Masai mara national reserve Tour Packages

At Thrillophilia, we offer a range of Masai Mara tour packages designed to suit different budgets and travel preferences. Whether you're looking for an affordable getaway or a luxury safari, we have something for everyone. Our basic packages start from INR 1,28,000 per person for a 5-day journey, while our premium options can go up to INR 4,15,000 per person, including top-quality lodges, private game drives, and expert guides.

What makes us different is our focus on providing personalized experiences? We work closely with you to plan a Masai Mara trip that matches your needs, whether you're new to safaris or have been on many before. Our experienced guides ensure you get the most out of your visit, showing you the best of Masai Mara, including the Big Five and other wildlife.

On our Masai Mara tours, we offer a variety of exciting experiences to make your trip unforgettable. You can enjoy a hot-air balloon safari for the breathtaking view of the savannah, visit a Maasai village to learn about local culture, or enjoy walking safaris to admire wildlife.

We also provide the chance to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration and stay in private conservancies for a more exclusive, customized safari experience. Our game drives and horseback safaris allow you to explore Mara’s wildlife from different perspectives, ensuring you have a diverse and thrilling trip to Masai Mara.

Our flexible itineraries and friendly service make sure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Book with us today, and let us help you create a memorable Masai Mara experience!

Why Book Your Masai Mara Safari with Thrillophilia?

With Thrillophilia, your Masai Mara holiday packages are more than a vacation - they promise an experience crafted to your needs. Enjoy hassle-free planning, expert guidance, and unbeatable offers while exploring the stunning landscapes and wildlife of this iconic destination.

• Wide Range of Safari Packages: Browse from a variety of Masai Mara tour packages that suit the preferences of budget, mid-range, and luxury travellers, personalized to meet their needs.
• Guided Game Drives: Our experienced team of rangers and guides ensure a memorable experience for travellers by offering insights about the region and the wildlife.
• 24/7 Customer Assistance: Our dedicated experts are available to offer assistance before booking Masai mara packages, during, and even after your trip.
• Stress-free Planning: Thrillophilia's travel experts take care of all the planning for you, from visa assistance and airport transfers to safari bookings and stays.
• Attractive Discounts & Offers: Book your Masai Mara tour packages at the best prices and enjoy attractive deals when you book with Thrillophilia.
• Peace of Mind on Every Trip: We prioritize your safety through our collaborations with reliable safari operators and provide stays at prime locations.

About Masai Mara – Fascinating Facts & Highlights

Masai Mara is considered one of the top destinations for wildlife and adventure enthusiasts. You can see a wide range of animals, including the Big Five, and witness the Great Migration with your Masai Mara safari packages from India. There are plenty of activities, such as game drives, hot air balloon rides, and cultural experiences with the Maasai people. The reserve also offers beautiful views and rare animal sightings, making it a great place for nature lovers.

Here are some of the top facts that you should know about Masai Mara:

• Enjoy a Memorable Safari: Get a chance to explore Masai Mara National Reserve, which is known for its rich wildlife and diverse range of animals.
• Watch The Great Migration: Visit the reserve during the migration season to watch over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with many zebras and gazelles, travelling from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Masai Mara.
• Spot the Big Five: You can see all five of Africa’s most famous animals- lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, during your safari.
• Watch the Big Nine: In addition to Africa’s Big Five, you can also spot cheetahs, giraffes, crocodiles, and wild dogs, making your safari even more thrilling.
• Try Exciting Activities: Masai Mara holiday packages offer a wide range of experiences for travellers, including game drives, hot air balloon rides, night safaris, and walking tours.
• Admire the Beautiful Landscapes: The reserve is home to vast grasslands, acacia trees, and the Mara River, which promise stunning views for visitors.
• Explore the Mara Triangle: The Mara Triangle offers a more peaceful time compared to other areas of the reserve since it has fewer crowds. Travellers can enjoy a more immersive experience and better wildlife sightings on their trip to Masai Mara. 
• Enjoy Rare Animal Sightings: The Mara is home to rare animals like the black rhino, African wild dog, cheetah, pangolin, and serval cats. Spotting these animals in the wild is a rare and exciting experience
• Admire Unique Masai Houses: In the Masai tribe, women are responsible for building the houses, known as “Inkajijik.” Travelers can visit and admire these houses, which are made from mud, sticks, grass, and cow dung.
• Meet the Star Animals: If you’re lucky, you might spot Tira, the first polka-dot zebra, or Bella, the famous leopard, known for starring in several documentaries, on your Masai Mara trip. 
• Enjoy Bird Watching: Masai Mara is a great place for bird watching and travellers can spot over 400 species, including rare birds like the Kori Bustard, Giant Kingfisher, and Herons.
• Learn About Hyenas: You can also speak with Masai Mara staff involved in hyena research, and learn facts about about how hyenas are tracked, named, and studied through their voices.
• Experience Masai Culture: Travelers can learn about the local culture, including their traditional clothing called "shuka" (a body drape) and the "adumu" dance, which is an important part of their ceremonies.

