Masai Mara Trip Cost - Packages, Travel Guide & More
Imagine standing amidst the vast Kenyan landscape, with the majestic wildlife of the Masai Mara just a stone’s throw away. This breathtaking experience is within your reach, and even better, it can fit within your budget.
In this article, our local guides will share the best Masai Mara safari packages, the average Maai Mara trip cost, the best time to book a Masai Mara package and so much more. But first, let us share our most booked Masai Mara tour packages, and how you can reach us to start planning the best Masai Mara Packages this year.
How To Reach Us to Start Planning Your Masai Mara Safari
The time to plan your Masai Mara Safari is now! We invite you to contact us via WhatsApp or phone at +254-704-532-105. We are also available through email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com. We will get back within 12 hours.
Explore Our Most Booked Masai Mara Packages
Masai Mara Safari Video - Predator Hunting During the Migration
Key Takeaways
- The Maasai mara safari cost is influenced by accommodation choices, transportation methods, travel seasons, safari duration, and additional activities, with prices varying according to luxury levels and seasons.
- Careful planning can facilitate affordable safaris. Options like off-peak travel (April to June), group tours, budget accommodation, and consideration for additional costs including park fees are effective ways to lower Masai Mara safari costs.
- Guests with more than 5 days for their Maasai Mara safari should consider adding other destinations to their Masai Mara trip. These include Lake Naivasha, Amboseli National Park, Aberdare National Park, Serengeti National Park, Nairobi and more.
- Some of the best things to do during a Masai Mara safari include hot air balloon ride, Maasai Village Visit, witnessing the great migration as wildebeest cross the Mara River and more.
Understanding Masai Mara Safari Costs
Before planning a Masai Mara safari, you need to understand the diverse factors that affect the cost of your journey. From the type of accommodation you choose to the number of travelers, your preferred transportation mode, the duration of your trip, the time of year, and the inclusion of extra activities, every aspect plays a part in determining the total cost of your safari.
Keep in mind, your masai mara safaris cost can change with the seasons. For instance, traveling during the peak migration season from July to September or the festive season in December might increase the masai mara safari cost. On the other hand, the low season from April to early June can offer more budget-friendly options.
Accommodation Styles and Prices
The type of accommodation you select has a significant impact on your safari’s overall cost. Masai Mara offers a variety of choices, ranging from luxury tented camps and mid-level lodges to budget camps. Each comes with its unique advantages and digital assets like Wi-Fi and online booking options to enhance your stay.
The cost of these accommodations can vary greatly. Here are some price ranges to give you an idea:
- Budget tented camps: as low as US$ 100 per person per night
- Mid-range luxury safari lodges: US$ 150 per person per night during the low season to US$ 250 per night during the peak season
- Luxury lodges: for those with a higher budget, options like Mara Intrepids Camp offer an even more premium experience.
Transportation Choices for Your Safari
Your Masai Mara safari’s cost can fluctuate based on your chosen mode of transportation, as different options significantly influence the overall cost. The most common mode of transport for safaris is Safari Tour Vans, although some travelers opt for 4×4 Toyota Landcruiser Jeeps for a more rugged experience.
Unlike Lake Nakuru National Park, transportation costs can differ, contingent on the vehicle type and passenger count. For instance, renting a Landcruiser may cost between US$ 250 to 275 per vehicle per day, while transporting two people in a Safari Tour Van costs around US$ 80 per person per day. However, larger groups generally benefit from reduced expenses per person due to shared costs.
Masai Mara Trip Cost – Safari Activities and Their Fees
Safari activities in Masai Mara offer a range of exciting experiences, each with its associated cost. Some of the activities you can enjoy include:
- Walking safaris
- Hot air balloon rides
- Horseback safaris
- Maasai Village visit
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The pricing for these activities can significantly vary. For instance:
- A walking safari can cost $400 to $500 per person
- A hot air balloon excursion ranges between US$ 415 to US$ 500 per person
- A visit to a traditional Maasai village is approximately $20 per person
Keep in mind that these activities are typically not included in the initial safari package and will be an added cost to your overall budget.
