Introduction
It’s time! The vacation you’ve been eagerly anticipating is becoming a reality. All those
incredible videos you watched online, showcasing crocodiles ambushing a stampede
of wildebeest, are about to come to life before your very eyes. You
know where you
want to go—the Maasai Mara. But how do you get there? What do you need to know
for the journey? Read on, and you'll have all the information you need for your
unforgettable adventure in the Maasai Mara.
In this post, we’ll take you through the best way, based on research and our
experience, for you to experience the Mara.
Things to Look Out For
To have an amazing experience in the Mara, all you have to do is show up. Yes, the
wildlife really is that breathtaking, especially during the migration season! But, to make
your trip even more enjoyable, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Carry just enough items You’ll only be allowed 15kg of luggage on the plane. Pro tip: Carry only what you need, and choose a place to stay that will take care of the rest.
Pack some warm clothing The Mara gets pretty hot during the day, which is what you’ll see in most photos and videos. However, early mornings and evenings can be quite cold. It’s wise to carry warm clothing, just in case.
Travel insurance It’s highly recommended to take out adequate travel insurance to cover illness, injury, or hospitalisation while travelling. Also, consider purchasing temporary flying doctor’s insurance for peace of mind.
Booking Your Trip to Kenya
The first step, if you’re not already in Kenya, is to book your trip to Kenya. Use your
preferred international carrier to fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in
Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya.
All international travellers are required to submit a Kenya Electronic System for Travel
Authorisation (eTA) through the directorate of Immigration Services website
(www.etakenya.go.ke) prior to departure. For more information regarding eTA
requirements, we recommend reviewing information by the Kenyan embassy in your
country of residence.
After a long flight, you might want to rest for a while. Nairobi has some excellent
hotels, where you can relax and recharge. Conveniently, the airport for your domestic
flight, Wilson Airport, is reasonably close to JKIA and many of our recommended
hotels. For hotel recommendations please contact us directly.
Getting to the Mara
The most recommended way to get to the Maasai Mara is by air. Two main airlines
operate flights to the Maasai Mara: Air Kenya and Safarilink. Both offer reliable
services with similar reviews, so you can choose either with confidence.
Board your flight at Wilson Airport in Nairobi. The flight takes about 45-60 minutes and
is an adventure in itself. As you soar above the Kenyan landscape, you’ll get to see the
full, breathtaking beauty of the brown grass as it glistens under the golden savanna
sun.
Flights to the Mara are available at various times of the day, including early morning,
mid-morning, and afternoon. There are many airstrips in the Maasai Mara, including
Keekorok, Kichwa Tembo, Musiara, Olkiombo, and others. When booking your flight,
the flight company or the hotel or camp where you will be staying will help you know
which flight to book so you can easily get to your accommodation.
You can also travel by road, but the terrain is rough, so a four-wheel drive car with
plenty of clearance and a great suspension system is necessary. Most safari travel
companies will provide this for you. The four-hour drive is a scenic adventure
showcasing life along Kenya’s highways.
Choosing a Place to Stay
When choosing a place to stay, there are several options - from well reputed hotels
and tented camps to privately run properties. Most visitors prefer the camps for the
authentic experience, but you have all the choice here. Here are some important
things to consider:
Location and Accessibility
Proximity to wildlife viewing areas and ease of access from main roads and
airstrips ensure a convenient and enriching safari experience.
Accommodation and Amenities:
Select a place that fits your budget and offers essential amenities such as hot
water, electricity, Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms for a comfortable stay.
Wildlife and Cultural Experiences:
Look for lodges that provide guided safaris, cultural visits, and activities like
game drives, night safaris, and hot air balloon rides to fully immerse yourself in
the Maasai Mara experience.
Entry Fees to the Park Starting January 1, 2024, the Narok County Council has updated the entry fees for the
Masai Mara National Reserve. From January 1 to June 30, 2024, adults will need to pay
$100 per day, and children aged 9 to 17 will be charged $50 per day. From July 1 to
December 31, 2024, the fee for adults will increase to $200 per day, while the child
rate stays at $50 per day. Also,if you request to do an early morning game drive on
your departure day, you’ll need to pay for an extra day’s entry.
What to Expect During the Great Migration
The Great Migration is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife events in the world.
Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras
and gazelles, make their way from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara in
search of greener pastures. Here’s what you can expect:
Timing: The exact timing of the Great Migration varies each year, but it typically occurs between July and October.
Distance: The animals travel a vast distances during their migration.
Survival: Not all animals make it to the end. It's estimated that around 250,000 wildebeest die each year during the migration due to predation, exhaustion, and other natural challenges.
Spectacle: The Mara River crossings are the most dramatic and widely photographed events of the migration, drawing wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from around the globe.
Not Migration Season? There's Still Plenty to See!
While the Great Migration is a highlight, the Maasai Mara offers incredible wildlife
experiences year-round. Here are some attractions and activities you can enjoy off
season:
Game Viewing: The Maasai Mara is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. Game drives will allow you to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
Bird Watching: The Mara is a haven for bird watchers, with over 500 bird species recorded in the reserve. From raptors to vibrant weaver birds, the diversity is astounding.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience the Mara from above with a hot air balloon ride. This offers a unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife, often culminating in a champagne breakfast in the bush.
Walking Safaris: For those who want to get closer to nature, walking safaris provide an intimate experience with the environment. Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, from plants to insects.
Maasai Cultural Visits: Engage with the local Maasai community to learn about their traditional way of life. Visits to Maasai villages, or “manyattas,” offer insights into their culture, customs, and crafts.
Weather in the Mara
The Maasai Mara is located at an elevation varying from 1,500 to 1,900 meters.
Contrary to what many people may think when coming to Africa, you can expect
pleasant daytime temperatures that can get quite warm and much cooler nights.
Conclusion
The Maasai Mara is one of the most incredible safari destinations in the world, offering
unparalleled wildlife experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose to
fly or drive to the Mara, the journey is part of the adventure. However, flying is
undoubtedly the best way to maximize your time and comfort, allowing you to start
your safari experience as soon as you land.
Why Samana Mara?
Book with us, and you won't have to think about most of these things! Here's what we
offer:
Logistics Assistance -We'll coordinate the logistics for you, right from the airport to your cozy tent.
Activity Arrangements - We'll arrange for great activities to fill your day, including birdwatching, hot air balloon rides, or relaxing sundowners.
Luggage Convenience - We'll provide everything you'll need for your stay, so you don't even have to mind the 15kg luggage limit.
Personalised Meals - We'll take into account your preferences or allergies, creating a wonderful menu just for you.
Comprehensive Travel Assistance - We'll manage the logistics from the moment you board the plane to when you’re settled in your room, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.
Staying at Samana Mara ensures a comfortable and memorable stay, with all the
amenities and activities you need to make the most of your safari. Pack your bags, book your trip, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Maasai Mara. Book
your stay today!
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