Experience the ultimate safari adventure in Africa's best National Park with Masai Mara Holidays. Our Masai Mara Safari Holidays are renowned for the yearly wildebeest migration and the abundance of big cat sightings among other wildlife species, as well as the opportunity to visit a Maasai Village or take part in a hot air balloon safari. Immerse yourself in the classic African Savannah and witness the big five in their natural habitat.
At Masai Mara Holidays, we offer flexible Safari Packages to suit all budgets, from midrange to luxury travellers. Our personalised service ensures that your safari experience is crafted to your preferences, whether you're visiting just the Masai Mara National Reserve or extending your trip to other parks in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda. Our competent team of experts are here to guarantee that your Masai Mara Safari experience exceeds your expectations.
As a registered local Safari Company in East Africa with established offices in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, we have over 200 carefully crafted Kenya Masai Mara Safari tours that explore the Park and other destinations. Trust us to provide you with unparalleled expertise and a unique adventure that you will never forget. Join us for an unforgettable safari experience with Masai Mara Holidays (Ltd)
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Our Masai Mara Safaris feature unmatched wildlife activities exploring Masai Mara Kenya with emphasis on top notch guiding and the finest lodging in the Park. Whether you are visiting for the migration or the huge prides of lions among other wildlife species, we work with your preferences and budget to customize your dream safari into a reality.
Embark on an unforgettable Kenya Safari Masai Mara, where the dream of Africa becomes a reality. The vast grasslands of Masai Mara, adorned with acacia trees and fed by the Mara River, surrounded by stunning escarpments and protected by the courageous Maasai Warriors, provide the ideal backdrop to encounter an array of wildlife, including sandy lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, jackals, foxes, caracals, and herbivores such as wildebeest, zebras, Impalas, elands, reedbucks, waterbuck, black rhinos, elephants and Masai giraffes. Stay for at least two nights on one of our best Masai Mara tours to fully experience the diversity of the wildlife.
Plan ahead to ensure a seamless experience. Booking a trip to Masai Mara should ideally be made six to nine months in advance, especially for peak season travel in July and August during the Great Migration phenomenon, often regarded as the most incredible wildlife show on the planet. Travel agents, camps, lodges, and Kenya safari companies can efficiently assist in planning and booking your safari, which can also include cultural Maasai visits, bush walks or hot air balloon safaris, night game drives, and horse safaris.
A well-planned and booked Masai Mara Safari tour through a reputable Kenya operator provides a hassle-free experience and an opportunity to secure a spot in one of the top-notch lodges and camps in Masai Mara. Masai Mara Holidays Limited is a local operator company in East Africa known for its best Masai Mara safaris, as recommended on TripAdvisor. Our safari experts are always readily available to assist with planning.
Visitors can choose different safari circuits based on combinations with other parks, such as the Rift Valley Lakes, Amboseli National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania or a mountain gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda. Booking off-season or outside the park can also reduce costs. However, considerations should be made to budget for airfares, visa, tips, medications, and other sundries and souvenirs.
When planning your Masai Mara safari, it's important to factor in all the costs involved. Most packages offered by safari agents will include transfers, park entrance fees, 4x4 game drives with a guide, meals, and accommodation. It's recommended to compare quotes from different tour operators to find the best deal.
Booking directly with a lodge or camp may result in all-inclusive prices, which cover accommodation, meals, and game activities. However, transfers to and from the park may not be included, so it's important to factor those in as well. Additionally, budget for airfare, visas, tips, and souvenirs.
To cut down on costs while still enjoying a comfortable safari experience, consider staying in a lodge or camp outside the park, booking in the off-season, and researching for cheap flight options. With these tips, you can make the most of your Masai Mara safari without breaking the bank.
The price range of your Masai Mara tour will usually be determined by the type of safari package you choose. In Kenya, there are three main types of Masai Mara packages available, including luxury, midrange, and budget packages.
If you opt for a luxury Masai Mara safari, you can expect to be accommodated in top-of-the-range lodges and camps that offer a host of luxuries like spa treatments, hot showers, comfortable beds, and fine dining experiences. Prices for luxury packages range from USD 400 to USD 1500 per person per night sharing a double room. If you are traveling alone, you should expect to pay a single supplement. Additionally, most luxury packages include chartered flights to and from the park, but you can also opt for ground transfers using a spacious 4x4 pop roof safari Land Cruiser.
