Are you planning a Kenya safari? The Masai Mara Kenya is the place to be! The reserve offers the richest wildlife spectacle in Kenya. We have drafted this guide to enable you to understand what it involves when planning the best Masai Mara safari packages from India for you.

The piece will inform you of the right time to book your Masai Mara tour and show you the average cost of the Kenya safari Masai Mara holidays. Our travel consultants have also shared the information you might need when booking a budget, mid-range, or luxury safari to the Masai Mara.

We have also shared useful facts about a safari in Mara Reserve, Serengeti, things to do, and the ideal way to get from Nairobi to Mara. Also, we have shared the top places you can stay during your Masai Mara safari and the Masai Mara package cost for each camp/lodge.

The Local Experts of Masai Mara Safari Packages and Kenya Safaris

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We are the local experts on Kenya safari Masai Mara holidays, and we promise to plan the right Masai Mara safari packages for you. You can rest assured of lifetime memories when visiting the Masai Mara National Reserve with AjKenyaSafaris.com.

Our Best Selling Masai Mara Tour Packages for 2023/2024

3-Day African Safari in Kenya
From  USD 880 Per Person
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4-Day Ashnil Mara Camp Safari
From USD 1190 Per Person
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4-Day Masai Mara Flying Tour
From USD 1450 Per Person
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5-Day Naivasha & Masai Mara Group Tour
From USD 854 Per Person
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6-Day Hell’s Gate, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Trip
From USD 1788 Per Person
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6-Day Nairobi, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari

From USD 1795 Per Person

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3-Day Masai Mara Safari
From USD 880 Per Person
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4-Day Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Trip
From USD 1180 Per Person
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4-Day Masai Mara Group Adventure
From USD 750 Per Person
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6-Day Amboseli, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Trip From USD 1764 Per Person View the 6 Days Itinerary
6-Day L. Nakuru, Hell’s Gate, & Masai Mara Group Safari
From 1123 Per Person
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7-Day Amboseli, Naivasha, & Masai Mara Tour

From USD 1130 Per Person

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3-Day Masai Mara Tour
From USD 880 Per Person
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4-Day Mara Serena Safari Lodge Trip
From USD 1262 Per Person
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4-Day Masai Mara Migration Safari
From USD 1430 Per Person
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6-Day Amboseli, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Group Safari
From USD 1186 Per Person
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6-Day Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Tour
From USD 638 Per Child  & USD 2000 Per Adult
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13-Day Kenya Wildlife & Beach Safari

From USD 5258 Per Person

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Facts About Masai Mara National National Reserve in Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve is the most visited game park in Kenya and Africa. It is the flagship Kenya safari destination alongside Amboseli National Park, Nairobi National park, Diani Beach, Lake Nakuru National Park, Tsavo East, and West National Park.

It is estimated that over 290,000 tourists book Mara tour packages each year. On a Mara Mara safari safari from India with us, you will see all the Big Five members – lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and leopards.

You can also see cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and a mélange of other species in their natural habitats. You can spot gazelles, hartebeests, warthogs, giraffes, spotted hyenas, Orbis, gnus, antelopes, giraffes, and zebras. 

Masai Mara in Kenya makes up only 0.01% of Africa’s land surface, but over 40% of wildlife species are found in Africa. It also has the highest number of lions in Africa, around 850. The park also hosts over 450 bird species and over 96 different species of Mammals.

Giraffes at Masai Mara - MasaiMaraSafari.in
Feeding Giraffes- MasaiMaraSafari.in

Maasai Mara Wildlife - The Animals of the Kenya Safari

The Masai Mara is famous because it is among the top places in Africa to see the big five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). You can also see many other animals in the Masai Mara, including giraffes, zebras, and Wildebeest.

You might even spot a cheetah or a leopard if you are lucky and have a great game drive experience.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. In the park, you can see over 450 species of birds, including ostriches, secretary birds, vultures, and eagles. It is a great place for birdwatching on Kenya safaris and game viewing.

