The Ultimate Masai Mara Safari Cost from India Guide
Masai Mara National Reserve provides prime game drive opportunities and stunning sceneries annually. Correspondingly, the Masai Mara safari cost from India tends to be higher than other parks and reserves in Kenya. It is the most expensive.
However, with the right planning and research, it’s possible to find Masai Mara safari packages that are both affordable and high quality.
In this guide, we will explore some key factors that can influence Masai Mara safari prices and offer tips for finding the best deals on your next Masai Mara safari from India. Whether you’re looking for basic budget accommodations or all-inclusive luxury, we’ve covered you.
So, keep reading to learn more about the Masai Mara safari cost from India and start planning your dream trip today! Before that, here is why you should book your Masai Mara tour with us and our most booked safaris to Masai Mara.
Why Book Your Masai Mara Safari with Us
Our goal is to share our beloved Kenya with you. Our expert guides were all born and raised in and around the Masai Mara, and they promise to show it to you better than anyone else.
If you are looking for a specific itinerary- nothing is too much trouble for us. Our Masai Mara consultants will be happy to discuss with you and develop a tailor-made itinerary that fits your expectations.
As Masai Mara experts with 20 years of experience, we are confident that we will partner with you to make your Masai Mara safari unforgettable.
Feel free to contact us via email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com or by phone/ WhatsApp at +254-748-258-880 or fill in our online form .
Our Most Booked Masai Mara Safari Packages and Other Tours
| Cheap Masai Mara Safari Packages | Detailed Itinerary | Price Per Person Sharing |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Day Masai Mara Group Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 750 |
| 5-Day Naivasha & Masai Mara Group Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 854 |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Budget Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 880 |
| 3-Day African Safari in Kenya | View the Itinerary | From USD 880 |
| 6-Day L. Nakuru, Hell’s Gate, & Masai Mara Group Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1123 |
| 7-Day Amboseli, Naivasha, & Masai Mara Group Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1130 |
| 4-Day Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1180 |
| 6-Day Amboseli, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Group Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1186 |
| 4-Day Ashnil Mara Camp Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1190 |
| 4-Day Mara Serena Safari Lodge Trip | View the Itinerary | From USD 1262 |
| 4-Day Masai Mara Migration Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1430 |
| 4-Day Masai Mara Flying Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1450 |
| 6-Day Amboseli, L. Naivasha, & Masai Mara Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1764 |
| 6-Day Hell’s Gate, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1788 |
| 6-Day Nairobi, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 1795 |
| 6-Day Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Safari | View the Itinerary | Adult From USD 2000 Child From USD 628 |
| 13-Day Kenya Wildlife & Beach Safari | View the Itinerary | From USD 5258 |
Budget, Mid-Luxury, & Luxury Masai Mara Tour Cost from India
Our safari consultants, born and raised in Kenya, have crafted different packages to cater to different budgets. To give you rough estimates, here is the trip to Masai Mara from India cost guide:
Budget Masai Mara Safari Packages
A budget safari in Masai Mara will cost you around INR 50,000-60,000 per person. This package is best suited for first-time safari goers and travelers on a tight budget, as it includes all essential safari activities such as game drives, accommodations, and picnics in the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Mid-Luxury Masai Mara Safari Package
For travelers looking for the slightly more luxurious experience, the mid-luxury Masai Mara tour package costs anywhere between INR 70,000 and 80,000 per person.
This package includes game drives in the reserve and other activities such as a visit to a Maasai village and hot air balloon rides.
Luxury Masai Mara Safari Packages
If you’re looking for a trip that is truly pampering and indulgent, the luxury Masai Mara safari packages will be perfect for you.
These packages typically cost between INR 90,000 and 110,000 per person and include all meals and accommodations as well as a number of exclusive perks, such as flights in and out of the reserve, champagne breakfasts, and exclusive safari vehicles.
Luxury-Plus Masai Mara Safari Package
For the ultimate Masai Mara experience, there is also a luxury-plus package that costs upwards of INR 120,000 per person. This package includes all the perks of a luxury safari, as well as exclusive access to private conservancies in the Masai Mara National Reserve, where you can go on night drives and enjoy spectacular views of the Mara River under starry skies.
