Planning a Masai Mara safari holiday is one of the most rewarding travel experiences in Africa. The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is world-famous for its Big Five wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the Great Wildebeest Migration often called the “Seventh Wonder of the World.”
From budget camping safaris to luxury lodge escapes, there are safari packages to suit every traveler. Whether you’re looking for a short 3-day tour, a family-friendly adventure, or a romantic luxury getaway, this guide will help you choose the perfect Masai Mara safari package and plan your dream African holiday.
Also Check : Serengeti Safari Packages
Why Visit Masai Mara?
- Big Five Sightings – Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino are regularly spotted.
- Great Migration – Between July and October, over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras cross from the Serengeti, creating dramatic Mara River crossings.
- Birdlife – 400+ bird species, including raptors, storks, and migratory flocks during the green season.
- Scenic Landscapes – Golden plains, acacia-dotted savannahs, river valleys, and dramatic kopjes.
- High Predator Density – The Mara is one of Africa’s top destinations to see lions, cheetahs, and leopards in action.
Types of Safari Packages
1. Budget Safaris ($100–250 per person/day)
- Accommodation: Basic lodges or tented camps
- Shared 4×4 safari vehicles
- Full-board meals & park fees included
- Ideal for backpackers or travelers on a tight budget
2. Mid-Range Safaris ($300–500 per person/day)
- Accommodation: Comfortable lodges or permanent tented camps
- Private bathrooms, hot showers, and better amenities
- Small-group or semi-private vehicles
- Great value for couples or families
3. Luxury Safaris ($600+ per person/day)
- Upscale lodges and luxury tented camps (e.g., Angama Mara, Governors’ Camp)
- Private guides, charter flights, gourmet dining, and spa facilities
- Perfect for honeymooners or those seeking an indulgent experience
Group vs. Private Safaris:
- Group tours reduce costs by sharing vehicles.
- Private safaris offer flexibility, privacy, and custom itineraries.
Family Safaris:
- Child-friendly lodges, reduced rates for kids, shorter game drives, and cultural experiences.
Suggested Durations & Itineraries
- 3 Days / 2 Nights – Ideal short safari from Nairobi; includes 2–3 game drives.
- 5 Days / 4 Nights – Adds more time for deeper exploration or nearby attractions (Lake Nakuru, Maasai village visit).
- 7 Days / 6 Nights – Combines Mara with other parks like Amboseli or Samburu.
Recommended: At least 4 days / 3 nights to fully enjoy Mara’s wildlife and landscapes.
Best Time to Visit
Masai Mara is a year-round safari destination, but experiences differ by season:
- July–October (Peak Season)
- Great Migration river crossings
- Clear skies and excellent wildlife viewing
- High crowds and premium pricing
- November–May (Green Season)
- Lush landscapes, birdwatching, and baby animals
- Lower prices, fewer tourists
- Best for photographers and bird lovers
- January–February (Shoulder Season)
- Dry with abundant wildlife near waterholes
- Newborn lion cubs often seen
- Moderate crowds
Wildlife Highlights
- Big Cats: Lions, leopards, cheetahs (often seen hunting on the plains)
- Elephants & Buffalo: Large herds grazing across the savannah
- Rhinos: Black rhinos can be spotted with luck
- Migratory Herds: Wildebeest and zebra by the hundreds of thousands
- Birds: Over 400 species including eagles, vultures, and colorful migrants
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Lodges & Camps ($600+ pp/night) – Angama Mara, Governors’ Camp, Mara Serena Lodge
- Mid-Range Camps ($150–250 pp/night) – Sarova Mara Camp, Mara Sopa Lodge
- Budget Camps (<$100 pp/night) – Simple tented camps or lodges with basic amenities
Most include meals, housekeeping, and guided game drives. Some offer pools, Wi-Fi, and spa services.
Safari Costs – What’s Included
Typical package prices include:
- Airport transfers (Nairobi–Mara)
- Accommodation (full board meals)
- Guided 4×4 game drives
- Park entrance fees ($70–80 per adult/day)
- Drinking water during safari
Extra Costs:
- Hot-air balloon safari ($450–550 pp)
- Maasai village visit ($30–50 pp)
- Night drives ($40–100 pp, conservancies only)
- Guided bush walks or birding tours ($30–50 pp)
Getting to Masai Mara
- By Road: ~5–6 hours from Nairobi (225 km). Cheaper but bumpy.
- By Air: 1-hour flight from Wilson Airport, Nairobi. Costs $200–450 pp round trip. Saves time and maximizes safari experience.
Main entry gates: Sekenani, Talek, Oloololo.
Choosing a Tour Operator
- You can select Eastafricwild for this after Checking operator reviews on TripAdvisor, SafariBookings, or Trustpilot
- Look for KATO-licensed and experienced safari companies
- Ensure clear pricing, transparent itineraries, and ethical practices
- Avoid “too cheap” deals – they often cut corners on safety or quality
Travel Tips & Practical Advice
- Book Early: 6–12 months in advance for July–October
- Health & Safety: Yellow fever vaccine required in some cases; malaria prophylaxis advised
- Packing: Neutral clothes, hat, sunscreen, binoculars, camera, light layers
- Travel Documents: E-visa required for Kenya; passport valid for 6+ months
- Money: Kenyan Shillings (KSh) or USD; carry cash for remote camps
- Responsible Travel: Respect Maasai culture, avoid litter, support eco-friendly lodges
Final Thoughts
A safari in Masai Mara is one of the world’s greatest wildlife adventures. Whether you choose a budget camping trip or a luxury lodge escape, the Mara’s sweeping landscapes and thrilling animal encounters will leave you with unforgettable memories. By selecting the right package, planning your visit around the best season, and preparing properly, your journey to the Mara will be both comfortable and extraordinary.
