How to get to Masai Mara
Most people start their Masai Mara adventure by flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. After landing, you have two main choices to reach Masai Mara form Nairobi. Do a fun road trip with some bumpy roads, Or skip the hassle and settle for a quick flight from Wilson airport to the airstrip near your safari lodge? Let’s look at some details to help you decide. But first, here is how to reach us to start planning your Masai Mara safari from Nairobi.
Book Your Masai Mara Safari with Us
We invite you to explore the wonders of the Masai Mara National Reserve on a captivating safari organized by our seasoned experts. Contact us by phone at (+254719222430 or +254748258880) or email (james@ajkenyasafaris.com) to start planning your adventure. You can also reach us via:
Phone & WhatsApp: +254-748-258-880
Email: james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com
Explore our social media channels for a sneak peek of the breathtaking landscapes of the Masai Mara:
Masai MARA Photos
Planning Your Masai Mara Safari
Planning a Masai Mara safari can be an exciting yet overwhelming task. With the right information, you can create an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your Masai Mara safari:
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Masai Mara is during the dry season, from July to October. This period coincides with the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River, creating a spectacular wildlife viewing opportunity. The dry season also means less vegetation, making it easier to spot animals.
- Safari Duration: The ideal safari duration is between 3 to 5 days. This allows you enough time to explore different parts of the Masai Mara National Reserve and enjoy various activities. However, you can also opt for a shorter or longer stay depending on your preferences and schedule.
- Accommodation: The Masai Mara offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. From budget-friendly campsites to luxurious lodges, you can choose what best fits your needs. Staying within the reserve or in private Masai Mara conservancies can enhance your safari experience with closer proximity to wildlife.
- Transportation: Decide on your mode of transportation. You can choose a road trip for a scenic journey, but be prepared for some bumpy roads. Alternatively, a domestic flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport to one of the airstrips in the Masai Mara is quicker and more comfortable.
- Activities: Plan your activities in advance. Popular options include game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural visits to the Maasai community. Each activity offers a unique perspective of the Masai Mara and its rich wildlife and culture.
- Budget: Establish a budget and stick to it. Consider all expenses, including accommodation, park fees, transportation, and activities. Planning your budget in advance helps avoid any financial stress during your trip.
Masai Mara National Reserve Gates
Once you reach the Masai Mara National Reserve, there are several entry gates. It’s important to use the right gate to save time getting to your lodge. The main gates are Sand River, Talek, Sekenani, Musiara, and Oloololo. The last two are a bit farther away, taking an extra 30 minutes. All gates open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM.
Masai Mara National Reserve Entry Fees
Visitors to the Masai Mara National Reserve must pay park fees. International visitors not staying inside the reserve, aged 12 and up, pay US$ 80 per person for 12 hours. If staying within the reserve, it’s US$ 70 per person for 12 hours. Kids aged 3 to 11 pay US$ 45 and US$ 40 per day. Kids under 3 don’t pay. If you book your Masai Mara safari with us, park fees are included.
Updated Entry Fees for 2024: Starting January 1, 2024, the Narok County Council has new fees. From January 1 to June 30, adults pay US$ 100 per day, and kids 9 to 17 pay US$ 50 per day. From July 1 to December 31, adults pay US$ 200 per day, with the child rate staying at US$ 50 per day. If you leave the reserve after 10:00 AM or do a morning activity on your last day, you’ll pay an extra day’s fee.
Entry Fees for Masai Mara Conservancies
Fees for staying at Masai Mara conservancies are different. They range from US$ 80 to US$ 120 per person per day. For example, Olare Motorogi Conservancy charges US$ 100 per person per day. These fees are included when booking with us.
Please note all rates and conditions can change without notice.
How to Get to Mara by Air
You have two options:
International Air Travel
When flying to the Masai Mara Game Reserve, the best airport to arrive at is Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) in Nairobi. This airport is a big hub in East Africa, so there are lots of flights. Airlines like KLM, Air France, British Airways, Emirates, Etihad, Kenya Airways, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and Swiss fly here from many places around the world. You can also find flights to nearby countries and other places in Southern Africa.
Domestic Air Travel
For a swift journey to the Maasai Mara safari, flying from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport (WIL) is the best option. The flight is brief, lasting only about 45 to 60 minutes, making it a preferred choice due to the challenging road conditions. There are several airstrips in and around the Maasai Mara, and the one you select will depend on your accommodation. Airlines such as SafariLink and AirKenya offer flights to the Mara. Upon landing, a safari vehicle will transport you to your lodge, allowing you to begin spotting wildlife from both the air and the ground. Additional details about flights to Masai Mara are available.