Masai Mara prices we have quoted here cover virtually anything you need to have a successful safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara package. For example, our Masai Mara Cost from India will often cover the following things:
- Pick-up from the airport or hotel in Nairobi
- Transfer to Masai Mara from Nairobi in a 4×4 safari land cruiser
- Services of a professional safari guide throughout the trip
- Game drives during your stay
- Masai Mara park fee of USD 80 Per Adult and USD 45 Per Child
- Full-board accommodation (bed, breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Picnic lunch if you go for a full-day game drive
- Bottled mineral drinking water in safari land cruiser
- Transport back to the airport or Nairobi hotel
Our Masai Mara Kenya safari cost will usually exclude a few things, including:
- Travel Insurance and Visas, which you can apply here
- Local and international flights
- A hot air balloon safari at USD 475 Per Person
- Bush dinner and breakfast
- Tips and gratuities
- Money transfer fee
Factors that Determine Masai Mara Trip Cost from India
A few essential factors directly influence Masai Mara packages’ cost. Some of these include:
1. Duration of Your Masai Mara Tour
Accommodation, transport, and park fees are calculated daily. The number of days you intend to spend in the Mara will determine how much you pay. For instance, a three-day safari will be cheaper than a five-day safari.
To give a better illustration: A 4-day Masai Mara package using our safari land cruisers ( budget experience) costs anything from USD 1200 per person based on two people traveling together. A similar but 3-day safari in Masai Mara costs anything from USD 800 per person per day.
2. Mode of Transport
The mode of transport you use to move around the Masai Mara is an essential factor to consider as you think about the price of game drives in Masai Mara. Flying from Nairobi is more costly than going by road, for example.
The flight costs anything from USD 200 per person (one-way).
For the Masai Mara game drive cost at the park, you can choose a custom-made 4*4 safari land cruiser jeep or a pop-up rooftop van, with the latter being cheaper.
3. Choice of Accommodation
The Masai Mara boasts all types of accommodation, from world-famous 5-star luxury tented camps to mid-level lodges and budget camps. The accommodation you choose will significantly impact the Masai Mara Safari Package cost.
For instance:
- A 5-star luxury tented camp can cost anything from USD 500 per person per night
- The price of a mid-luxury safari camp costs just about USD 250 per person per night
- The price of Cheap Masai Mara lodges starts from as low as USD 150 per person per night
4. Season of Travel
If you visit the Masai Mara between July and October, your visit will coincide with the great migration, and generally, prices are higher at this time of the year.
The low season is between April and June; you will likely spend a little less than you would in the rest of the year. The season is the best time for anyone looking for the budget Masai Mara package.
5. Special Activities
You might wish to participate in special activities at the Masai Mara that are not part of a regular itinerary. Examples include balloon safaris, flying safaris, Maasai village visits, and special honeymoon arrangements.
6. Best Activities Near Masai Mara
Aside from game drives in Masai Mara, there are a number of other exciting activities that you can partake in during your time in the region. These include visiting the nearby Maasai villages, engaging in community projects, and others. They will all add to your total Maasai Mara safari cost from India.
7. Flight from India to Kenya
The flight from India to Kenya is a major contributor to the overall cost of your Masai Mara tour from India. Depending on where you are traveling from, round-trip tickets can range anywhere from USD 500 to over USD 2000.
This, of course, will be impacted by a number of factors such as the time of year, how far in advance you book your tickets, and the airline you choose.
8. Interconnecting Flights to Kenya
If you aren’t traveling directly to Kenya from India, there may be other flights you need to take to reach Masai Mara and Kenya in general. These flights will also factor into your total trip cost, and you should be sure of prices and options from multiple airlines.
9. Travel Insurance
It is always a good idea to purchase travel insurance before embarking on any trip, and this is especially true of a Maasai Mara safari. Choosing a reputable and reputable travel insurance provider will help protect you in the event of any unforeseen circumstances, such as flight delays or cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and medical emergencies.
10. Vaccinations
There are certain vaccinations that you may need to get before traveling to Kenya, including the yellow fever vaccine. Additionally, depending on where you are traveling from, you may need to get additional vaccinations, such as typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A.
Talk to your doctor about any necessary vaccinations before embarking on your Masai Mara safari from India.
11. Food and Drinks
During your safari tour to Masai Mara National Park, you will have the opportunity to sample some of Kenya’s finest delicacies. Of course, this is also an added cost to factor into your overall trip budget.
