Uncovering the Top Masai Mara Packages
We’re kicking off the countdown to your dream safari with the most in-depth guide you’ll find on planning and booking your Masai Mara packages for 2026 and 2027. The truth is, the earlier you secure your safari dates, the better – especially if witnessing those legendary Great Migration river crossings is top on your bucket list – as the top camps book up super fast.
Booking a safari from back home, or from India especially, can be a minefield – all that budget and itinerary planning, not to mention the sheer cost of it all. We get it – this is an oversized ticket item, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you really want to get right.
So in this piece, we’ll cover everything you need to know about our range of safari packages – from the luxurious fly-in options to the more laid-back, budget-friendly group tours – all designed to give you that iconic African wildlife experience you’ve always dreamed of having.
Get in Touch with Harrison, James, and the Team – We’ll Plan Your Unforgettable Masai Mara Safari for 2026/2027
Booking a safari on your own can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We’ve spent a lot of time putting together excellent Masai Mara package deals for 2026 & 2027 to cater to all sorts of travellers, and we’d be happy to tailor one to suit your needs.
With our home base in Nairobi, we have a deep local knowledge that we’re not afraid to say is second to none. To put your mind at ease, Masai-marasafari.in is a proud, fully-owned platform of the well-respected AjKenyaSafaris.com, which has a 5-star review on the TripAdvisor Page. We invite you to get in touch with us right away to start planning your dream trip and secure the best dates and rooms.
Want to get in touch? Call or WhatsApp us on (+254 719 222 430, +254 748 258 880, or +254 704 532 105), or send an email to james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com – and you’ll be speaking with one of our very experienced team.
That’s the lovely James Maina, the fantastic Gladys Mwangi, me (Harrison Kamau), and a few other knowledgeable consultants. We won’t stop tweaking things until we’ve got your whole itinerary just right. We’ve done this for thousands of clients before – we can do it for you, too.
Check Out Some Incredible Masai Mara Videos
The Top Booked Safari Packages for 2026 and 2027
We’ve received a lot of feedback from our clients, and we’ve selected the packages that consistently get booked. These safari itineraries have a bit of everything: they offer a great mix of incredible wildlife sightings and unbeatable value. And that’s why families, honeymooners and seasoned safari-goers all love them.
The 6-Day Kenya Signature Safari: Mara, Nakuru and Amboseli
This one is our top pick because it takes you to the very best bits of Kenya in a nice compact package. You get to experience the incredible plains of the Masai Mara and see some of Africa’s best big cats, then head on to Lake Nakuru to see thousands of birds and rhinos, and finally, round off with some incredible elephant shots in Amboseli National Park against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro.
It’s the perfect blend of landscape, different types of wildlife and just the right amount of action. We’ve included some good quality mid-range lodges and a 4×4 to get you around, giving you real value for money – that’s why this one is such a top seller with both international and Indian visitors.
The 4-Day Great Migration Fly-In Luxury Safari
If time is short but luxury is non-negotiable, then this is the one to go for. It’s a short and sweet trip which focuses purely on the Masai Mara during the Migration months (July-October), which means you don’t have to worry about too much long-distance travel. Best of all, we get you to your lodge via internal flights, which drop you right in the middle of the action.
You’ll be staying in an exclusive luxury tented camp with all the trimmings, including gourmet food and private viewing decks – it’s the perfect way to experience the beauty of the African savannah without having to rough it. This one does come with a higher price tag, but the seamless transition from airport to bush and the just fantastic service you get make it well worth the splurge.
Browse Our Top Kenya and Masai Mara Safari Packages and Tours for 2026/27
10 days safari in Kenya Masai Mara ~ Luxury
From US$ 3000 to US$ 4500
The Need-to-knows for Planning Your Safari - a Quick Overview
Looking for the low-down before you dive into the details? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’d like to give you a heads-up on a few key points to consider when booking your safari with us. As a 100% Nairobi-based operator owned by AjKenyaSafaris.com, we offer the inside track. We are readily available to answer any questions and provide assistance during both the planning and execution of your trip.
Secondly, our 4×4 Land Cruisers are custom-built for comfort and to ensure the very best photo opportunities, which may not be the case with smaller, less rugged operators. Now, an important point to keep in mind – for 2026/2027, bookings are open, and trust us, you don’t want to leave it too late to secure the best Migration viewing camps – those are going to sell out before you know it.