Masai Mara Migration - The Predators

A Masai Mara safari is the best and one of the most popular tours in Kenya for traveling, and looking for predators. The reserve is home to some of the most iconic animals in Africa, including lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards. 

These cats are the most formidable predators in the park and play a vital role in the ecosystem. For example, the lions of the Masai park help keep the population of ungulates in check, which prevents overgrazing and helps maintain the grasslands’ health.

Cheetahs in the Mara prey on slower animals, such as Thomson’s gazelles, which keeps the population of gazelles from getting too large. And hyenas of the park often scavenge kills made by other predators, which helps to clean up the landscape and prevent disease.

Masai Mara is truly a unique and magical place with many different predators.

Why Go on Masai Mara Safari Packages?

A safari in the Masai Mara is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It is one of the awesome places in Africa for game viewing and offers spectacular scenic views, including the famous Mara River. On a Masai Mara safari, unique animals like black rhinos, striped hyenas, and bat-eared foxes can be seen. 

The Masai Mara is also famous for the annual Great Migration, a spectacle where millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate through the park in search of food and water. In addition to game viewing, a safari to Masai Mara offers the opportunity to meet and interact with the Maasai people. These are an indigenous tribe known for their traditional clothing and culture.

Other activities you are to experience during a safari of Masai Mara include

  • Hot air balloon safari
  • Birdwatching tour
  • Walking safaris
  • Game viewing
  • Spending time in a luxury camp in the jungle

Serengeti National Park Vs. Masai Mara National Park

Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park are renowned for their incredible wildlife and spectacular migrations. However, they do have some key differences that make them unique safari destinations in their own right.

One of the main differences is the landscape. The Masai Mara National Reserve has rolling grasslands with scattered acacia trees, while Serengeti is a predominantly flat, open savannah. Another difference is the timing of the wildebeest migration.

In Masai Mara, the wildebeest migration occurs from July to October, while in Serengeti, they migrate from May to July. So if you want to see the famous river crossings, you must plan your safari accordingly.

And lastly, Masai Mara is Kenya’s most popular safari destination and has a higher population of tourists, while Serengeti is more remote and offers a more authentic wilderness experience. Both parks are stunning, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

But many travelers from different parts of the world visit both parks for a complete African safari experience.

Best Time for Serengeti Safaris and Masai Mara Tours

The best time to visit Masai Mara, the Mara Triangle, and Serengeti is during the dry season, from July to October. This is also the best time to witness the wildebeest migration, where millions of wildlife migrate through Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti in search of food and water.

During the wet season, the parks can be muddy from November to June, and some roads may be impassable. But this is also a great time for bird watching as many migratory birds can be spotted during this season.

No matter when you choose to visit, Masai Mara and Serengeti offer an unforgettable safari experience filled with amazing wildlife encounters.

The Wildebeest Calving Season - December to End of February

During the wildebeest calving season in Serengeti, millions of wildebeest give birth to their young. This spectacular event attracts many predators, such as lions and hyenas, creating incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. 

It is also a great time to witness the circle of life as newborn wildebeest and gazelles struggle to stand for the first time while predators hunt for their next meal.

The Mara River Crossing – July to October

During the great wildebeest migration, one of the most dramatic events is the Mara River crossing in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Park. As the herds search for greener pastures, they must brave crocodile-infested waters and cross the Mara River. 

This event attracts many predators, making for incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.

Plan your trip to the Masai Mara in July, August, September, and October during Kenya’s dry season if you want to see the Mara River crossings.

However, these crossings can be unpredictable, and there is no guarantee that they will happen during your visit. But regardless of when you choose to go on a Masai Mara safari, it is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with amazing wildlife encounters.

Masai Mara Safari - Road Safari & Fly-in Safari

You can go to Masai Mara by road safaris or fly-in safaris. A road safari means traveling by vehicle through the park, while a fly-in safari involves taking small planes to different reserve areas.