You will likely be able to enjoy local cuisine at the lodges and camps you stay at, although there will often be a higher cost for premium dining.
With that said, our Masai Mara safari packages usually include accommodation on a full-board basis, meaning you get the bed, breakfast, lunch, and dinner at no extra cost.
And we ensure you get any meal you want from the camp/lodge, including Indian foods, vegetarian meals, and even halal food.
12. Masai Mara National Park Entry Fees
The Masai Mara is one of the most popular parks in Kenya, and as such, there will be a park entry fee. The cost is fairly reasonable at USD 80 per adult and USD 45 per child (3-11.9 years) while staying outside the reserve.
For people staying inside the reserve, the park fee is USD 70 per adult and USD 40 per child. You will be able to enjoy game drives in the reserve for 24 hours.
13. Number of Persons Travelling
A safari in Masai Mara is typically a more affordable option for groups, as the cost per person is significantly lower than traveling solo.
This means that if you are planning on going on a Masai Mara safari from India with a friend or family member, you should be able to save even more money.
All of the above factors will add to the Masai Mara Safari Packages cost. Get more information about Masai Mara safari costs from this piece by AjKenyaSafaris.com .
Masai Mara National Reserve Safari Cost from India by Season
The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa, thanks to its amazing wildlife and stunning landscapes.
But what many people don’t know is that the Masai Mara experiences different seasons, each with its own unique charms and cost.
Low Season – Best Time to Visit Masai Mara on a Budget
One of the best times to travel to the Masai Mara National Park on a budget is during the low season, which takes place from April to June.
During this time, there is less crowding at the parks and their facilities, making it a great time to travel if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.
Additionally, accommodation can be much cheaper during this time, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
High Season – Best Time to Visit Masai Mara
For travelers who are looking for peak experiences and don’t mind spending a little more, the high season is the best time to visit Masai Mara.
This typically runs from January to May and from November to 20th December and is characterized by warmer temperatures and more wildlife activity.
A safari to Masai Mara during the high season will cost more than the low season, but not as much as the peak and festive seasons.
Peak Season – The Great Wildebeest Migration Season
Expect to pay top dollar if you plan to visit Masai Mara during the peak season or the great wildebeest migration season, which typically runs from July through October.
This is when the annual great wildebeest migration takes place, the wildebeest, zebra, and antelope crossing the Mara river into the Maasai Mara from Serengeti National Park in search of greener pastures.
A safari in Masai Mara in July and August often coincides with the Mara river crossing.
Festive Season – Best Time to Visit Masai Mara for Corporates
It is also possible to experience Masai Mara’s wildlife during the festive season, which runs from December 20th through January 3rd. During this time, the park experience less crowding and wildlife viewing is excellent, making it a popular time for corporate groups.
However, this is also one of the most expensive times to travel to Masai Mara, so be sure to budget accordingly if you plan on visiting during this season.
How to Calculate Masai Mara Safari Cost in Kenya
Knowing how to calculate the cost of a Masai Mara safari tour is an essential part of planning your trip. With so many different factors that can affect the overall price of your safari, it can be difficult to get an accurate cost estimate.
But by taking the time to understand some of the key factors that determine Masai Mara’s safari cost, you can more accurately plan your budget and find the best deals on your tour.
Essential Costs of a Masai Mara Safari Tour
Below are the essential costs that you need to include in your budget when coming for a safari in Kenya.
1. Cost of the International Flight
The cost of flying to Kenya from India can vary greatly depending on your departure location and time of travel. On average, a round-trip flight can range anywhere from $600 to $1,500 depending on your preferred airline, flight schedule, and other factors.
2. Cost of Accommodation
The price of accommodation can also vary greatly depending on your travel dates and which lodge or camp you choose to stay at.
For example, low season rates will generally be much lower than high season rates, and luxury lodges can also tend to cost more than mid-range accommodation. Expect to pay around $150 to $400 per night for a private room.
3. Cost of the Safari Vehicle
There are many different options when it comes to booking a safari vehicle in Masai Mara. Depending on the size of your group and the level of luxury you will be able to use a safari land cruiser or a safari van.
The price of a safari vehicle can range anywhere from $150 to $500 per day depending on the size of your group and the type of vehicle you choose.