And finally, we need to give a special shout-out to our Indian guests: we’ve got catered meals, including delicious Veggie and Jain options, available on request across all our packages, – which is something many other international operators just don’t offer.
Discovering Kenya and Tanzania: Beyond the Masai Mara (Safari Destinations & Experience)
The Masai Mara is undoubtedly the main event, but East Africa has loads more to offer than just one famous reserve. There’s a whole constellation of magnificent wildlife areas, each with its own unique ecosystem and wildlife viewing experience. We’ve put together multi-destination safaris that give you the entire picture – you can’t travel all that way and not catch a glimpse of the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro!
The Legendary Masai Mara National Reserve – The Unadulterated Essence of African Safari
Just the name Masai Mara conjures up images of endless savannahs and for good reason – it’s the heart and soul of Kenya’s wildlife viewing. The open plains and riverine forests are home to a stunning concentration of predators and prey, and that’s just the start.
This is the location for the world-famous Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra cross the plains, providing those iconic wildlife encounters that you’ll be buzzing about for the rest of your life. Our drives here are tailored to take in the sheer scale of the landscape and give you time to soak up the experience – it’s not just about the fleeting moments.
Masai Mara Conservancies: A Secret Only the Most Discerning Travellers Know
Choosing a safari in one of the Mara’s amazing private conservancies is the way to avoid the crowds that can make the central reserve feel impersonal. By booking through us, you gain exclusive access to activities not available elsewhere. We can arrange night drives, where you might spot a leopard going about its business, or immersive walking safaris led by expert Maasai guides.
The result is a more intimate, quieter, and super-personal safari experience that is well worth the extra outlay. And the best part? You can forget about the traffic jams that come with peak season – you’ve got a much better chance of getting a private sighting all to yourself.
Amboseli National Park: Home of the Elephant Kings & the Majestic Kilimanjaro Views
Amboseli presents an absolutely magical view: large herds of elephants basking in the warm sun, set against the imposing backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. At first glance, the park’s dry, dusty landscape might look barren, but there’s a surprising splash of life in the form of extensive permanent marshes – these draw an incredible concentration of wildlife.
As a result, game viewing in Amboseli is not just ‘easy’, but also endlessly rewarding. Pairing the dramatic Big Cat exploits of the Mara with the sheer scale of Amboseli’s elephant herds creates a Kenyan safari itinerary that hits all the right buttons. For us, Amboseli’s mix of vastly different landscapes and viewing experiences gives visitors a top-to-bottom taste of all the other ecosystems Kenya has to offer.
Lake Nakuru National Park: Where the Flamingos and Rhinos Rule
You know Lake Nakuru by its incredible soda lake – at certain times of the year, it’s like a ribbon of pink stretching as far as the eye can see, thanks to the millions of flamingos. But for us, what really sets Nakuru apart is the small park’s massive role in the world of conservation – especially in the fight to save the endangered black and white rhino.
There’s nothing quite like the pure rush of spotting a rhino in the wild – a real privilege we feel lucky to be able to share with our visitors. The park itself may be relatively small, but it packs such a punch in terms of wildlife density that we find our visitors are often treated to some truly unforgettable close-ups with the Big Five, minus the somewhat elusive leopard, which is harder to see here.
Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island: The Serene In-Between
After the dust of the main safari parks, Lake Naivasha provides a lovely, peaceful contrast in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. We love including a boat ride here – a great way to get up close to hippos and to eyeball all the amazing bird species which call this place home.
Crescent Island (which can be accessed by boat) is another world – a unique chance to take a stroll among giraffes, zebras and antelopes – you can’t do that in the central game reserves! It’s the perfect place to take a breather off the safari trail and enjoy a different way of connecting with African wildlife. It’s the ideal spot to take a break and recharge – always a welcome interlude on a safari adventure.
East Africa’s Crown Jewels: The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
Suppose you really want to experience the ultimate East African safari. In that case, combining the Masai Mara with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater is the way to go. The Serengeti is an extension of the Mara ecosystem, so the Migration spends most of its time there, or it should be for you to really catch the whole spectacle.
The Ngorongoro Crater, a truly natural wonder, is a self-contained ecosystem that guarantees you get some imposing close-up game viewing with little effort on your part. You really haven’t experienced the Migration until you’ve tracked it across both countries. To make things simple, we sort out all the cross-border logistics for you, so getting between these fantastic reserves is as easy as can be.
