Today, we dive into a special topic that many of you have been asking about: how to plan a budget-friendly trip to Masai Mara. This post covers all aspects of our journey, which we completed for just around $1900 – $2000 per person. If you’re dreaming of visiting one of the world’s most iconic game reserves but are concerned about the costs, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through our itinerary, the best time to visit, cost breakdowns, and tips to keep your expenses low while ensuring a memorable experience.
Why Masai Mara?
Masai Mara, located in Kenya, spans over 1,510 square kilometers and is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, including the Great Migration of over a million wildebeests and zebras. It is one of the premier game reserves in the world. If you’ve watched Discovery or National Geographic, you’ve likely seen breathtaking scenes of cheetahs chasing prey or lions enjoying their meals in this vast landscape. For us, this trip was not just a dream but a bucket list adventure—for me.
We planned our visit in June 2024 and will share everything from our itinerary to cost-saving tips. This guide is especially useful if you’re hesitant to take the trip due to budget concerns. Let’s get started!
Itinerary Overview
We planned a five-day tour with a focus on experiencing Masai Mara:
- Day 1. I arrived in Nairobi around 2:30 PM and stayed at an Airbnb situated between the city and the airport.
- Day 2: Picked up by our tour guides and traveled to Masai Mara. After checking into our budget camp, we spent the evening experiencing the Masai village.
- Days 3 & 4: Two full days exploring the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Masai Mara.
- Day 5: Returned to Nairobi.
- Day 6: Departure from Nairobi.
While Kenya has other beautiful locations like Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Amboseli, this trip was dedicated to exploring the iconic Masai Mara. We prioritized the budget and stuck to this itinerary.
Best Time to Visit Masai Mara
Timing plays a crucial role in your Masai Mara experience, as it significantly impacts the type of wildlife you’ll encounter and the overall ambiance of the trip.
For instance, visiting during the Great Migration (July to October) offers dramatic scenes of river crossings and predator-prey interactions, while the shoulder seasons provide a quieter, more intimate experience with the park’s diverse ecosystem. Here’s a breakdown:
- July to October: Peak season due to the wildebeest migration. Witnessing this natural spectacle involves animals crossing the Mara River, where crocodiles and hippos await. This is one of nature’s greatest events and is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. However, peak season entry fees are higher ($200 per person per day for 12 hours).
- November to February: Shoulder season with fewer crowds and moderate weather. This period is ideal for those looking to enjoy the wildlife without the high prices and large groups that come with the peak season. Accommodation and safari costs are generally lower, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. While the wildebeest migration isn’t active, you can still see a variety of animals, including the Big Five.
- March to May: Rainy season. Avoid this period as flooding can disrupt tours.
- June (Second Half): A great balance between cost and experience. Entry fees during this time are $100 per person per day, making it a budget-friendly choice. We chose June to save on costs, although it meant missing the migration.
Flight Costs and Options
Booking flights 1.5 to 2 months in advance is key to managing costs, as it allows you to secure better deals and avoid last-minute price surges.
For travelers from the United States, round-trip flights to Nairobi can range between $900 and $1,500, depending on the time of year and the airline.
Major carriers such as Delta, United Airlines, and Kenya Airways often offer routes connecting through hubs like Amsterdam, Paris, or Doha.
New York to Nairobi :
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)—- Hamad International Airport (DOH)
Travel time: 12 hr 15 minOvernight
1 hr 10 min layoverDoha (DOH)
Hamad International Airport (DOH)—– Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Travel time: 5 hr 10 min
You can book your ticket as your preference root and airlines.
Tracking fares and booking 1.5 to 2 months in advance can help you secure better deals.
Visa and Mandatory Preparations
Kenya requires an electronic visa (ETA), which costs $35 per person. The process is entirely online and straightforward, with approvals typically received within 48 hours. Additionally:
- Vaccinations: Yellow fever(Mandatory) and polio vaccinations are recommended . These are available at government hospitals.your insurance can cover
- Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, it’s advisable and costs around $20
Accommodation in Nairobi
For our two nights in Nairobi, we stayed at a cozy Airbnb with a kitchen and one-bedroom setup. The host was friendly, and the cost was approximately $35 per night.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Drinking Water: In budget accommodations, drinking water isn’t provided. We recommend buying 5-liter jars from grocery stores.
- Transportation: Uber is widely available in Nairobi.
- Tips: Tipping guides and drivers during the game drive is customary but not mandatory.
- Masai Village Visit: An optional activity costing $15-$20 per person. The funds contribute to community initiatives like children’s education.
- SIM Card: Safaricom offers reliable coverage, even in remote areas like Masai Mara. We purchased a 7-day unlimited data plan for $11-$12.
Choosing Your Safari Provider
After extensive research and recommendations from friends, we chose Baboon Budget Safari as our provider. They are an aggregator and offer various customizable plans for Kenya. While we chose a package exclusively for Masai Mara, they can curate options covering other destinations. Their contact details are available in the description for further inquiries.
.
Key Factors That Affect Safari Costs
1. Accommodation
- Inside the Park: Premium experience but higher costs. Staying inside allows more time in the park, as you can leave later and return later.
- Outside the Park: More affordable and often just a few minutes from the gate. We stayed at Miti Mingi Eco Camp, located five minutes from the gate. It provided a secure, comfortable stay with amenities like hot water, electricity (available 6-10 PM), and charging points.
2. Group vs. Private Tours
- Group Tours: Cost-effective but less flexible. These typically include shared itineraries and vehicles.
- Private Tours: Greater autonomy but higher costs. Ideal for groups of 4-5, as the cost can be divided among participants. We were fortunate to get a private tour on our second day, providing us a unique and intimate wildlife experience.
3. Vehicle Choice
- Vans: Budget-friendly but limited access to rough terrains. Longer hours can feel cramped.
- Land Cruisers: Superior comfort and accessibility. We opted for this and found it worth the additional cost. It’s recommended. Riding experience should be smooth while on safari. Otherwise it will be frustrating because safari is a long running time and it needs patience. A comfortable ride can give you a smooth journey.
Cost Breakdown
Here’s the summary of our expenses :
Total USD Costs:
- Flights: $1100
- Safari: $450
- Nairobi Stay: $33.60
- Food & Water: $4.20
- Visa: $35
- Masai Village Visit: $20
- SIM Card: $15
- Transportation: $20
- Insurance: $20
- Shopping and Tips: $54
Total cost (in USD): $1752
Total: $1800 per person
By optimizing our stay, transport, and tour choices, we managed to create a memorable experience within a reasonable budget.
Final Tips
- Plan and book early to secure the best rates.
- Choose your tour operator wisely to ensure a smooth experience.
- Pack essentials like power banks and travel adapters.
- Stay flexible to adapt to any unforeseen changes.
We hope this guide helps you plan your Masai Mara adventure. Let us know if you have questions or need assistance. Happy exploring!