Masai Mara Luxury Safari 2024 - Best Camps & Lodges, Packages, Cost & More
Masai Mara National Reserve is the best safari destination in East Africa and arguably the most famous wildlife haven in the world. Magnificent sights and sceneries, warm and hospitable people, and a stunning array of wild creatures and things to do and see are the highlights of a Masai Mara luxury safari booked with us.
In this guide, we will take you through the vibrant and diverse offerings of a luxury Kenya safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve. We will highlight the best things to do during game drives in this world-renowned national park, the best time to visit Masai Mara, the best exclusive lodges to book, and the unforgettable wildlife encounters that await you.
But first, let’s tell you a bit about us and how you can contact us to plan your luxury safari to Masai Mara.
Contact Us to Plan Your Bespoke Kenya Luxury Safari to Masai Mara
There’s no better time to plan your Masai Mara Safari than now! Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at +254-704-532-105.
We are also reachable through email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com.
If you prefer, leave us your details by filling out our “Book a Safari Form” and we will be in touch within 12 hours.
Explore Our Most Booked Masai Mara Luxury Safaris
Masai Mara Video by James Gatheru - Our CEO
Why Choose Us for Your Luxury Safari to Masai Mara in Kenya
No one knows East Africa better than we do. And when you’re considering a luxury Masai Mara safari, that’s our specialty.
Our experts, born and raised in Kenya, can help you create the best safari package for your needs, on your terms. You can bet on us to take you to some of the best locations in Masai Mara.
A luxury Kenya safari in Masai Mara is far from a one-size-fits-all experience. With the help of our experts, you can create a custom safari itinerary tailored to your preferences and interests.
It doesn’t matter if you’re eager to embark on thrilling game drives, visit local villages, indulge in bush dining, or learn traditional Maasai fire-making skills. Your bespoke tour can be tailored to include the activities and experiences that interest you the most. And with a variety of luxury accommodations to choose from, your safari will be as comfortable as it is exciting, rest assured.
What Awaits You in the Masai Mara National Reserve
Imagine the golden hues of an African sunset casting long shadows over vast open plains teeming with wildlife. This is the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
An iconic wildlife paradise, Masai Mara promises a luxury experience like no other, with a stunning kaleidoscope of wild and rugged landscapes and plenty of great things to do and see.
Imagine the thrill of a game drive spotting the ‘Big Five’, the serenity of a spa in the wild, and the joy of dining under a blanket of stars. All these and more await you in the breathtaking landscape of Masai Mara.
About the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
Masai Mara, also spelled Maasai Mara, and known locally as The Mara, is a national game reserve in Kenya. It is located in Narok County in the southwestern part of Kenya along the Tanzania border.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the largest game reserves in Kenya. The total amount of land the reserve occupies is approximately 1,510 square kilometers or 583 square miles.
Masai Mara is famous for having the highest concentration of big cats in the world. In fact, more than 40% of Africa’s larger mammals, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, call this national park home.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is also known for hosting the great migration. Between July and November each year, the wildebeests move from Serengeti in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya, crossing the Mara River in staggering numbers in what has come to be known as the Great Migration.
What’s more? The Masai Mara National Reserve features well-appointed accommodation with all of the modern conveniences you’ve come to expect on a luxury holiday.
Luxury lodges in Masai Mara, such as Angama Mara, Governors’ Camp, and Bateleur Camp, provide exquisite accommodations, world-class service, and unique wildlife encounters right at your doorstep.
A Masai Mara safari is customizable with bespoke tours and features diverse activities. Explore everything from hot air balloon safaris to cultural immersions, spa treatments, and culinary delights, among others.
Unveiling the Prestige of Masai Mara National Reserve
At the heart of East Africa, Masai Mara is the land of variety and extraordinary safaris. Celebrated for its breathtaking vistas, teeming wildlife, and vast plains, Masai Mara leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
The ‘Big Five’ – majestic lions, magnificent elephants, elusive rhinos, graceful leopards, and powerful buffaloes – are a spectacle in the Masai Mara.