From Bush to Beach – The Perfect East African Getaway
After all those early mornings and thrilling game drives, you’re going to want a bit of relaxation, and we’ve got just the ticket. We’re offering some fantastic packages that link up your safari with the pristine beaches of Diani Beach in Kenya or Zanzibar Beach in Tanzania.
Diani’s ideal for families, while Zanzibar offers a unique blend of historic Stone Town culture and the Indian Ocean’s tranquillity. Don’t worry, we’ve taken care of all the logistics – including internal flights – to make the transition from game viewing to sunbathing as smooth as possible.
Other Must-see Parks and Reserves in Kenya and Tanzania
Our East African safari expertise enables us to craft a wide range of diverse, multi-park safaris that allow you to experience the full spectrum of ecosystems. If you’re after something really unique, then take a look at Samburu National Reserve – home to those rather special “Samburu Five”. Want to see some fantastic conservation work in action and spot some chimps and black rhinos while you’re at it?
Then, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is definitely a place to put on your list. Alternatively, in Tanzania, you’ve got Lake Manyara National Park with its famous tree-climbing lions. In Tarangire National Park, you can see vast herds of elephants and towering baobab trees. We also run day trips to Hell’s Gate National Park near Naivasha, where you can easily get out and explore on bike or on foot, which is an excellent change of pace from the usual game drive.
Signature Experiences – Those Unforgettable Moments That Make a Safari Truly Unforgettable
A safari is so much more than just a bunch of game drives – it’s a collection of those quirky, defining moments that stay with you long after you return home. We’ve rounded up the bucket-list activities you shouldn’t miss when booking our Masai Mara packages, and we’re warning you – don’t turn up without experiencing the incredible drama and beauty that awaits. You’ve come all this way – make the most of it.
The Great Wildebeest Migration: When The Wildebeest Take Centre Stage
The wildebeest migration is what really sets the Mara apart – and knowing when to be there and where to be is more than just a good idea, it’s absolutely crucial. The migration makes its way into the Mara ecosystem from the Serengeti roughly between July and October.
Still, the real magic happens along the Mara River between August and September as the herds try to cross over and outsmart the crocodiles lurking below. We’ve carefully crafted our itineraries to put you right in the midst of the action when it counts – and trust us, you won’t want to miss out on the most intense moments of this incredible spectacle. Book early – and make sure you do, because it’s the stuff of lifelong memories.
Big Five & Big Cat Spotting: Where Predators Rule the Roost
The Mara is famous for its predators – and for good reason. The other parks might be lucky to spot a leopard now and then, but in the Mara, you’ve got a fighting chance to see all the Big Five as well as a healthy population of those magnificent big cats – lions, leopards and cheetahs.
Our guides are totally in the know, with a heritage of local expertise that helps us track these animals down – be they on the hunt or lounging in the shade. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing cheetah hunts here that leave even the most seasoned safari-goers speechless – and I’m telling you, it’s serious bucket-list stuff.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Sunrises Over The Mara – You Won’t Believe This
Imagine drifting softly above the vast plains as the sun rises and paints the landscape a golden hue – the herds of animals below look so suddenly you’re up close and personal in a way that a game drive just can’t match. A Hot Air Balloon Safari is a luxury experience that’s got to be on every safari-goer’s wish list, and trust us, it’s definitely worth every extra penny.
We’ll pick you up in the dark, and before you know it, you’ll be soaring above the Mara as the sun comes up, giving you the most stunning panorama of the ecosystem you’ll ever have the good fortune to see. And after it all, we’ll treat you to a fancy champagne breakfast right in the middle of the bush – talk about making memories!
Walking Safaris and Night Game Drives – A Conservancy Privilege
These activities are strictly off-limits in the central National Reserve, but with us, you get to enjoy them as a conservancy safari perk. Walking Safaris are led by seasoned, armed Maasai guides who’ll show you the small details of the bush you’d miss from a vehicle – and teach you all about tracking, plants, and the insects that live here.
And then there are the Night Game Drives, which give you a whole new perspective on the Mara – that’s when the nocturnal predators like leopards, civets and bush babies come out to hunt. Trust us, you’re not really experiencing the full Mara till you’ve seen it in the dark.
