Safari Masai Mara kenya
After thinking for a long time and looking up lots of things online, you finally decided to visit the Masai Mara! It’s famous for its many animals and the dramatic Mara River crossings. Now, you might be wondering: what should I wear? Or when is the best time to visit the Masai Mara for the wildebeest migration safari? Good news! With a little planning, you’ll be ready for your adventure. Here’s some easy advice to help you prepare and stay safe during your safari tours in the Masai Mara, Kenya. But first, here’s how to reach us to start planning your Masai Mara national reserve safari.
Book Your Maasai Mara Safari with Us
Join us for an amazing wildlife adventure! Our website, Masaimarasafari.in, is run by the Nairobi-based Ajkenyasafaris.com Ltd, the same team as kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk. We want you to see the awesome animals at the Masai Mara National Reserve on a fun safari planned by our expert team. You can call us at (+254719222430 or +254748258880) or email (james@ajkenyasafaris.com) to start planning your trip. You can also reach us by:
Phone & WhatsApp: +254-748-258-880
Email: james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com
Check out our social media for cool pictures of the Masai Mara:
Safari Masai Mara Kenya – Photos
Safari Masai Mara Kenya: A Travel Guide
There are two main ways to get to the Masai Mara after you arrive in Kenya. If you want a quick and easy option or don’t have much time, flying is the best choice. It’s fast and comfortable, with daily flights to airstrips around the Masai Mara.
For those seeking a luxury safari experience, flying offers a seamless and efficient way to start your adventure. The airstrip you use depends on where you’re staying. Flying from Nairobi to the Masai Mara takes about 40 to 45 minutes.
If you’re up for an adventure, you can drive from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, including the breathtaking Mara Triangle. Driving is a great choice if you want to explore along the way or save money. Just remember, the roads can be bumpy, and the drive takes about six to seven hours. If you’re feeling adventurous, driving is the way to go. But most people choose to fly.
Flying to the Masai Mara
If you decide to fly into the Masai Mara, two airlines can take you to local airstrips: AirKenya and Safarilink. Alternatively, you can opt for private charters for a more personalized experience. Your lodge or camp will have a preferred airstrip, which will be your landing spot. A guide or tracker will meet you at the airstrip to take you to your lodge.
Flights leave from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport (WIL) to the Masai Mara daily. Guests of Governor’s Camp can fly with Governor’s Aviation, the camp’s private airline, from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Musiara airstrip, which is just two kilometers or a ten-minute drive from Governor’s Camp. Read more about flights to Masai Mara.
Driving to the Masai Mara
For those who love adventure, a reliable 4WD and some time can take you from Nairobi to the Masai Mara. Roads leaving Nairobi have improved, but the last part can be bumpy. Roads near the Masai Mara National Reserve and inside the reserve are gravel, dirt, or mud. Planning is important if you choose to drive. Get familiar with directions and where your lodge is. Fill up on fuel in Narok or Talek Village if you take a different route. Since there aren’t many petrol stations, bring extra fuel in a jerrycan.
Staying Safe on a Masai Mara Safari
Embarking on a safari in the Masai Mara is incredibly thrilling. Guided tours are a safe option for exploring the Masai Mara. However, certain guidelines are essential for your safety. Here are some crucial tips for a secure safari experience.
Always remain inside the safari vehicle while exploring the Masai Mara National Reserve or conservancies, unless accompanied by an armed ranger or guide. Disregarding this rule can lead to serious risks.
If you’re flying into the Masai Mara, your lodge will arrange a pick-up from the airstrip. Upon arrival at the lodge, the ranger or camp staff will conduct a safety briefing. It’s important to pay close attention, as they possess valuable knowledge about the wildlife in the area during your stay.
The lodges and safari camps in the Masai Mara are unfenced, allowing wildlife to roam freely. This adds to the adventure but requires vigilance. Avoid walking around the lodge alone after sunset. Contact reception, and they will send someone to accompany you.
Should you have any further questions, feel free to reach out. We’re more than happy to provide additional information about your Masai Mara safari.
Further Reading
Safari Masai Mara Kenya: Experiencing a Day in the Masai Mara
While exploring the Masai Mara, you’ll follow the animals’ daily routine across the stunning views of the endless plains, home to abundant wildlife. Most animals wake up early, starting their day before the sun rises. So, many safari camps offer early morning game drives, which are the best time to see the wildlife.
You can enjoy breakfast before the drive, take it along, or have it back at the lodge after your morning Masai Mara safari. After a morning safari, which usually lasts two to three hours, you can relax and get ready for lunch. After a nap or some reading, you might go on an evening game drive at dusk. It’s not just about the animals; your lodge might surprise you with a lovely bottle of wine during your sundowner. After an exciting day, enjoy a delicious dinner by the campfire, making it an amazing experience.