Both options have their advantages, which ultimately come down to personal preference. Transferring from or to Nairobi to or from Masai Mara using a road safari can take anywhere from 4-6 hours, while a fly-in safari can get you to the park in less than an hour.

So, if time is a factor, a fly-in Masai Mara safari might be the better option. However, road safaris offer the chance to see more of Kenya’s beautiful landscape and rural villages, which is more exciting when on a Masai Mara safari.

No matter your choice, a Masai Mara safari offers unforgettable wildlife viewing opportunities and is sure to be the highlight of your African safari experience.

Masai Mara Safari Vehicles

When planning the trip from India to Masai Mara, it is important to consider the best time for a safari in Kenya and the vehicle you will use.

Open-top jeeps and vans offer a great wildlife viewing opportunity, allowing 360-degree views and photography. However, these vehicles can also be bumpy and uncomfortable for long game drives.

For a more comfortable safari to Masai Mara experience, consider using a custom-built safari vehicle with pop-up roofs for easy viewing and photography. However, these vehicles are mainly found at the Masai Mara National Reserve and are not used for transfer.

Best Masai Mara Safari Camps and Lodges - Luxury-Plus, Luxury, & 5-Star Camps.

At MasaiMaraSafari, we work with only the best lodges and camps in the Masai Mara National Reserve. These include Mara Angama, Ashnil Mara Camp, Mara Serena Safari Lodge, and Governors Camp.

Others include Basecamp Mara Camp, Mara Intrepids, Fairmont Mara Safari Club, Sentrim Mara Camp, Keekorok Lodge, Tipilikwani Mara Camp, Entim Mara Camp, and many more.

Here we look at some of the best safari lodges and camps of the Mara and the Mara triangle. Our luxury Masai Mara packages to these hotels are all-inclusive. Everything from airport pickups, drop-offs, meals, activities, park fees, and accommodation is covered in the cost.

1. Best Masai Mara Luxury Safaris - Mara Plains Camp

What does luxury look like to you? Sunset dinners overlooking effortless landscapes? Posh, beautifully styled rooms, or secret locations? All of the above? Then you’ll love the Mara Plains Camp.

Tucked in a lush forest on the winding banks of the Ntiakitiak River, the Mara Plains is the best definition of bespoke luxury. Here, suites are designed with thick wooden doors, canopied ceilings, wooden floors, en-suite bathrooms, private viewing decks, and huge plush beds.
Enjoy exciting morning and afternoon game drives in a luxurious open-land cruiser. Wake up to delicious breakfasts on your room’s viewing deck at sunrise. And don’t even let us get started on the fine dining offered to you at this leading hotel of the Masai Mara.

Treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the spa. Take a guided walk around the lodge and enjoy its awe-striking woodland and riverine landscape. Or stay indoors; the interiors are an attraction by themselves.

A safari with MasaiMaraSafari.in with a stay at Mara Plains Camp guarantee you:

2. Luxury Masai Mara Safari Hotels - Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

To experience & Beyond Kichwa Tembo is to share the purest form of luxury. We are talking about its superb rooms, hearty dining, and well-thought-out amenities. We recommend &Beyond to anyone looking for luxury safari packages from India during the wildebeest migration.

Its 12 classic tents, eight superior view tents, and 20 superior tents offer unmatched comfort. It is also a surreal luxury honeymoon destination. A safari to Mara with a stay at Kichwa Tembo with us ensures you enjoy the following features:

  • A huge outdoor swimming pool
  • Morning, afternoon, and night game drives
  • Hot-air balloon safaris
  • Bush dining and sundowners on the deck
  • A trip to the Maasai people
  • Perfect location for the great migration
Family Safari in Mara - MasaiMaraSafari.in
Picnic Lunch - MasaiMaraSafari.in

3. Luxury-Plus Camp in Mara - Sala’s Camp

We might be biased, but Sala’s Camp is one of the finest, most sophisticated Masai Mara luxury camps. We mean, it’s not every day you’re treated to private plunge pools, glass-fronted tents, remarkably personalized services, and exceptional fine dining.