Cultural Visits: Getting Up Close & Personal with the Maasai
A safari with us isn’t just about spotting animals – it’s about meeting the people we’re here with, too. We’re happy to arrange Cultural Visits to authentic Maasai enkangs (that’s ‘villages’ to you and me) near the central reserves. These aren’t just a chance to take photos – you’ll get a real glimpse into Maasai life, learn about their customs, traditions and rich heritage, and see how they live and work alongside the wild animals.
It’s a really enriching experience that adds a vital human side to your Kenyan adventure.
Putting Together Your Perfect Safari Package and Price
Getting your head around safari pricing is key to booking successfully – and we’re all about being upfront and honest in our Masaai Mara packages. You shouldn’t have to guess what you’re getting for your money. So we’ve grouped our offerings into clear-cut tiers – from no-frills adventures for budget-conscious travellers to super-luxurious escapes for those who want the lot. That way, you’re sure to find something that fits both your style and budget.
Budget Safaris: Still A Great Experience On A Shoestring
Our Budget/Value Safaris are all about giving you the best of the Mara without breaking the bank. They’re designed for travellers who just want to see the wildlife without paying top dollar for the bells and whistles. So they’re shorter, with standard accommodation or tented camps, and group game drives in good quality safari vans or shared 4x4s.
You’ll still enjoy fantastic game viewing – we don’t compromise on the experience, just the extras. These packages are ideal for solo travellers and young couples seeking a taste of the Mara without breaking the bank, often utilising scenic, cost-effective road transfers.
Mid-Range Comfort: Finding the Sweet Spot Between Quality and Value
The Mid-Range/Comfort Safari packages strike a perfect balance between price and quality. You’ll be staying in well-appointed tented camps or classic safari lodges with top-notch food, private bathrooms, and often, some truly stunning views.
Our 4×4 Land Cruisers will be taking you on your game drives, offering maximum comfort and great vantage points – this is the spot where most of our clients, in particular families, feel they get an incredible safari experience without breaking the bank.
Luxury Safaris: Unashamedly Indulgent and Exclusively Yours
If you’re looking for the ultimate African indulgence, then our Luxury/Premium Safaris are the way to go. These packages come complete with top-notch accommodations in 5-star camps and lodges, often in private conservancies. To save time and maximise your game viewing experience, we offer fly-in safaris. And, when you’re on the ground, you’ll have a private 4×4 vehicle and a dedicated expert guide all to yourself.
You won’t need to share care with strangers unless you want to – and even then, it’s up to you. It’s a fully tailored experience where you can expect the best – all of the time. When you get this level of personalised service, it really does change the way you experience the African wilderness.
Themed Safari Journeys: Creating a Trip Around Your One True Passion
We love crafting safaris around specific interests because we know that trips centred on what you’re passionate about are always the most rewarding. So whether you’re planning a romantic Honeymoon/Anniversary package with a private dinner and secluded camp, a Family Safari that’s kid-friendly, or a specialist Photographic Safari with custom vehicles and expert guidance – we’ve got a package to match your interests perfectly.
Whatever your passion – from spotting birds to getting out and about on foot, we’ll craft an itinerary that’s tailored to your needs. Just let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Price Transparency: Making Sure You Know What You’re Getting
At AjKenyaSafaris.com, hidden costs have no place on a safari. Our quotes are crystal clear on what’s included and what’s not. As a general rule, our packages include the cost of park entrance fees (because let’s face it, that’s a significant expense!), all of your accommodation, three meals a day, and all of your scheduled game drives.
Then there are things like international flights, visas and gratuities for staff – these are usually the things that are excluded. At least this way, when you get to Africa, you won’t be hit with any surprises. And that’s all part of the reason why our clients choose us – we give you an obvious picture of where your money is going.
Making it Personal – Tailor-Made Safaris that Suit Your Style
Want to stay at a particular camp, or spend 10 days in the Mara rather than 4? We don’t do pre-set itineraries – Custom Safaris are our speciality. Get in touch with your specific travel dates, budget, and group size, and we’ll create a trip tailored to your needs.
We can take any of our existing Masai Mara packages & tweak them to fit your vision, or start from scratch – building a unique adventure just for you from the ground up. Why settle for a generic package when you can have a safari tailored to your own personal style?
Making Your Safari Feel More Like Home: Catering to Every Traveller
We’ve learned that a really special safari is all about getting the details right – especially for people coming from far-flung places like India. We’ve taken care of all that so you can focus on the wildlife.