Thrilling Adventures on a Masai Mara Safari
The day we just talked about is just one example of what you might do on a Masai Mara safari. Each lodge or tented camp, like the famous Bateleur Camp, offers special activities. Walking safaris are one of the unique experiences provided by these lodges.
Besides game drives, you might go on a guided nature walk, take a hot air balloon safari, have a bush picnic, visit a Maasai village, or try other fun activities. Remember, some activities, like balloon safaris, might cost extra. But don’t worry, there are plenty of fun things to do during your Masai Mara safari. You won’t be bored!
Safari Drives in the Masai Mara National Reserve & Conservancies
When you arrive at the Masai Mara, you’ll see lots of wildlife across the beautiful Mara Plains, known for its abundant wildlife. Night drives are also an option for seeing wildlife in the Masai Mara. If you stay at a lodge in a conservancy, you’ll have different safari options. One choice might be a day safari into the Masai Mara National Reserve. Remember, if you stay in the National Reserve, you can’t take a day trip to a conservancy. Safaris in conservancies are only for those staying there.
Culinary Delights, Sundowners, and Fireside Dinners
Good food makes everything better. The food on a Masai Mara safari adds to the special and exotic feel. Each lodge and camp offers tasty meals with local and seasonal ingredients. Whether you like a quiet coffee while looking over the African plains or a big breakfast with other guests, there’s something for everyone.
For a truly fancy dining experience, think about staying at the Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, known for its great hospitality and Maasai-inspired luxury.
Bush dinners are another special dining experience in the Masai Mara, offering a unique way to enjoy the wilderness.
While you’re exploring, most places offer a packed lunch with fun surprises. As the sun sets, it’s time for a sundowner (happy hour in the Masai Mara). Enjoy your favorite drink, snacks, and watch the sun go down in a beautiful display. At the end of the day, a fireside dinner awaits. The glow of lantern-lit trees and the starry sky make these dinners unforgettable.
Special Meal Requests
The friendly staff at safari lodges in the Masai Mara go the extra mile to make your stay special. If you have special dietary needs, just let the lodge know. Their chefs will make meals just for you.
The Essentials
While your lodge can provide some essentials, it’s wise to come prepared with these trusted safari items:
- Binoculars are essential for spotting distant wildlife across the Mara Plains.
- A high-quality camera is a must to capture the incredible wildlife and stunning views.
- Bring your own water bottle to help reduce plastic use and make your stay more eco-friendly, although lodges usually provide them.
- High UV protection sunblock and lip balm are crucial for protection against the African sun. Extra lip balm is a good idea since they tend to disappear.
- Ensure you have a high-quality insect repellent to guard against mosquitoes and malaria.
- Leave expensive watches and jewelry at home. Instead, bring a simple, waterproof watch to keep track of time.
- What to Pack for Your Masai Mara Safari?
As with any trip, when packing for the Masai Mara, less is more. If flying, remember you can only bring up to twenty kilograms of luggage (softshell bags) on domestic flights. Pack according to your stay’s duration and destination, but here are some tips.
Safari Essentials and What to Leave Behind
Wear closed, lightweight, sturdy shoes with ankle support for walking on uneven ground. Make sure they’re broken in to avoid blisters.
Pack several pairs of thin socks instead of thick ones. Layering thin socks is more comfortable. Visit an outdoor store for the best socks to bring, as they’re more important than you might think.
Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, and quick-drying clothes. Most camps offer laundry services, so pack light.
Bring a warm sweater or jacket and a scarf. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, and an extra layer might be needed. If your sweater isn’t enough, camps provide ‘bush babies’ and blankets.
A flexible hat and UV-protected sunglasses are a must.
Shorts are good for safari drives, but wear trousers when visiting villages to show respect to the Maasai people.
Leave bright clothes at home and choose muted tones that blend in with the safari environment.
Avoid camouflage or military-style clothing. They’re not suitable and could cause problems with local authorities.
There’s no need to dress up at the lodge; casual attire is perfectly fine.
Capturing Stunning Safari Photos
There’s nothing more exciting than capturing the perfect moment. Whether it’s a lioness chasing prey, warthogs crossing in front of your jeep, or a giraffe munching leaves, these are the photos you’ll cherish. Here are some tips for taking great pictures on your Masai Mara safari.
Use a (digital) SLR camera with lenses. For wildlife photos, a lens with at least 200 mm is essential, though 300 mm is better. For landscapes, a wide-angle lens (18 mm or less) is recommended. Use lenses with a fixed focal length (50 mm works well) and a large aperture for portraits. Don’t want to carry heavy bags on your Masai Mara safari? An 18-200 mm zoom lens will do the trick. Protect your camera during the safari. The dusty roads mean you should keep your camera covered to prevent damage.