Crafting a Budget-Friendly Masai Mara Experience
After grasping the fundamental costs linked to a Masai Mara safari, your next move should be planning. Crafting a budget-friendly safari experience requires astute planning and a keen understanding of the local tourism landscape, like the local maasai village.
The optimal time for budget travelers to visit Masai Mara is during the Dry season from June to October. During this period, the park is less crowded, making it a more cost-effective and serene experience. However, if you’re willing to brave the off-peak season, you may find reduced prices and improved guide and vehicle quality.
Selecting the Right Time to Visit
Selecting an appropriate time to visit Masai Mara can greatly influence your budget. As mentioned earlier, the Dry season from June to October offers a budget-friendly window. However, the most cost-effective travel dates would be late June, September, and October when the park is generally less crowded.
Moreover, traveling to Masai Mara during the off-peak season, from April to June, also has its advantages. Though you might face limitations on some activities due to the prolonged dry season, the reduced crowds and lower accommodation rates create an ideal period for budget-conscious travelers to experience the park in a more tranquil setting.
Group Tours vs. Private Safaris
Another vital factor to bear in mind during the budget-friendly Masai Mara safari planning is deciding between group tours and private safaris. On average, group safari tours tend to cost less than private safaris, making them an appealing choice for travelers on a budget.
Group tours offer cost-effectiveness and guidance from experienced safari guides, which can enrich the cultural aspect of your safari experience. However, they may limit the intimacy of the experience due to larger group sizes.
On the other hand, private safaris offer a higher degree of freedom, allowing for a more immersive experience, albeit at a higher cost.
Detailed Expense Guide for Masai Mara Tour Packages
Alt tag: Masai Mara packages transport fees in Kenya
Caption: Transportation packages during high and low seasons
Now that you’re acquainted with the cost-impacting factors of a Masai Mara safari, we’ll provide a comprehensive expense guide for different tour and game viewing packages. Masai Mara packages range from budget to mid-luxury and luxury, each offering distinct experiences tailored to different budgets.
Safari tour package prices, or masai mara safari cost, in Masai Mara can differ based on the particular package. For instance, a 3-day safari could range between $1,200 and $2,000 per person. In contrast, a 7-day private safari averages about $716 per person sharing.
The cost of a one-week safari can range from $2,500 USD (budget) to $7,500 USD (luxury).
Budget Package Options
For travelers on a tight budget, there are several affordable package options to consider. The price range for a 3-day budget tour in Masai Mara is USD 350 per person. For international travelers from India, a budget Masai Mara safari package ranges from INR 50,000 to 60,000 per person.
Travel agencies like SafariBookings and MasaiMara.travel provide affordable Masai Mara package options, making the dream of an African safari a reality for budget-conscious travelers. Experience the adventure of a lifetime with Masai Mara game drives.
Mid-Luxury Safari Experiences
For those seeking a balance between cost and comfort, mid-luxury safaris offer an excellent middle-ground. The mid-luxury Masai Mara safari typically ranges from INR 70,000 to 80,000 per person for a minimum of 4 days with different accommodation options.
Mid-luxury safaris provide a premium wildlife viewing experience, offering exclusive access to prime locations for animal sightings. Tour operators such as Nature’s Wonderland Safaris, Explorer Kenya Safaris, and Discover Corps are highly regarded for their exceptional mid-luxury safaris, delivering well-organized and memorable experiences for travelers.
Splurging on Luxury Masai Mara Tours
If budget isn’t a constraint and you’re looking to splurge on a high-end safari experience, luxury Masai Mara tours are worth considering. Luxury Masai Mara safari packages generally range in price from INR 90,000 to 110,000 per person.
Luxury tours provide a wide array of premium experiences, including:
- Privileged entry to private conservancies
- Night drives
- Stunning vistas of the Mara River
- Deluxe tents with exquisite interior design
- Hot air balloon safaris
However, keep in mind that the luxury accommodations options significantly contribute to the total expense of your luxury safari.