4. Cost of Masai Mara Park Fee
Finally, you also need to account for the Mara national park fee, which is required in order to access the national park and enjoy game viewing. On average, the Mara national park fee is around $80 per person.
5. The Average Maasai Mara Safari Cost
By taking these key factors into account when planning your Maasai Mara safari in Kenya, you can expect to pay somewhere between \$1,200 and \$2,000 per person for an average 3-day trip. Of course, your exact costs will depend on the dates of your trip and the specific tour you choose to book.
Other Costs of a Maasai Mara Safari Tour
When planning a safari of the Masai Mara, it’s important to factor in the cost of extra expenses that may not be included in the initial price quote.
It is important to note that most packages in Kenya will include the price for the game drive, meal, accommodation, safari guide, and safari vehicle. You will find the following missing from the standard safari price in Kenya.
1. Hot Air Ballon Safari
If you want to experience the Mara from the sky, you will need to book a hot air balloon safari. While this is a thrilling and unique way to experience Masai Mara, it does tend to be quite expensive.
On average, expect to pay around $500 for a standard hot air balloon safari.
2. Shopping and souvenirs
Another additional expense that you may want to budget for when going for a tour in Kenya is shopping and souvenirs. You will find many unique and authentic African handicrafts to bring back home with you, but they can be quite expensive.
Be sure to budget around $100 for shopping and souvenirs when planning your trip.
3. Maasai Village Visit
If you want to learn more about Maasai culture and traditions, you may also want to include a visit to a traditional Maasai village in your itinerary.
This can be a great way to experience the local culture and see many traditional Masai houses, but you will need to pay a small fee for this tour. On average, expect to pay around $20 per person for a visit to the Maasai village in Kenya.
4. The Bush Dinner and the Bush Breakfast
If you want to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Masai Mara, then be sure to include a bush dinner or a bush breakfast in your itinerary. While these are truly unique and unforgettable experiences, they do tend to be quite expensive.
Expect to pay around $30 to $100 for each bush dinner or breakfast you enjoy, but it is worth it since you will be treated to the best views in the jungle.
5. Local Flight
Using a local flight is a great way to be in Masai Mara faster and start your game drive as soon as you land in Kenya. The most affordable local flight costs around $100 to $400, and you can book this directly at the airport.
You will be able to board a flight to Mara at Wilson Airport, meaning that you will need to budget for a small transfer fee from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport of around USD 60.
6. Maasai Dance
A Maasai dance is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn more about their traditional dances. The experience is offered at the accommodation and can often go for about $20 per person. It is often accompanied by a bonfire and a feast, making it the perfect way to end your day in Maasai Mara.
7. Special Occasion Cost – Honeymoon, Birthday, Etc
For the traveler looking to celebrate a special occasion in Masai Mara, you will need to also budget for the cost of any extra services that may be required. For example, if you are looking to celebrate your honeymoon in Masai Mara, you will need to budget for a special event and some additional romantic activities.
On average, you should expect to pay upwards of $200 per person for a special occasion in Masai Mara. However, the experience will be totally worth it as you can enjoy a truly memorable experience that you can cherish for years to come.
8. Single Room Supplements
You will be required to pay a single room supplement when traveling solo on your safari in Masai Mara. The average cost of this additional fee tends to range from $100 to $200 per person, depending on the level of accommodation you select.
9. Holiday Supplements Like Christmas and New Year
If you are planning to visit Masai Mara during a holiday like Christmas or New Year, then you will also need to pay for a special holiday supplement for your safari.
The cost of this supplement can vary depending on the accommodation you choose. However, on average, you can expect to pay upwards of $50 for this special holiday supplement.
FAQs for Masai Mara Safari Cost and Packages
There are many questions that you might have when planning a safari in Masai Mara, from the cost and packages available to what to expect on your trip.
1. Which is cheaper? Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya or Serengeti National Park in Tanzania?
The cost and packages available for Masai Mara and Serengeti safari tour can vary greatly depending on the time of year and tour operator you choose to book with. While there may not be a clear-cut winner in terms of price, Masai Mara can be a great choice if you prefer high-end accommodation and luxury tours. On the other hand, Serengeti is a better option if you are looking for a more budget-friendly trip.