Finding Your Perfect Base: Choosing Where to Lay Your Head
The type of accommodation you choose really sets the tone for your entire safari. You can select Lodges – comfy and permanent, but still with that rustic feel; Camps where you sleep under canvas but with all the mod-cons; and Mobile Camps that follow the Great Migration and offer an adventure you’re unlikely to forget.
We’ve looked at all the options and can help you pick a place that matches your comfort level and provides the best view of the game.
Timing it Just Right: Planning Your Masai Mara Trip for the Great Migration.
Timing is everything when it comes to a safari, and we’ve broken it down into three seasons. The Peak Season (July to October) is the best time to see those incredible river crossings, but it’s the busiest time of year too – and the most expensive. The Shoulder Season (November to March) strikes a good balance: great game, fewer people, and lower prices.
Then there’s the Low Season (April to June) – ‘green season’, to some, when prices are lowest, the landscapes are lush, and the birdlife is fantastic – just be prepared for some rain. If the Migration is at the top of your wish list, consider sorting out your Masai Mara trip in advance – better safe than sorry, right?
Essential Travel Logistics: Visas, Health, and Safety the Traveller Needs to Know
Getting to the Mara’s a lot easier than you might think, but there are a few things you shouldn’t ignore. First off, you’re gonna need to sort out an e-Visa – we’ve got the links and the lowdown so you don’t get confused. For your health and safety: although there aren’t any mandatory vaccinations for entry from most places, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor about malaria medications and the yellow fever vaccine, depending on where you’re coming from.
Trust us, being prepared on this score makes a big difference to how relaxed you feel while travelling, and we’ve got the latest info for you.
Packing for the Big Five: What to Wear and Bring for an Unforgettable Safari
The stuff you pack is going to make all the difference in how comfortable you are and how good your game viewing experience is. We reckon it’s best to bring lightweight, earthy-toned stuff (khaki, brown and olive green) so you don’t spook the animals and so you can blend in. Then there are the warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings during game drives.
And don’t forget the essentials: a good hat, some decent shades, a camera with a zoom lens and a pair of binoculars – trust us, you won’t regret that investment! We’ve even made a detailed packing list just for you – it’s one of the things we share with all our booked clients.
Going the Extra Mile for Our Indian Travellers: Cuisine and Comfort
For travellers from India, there are a few key things that really matter: catering and comfort. So we make sure your dining needs are taken care of: we’ve got Indian food – and that includes all the right vegetarian, Jain and non-veggie options – sorted in most of the camps and lodges we work with.
We offer multi-gen travel, allowing us to tailor our packages for Family and Multi-Gen Travel so you can stay together in interconnecting rooms and travel in your own private vehicle. It’s the perfect way to keep the whole family happy. We know how important it is to have a taste of home, even deep in the African bush.
Trust and Safety: Why Put Your Faith in Masai-marasafari.in?
Your peace of mind is our top priority. We like to think of it as our business model’s guiding light – prioritising safety, ethics, and client satisfaction above all else. You shouldn’t be handing over cash to a name you’ve never heard of, and fair enough – we’re proud of the reputation we’ve built on trust and doing things the right way. We know that means your safari should not only be safe, but also done responsibly.
Client Reviews & Social Proof: What the Past Guests Say
Don’t just take what we say for it – read what some of our past clients have said about their time with us! We’re passionate about sharing the honest, unfiltered feedback we receive from people like you, directly from Google, TripAdvisor, and SafariBookings. That’s the best way to demonstrate our commitment to service and quality. We’ve put in the work to make sure our safaris are truly unforgettable.
We’re not afraid to share the stories and photos of people who’ve returned from their Masai Mara adventures with us, including those who’ve booked with us for next year. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, and here is some of the feedback:
Crawshaw Family – A Wonderful Safari – Sep 2025 • Family
“AJ Kenya Safaris were magnificent. Everything was perfectly organised, customer service impeccable, and the passion for ensuring that we had a wonderful time was much appreciated.
We were super-lucky to be allocated Solomon as our guide. Solomon knew everywhere, everything and brought a kind and thoughtful approach to leading our expedition. We cannot rate AJ Kenya Safaris high enough.