Additional Costs to Consider When Visiting Masai Mara
Beyond essential expenses, it is crucial to consider additional costs during your Masai Mara safari planning. These expenses include:
- Park entry fee
- Insurance
- International flight tickets
- Tips and nature walks
- Laundry
- Souvenirs
- Drinks and beverages
It’s also advisable to budget for health-related expenses. Malaria is typically not a concern on Masai Mara safaris during the summer months. However, carrying malaria medication or seeking advice from a medical professional if you experience mosquito bites is recommended. Moreover, certain vaccinations such as Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Polio are also advised and highly recommended by the Kenyan Government.
Park Entry and Conservation Fees
A significant part of your budget will go towards the park entry and conservation fees. The park entry fee for Masai Mara National Reserve is USD 70 per adult per day for individuals staying at accommodations within the National Reserve. Staying outside the reserve and prefer using private vehicles? Adults are charged USD 80, while children aged 3-11.9 years are charged USD 45.
The conservation fee for visitors to Masai Mara National Reserve is USD 70 for adults and USD 40 for children under 12 years for non-residents. Kenyan citizens are required to pay 3,000KSH per day. This fee supports a range of areas within the park, such as revenue sharing with surrounding communities, maintenance and improvement of facilities, restoration of wildlife habitats, educational materials and services, transportation, and direct conservation of sensitive areas.
Vaccinations and Health Precautions
Health precautions are crucial when traveling to Masai Mara. Recommended vaccinations by the Kenyan government include:
- Yellow Fever
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A
- Polio
It’s also advisable to consider preventive measures for malaria, such as carrying antimalarial medication. Though the risk of malaria in Masai Mara is very rare due to the high elevation, lodges and camps typically provide mosquito nets to protect against mosquito bites.
Additionally, it’s crucial to be mindful of the water quality. Drinking tap water in Masai Mara is not recommended for safety reasons. Always consume bottled water during your stay. This small precaution can save you from potential health issues.
Insider Tips for Economical Masai Mara Travel
A few insider tips are required to optimize your budget during your Masai Mara safari. Every detail can significantly impact your overall expenditure, from dining options to souvenir shopping.
When it comes to dining, Masai Mara Reserve offers a variety of options, including:
- Local cuisine at lodges and camps
- Premium dining experiences at higher costs
- Budget-friendly meals at establishments like Masaï Mara Kenya, Isokon Restaurant, and The Gazelle Coffee House
For travelers with dietary restrictions, in-house dining at lodges or camps provide more dietary options.
Dining and Meal Planning
Planning your meals is a great strategy to regulate your safari expenses. The dining options at Masai Mara safari lodges include:
- Full English breakfast
- European dishes
- Lunch menus featuring meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables
- Multi-course fine cuisine
- Casual bush barbeque meals
- Local Kenyan cuisine like bush breakfast, all prepared with the finest local and seasonal ingredients
Unlike Marathon Digital Holdings, mining cryptocurrencies are yet to be incorporated as payment methods at Masai Mara. The average cost of meals at the lodges is $28 (KES4,272) per day.
Economical dining options in close proximity to Masai Mara include Masaï Mara Kenya, Isokon Restaurant, and The Gazelle Coffee House. For those opting for self-catering facilities, various Masai Mara accommodations offer amenities to prepare your own meals, further saving on dining costs.
Souvenir Shopping and Local Crafts
No safari experience is complete without bringing home a piece of Masai Mara. The local market offers a variety of traditional crafts and souvenirs for purchase, including:
- Decorative beaded jewelry
- Hand-Carved Wooden Sculptures
- Blankets
- Kikois
When shopping for souvenirs, it’s advisable to budget approximately $100. This will enable you to purchase local crafts and mementos without exceeding your budget. The Masai market is widely regarded as the best destination for purchasing souvenirs. Some popular items include:
- Vibrant beaded jewelry
- Hand-carved wooden sculptures
- Traditional Maasai blankets and clothing
- African masks and artwork
The market offers a wide variety of other arts and crafts as well. remember, you will need loose clothing during the dry seasons for your visits.
Comparing Masai Mara with Other Safari Destinations
While planning your safari, it might be beneficial to compare Masai Mara National Park with other safari destinations. The Serengeti National Park, for instance, is another highly sought-after safari destination. Comparing the two can help you make an informed decision based on cost-effectiveness and range of experiences.
