FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions regarding your safari to Masai Mara. Please find the answers to each of the questions below;
Where is Masai Mara National Reserve ?
Masai Mara National Reserve is a large game reserve in Narok County in Kenya, which is a country in East Africa. It covers approximately 1500sq. kms in size and bounds the Serengeti Park to the south. It is globally renowned for its exceptional wildlife and perhaps for the Great Migration.
What is the best time to visit Masai Mara ?
Masai Mara National Reserve is regarded as an year round safari destination as it offers ideal climate with abundant resident wildlife for excellent game viewing. However, the best wildlife viewing months in Kenya are during the dry season from late June to October. This is also when the spectacular wildebeest migration occurs.
What is the Great Migration ( Wildebeest Migration )?
The Great Migration also known as the Wildebeest Migration is the mass movement of over a million plus animals including wildebeest, antelope, Zebra and the Big Cats such as Lion from Serengeti into Masai Mara. The migration is actually a continuous year long clockwise movement encompassing Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara in Kenya, influenced by a number of factors including weather, pasture and mating~birthing cycles.
Do I need a Visa to enter Kenya?
Yes, a visa is required if you plan to travel to Kenya, except citizens from countries who are exempted. You will also need a passport with 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages to enter the country. Kenyan entry visas are exclusively issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their E-visa before departure. You can apply for the E-visa here.
Is it safe to visit Masai Mara ?
Masai Mara is quite safe to Visit. Kenya itself is one of the safest countries in East & Central Africa which is why many global UN bodies and reginal Embassies as well as international companies have chosen Nairobi as their head quarters for the African region. The Kenyan parks and reserves are professionally managed with adequate security in place. Safety is bolstered by the fact the wilderness areas in Kenya such as Masai Mara, away from urban areas, is naturally safe and secure.
See more here Is Masai Mara Safe. In terms of safety from Animals, incidents of wildlife attacks on visitors to the park are very rare. Camps and Lodges in Masai Mara have night guards who patrol the property and keep the vicinity safe. During the day, your Safari Driver-Guides would typically guide you on how to approach the wildlife in the safest way, either on your game drive or your walking safari.
Why is Masai Mara important ?
Maasai Mara is one of the most famous and important wildlife conservation and wilderness areas in Africa, world-renowned for its exceptional populations of lion, African leopard, cheetah and African bush elephant. It also hosts the Great Migration, which secured it as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, and as one of the ten Wonders of the World.
How much is it to enter the Masai Mara ?
Park entry for non-residents is currently $80 per adult and $45 per child for 24hrs. For residents it is KES 1200 per adult and KES 300 per child or student for 24hrs. For a vehicle with 6 seats and under is it KES 400 and for 6-12 Seats is it KES 1000 per 24hrs.
Can a child come on a Safari?
Yes, children of all ages are allowed to enter Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and enjoy a Safari.
Is there mobile network coverage at Masai Mara ?
Yes, both Safaricom and Airtel mobile service providers have a wide coverage at the Mara. Some lodges and Camps even have complimentary WI-FI and computers for guest's use. Although there are some areas in Masai Mara where there is no mobile coverage.
Is Malaria an issue in Masai Mara ?
Due to the high elevation of Masai Mara, Malaria is very rare since mosquitoes do not live at those elevations. However, although Malaria is sparse in this region, it does exist.
How many days do you need in Masai Mara ?
Ideally, a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights is perfectly okay. This will give you enough time to explore and view the entire variety of wildlife and sceneries in the park.
What activities can I expect to do ?
To make most out of your safari; here is a list of to do activities: Safari Game Drives, Hot Air Balloon Safaris, Masai Village Tours, Nature & Bush Walk, Picnics in the wild as well as Bush meals and sundowners.
How many Hotels are there in Masai Mara ?
Hotels in Masai Mara fall into two general categories - Lodges and Camps. It is estimated that there are over 150 camps and lodges located in Masai Mara National Reserve and the various conservancies neighboring the Reserve. Some of these hotels may also be located on non conservancy land near the reserve in areas such as Sekenani. Note that some of these camps especially the exclusive or luxury ones tend to have few rooms, with fewer than 40 beds.
Which are the best Hotels, Camps or Lodges in Masai Mara ?
There are several luxury tented camps and lodges which are highly rated internationally and global award winners. Some of these include Olare Mara Kempinski Camp, Olarro Camp, Cottars Camp, Mahali Mzuri Camp by Richard Branson, Mara Bushtops, Little Governors, Porini camp, Elewana, Mara Serena Lodge, Fairmont Mara Safari Club, Angama Camp.
