Want to do a Masai Mara safari from Nairobi? Well, see and explore the top experiences included in our Masai Mara safari packages in Kenya.

Game Drives in Masai Mara Kenya

Encounter wild animals such as the elephants, lions and many more in the 4WD safari vehicles in Kenya. Also, enjoy the spectacular panoramas of the reserve during your Masai Mara safari game drives. You can go for the game drives at any time of the day from morning drives to night game drives through the Maasai Mara Kenya.

Cultural Tours to Maasai Villages in Masai Mara tour Packages

Safari tours in Masai Mara give openings to the tourists all over the world to uncover traditions and customs of the Maasai Peope. Also, acquire knowledge about the daily routine of the Maasai people during the cultural tours in Maasai Mara Kenya.  From cultural way of dressing to the way they are artistic in terms of constructing their houses (Manyattas) by themselves. Lastly, visit Maasai Mara Kenya and see the Maasai making local crafts which is mesmerizing.

Witness the Great Migration during your Masai Mara tours

The Maasai Mara Kenya also gives an opportunity to the travelers to experience one of the seven wonders in the world. In Masai Mara, the Kenya safari great migration is encountered around the Mara River area. Also, not only do the wildebeests converge there but also other numerous wild animals such as the African buffaloes. So, since many animals are around this area, predator prey relationships are at high concentration here during your Masai Mara safari holidays .

See the Big Five in your Masai Mara safari holidays

In Masai Mara National Reserve, you get to come across the big five safari Kenya animals namely: lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes and elephants. The leopards are the hardest to locate in this group during our Masai Mara safari holidays. Although, they are usually hiding in the trees while the others are seen wandering around either in the grasslands or at either the Mara waters or the Talek waters.

Explore the Mara Triangle in a Masai Mara tour

The Mara Triangle is one of the areas that has variety of wildlife spanning across the area including the carnivores such as leopards and lions. It also has a big concentration of the wildebeests hence best for the Africa animal migration tour in Masai Mara. The Mara Triangle is also one of the regions in Maasai Mara Kenya that gives ravishing views of the sunset as it goes down the Oloololo escarpment.

Visit Musiara Swamp in a Masai Mara tour

Musiara Swamp is a marshy waterlogged area in Maasai Mara Kenya with dense concentration of the lions, leopards and cheetahs. It is also a home for the Nile crocodiles and the hippos. Also, sometimes herds of wildebeests settle around this Musiara Swamp area while in Masai Mara national reserve.

Hot Air Balloon Rides Included in Masai Mara Safari Packages

The Masai Mara hot air balloon rides are one of the most well-known activities featured in luxury Masai Mara safari packages. Float silently over the golden savannah at dawn, watching the sun rise over the Serengeti Mara plains. See the elephants, wildebeests, and zebra herds wander freely under you, while predators such as lions and cheetahs pursue their prey.

This beautiful overhead view of the Masai Mara ecosystem, sometimes followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Hence, these Kenya balloon safaris create an unforgettable experience and a must-see on every Masai Mara tour itinerary.

Discover Flare Motorogi Conservancy in a Masai Mara safari from Nairobi

The Flare Motorogi Conservancy, located on the borders of the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. Flare Motorogi Conservancy provides amazing wildlife experiences in a less congested and more laid-back area. The conservancy provides a more intimate Masai Mara safari experience than the more crowded areas of the reserve. So, these vary from guided game drives and walking safaris. It is home to a diverse range of animals, including large cats, elephants, giraffes, and more.

Many cheap Masai Mara safari packages include visits to conservancies such as Motorogi for people seeking conservation-focused tourism in Kenya. The conservancy also collaborates closely with local Maasai communities. Hence, making it an excellent venue to learn about the culture and promote sustainable tourism.

1. How Much Does a Masai Mara Safari Cost?

Masai Mara safari costs vary by duration, accommodation, season, and tour type (group vs private). A 3-4 day Masai Mara safari costs $150-$1,000+/person/day excluding international flights. Budget group camping tours start at $150-$350/day (~$450-$1,050 total), mid-range lodges at $350-$600/day (~$1,050-$2,400), and luxury tented Masai Mara camps/fly-ins at $600-$1,500+/day (~$1,800-$6,000+).

Prices include park fees, full board meals, drives, and guides. Peak season in Masai Mara (July-Oct) adds 20-50% for wildebeest migration demand. Low season (Mar-May, Nov) cuts 20-40% with greener views but rain risks. Group tours in Masai Mara save 20-30% while private safaris adds $300-$1,000.

2. What Is the 12-Hour Rule for Masai Mara?

The 12-hour rule was introduced in 2024 by the Narok County Government. Also, it restricts vehicle access in Masai Mara National Reserve to 12 hours daily (6:00 AM-6:00 PM). This is to reduce environmental stress and overcrowding during peak Masai Mara wildebeest migration season (July-Oct). Vehicles must exit by 6:00 PM or face fines (~$100-$200), ensuring wildlife rest and habitat preservation.