Besides the “Big Five”, Masai Mara is also home to the giraffe, cheetah, antelope, gazelle, and the migratory wildebeest.
The annual Wildebeest Migration is a world-famous event where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate in search of food and water. This rare spectacle happens only in Masai Mara (Kenya) and Serengeti (Tanzania).
Accentuating this game viewing experience are hippos and crocodiles. These are frequently encountered in the Mara River, with crocs more prevalent during the Great Migration, making Masai Mara a perfect destination for Africa safaris. That’s even without mentioning the over 450 bird species found in this national park.
Be it in the Chyulu Hills National Park, Amboseli National Park, Masai Mara, or Serengeti National Park, the dense concentration of big game, coupled with several activities to explore, ensures a memorable Kenya safari experience.
Signature Luxury Lodges of the Mara
The Masai Mara National Park offers a wonderful array of signature luxury lodges. Each one provides unique experiences and exceptional service. These lodges offer:
- A tranquil retreat in the heart of the wilderness
- Stunning views of the Mara plains
- Outstanding facilities for modern convenience
- World-class service and unparalleled support
For an unforgettable Kenya safari experience, consider a Kenya luxury safari.
Let us delve into a detailed examination of some of these lodges.
Angama Mara: A Haven in the Sky
Perched on the edge of the Mara Triangle, Angama Mara is a luxury safari lodge that truly feels like a haven in the sky.
The lodge offers stunning glass-fronted tented suites overlooking the Maasai Mara, as well as a sole-use camp with four en-suite spacious tents, providing guests with an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Angama Mara’s surroundings abound with diverse wildlife, including:
- Flamingos
- Large resident mammals
- Birds
- The Big Five (African elephant, lion, leopard, cape buffalo, and rhino)
This places Angama Mara as a prime spot for a luxury Kenya safari to appreciate Masai Mara’s pristine wilderness.
Governors’ Camp: Royal Treatment Amidst Wilderness
In the heart of the Masai Mara, Governors’ Camp offers:
- A traditional tented camp experience
- Unrivaled and uninterrupted views of the Mara’s natural landscape
- A tranquil setting within the Maasai Mara National Park
- A unique blend of adventure and relaxation
- The thrill of wildlife encounters
- Luxury accommodations
This provides a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
Governors’ Camp offers exquisite accommodations, including the opulent Governors’ Il Moran safari camp, promising a memorable stay.
Starting at US$ 604 per person per night, it serves as an excellent choice for those desiring royal-like treatment in the wilderness.
Bateleur Camp: Timeless Safari Charm
Nestled in the Kichwa Tembo private concession on the edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve, Bateleur Camp offers a unique experience in the Mara Triangle.
Guests at Bateleur Camp can enjoy:
- Classic and elegant safari accommodation
- Thrilling game drives
- Guided bush walks
- Hot-air balloon safaris in the beautiful Masai Mara
Explore and enjoy an authentic safari experience at Bateleur Camp. A magical, forested setting to escape the hustle and bustle of busy cities like Nairobi.
Staying at &Beyond Bateleur Camp includes:
- An amazing US$ 870 per person
- Exceptional value for an authentic safari experience
- An exclusive retreat with unparalleled access to the wildlife and beauty of the Masai Mara.
Exclusive Game Drives and Wildlife Encounters
Going on a game drive across the expansive landscapes of the Masai Mara National Park is a standout feature of any luxury Kenya safari.
Masai Mara game drives offer a matchless wildlife viewing experience. Between chasing big cats across the grasslands, witnessing the Great Migration, and going on a walk in the park’s remote location, there’s plenty to explore.
One of the most spectacular events is the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate in search of food and water. It’s undeniably a sight to behold.
In the Masai Mara National Park, tourists’ safety during game drives is of utmost importance. With well-trained Park Rangers, wildlife Wardens, professional guides, and Maasai guards closely monitoring wildlife movements, guests can enjoy their safari adventure with peace of mind.
In addition to the thrill of spotting the ‘Big Five’, visitors on Masai Mara game drives can look forward to witnessing amazing animal interactions and intricate social dynamics within herds or prides.