2. How much does it cost to travel from Nairobi to Masai Mara?
The cost of traveling from Nairobi to Masai Mara can vary depending on your preferred method of transportation. Taking a private car can typically cost between $75 and $100 per person while taking public transport will be much cheaper at around $10 to $20 per person. However, the best way to travel from Nairobi to the mara is using the safari vehicle, which will be able to get for around USD 250 per day with a professional safari guide.
3. What is the cost of a 3-day safari tour in the Masai Mara?
The cost of a 3-day safari tour in Masai Mara can vary significantly depending on your travel dates, preferred accommodations, and other factors. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay somewhere between $1,200 and $2,000 per person for a 3-day tour in Masai Mara. Of course, your exact costs will depend on the specific tour operator you choose to book with and other factors such as the time of year
4. How many days are enough in Masai Mara?
The Mara is best enjoyed over the course of several days, as this will give you ample time to explore all of the park’s fascinating wildlife and scenery. Consider a minimum of 3 days at the park for optimal game drives, and about 5 days during the great wildebeest migration season. 5 days might be enough to enable you to catch the Mara river crossing of the wildebeest, zebra, as well as other animals.
5. When to go on a safari in Masai Mara?
There are many different times of year that are ideal for Masai Mara tour in Kenya. In general, the best time is from July to Oct when the great migration is at its peak in the Mara. For budget travelers, consider visiting during the low season from April to June when costs are lower and you may have a better chance of spotting iconic wildlife like lions, leopards, and elephants.
6. Are credit cards and debit cards accepted in Masai Mara?
While there may be certain options that accept credit and debit cards in the Masai Mara, it is always best to plan ahead and bring cash with you when visiting the park. This will help ensure that you are able to pay for any tour fees, accommodation, and other incidentals without any issues.
7. What is the cost of the wildebeest migration safari tour?
Migration is the most expensive time to be in Masai Mara. A wildebeest migration safari tour can cost anywhere from \$1000 to upwards of \$7,000 per person. This includes transportation, accommodation in the park, guide fees, and other incidentals.
8. What are some of the most affordable lodging options in Masai Mara?
There are many lodging options in Masai Mara from the budget ones to the most luxurious ones. Some of the most affordable options include camping at designated sites (\$10 per night), staying in basic lodging such as the Mara Sidai Camp (\$20 to \$150 per night), and staying at luxury lodges like the Mara Intrepids Camp (\$150 to \$1,000 per night).
9. Is a cheap Masai Mara safari possible?
Masai Mara is a popular destination for safari tours, and as such there are many different options available to suit a wide range of budgets. It is possible to find affordable safari tours in Masai Mara, regardless of your travel dates or preferred accommodations. Some tips to help you plan a cheap Masai Mara tour include booking your tour in advance, choosing budget-friendly accommodation options such as camping, and opting for shared transport instead of private vehicles.
10. Which are some of the best-selling Masai Mara tour packages?
Some of the best-selling packages for Masai Mara in Kenya include the 3-day tour from Nairobi, which typically includes accommodations, game drives in the park, and a safari guide. Another popular tour for Indians is the 7-day tour to Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha or Lake Nakuru National Park, and Masai Mara. You can also opt for a 5-day tour to Lake Nakuru National Park and Masai Mara.
11. How much do children pay for the Masai Mara tour when traveling with the adults?
Children typically pay a reduced rate for Masai Mara tours, depending on their age and the tour package they choose. Some tour operators may offer reduced rates for children under the age of 12, while others may charge them a flat rate similar to that of an adult. If you’re traveling with children, it is best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to get a full breakdown of costs and any conditions that may apply.
12. Do toddlers pay for safaris in Kenya?
It depends on the tour operator and the specific Masai Mara tour package you choose. In general, most tour operators will allow infants under the age of 3 to travel for free, though this may vary depending on the type of tour, accommodations, and other conditions. If you’re traveling with a toddler or young child, it’s best to contact the tour operator ahead of time to confirm any additional fees or requirements that may apply.
13. Which one is cheaper? Traveling as a group or as an individual?
Traveling as a group is typically cheaper than traveling as an individual, as group discounts are often available for Masai Mara tours. Some factors to consider when choosing between the group and individual travel include the size of your group, the tour package you choose, and any other conditions or requirements that may apply.
