers at its entrance: Talek, Olare Motorogi and Mara.
What Month is the Great Migration in Tanzania?
From September through October the Serengeti migration is at its peak. In June, the huge herds of animals can be seen from the west side of the Serengeti and north of the Serengeti in August. November and the shorter months of rain provide a chance for wildlife to return to Kenya. During this period of time, calving can occur between January and March.
Where is the Best Place to see the Wildebeest Migration?
Anywhere within viewing distance is an excellent site for seeing Maasai Mara migration. But the Mara River or the ndutus plain in Serengeti have been strongly commended. Various hotels offer decent views. These include Keekorok Lodge, Base Camp Masai Mara, and Angama Mara.
What Animals Live in the Masai Mara?
This is one of Africa’s most beautiful parks. Masai Mara is a biodiversity-rich reserve with an extensive ecosystem. In addition, it is important to note that the Park has over 96 species of animals and over 550 bird species.
How Do You Get from Nairobi to Masai Mara?
Based on your financial needs, safety concerns and individual needs, you could reach the Masai Mara via car or plane. Masai Mara to Nairobi is 280 km. While driving can be useful to see Kenya’s countryside, some travelers may feel it arduous and extremely tense.
Flights, in contrast, have the benefit of comfortability, flexibility and timely. However, the listed flights may be less expensive to those seeking a low-cost Kenya safari to Masai Mara.