Intimate and secluded, Sala’s Camp sits on the banks of the Sand River in an area that enjoys splendid views of both the Mara and Serengeti on the deck. It forms part of the Siria-Oloololo escarpment and offers a superb view of the Great Wildebeest Migration. It is one of the best places in the park for wildlife sightings.

Book your Masai Mara package with a stay at Sala’s camp with MasaiMaraSafari.in and make magical memories while sundowning in the savannah, bird watching, stargazing, nature walking, and bush dining (the bush breakfasts are out of this world). Other activities to do with us during the tour include

  • A visit to the Maasai community, as well as neighboring places
  • A morning, afternoon, or night game drive
  • Picnic lunches by the river
  • Great view of the Mara triangle above

4. Best Masai Mara Luxury Hotel - Angama Mara

Show us a more stunning resort than the Angama Mara, and we will wait. Angama is among the leading accommodations in the Masai Mara. The camp sits on the foothills of the Great Rift Valley, allowing spectacular views of the Masai Mara.

Then comes its two camps, each with fifteen tented suites. These suites are the epitome of perfection, each featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, impeccable interiors, spacious private verandahs, minibars, showers with landscape views, and the plushiest, most comfortable beds.

Discover over 90 species of animals in the reserve while on game drives with us around the park. Experience magical sunsets as you dine and unwind on your room’s private verandah. Swim, enjoy relaxing massages, or spend your day in bed (it’s understandable).

The best way to get to Angama Mara is to board a flight in Nairobi and land at Keekorok. It is a great way as it saves you time, which is a way to ensure you experience more during your trip to the Masai Mara.

  • The Maasai village visit
  • Looking for the animals, such as the big five
  • Enjoying breakfast and dinners by the river or in a pool
  • Getting more time to relax during your tour of Masai Mara
Luxury Hotel - MasaiMaraSafari.in
Luxury camp - MasaiMaraSafari.in

5. Best Masai Mara Camp - Mahali Mzuri

You might not have heard of the Mahali Muzuri, but you’ve undoubtedly heard of Richard Branson, its CEO. To know Richard Branson is to realize he doesn’t settle for average. Mahali Muzuri has mastered luxury, from its fifteen tented suites to its restaurant, lounge, and game drive.

The resort is so posh that it was voted the #1 hotel globally by the Travel + Leisure Awards 2021. Stay at the resort and have a front-row seat to the migration and the plentiful wildlife available all year round.

There are a couple of exciting activities, like game drives, which are a perfect way to soak up the scenery and wildlife. Other fun activities include spa treatments, swimming in the large heated outdoor pool, and the Maasai village visits. A 3 days tour from Nairobi to this camp will ensure you experience all the world has to offer.

6. 5-Star Hotels in Masai Mara - Mara Bushtops

The Mara Bushtops is set within its private reserve, and we honestly don’t know of a better flex than that. Even better? The attraction is only accessible to our Bushtops guests, which means more privacy and less crowded game drives, walking safaris, sundowners, and bush dinners/breakfasts/lunches.

To sweeten the deal, 12 spacious, exquisitely styled tents accommodate every comfortable guest. These tents offer panoramic views, spacious decks with hot tubs, 24-hour butler services, free WI-FI, indoor and outdoor showers, and large comfortable beds.

Other amenities you will enjoy during our Masai Mara packages from India with a stay at Mara Bushtops include:

  • Private sundowners in the private deck
  • Morning, evening, afternoon, and night game drives
  • Balloon safaris in the Masai Mara
  • Walking safaris
  • Private bush breakfasts
  • The Maasai Village visits
Taking Photo - MasaiMaraSafari.in
Clients Taking Photo - MasaiMaraSafari.in

7. 5-Star Accommodation in Mara - Keekorok Lodge

There is something intrinsically captivating about Keekorok Lodge that makes Mara safari better. It might be that she sits in over 1813 square kilometers of lush, sun-soaked plains or is situated in the direct path of the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Either way, she is perfect, and we love her for it. The lodge opened in 1962 and has fascinated guests with unrivaled Masai Mara luxury safaris, morning and evening game drives, and impeccably styled rooms.