Adventure Above the Plains: Hot Air Balloon Rides
Visualize gliding over the Mara plains in a hot air balloon, absorbing the striking landscape and wildlife from an extraordinary viewpoint.
A hot air balloon ride in Masai Mara offers a unique vantage point to observe the abundant wildlife living below, including the diverse habitats such as:
- the great Mara River
- swamps
- forests
- the expansive plains
A flight generally lasts around 4 hours and can accommodate up to 16 people with a minimum age requirement of 4 years old.
With prices starting from $420.00, it’s an amazing opportunity to spot the lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant from above ground. Just remember to book at least 8 to 10 months in advance due to high demand.
Cultural Immersion with Maasai Warriors
A fundamental element of a luxury Kenya safari in the Masai Mara National Park involves immersing oneself in the Maasai people’s vibrant culture. The Maasai tribe, nomadic inhabitants of the area, have lived in this land for centuries.
In fact, the Masai Mara National Reserve earned its name from these people. The word “Mara” means “spotted” in the Maasai (Maa) language.
This name stems from the fact that the landscape is dotted with flat-topped acacia trees, with their crowns so spaced they hardly touch.
The Maasai warriors are renowned for their colorful attire, traditional ceremonies, and incredible jumping dance, showcasing their strength and social connectedness. These traditions are at the heart of Maasai culture, offering a unique glimpse into their way of life.
In addition to their vibrant cultural practices, Maasai warriors are actively involved in conservation efforts. Through initiatives like the Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association and as Simba Scouts, they play a crucial role in protecting predators in the region.
The Ultimate Relaxation: Spa Experiences in the Wild
Following an exhilarating day of game drives and game viewing, there’s nothing more revitalizing than a spa treatment nestled within the African wilderness. The Masai Mara offers a variety of unique spa experiences.
This ranges from therapeutic sessions in the best locations of the camp to in-room treatments at luxury lodges like Sarova Mara Game Camp and Mara Bushtops. These experiences often include African healing rituals, wildlife interactions, and elements like traditional weaving and carving, beautifully reflecting the local African traditions.
These spa experiences greatly enhance guests’ wellness and relaxation by promoting mind and body harmony. They alleviate stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and deliver a soothing effect that brings peace to both body and mind. So, after a day of adventure, why not unwind and rejuvenate under the African sky?
Culinary Delights Under the African Sky
Feasting beneath the African sky adds another unforgettable facet to a luxury safari in Masai Mara. The lodges here offer a delightful array of cuisine options, including vegetarian, vegan, and local menus influenced by Africa’s rich cultural heritage. From multi-course fine dining to casual bush BBQ, there’s something to suit every palate.
Masai Mara lodges excel at accommodating dietary needs by offering in-house dining with a wide range of options, special preparations for bush meals, and catering to specific requirements like gluten-free diets. This ensures that all guests can fully enjoy their dining experiences, regardless of their dietary preferences.
Conservation Efforts and Eco-Sustainable Practices
Luxury lodges in Masai Mara are striving to harmonize with eco-sustainability principles while actively engaging with local communities. They are dedicated to minimizing environmental impact, supporting local employment, and actively participating in community development, education, and social welfare programs.
For instance, The Safari Collection is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact by implementing various sustainability projects to protect Kenya’s landscape and wildlife. They also prioritize employing individuals from the surrounding local communities.
Lewa Wilderness Lodge actively contributes to conservation efforts by:
- Engaging in community development and participation
- Helping protect critically endangered species
- Advocating for the overarching goal of conservation within Masai Mara.
Private Conservancies: An Intimate Wildlife Retreat
For individuals desiring an extra layer of exclusivity, private conservancies provide the opportunity for intimate safaris within protected wildlife habitats.
Some incredible examples include Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which spans 90,000 acres, and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, known for its 62,000-acre collaborative conservation area in the foothills of Mount Kenya.
Naboisho Camp is a remarkable luxury camp situated within the private Mara Naboisho Conservancy. It provides an exceptional and exclusive safari experience. Guests at Naboisho Camp have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of activities including game drives, guided walking safaris, and cultural visits to local Maasai villages.
