Safari & Me

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Your Safari Guide to the Masai Mara.

The Masai Mara National Park and is one of the most well known safari destinations. Featured in numerous wildlife documentaries include BBC’s Big Cat Diaries, David Attenborough Dynasties and many many more.

The rolling plain lands, umbrella acacia trees and herds of animals is just as you see on TV and the animals are just as relaxed. One of the best places to get up close to the big cats, leopards are often seen around the area and lions and cheetah are a standard on most game drives.

I’ve looked at the internet mosts frequently asked questions on the Masai Mara and answered all below.

What is the Masai Mara famous for?

The Masai Mara is renowned for its superb lion, cheetah and leopard viewings as well as its annual wildebeest migration which visits which visits between July and September.

Many documentaries are filmed here as the animals are so relaxed with the vehicles film crew can capture their natural behaviour with minimal disturbance.

Where is the Masai Mara National Park located?

The Masai is found in Southern Kenya near the border to Tanzania and the Serengeti National Park and west of Nairobi, mid-way between the city and the border to Uganda.

What is the best time to visit the Masai Mara?

The most popular time to visit the Masai Mara is between July and September when the annual wildebeest migration is in full swing as well as many of the European schools are on their long holidays so a perfect time for travelling families.

The park however does get very busy over this time and so if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience and not as many cars round an animal sighting then book your trip for February, March or October when the crowds die down but the weather should still be dry and warm.

Is Masai Mara expensive?

Yes - compared to other parks and conservancies in Kenya it is one of the most expensive due to its popularity. It is well worth the extra money for guaranteed great sightings however it does come at a cost. Non-resident park fees are around USD $80 per person per day before you add on accommodation costs.

To make it more affordable, you can always stay in a conservancy outside of the park and take a day trip in, some of the conservancies have just as amazing sightings and are more controlled with how many vehicles are allowed around an animal sighting and so many prefer the experience, especially in the high season.

Check out my blog on National Parks vs Conservancies to find out more.

How many days do you need in the Masai Mara?

I would recommend spending minimum 2 nights but ideally at least 3 nights in the Masai Mara. This gives you time to get to know your game driver and to not only see plenty of wildlife but to have the time to sit and spend some time with some of the animals, watching their behaviour and not rushing off to find the next one.

Is Masai Mara worth visiting?

Absolutely - There are few better places to view such numbers of wildlife, relaxed in their natural habitat with no buildings or man made objects to be seen.

How much does it cost to enter the Masai Mara?

Park fees for tourists are $80 per person per day to enter the Masai Mara National Park. On top of that fee you’ll need a driver to take you to the park and may have to pay for their park fees as well as any accommodation you need.

How do I book the safari in Masai Mara?

Always booked a trip to the Masai Mara through a reputable tour operator or provider. A well knowledgeable guide with good knowledge of the park and its wildlife adds an invaluable experience to your time in the Masai Mara.
If your looking for a quote get in touch and I can put tailor make your perfect package.