There are 99 rooms and suites for you to choose from, and they are categorized into five: standard, premium, and chalet rooms, as an executive and presidential suites. Other amenities you will enjoy during our Kenya Safari Masai Mara packages with a stay at Keekorok Lodge include;

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Daily housekeeping
  • A free stay for kids between 0-5 years
  • Child care (at an extra cost) if you wish for a hotel representative to take care of them
  • Guest laundry facilities
  • An outdoor pool on the compound
  • Coffee Shop

8. Best Masai Mara Camp - Sand River Masai Mara

Beautifully nestled along the banks of the Sand River is the Sand River Masai Mara camp, a resort set apart by its excellent wildlife viewing and tented suites. There are 16 tented suites for guests, all of which feature furnished patios, modern en-suite bathrooms, daily housekeeping, free Wi-Fi, and coffee/tea makers.

Guests can spend their mornings on game drives or in the camp savoring their deliciously prepared breakfasts over sunrise. There’s also the option of afternoon and evening game drives, nature walks, hot-air balloon safaris, and Maasai village visits.

Other notable property amenities include;

  • An outdoor swimming pool that enables you to see the animals
  • Bar and restaurant if you want night dining
  • Free Parking
  • Turndown services
  • Babysitting services
  • Luggage storage
Lions - MasaiMaraSafari.in
Lion at Mara - MasaiMaraSafari.in

Luxury Kenya Safari Tours - Destination and Best Kenya Safari Lodges and Tented Camps

They say time and silence are the true luxuries of life. The moments we spend around nature impact us the most, which is why we’ve created this Masai Mara luxury safari.

1. Which are the best luxury hotels in the Masai Mara National Reserve?

There are plenty of Masai Mara luxury resorts, which, although different, all the accommodations share a common goal- to immerse you in unimaginable luxury. Each promises remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities, spectacular views of the Mara landscape, modern facilities, and unique safari experiences.

In no particular order, here are some of the top 5-star lodges in Masai Mara:

  • Angama Mara
  • Mara Plains Camp
  • Mahali Muzuri
  • Mara Bushtops
  • Keekorok Lodge

2. What are the best resorts in Masai Mara National Reserve?

Which are the leading resorts of the Masai Mara? There are honestly too many we’re lost for choice. But numbers never lie, and neither do the reviews.

Here are five Masai Mara resorts our clients love during the trip to Maasai Mara National Reserve.

  • Angama Mara
  • Ashnil Mara Camp
  • Mahali Mzuri
  • Sarova Mara Game Lodge
  • Fairmont Mara Safari Club

3. What are the best hotels near Mara River?

We’re obsessed with hotels near the Mara River for these two reasons. First, guests are guaranteed a front-row seat to the Great Wildebeest Migration, and second, they offer riveting views of the park.

Here are five top hotels near the Mara River and inside the Mara triangle.

  • Little Governor’s Camp
  • Sarova Mara Game Camp
  • Keekorok Lodge
  • Mara Explorer Camp
  • Basecamp Masai Mara
  • Mara Serena Safari lodge

4. What hotels in Masai Mara National Reserve have nice views?

Imagine this: you and your best mate sitting next to a fireplace, sipping wine as you take in the breathtaking views of a wildlife-filled Mara. The landscape is lush and serene, and the weather is almost perfect.

Here are five Masai Mara resorts you are likely to enjoy such a view with the right Masai Mara safari packages:

Masai Mara hotels - AndBeyond Kichwa Tembo Luxury Camp
Bush Dinner - MasaiMaraSafari.in

5. Do any luxury hotels in Masai Mara National Reserve have a pool?

Yes! Quite a number and some even have more than one or two. Even better? These pools offer spectacular views of the Mara landscape.

Here are five we think you’ll love during your trip to the Masai Mara.