For a balance between luxury and budget, midrange Masai Mara safari packages offer moderate accommodation that is both comfortable and reasonably priced. During peak season, you can expect to be accommodated in a comfortable lodge or camp at a cost of $180 to $250 per person sharing per night on full board. However, prices tend to drop a bit in the low season, making midrange packages even more affordable.
If you're on a tight budget, there are plenty of budget Masai Mara safari packages available that aim to offer the lowest prices possible. To cut costs, most budget packages include tented camps outside of the Masai Mara, but relatively near the closest gate of the park. Prices for budget packages can range from $150 to $300 per person sharing per day, depending on the number of people in your group. However, even with a budget tour, your package should still include park entrance fees, transportation, meals, and accommodation.
A trip to Masai Mara in Kenya with your children is an ideal destination for a family vacation. While there may be some pre-tour requirements, such as vaccinations, the adventures and experiences that await are ultimately worth it.
Witnessing the Great Migration with your kids is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable and memorable experiences you can share as a family. But even outside the migration season, watching wildlife up close, witnessing lion cubs at play, and cheetahs darting across the plains are all moments your children will treasure for years to come.
When planning your safari, it's crucial to let your operator know that you'll be traveling with children so that they can customize the experience to suit your family. Kids often adapt to new environments and cultures easier, and watching them interact with Maasai children will create memories that will last a lifetime. Educating your children on new languages and traditions will also ignite their curiosity and interest.
For comfortable lodging, opt for midrange and luxury accommodations that cater to children's needs. Safari lodges are especially child-friendly, with the flexibility to add an extra bed and offering unique programs for children to engage in while adults embark on game drives and other activities.
Lastly, a combination of a Masai Mara safari and beach vacation is an excellent way to keep your kids entertained and happy. After witnessing the beauty of the Mara, bask in the sun and sand for the ultimate family holiday
When deciding on the perfect lodging or camp for your safari in the Masai Mara, there are several factors to consider. The choice of accommodation is vital in determining the kind of experience you will have in the Masai Mara. There is a wide range of lodges and camps available, from tented camps to safari lodges, with varying levels of comfort and style.
To make the right choice, it is important to consider your priorities. Smaller camps and lodges offer a more personalized experience, with staff more likely to accommodate your preferences in terms of scheduling. Larger properties, on the other hand, tend to have a more rigid schedule but are generally more affordable.
Location is also a critical element to consider. Lodges and camps located within the Masai Mara provide better opportunities for game viewing, but they can be more expensive. If budget is a concern, lodges located outside the park might be a better option.
Different areas of the Masai Mara offer different opportunities for game viewing, depending on the time of year. Some lodges and camps are located along the migration routes taken by wildebeest during the great migration, which is ideal for those interested in witnessing the migration up close and personal.
When making a decision, it can be helpful to look up reviews from past guests to get an idea of what your experience might be like. However, the best approach is to book with an experienced African safari operator who knows the area well and can help guide your decision. They can recommend lodges and camps that provide the best game experience, food, service, and accommodation within your budget. In the end, choosing the right lodging or camp can greatly enhance your Masai Mara safari experience.
Generally, weather in Kenya is governed by two seasons; dry and rainy seasons. The best months for visiting The Masai Mara are during the dry months as game viewing is spectacular at this time of the year.
Dryer months also mean lesser mosquitoes and easy access to most remote parts of the park. The dry months are January to March and June to September. If you are interested in the wildebeest migration as it happens in the Masai Mara, July to early October is a good time to visit Masai Mara Kenya.
Many Accommodations in Masai Mara will close during the long rains of April and May considered as the low season, this is a perfect time to score the best deals on lodging when you visit the Mara. However, getting around during these rainy months (October and November as well) can be difficult, as dirt roads turn into mud and many become impassable.
The Masai Mara is a remarkable destination year-round, but from July to October, the park comes to life with the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration. Millions of wildebeest and other grazers undertake an epic journey through the plains, trailed by prides of lions, lurking leopards, solitary hyenas, and packs of hyenas. This is the perfect time to witness the animal kingdom in action, with unrivalled safari experiences that are not to be missed.