We had some concerns about booking with a local tour company, but these concerns were entirely unfounded. If you are wondering whether to book through AJ Kenya, then we very much commend them to you!”
Rajat P – Once in a Lifetime – Memorable Kenyan Safari -Oct 2023 • Family
“We had a very memorable trip in Kenya with Aj Keniya Safaris. From the booking to the safaris, Mr James provided invaluable advice and support, making our trip truly unforgettable!
Thank you, and we wish to come back again 😀”
Shammah – Exhilarating Trip to Nairobi National Park – Nov 2021 • Friends
Seeing the lion, buffalo, giraffe, rhino, and other animals was a good experience. The guide explained everything and was very competent. I would recommend AJKenyasafaris to anyone interested in visiting Nairobi National Park.”
Accreditations & Professional Involvement: Your Money’s Safe with Us
We want you to know that your cash is in good hands at Masai-marasafari. in, powered by AjKenyaSafaris.com. We’re a fully registered and reputable tour operator, bonded for your protection. We’re proud members of some of the biggest and best travel orgs out there, including the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO).
Being part of these groups means we have to keep our house in order – financially speaking, at least – which means you can book with confidence. We don’t cut corners on safeguarding your investment.
Our Conservation Efforts: Supporting the Maasai Community
We’re dead serious about protecting the Masai Mara, and supporting its communities too. Our safaris are all about Responsible Tourism and Conservation, so we’ve made sure to line up the best accommodations for you in the private Maasai Conservancies. We know how these community-led models work – they’re brilliant for the locals, and they actually help to fund vital conservation work.
So when you book with us, you’re not just having a holiday – you’re helping to make sure the Mara stays healthy for generations to come.
Meet Our Expert Guides and Dedicated Team: Local Knowledge Makes all the Difference
Our big difference isn’t just the vehicles we use; it’s the people behind the tours – our guides. Forget the term “driver” – our guides are local experts who’ve spent years tracking wildlife and figuring out the ins and outs of the bush. Many of them are even members of the Maasai community. And then there’s our office team – which includes me, incidentally.
We’ve got over ten years’ worth of experience between us, crafting custom itineraries that cater to your exact needs. We’ve spent a lot of time on the ground in both Kenya and Tanzania, so you’ll be speaking to someone who’s really in the know when it comes to the destination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We’ve looked at some of the commonly asked questions we get about Masai Mara safari packages.
When’s the Best Time to Visit the Masai Mara to See the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is at its best from July to October. That’s when the massive herds of wildebeest and zebra cross over from Tanzania’s Serengeti and chomp away on the lush grass in the Mara. And if you’re in the Masai Mara in late July and August, you might catch the action – the significant river crossings where the animals take their lives in their hands to get past the crocodiles.
Don’t even think about trying to book a Masai Mara trip without locking it down at least 12-18 months in advance – the camps by the rivers are usually sold out by then.
Will My Masai Mara Trip for 2026 and 2027 Cost More Than Previous Years?
Okay, so safari prices increase over time, especially with national park fees and the like. We’ve done our best to keep our prices competitive, but booking your Masai Mara trip for 2026 and 2027 now is your best bet to avoid potential price increases.
Don’t get me wrong – I wouldn’t expect a massive jump, but booking earlier will get you the best value for your money and ensure you can secure your preferred accommodations.
The Difference Between the Masai Mara National Reserve and a Conservancy – What’s the Big Deal?
The Masai Mara National Reserve is a public area with stringent rules in place, meaning no off-road driving, night drives, or walking safaris are allowed. Meanwhile, the Conservancies are private lands leased from the Maasai community – essentially private reserves with strict limits on the number of vehicles that can visit, allowing for activities like walking safaris and night game drives.
If you’re looking for a more intimate and laid-back experience, consider staying at a Conservancy camp.
How Many People are in Our Budget Safari Groups?
Our Budget/Value Safaris typically feature small groups of people, often travelling in custom 4×4 vehicles that accommodate up to 7 guests. This means everyone gets a window seat and plenty of leg room. Keeping groups small is really key – it lets our guides focus on what you want to see and do on the trip, rather than trying to cram everyone into one vehicle.
Can I Get Some Indian Food on My Safari?
Yeah, absolutely! We’ve got a good understanding of the importance of catering to people with specific dietary needs, whether that’s vegetarian, vegan, Jain, or whatever. When booking your Masai Mara package for next year or the year after, please let us know your needs, and we’ll ensure the camps and lodges we book offer great Indian food options.