3. Is 2 Nights in Masai Mara Enough?

Two nights (3 days) is sufficient for a compact Masai Mara safari, covering 3–4 game drives (morning/evening, 3–4hr each). Also, with a 90–95% chance of the Kenya Big Five and migration sightings (July–Oct). It allows one full day plus two half-days, ideal for key areas like Mara Triangle or Musiara Marsh, and a Maasai village visit ($20–$50).

However, it’s rushed for deeper exploration (e.g., river crossings, Masai Mara balloon rides). For fuller coverage, including quieter zones or add-ons like night drives, 3–4 nights is better. 2-night budget Masai Mara tours start at $450–$900 (group) or $700–$1,500 (private); mid-range $900–$1,800.

4. Is Masai Mara Cheaper Than Serengeti?

Masai Mara is generally cheaper than the Serengeti for shorter trips. A 3 days Masai Mara safari costs $450–$2,400 (budget to mid-range, $150–$800/day). While a  3 days Serengeti safari averages $600–$3,000 ($200–$1,000/day) due to higher park fees ($60–$70/day + $40 concession). Also, costlier internal flights ($300–$500 vs. Mara’s $200–$400 from Nairobi).

Masai Mara’s proximity to Nairobi (6-hour drive vs. Serengeti’s 8–10-hour or flight-only access) cuts transport costs by 20–30%. Group tours in Mara save 20–40% vs. Serengeti’s pricier shared options.

However, Serengeti’s luxury fly-in camps ($800–$2,000+/night) can match Mara’s high-end ($600–$1,500), and Tanzania’s VAT (18%) adds to Serengeti’s total. Low season (Mar–May) sees Mara 20–40% cheaper; peak season (July–Oct) aligns costs closer.

5. Can I Self-Drive in Masai Mara?

Self-driving in the Masai Mara National Park is no longer allowed as of 2024 to protect wildlife and reduce habitat damage. You’ll need a licensed driver-guide (around $40/day) or a tour operator’s 4×4 with a pop-up roof for game drives.

Guides know the unmarked tracks in Masai Mara, animal behaviors, and rules (e.g., no off-roading, 50 km/h speed limit). You can drive to the reserve’s gates (e.g., Sekenani, 6hr from Nairobi) in a 4×4 rental in Kenya ($50–$120/day). But inside, a guide is mandatory during game drives. This ensures safety and supports conservation, as 70% of Mara’s wildlife relies on undisturbed habitats.

6. How Much Is One Night in Masai Mara?

One night in the Masai Mara costs $150–$1,500+/person, depending on accommodation. Masai Mara budget lodges (e.g., Fisi Camp) run $150–$300/night with basic tents and shared facilities. Mid-range lodges like Keekorok offer comfort for $250–$500/night, including meals. Masai Mara luxury lodges and camps(e.g., Governors’ Camp) start at $600–$1,500+/night with private verandas and fine dining.

Peak season in Masai Mara for a night (July–Oct) adds 20–50% and low season (Mar–May) cuts 20–40%. Prices often include meals and park fees ($100–$200/day). Group bookings save 10–20%; solo travelers pay 20–30% more.

7. How Do You Get from Nairobi to Masai Mara?

You can get to Masai Mara from Nairobi by road and domestic flights. From Nairobi, reach the Masai Mara by road (5–6hr, 270 km) or air (45–60 minutes). Road options include private 4×4 transfers ($200–$300 one-way for 2–4 people) via the paved A104 and C12 to Sekenani Gate. Or budget matatus ($15–$20) from Nairobi’s River Road to Narok, then Sekenani (dusty, 2hr).

Flights from Wilson Airport (AirKenya, SafariLink) cost $200–$450 round-trip. In addition, they land at airstrips like Musiara, with lodge transfers included. Road is cheaper but bumpy, while flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara save time but hit peak-season surcharges. Arrive by 3:00 PM to enter before gates close (6:00 PM).

8. How Much Is the Entrance Fee for Masai Mara Park in 2025?

In 2025, Masai Mara entrance fees for non-resident adults are $100/day from January to June and November to December, jumping to $200/day from July to October due to East Africa animal migration season. Kids aged 9–17 pay $50/day year-round; under 9 enter free.

Students (up to 23) with valid IDs and pre-approved school trips pay $50/day. Fees cover a 12-hour period (6:00 AM–6:00 PM), doubled from 2023’s $80/24 hours, making Mara the priciest wildlife reserve globally. Pay via card or M-Pesa at gates like Sekenani or Oloololo; pre-pay at KAPS in Nairobi to save time.

For the best Masai Mara Holiday deals, make reservations through  Serengeti Masai Mara Specialists.