If you're planning a trip to the Masai Mara National Park, be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore its unparalleled wilderness. Here are some top things to do during your Kenya Masai Mara Tour:
Embark on a memorable game drive and witness the incredible wildlife of the Masai Mara up-close. Whether you're looking to spot elephant silhouettes, or want to observe a family of cheetahs on a hunt, game drives in the Masai Mara offer an unparalleled look at the animal kingdom. With full and half-day options available, you can also enjoy a break at your booked accommodation, or opt for a packed breakfast or snacks to extend your adventure.
For an exciting twist on your Masai Mara safari, consider a night game drive. Nighttime brings a different kind of magic to the park, with many big cat species becoming more active after dark. You'll have the opportunity to witness powerful predators like lions and leopards feeding and even making a kill. Other nocturnal wildlife, such as hyenas, bush babies, porcupines, aardvarks, genets, civets, and honey badgers, will also be on display.
If you're an experienced rider, horseback tours are an intriguing way to explore the Masai Mara. Whether you opt for a two-hour ride or a multi-day itinerary, you'll enjoy stunning views and the opportunity to see wildlife from a different perspective.
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider taking a hot air balloon safari above the Masai Mara. With breathtaking 360-degree views of the park below, you'll have a unique vantage point for observing the wildlife. This experience is particularly special during the Great Wildebeest Migration, and includes a luxurious bush breakfast served under a giant acacia tree. Prices start at USD 410 per adult, with half-price rates for children under 12 years old.
Embark on a walking safari and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Masai Mara. You'll have the opportunity to explore the park's flora and learn about the medicinal properties of different plants from a local Maasai warrior. You'll also have the chance to spot animals up-close. Most lodges and camps in the Masai Mara offer guided walking safaris for approximately USD 20 per person.
Visiting the Maasai people is an essential part of any Masai Mara tour. These individuals have a strong bond with the park and have worked to preserve its rich ecosystem. They've set up eco-friendly shelters known as Manyattas within the park's conservancies. A visit to a Maasai Manyatta offers the chance to learn about the tribe's culture and lifestyle, including their energetic dances. You'll even be given a Maasai name based on your personality. Lodge and camp staff can arrange these visits.
At Masai Mara Holidays, we take pride in providing exceptional safari experiences. Our experienced, professional safari guides have over ten years of experience across the Masai Mara and Kenya, and they'll go above and beyond to make sure your safari dreams come true. Contact us today to plan your Masai Mara vacation.
The Masai Mara is a vast northern extension of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, spanning 1,530 sq. km of open plains, acacia woodland, and riverine forest along the Mara and Talek Rivers. The reserve is divided into the Masai Mara National Reserve and private conservancies sprawled along the northern border, each offering a range of activities, including night game drives, escorted walking safaris, and horseback safaris.
The central plains, situated in the southern part of the park, are bordered by the Mara River in the west and Sand River in the south. This area is characterized by rolling grassland and isolated low hills. Most notably, it is home to the legendary "marsh pride" of big cats near the Musiara swamp. During the migration, thousands of wildebeests and other grazers graze here, making it an ideal location for game viewing. The riverine forests bordering the Mara and Talek rivers are also great spots to witness elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and bushbucks.
Rhino Ridge and Paradise Plains are the perfect spots to catch a glimpse of cheetahs in action, with open grasslands providing a good vantage point. Leopards can be found in the vicinity of Leopard Gorge, while the prominent Rhino Ridge offers a good place to spot black-backed jackals. The look-out hill offers a spectacular view of the Mara River crossings.
The Mara and Talek Rivers are the only perennial waterways in the Masai Mara. Both rivers are home to pods of hippos, though the Mara River boasts the largest and most permanent group. Nile crocodiles, otters, and various riverine bird species also call the rivers home. Elusive leopards, vervet monkeys, and bushbucks can be found in the riverine forests bordering the rivers.
The most spectacular event in the Masai Mara is the migration of wildebeests as they cross the Mara River. About eight crossing points can be found, with the four most regularly used spots along the 5km stretch of the Mara upriver of its confluence with the Talek. The Mara Triangle, the most picturesque part of the reserve, is located west of the Masai Mara and is an ideal location for spotting big cats and other members of the big five.
For the ultimate luxury experience, visitors can split their Masai Mara safari between the Masai Mara National Reserve (for quick access to the migration) and private conservancies such as The Mara North Conservancy, Naibosho Conservancy, Olare-Orok Conservancy, Olarro Conservancy, Olderiskesi Conservancy, and Siana Group Ranch and Conservancy. These private conservancies offer more privacy and exclusive access to game viewing, making them ideal options for those looking for a more intimate safari experience.