Are Flights between Destinations included in Your Luxury Safaris?
For our Luxury/Premium Safaris and multi-destination trips, such as Kenya & Tanzania or bush-to-beach packages, we typically include the necessary internal flights (e.g., from Nairobi to the Mara, or from the Mara to the beach). That way, you can spend more time on game drives rather than sitting on a bus.
On our budget packages, we offer road transfers as an alternative to flying, but we’ve found that flying is a significant convenience for most international travellers.
Is Kenya a Good Destination for International Tourists, Even if You’re from India?
Kenya is a super-popular destination for tourists, and it’s generally a very safe place to visit. The National Parks and Safari Camps are all secure, and our guides are fully trained on all the safety procedures. We always recommend taking a few basic precautions in the cities, but for the most part, you’ll be in the safety of the wilderness and your secure accommodation.
We’ve had loads of happy customers from all over the world come on safari with us, including from India, and we’re confident you’ll have a great experience too.
What Documents do I Need to Book a Safari with Masai-marasafari.in?
To secure your booking, please send us copies of everyone’s travel documents, including passports for all travellers. This is a standard requirement for booking park entry permits and internal flights. We make the process straightforward and secure – simply pay a deposit to secure your spot in your chosen Masai Mara package for the upcoming year.
Do Your Guides Focus on The Big Five?
Our guides are all about giving you the complete African wildlife experience, which of course includes the Big Five & Big Cats. You’ll often hear about the Masai Mara being the hotspot for lions, leopards and cheetahs, and we’ve found that the area has a high success rate for spotting these guys, too.
When we train our guides, we place a significant emphasis on safety and responsibility so you can enjoy that prized wildlife photograph without any hassle.
Can I Book a Hot Air Balloon Adventure as Part of My Package?
You really should give our Hot Air Balloon Safari over the Mara a go. It’s one of our top recommendations and will be a real showstopper for your holiday. It’s possible to add it to any of our Masai Mara trips, but spots are limited, so we advise booking it in at the same time as you sort out your safari package.
You’ll get to see the sunrise over the savannah, followed by a champagne breakfast out in the bush – it’s a real once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Meet the Author – Harrison K. Irura – His Story
Hi, I’m Harrison, and I’ve been working as a travel consultant here at AjKenyaSafaris.com for over 10 years now. During that time, I’ve been lucky enough to travel all over East Africa, visiting all the big-name safari destinations – a trip to Amboseli to see the elephants, through the Masai Mara’s plains, to Lake Nakuru and explore the really cool conservation efforts at Ol Pejeta.
I’m a human resource management graduate, but what truly excites me is connecting people with the incredible wildlife and cultures of my home country. I’m a fully qualified member of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), and I’ve drawn on all my experience to write this insider guide to the Masai Mara safari packages for 2026 and 2027. I want to make sure every trip I help plan is perfect, hassle-free and unforgettable.
Helpful Tips when Choosing Budget Packages
As we noted, there are different packages you can choose from, like budget, mid-range, and luxury. From online reviews on platforms like Reddit and TripAdvisor, you will note that there are many complaints about the budget packages. Here, I have looked at the main reason why budget travellers end up having a bad safari experience:
- Park/Conservancy Fees: Some budget operators usually quote without including the entry fees. This is one of the most significant expenses associated with a safari. For example, the entry fee for the Masai Mara is USD 100 from January to June and USD 200 from July to December. Consider a 3-day Masai Mara Migration Safari, with fees starting at USD 400 per person. Now consider you have a family of 5 adults, and this would mean paying an additional USD 2000, which you didn’t budget for when booking the safari.
- Transportation Fee: Some budget packages exclude this fee. It is small at USD 15 per day, but as a budget traveller, you don’t want to spend money you did not plan for. If you are in Kenya for 7 days, the cost could be up to USD 105.
- Maasai Village Fee: This ranges from USD 20 to USD 50 per person, depending on the location of your visit. It is paid directly to the community. We recommend informing your operator to include it when quoting to avoid confusion during the visit.
- Tipping and Gratuities: This is usually excluded in all packages. The rule of thumb is to tip USD 20 or more to the safari guide and about USD 5 (in local currency – KES 500) to the hotel staff. Ensure you have the Kenyan shillings with you for slight tipping.
