KenyaLuxury Safari
2 Nights Laikipia and Nanyuki Conservancy Fly - in Safari from Nairobi
Fly north and begin with a conservancy activity. Full-day conservancy activities with flexible pacing.
3 Days / 2 Nights
From$2,050
Destination Guide
Masai Mara Safari Guide
The Masai Mara is Kenya's most famous wildlife reserve and one of the best safari destinations on Earth. Home to the Great Migration and incredible big cat populations, it delivers world-class game viewing year-round.
Why the Masai Mara?
The Masai Mara National Reserve covers 1,510 km² of rolling grasslands, riverine forests, and acacia woodlands. It's part of the greater Serengeti-Mara ecosystem and hosts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.
- Big Five guaranteed — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino
- Great Migration river crossings (July-October)
- Over 470 bird species recorded
- Adjacent conservancies offer exclusive, low-density experiences
Getting There
The Masai Mara is about 270 km southwest of Nairobi. You can drive (5-6 hours) or fly (45 minutes via daily scheduled flights from Wilson Airport). Fly-in safaris save time and offer aerial views of the Rift Valley.
- Road transfer: 5-6 hours from Nairobi via Narok
- Scheduled flights: 45 min from Wilson Airport
- Charter flights available for flexible schedules
- Combined road-and-fly itineraries are popular
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from budget campsites to ultra-luxury tented camps. Staying inside the reserve puts you closer to wildlife, while private conservancies (Olare Motorogi, Naboisho, Mara North) offer exclusive game drives, walking safaris, and night drives.
- Inside the reserve: Mara Serena, Keekorok, Fig Tree Camp
- Private conservancies: exclusive access, fewer vehicles
- Budget camps outside the gate from $80/night
- Luxury tented camps from $500/night all-inclusive
Best Activities
Beyond traditional game drives, the Masai Mara offers unique experiences that connect you with the landscape and local Maasai culture.
- Hot air balloon safari at dawn ($450-$500)
- Walking safaris with Maasai guides (conservancy only)
- Night game drives (conservancy only)
- Maasai village cultural visits
- Photography hides at river crossings
Recommended
Related Safari Packages
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Fly to Meru and begin with an afternoon game drive. Morning and afternoon drives in Meru landscapes.
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2 Nights Loisaba Conservancy Fly - in Safari from Nairobi
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KenyaLuxury Safari
5 Nights Luxury Kenya Fly - in Safari: Maasai Mara, Samburu & Lewa
Fly to Mara and begin with an afternoon luxury game drive. Full game-viewing day with private pacing.
6 Days / 5 Nights
From$5,600
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in the Masai Mara?+
A minimum of 2 nights (3 days) is recommended, but 3-4 nights allows for more relaxed game drives and the chance to explore different areas of the reserve and adjacent conservancies.
What is the entry fee for Masai Mara?+
As of 2026, entry fees for non-resident adults are $200 per person per day (24 hours). Children aged 3-17 pay $100. Conservancy fees vary but are typically $80-$120 per person per day.
Is the Masai Mara worth visiting outside migration season?+
Absolutely. The Mara has excellent resident wildlife year-round including large lion prides, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and hippos. Non-migration months often have fewer visitors and better rates.
Book Your Masai Mara Safari
Choose from our carefully designed Masai Mara packages, or let us create a custom itinerary tailored to your interests.
From the Journal
Planning Resources & Travel Guides
Masai Mara Entry Fees 2024 & 2025
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE FEES 2024 & 2025 Introduction:Masai Mara Entry Fees. Welcome to the heart of East Africa’s wilderness, where the Masai Mara National Reserve…
Kenya's Top Safari Destinations: Your Dream Safari Awaits in Kenya
Kenya’s Top Safari Destinations. Quick Highlights Kenya’s Top Safari Destinations. Brief Overview of Kenya’s Rich Biodiversity Importance of Safaris in Kenya’s Tourism…
Conservation Strategies: Join the Movement in Protecting Kenya's Wildlife
Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species Quick Highlights Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species Understanding Endangered Species Definition and Criteria…