Alternatively, you can fly from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Tanzania. During peak season, there are direct flights from Mombasa, Diani, and other Kenyan national parks like Amboseli and Samburu.
Get to Masai Mara by Air – Key Airstrips in Masai Mara
Here are some main airstrips in the Masai Mara:
Keekorok
Serena
Musiara
Mara North
Ol Kiombo
Reaching Masai Mara by Road
How to get to Masai mara from Nairobi by road:
Masai Mara Drive-In Safaris
The most common way to reach the Masai Mara by road is by booking a guided drive-in safari. These safaris start in Nairobi and can include other places in Kenya like Amboseli National Park and Lake Nakuru National Park. If you want help planning a longer safari, contact us!
Masai Mara Self-Drive Safaris
Although not usually recommended, you can drive to the Masai Mara in a rental car. You need to plan carefully and use a 4×4 vehicle for all roads. We don’t assist self-driving visitors.
Inside the Reserve
Once you enter the Masai Mara National Reserve, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and an abundance of wildlife. Here are some things to expect:
Wildlife: The Masai Mara is renowned for its diverse wildlife. It is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo—as well as cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and numerous other species. The reserve offers some of the best game viewing opportunities in the world.
Mara River: The Mara River is a lifeline for the reserve’s wildlife and a focal point for game viewing, especially during the Great Migration. Watching thousands of wildebeest and zebras braving the crocodile-infested waters is a sight to behold.
Mara Triangle: The Mara Triangle, located in the western part of the reserve, is known for its rolling hills, open grasslands, and abundant wildlife. It is less crowded than other areas, offering a more exclusive safari experience.
Private Masai Mara Conservancies: Surrounding the national reserve are private conservancies that offer exclusive game viewing experiences and luxurious accommodations. These conservancies work closely with the Maasai community to promote sustainable tourism and conservation.
Maasai Community: A visit to the Maasai community is a highlight of any Masai Mara safari. You can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. The Maasai people are known for their vibrant clothing, intricate beadwork, and deep connection to the land and wildlife.
Exploring the Masai Mara National Reserve and its surroundings will provide you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Kenya’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Visa and Immigration Details for Kenya
Most international travelers need a visa to enter Kenya. It’s best to apply before you arrive to avoid long lines. A single-entry e-visa is valid for up to 90 days and costs US$ 51 per person. For more info, check with the Kenyan embassy in your country. Apply for an e-visa through The Directorate of Immigration Services website.
Traveling from Masai Mara to Serengeti National Park (or Vice Versa)
Traveling from the Masai Mara to Serengeti National Park is tricky because the Bologonya border crossing between Kenya and Tanzania is closed. We don’t recommend traveling by land from the Mara to the Serengeti or vice versa.
Flying between the Mara and Serengeti is the best option. You need to cross the border, but no airstrips have border facilities. Two flight routes are available.
The first route is with Safarilink (Kenya) and Coastal Aviation (Tanzania). You fly from the Masai Mara to Serengeti camps in Tanzania. This involves a road transfer between Migori airstrip in Kenya and Tarime airstrip in Tanzania. It’s convenient for seeing both places.
This service may only run during high season and needs at least two passengers. Safarilink picks up guests from Mara airstrips and arrives at Migori at 12:00 PM. After a road transfer via Isabania border post, passengers connect to the Coastal Aviation flight to the Serengeti at 2:00 PM from Tarime.
The second option, which we recommend, is flying back to Nairobi Wilson (WIL) and then to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This option is less hassle, with reliable flights and no overland transfer. You can stay overnight in Nairobi to rest before continuing to Tanzania.
Tips and Reminders
Here are some tips and reminders to keep in mind during your Masai Mara safari:
- Respect the Wildlife: Always keep a safe distance from the animals and avoid feeding or touching them. Respecting their space ensures both your safety and the well-being of the wildlife.
- Follow Park Rules: Adhere to the park rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. This includes staying on designated tracks and not disturbing the animals.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during game drives. The African sun can be intense, and staying hydrated is crucial.
- Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be strong, even on cloudy days.
- Camera Equipment: Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife. Ensure you have plenty of memory cards and spare batteries.
- Insect Repellent: Use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects. This is especially important during the evenings and early mornings.
- First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. It’s always good to be prepared for minor injuries or ailments.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency contact numbers handy, including your tour operator and the park authorities. Knowing who to contact in case of an emergency can provide peace of mind.
By following these tips and reminders, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable Masai Mara safari experience. Enjoy the adventure and the incredible beauty of the Masai Mara National Reserve!