  • Ashnil Mara Camp
  • Angama Mara
  • AA Lodge Masai Mara
  • Keekorok Lodge
  • Mahali Mzuri

6. How many days do I need in the Mara?

Kenya Masai Mara National Reserve is vast. Depending on your budget and program, we recommend staying at least 3 days or two nights to enjoy it. There are many activities to do during Kenya safari Masai Mara packages, such as game drives, balloon safaris, and visits to Maasai cultural villages.

It is possible to see all the Big five on a 3 Days Masai Mara package from India, but we recommend 3 night and 4 Days Masai Mara safari package for optimal game viewing.

7. Is Safari better in Kenya or Tanzania?

Kenya is a much smaller country than Tanzania geographically. However, the country is endowed with more and better travel infrastructure than Tanzania. Tanzania is probably only famous for the Serengeti, but Kenya features the Maasai Mara Tourism, Amboseli, and Tsavo (West and East) National Parks.

These parks may be detached from each other, but they’re only a few hours drives from Nairobi. The great news about going on a safari in Tanzania is that it’s cheaper, and the parks are more expensive.

However, the Serengeti overlaps with Kenya Masai Mara National Park enabling most safari tourists to enjoy the best of both worlds. You need minimum 7 days for Maasai Mara sightseeing and a trip to Serengeti. Normally, you can’t cross from Masai Mara to Serengeti since there is no boarder entry point. In most cases, we book flight deals for our clients directly to Serengeti from the Mara. Fares and flight tickets are subject to availability, so try and book with us way in advance if you wish to explore both destinations. 

Lion Hunt- MasaiMaraSafari.in
Cheetah Hunt- MasaiMaraSafari.in

8. Is December a good time to visit The Mara?

Yes, definitely, it’s a good time to book the best-selling Masai Mara safari packages. The weather at the reserve is ideal in December. Spending the holidays and ushering in the New Year in the bush can be an exhilarating way to start the year. The short rains will have receded, and the temperatures will be mild.

The grass will be green and not too long, giving you excellent chances to watch games on the open plains. For both beach and wildlife safari experiences, you can add Diani beach to your Masai Mara package.

Diani has been voted Africa’s leading beach destination for 6 years consecutively. With accommodation in mid-luxury, luxury Masai Mara hotels and lodges and the best beach resorts in Diani, your Christmas in Kenya will be epic. Masai mara packages from USA and Bangalore to Masai Mara holidays are the most during December. We also get travellers from Bengaluru, Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, and other regions of India for December holidays. 

9. How do I get from Nairobi to Masai Mara?

There are two ways to get from Nairobi to Mara: air or road. Going by road in a safari land cruiser takes about 5 hours from Nairobi. This is a great way to travel as you can enjoy seeing Kenya’s beautiful countryside on your way.

You can use the luxurious 4×4 Safari Landcruiser for your safari or the cheaper tour vans. The safari land cruiser and tour van have an open roof for optimal game viewing.

They accommodate 6-8 people, each with a window seat. Flying takes about 45 minutes, and before you can even say Simba (lion), you will find yourself right in the middle of his kingdom!

10. How much does a typical African safari cost?

A typical African safari can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,500 per person per night. There are also budget safaris that can average $150, mid-range safaris that average $350 per person, and luxury Masai Mara safari packages that cost over $750 per night.

You must realize that the cost of an African safari in Masai Mara varies depending on the tour company and the seasons. So, it’s not unusual to pay upwards of $3,000 per night.

Visiting during the high seasons (July to October during the annual wildebeest migration) will give you more leverage in terms of the number of wildlife you can view. However, it also comes with a hefty price tag.

We advise booking at least a 3 Days Masai Mara safari package from India for the best views of the wildebeest migration. Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the best spots to witness this natural spectacle.

When making travel plans for your Maasai Mara National Park tour from any part of the world, consider the cost of accommodation, things to do (game drives and hot air balloon rides), meals, park fees, and flights. And don’t forget to budget for tips!