If you're planning a trip to Masai Mara Kenya, you'll find it easy to get there from Nairobi. Most Masai Mara safaris begin and end in the capital city, so you can fly to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and then either fly or drive to the park. Game drives in Masai Mara are typically conducted in open vehicles that offer excellent visibility of the park's wildlife. There are two types of open vehicles: 4x4 Safari vans or land cruisers with a pop roof, and open sided vehicles that are commonly used by lodge and camp operators. While open-sided vehicles provide unobstructed 360-degree views, open vehicles offer more protection from the elements.
If you're driving to Masai Mara, it's a 4.5-hour trip on a smooth, tarmacked road. This drives takes you through Nairobi's suburbs to the Great Rift Valley View Point. From there, it's a two-hour drive to the park gate. Flying is a popular way to get to Masai Mara, and flights depart from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to one of several airstrips in the park. The choice of airstrip is dictated by your booked accommodation, which can also arrange to pick you up at the airstrip. To ensure a seamless fly-in safari experience, it's best to book through a tour operator who can handle all of your travel arrangements.
Frequently asked Questions about safari in the Masai Mara
Are you considering a safari in Africa? Look no further than the Masai Mara National Reserve. This destination is a must-see for any wildlife enthusiast as it boasts guaranteed sightings of the big five. With a wealth of over 1.5 million grazers, the Masai Mara also hosts the Great Wildebeest Migration, a phenomenal movement of mammals that takes place from July to September each year.
Located in the southwest of Kenya, along the border with Tanzania, the Masai Mara is easily accessible with an all-inclusive safari package. Driving in a 4x4 safari vehicle from Nairobi to Narok will take approximately three hours. From Narok, transportation to your lodge will take between two to four hours depending on your location in the park. For a quicker option, flying directly from Nairobi to the Masai Mara is also available.
The best time to visit the Masai Mara is during the dry months between July and September, which coincides with the Great Wildebeest Migration. Witness thousands of wildebeest cross rivers in search of greener pastures. Even if you miss the migration, the Masai Mara is full of diverse animal kingdoms year-round.
The Serengeti in Tanzania is an alternative safari destination, but the Masai Mara offers affordability and a concentration of wildlife spread over a smaller area.
To avoid crowds, it is recommended to book your Masai Mara safari in a private conservancy for a more exclusive experience. However, the main reserves offers much more wildlife encounters
The park fee for the Masai Mara National Reserve is $80 per adult or $40 per child. Private conservancies often have higher fees, but they may include access to the main reserve. The cost of a private safari will vary based on lodges, camps, and vehicle preferences. Contact a reputable Kenya Safari Masai Mara Operator to get the best out of your trip. Don't hesitate to make the Masai Mara your next unforgettable adventure.
When it comes to African wildlife safari destinations, the Masai Mara in Kenya and Kruger National Park in South Africa are among the top contenders. Both boast an abundance of wildlife, including the coveted big five. However, while they may share this common factor, each park has its own distinct characteristics.
The Masai Mara is characterized by expansive savannah grasslands, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. On the other hand, Kruger National Park is dominated by a bush landscape that can prove challenging for spotting wildlife. In fact, many Kruger safaris require the expertise of a tracker who can scour the bushes to easily locate wildlife.
While the Masai Mara is undoubtedly the better option for wildlife sightings, those who can afford it should not miss the opportunity to experience both parks. Depending on your budget and time constraints, a 3-day trip with 2 nights in the Masai Mara may suffice. However, considering that ground transfers can take up as much as 12 to 16 hours, it's recommended to extend your stay to 4 days to fully absorb the beauty of this natural wonder.
The Masai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania together form an open plains region undoubtedly known to be the best wildlife area in Africa. The Masai Mara is a northern continuation of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania separated by the Kenya – …
Planning a holiday to the Masai Mara in Kenya constitutes various stages, each of which is crucial to impact the experience you are to have while on your visit. The Masai Mara, Kenya’s most popular National Park and arguably one of Africa’s best is home …
The Masai Mara located in Kenya is one of Africa’s most popular National Parks and also the home to the famous Great Migration shared with the adjacent Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. The Masai Mara undoubtedly offers breathe taking wild game from the big five …