When to Visit: Timing Your Luxury Safari
Identifying the optimal time to visit Masai Mara plays a vital role in planning your luxury safari. The perfect times to visit Kenya for wildlife viewing are December through March or during the dry season from late June to October. These periods offer optimal wildlife viewing conditions and pleasant weather.
One of the most spectacular events to witness in Masai Mara is the annual Great Migration. This typically occurs from about August to November. During this period, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate across the plains in search of food and water, offering an unparalleled wildlife spectacle.
Connecting with Nature: Eco Camps and Tented Luxury
Embracing a luxury safari doesn’t necessitate forgoing sustainability. Eco-friendly camps, like Basecamp Explorer Masai Mara, effortlessly combine luxury and sustainability, offering guests a comfortable and modern experience while being environmentally conscious.
An eco camp often provides:
- Spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms and private terraces
- Eco-friendly toiletries, composting, and dry toilets
- Solar panels, ensuring a reduced environmental footprint.
Beyond the Mara: Combining Safari with Beach Retreats
Following an invigorating Masai Mara safari, consider prolonging your adventure with a serene beach retreat along Kenya’s unspoiled coastline. There are many luxurious accommodations for a beach retreat near Masai Mara, including:
- Mara Intrepids Tented Camp
- Mara Engai Wilderness Lodge
- Sentinel Mara Camp
- Entumoto Safari Camp
- Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp
- Diani’s Alfajiri luxury villas.
Travelers can choose from various means to get from Masai Mara to Kenya’s coast, including driving, taking a bus, train, or car ferry, offering flexibility and convenience for their travel plans.
Once there, they can indulge in water sports like deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, water skiing, and scuba diving, offering a delightful contrast to the safari experience.
Navigating the Remote Parts of Masai Mara
For the intrepid traveler, venturing into Masai Mara’s less frequented, remote areas proffers a truly distinctive safari experience. The remote areas of Masai Mara, including the Mara Triangle, Rekero Camp, and Elewana Sand River Camp, are teeming with rich biodiversity, offering a unique chance to see a variety of wildlife, including the majestic Big 5 – lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo.
When exploring the remote parts of Masai Mara, safety is paramount. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid night travel in isolated areas
- Secure your valuables
- Do not carry large sums of cash or display expensive items
- Avoid wearing camouflaged or military-themed clothing to prevent unwanted attention from local authorities.
Summary
A luxury safari in Masai Mara offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From the breathtaking wildlife encounters and exclusive luxury lodges to the enriching cultural experiences and eco-friendly practices, Masai Mara truly is a world-renowned wildlife paradise.
Whether you’re witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration, soaring above the plains in a hot air balloon, or savoring a meal under the African sky, every moment spent in Masai Mara is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Luxury Masai Mara Safari – Frequently Asked Questions
Next, we look at the most frequently asked questions about Masai Mara Luxury Safari:
Why is Masai Mara so expensive?
Visiting during the peak season coincides with the Great Migration, leading to increased prices for accommodations and activities in the Masai Mara. Consider visiting during off-peak times to save on costs.
Is Masai Mara the best safari?
Yes, the Masai Mara is considered one of the greatest safari destinations on earth, offering an iconic African landscape and forming the northern part of the Serengeti ecosystem. Explore it for yourself to see why it’s so highly praised!
Can you see the Big 5 in Masai Mara?
Yes, you can see the Big 5 in Masai Mara, with lions, elephants, leopards, and Cape buffalos being relatively common sights, while rhinos are more difficult to spot. Enjoy your safari adventure!
Which is better Serengeti or Masai Mara?
If you’re looking for better wildlife density, the Masai Mara is the top choice for game viewing. It has more concentrated wildlife populations compared to the spread-out wildlife in the larger Serengeti.
What is the best time to visit Masai Mara for wildlife viewing?
The best time to visit Masai Mara for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from late June to October. You can also consider visiting from December through March for a great wildlife experience.