The costs of Masai Mara and Serengeti safari walks can differ significantly. Those seeking luxury tours may find Masai Mara to be a more suitable option, while Serengeti might be a more budget-friendly choice. The observed wildlife species in Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park are comparable, encompassing the Big Five: Lions, Elephants, Rhinos, Leopards, and Buffaloes.
Value for Money in Masai Mara vs. Serengeti
When it comes to value for money, both Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park offer unique experiences. The costs of accommodations and overall safari experiences in Masai Mara are generally more affordable than those in the Serengeti. A budget 4-day safari in the Serengeti starts at approximately $475 per person per day, while a 7-day private safari in Masai Mara averages about $716 per person sharing.
However, the Serengeti boasts a Premier Experience safari activity ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 per person per night sharing, representing a substantial difference in cost compared to safari activities in Masai Mara.
Choosing Based on Wildlife and Experience
Choosing the best safari destination based on wildlife and overall experience is crucial. Both Masai Mara and Serengeti National Reserve provide exceptional safari experiences. However, Masai Mara safari tour offers a more cost-effective approach encompassing accommodations and park fees, which could potentially impact travelers’ choices.
The optimal periods for observing various wildlife in Masai Mara are during the Dry season from June to October and during the Great Wildebeest Migration from August to November. Masai Mara features a more hilly and treed landscape, providing a distinct contrast to the diverse landscapes and habitats found in Serengeti.
Journey Logistics: Getting to Masai Mara from Major Cities
Reaching Masai Mara from major cities like Las Vegas is fairly uncomplicated. Whether you’re traveling from Nairobi or planning an international trip, there are several convenient options available.
The distance from Nairobi city center to Masai Mara is approximately 224 kilometers. Traveling by road takes an estimated 5 hours and 53 minutes to cover the distance of 309.2 kilometers. Alternatively, by air, the journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Either taking a domestic flight or driving from Kenya’s capital city are the most efficient ways to travel from Nairobi to Masai Mara.
From Nairobi to Masai Mara
Two primary options are available for traveling from Nairobi to Masai Mara: by road or by air. The most dependable and secure methods of traveling include private cars, safari vehicles, and air travel.
The road journey from Nairobi to Masai Mara usually spans approximately 7 to 8 hours, just a slight difference of one hour. The recommended route covers about 225 kilometers (140 miles) and leads to the nearest entry point of Masai Mara Game Reserve. Alternatively, taking a domestic flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Masai Mara saves time, especially advantageous for individual travelers.
International Travelers: Flights and Transfers
For international travelers, a little extra planning is needed to reach Masai Mara. Direct flights to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi are available from major cities like Mumbai. Once in Nairobi, a short flight or taxi ride will take you to Masai Mara.
The cost for a round-trip flight to Kenya from major international airports is approximately ₹ 23,869, with potential variations based on the departure location and booking timing. Airlines such as Kenya Airways, British Airways, China Southern, Emirates, KLM, Saudia, Qatar, and others offer direct flights to Kenya from cities such as Dubai, Johannesburg, and London.
Summary
A safari to Masai Mara is an experience of a lifetime. With careful planning and consideration for your budget, you can make this dream a reality.
From selecting the right time to visit, opting for group tours, choosing the right accommodation and transportation, to planning your meals and shopping for souvenirs, every decision you make can significantly impact the cost of your safari.
By understanding the costs associated with a Masai Mara safari and making informed decisions, you can enjoy an unforgettable safari experience without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Masai Mara trip cost?
The cost of a Masai Mara trip can vary depending on the specific tour package you choose. It is best to explore different Masai Mara packages to find one within your budget.
How much does a 5 day safari in Kenya cost?
A 5-day safari in Kenya can cost anywhere from \$1,000 to \$5,000 per person, depending on the level of accommodations and services chosen. The price range varies from basic to luxury options.
Why is Masai Mara expensive?
Masai Mara is expensive because prices are higher during the peak season, from July to October, when the Great Wildebeest migration attracts a large number of visitors, leading to high demand and increased costs.
Is 3 days enough for Masai Mara?
Yes, 3 days is generally considered the minimum amount of time needed to experience everything in Masai Mara National Park.
Is MARA a good buy right now?
No, MARA is not a good buy at the moment based on analysts’ average price target.