Best Time to Visit Masai Mara

Masai Mara Reserve, like many other places in Kenya, has two dry seasons and two rainy seasons in the year. The amount of rain affects the growth of plants and the availability of water, which decides the movement of animals. 

When food and water become scarce, animals move from the more remote parts of the reserve to the open areas where food and water is easier to find. They also gather around the rivers, especially the Mara and Talek Rivers, as these are some of the last places with water during dry periods.

That being said, here's all you need to know about the best time to visit Masai Mara:

Dry Season (June to October)

The best time for Masai Mara wildlife tours is during the dry season, at the time of the Great Wildebeest Migration, when millions of animals cross the Mara River. This season offers the highest wildlife concentration, including The Big Five, mild temperatures, and great conditions for safaris and photography.

Positives:

• Less rainfall leads to less vegetation, which means wildlife is relatively difficult to spot.
• During the dry season, animals are more concentrated and usually gather around waterholes and rivers.
• The weather is mostly pleasant, with little to no chances of rainfall.
• Less rainfall leads to fewer mosquitoes in the area, reducing the chances of malaria.
• The best time of year if you want to enjoy watching the Great Migration.

Negatives:

• Many visitors opt for the Masai Mara Great Migration tour at this time, so the reserve may be crowded.
• Travel costs are higher during this time of year, while prices are much lower in the rainy season.
• The evenings can be cold, and early morning game drives can be quite chilly.

Rainy season (November to May)

This season offers a great balance of good wildlife sightings, fewer crowds, and better deals on hotels, safaris, and flights. Highlights include mild temperatures, lush landscapes, abundant wildlife, excellent birdwatching, and more immersive safari experiences with fewer tourists.

Positives:

• Tour prices are relatively lower compared to the months of the Great Migration.
• You can enjoy great discounts at your choice of stays, making your budget Masai Mara safari even more affordable.
• This is also considered the best time of year for watching a variety of birds in the region.
• You can enjoy exploring the reserve at a comfortable pace with fewer people around.
• Rainfall turns the entire landscape green, and makes the region perfect for photography.

Negatives:(particularly during the long rainy season from April to May)

• The rains bring poor road conditions, which sometimes makes travelling harder.
• In case of heavy rainfall, Masai Mara game drives might be rescheduled and you may have to stay inside.
• Some of the stays and camps shut down in April and May for maintenance and the staff member enjoy some time off.
• Rivers sometimes overflow during the months of April and May because of the rainfall.

How to reach Masai Mara from India

For a Masai Mara trip from India, you can either take a direct flight to Nairobi or opt for a connecting flight. Depending on your departure city, your travel options and flight duration will vary. Below are the details on flight choices, airlines, and travel times to help you plan your journey: 

Direct Flights from India to Nairobi :

For those traveling from Mumbai, several airlines offer direct flights to Nairobi, which is the closest airport to Masai Mara National Reserve.

From Airports:

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

To Airport:

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Nairobi

Major Airlines:

Kenya Airways 

Air India

IndiGo

Flight Duration: Approx. 6.5 hours 

Connecting Flights from India to Nairobi:

If you're booking Masai Mara holiday packages from other Indian cities like Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad, or Chennai, you will need to opt for connecting flights to Nairobi.

To Airport:

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Nairobi

Major Airlines:

Etihad Airways 

Air India

Flight Duration: 11-24 hours, depending on layovers.

Layover Locations: Delhi and UAE

Places to Visit on The Masai Mara Trip

A trip to Masai Mara offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature. From diverse wildlife to stunning landscapes, every moment brings something new. Here are some of the top places to visit on your Masai Mara Trip:

1) Ol Kinyei Conservancy - Where it all Began

Why Visit?

Ol Kinyei was the first conservancy established in Masai Mara by 171 Masai landowners and a safari operator, which allows wildlife to roam freely. It’s a protected area without cattle grazing, which helps in restoring the land. The conservancy is home to various animals, including lions, leopards, and wild dogs.

Must-try Activities:

• Exclusive Masai Mara game drives with fewer crowds for a more immersive experience
• Guided bush walks that allow you to a closer look at the animals and their natural habitat
• Birdwatching safaris that let you spot a wide range of exotic species in the area

2) Mara Triangle - Where the Action Happens

Why Visit?

The Mara Triangle is a prime spot to watch the Great Migration. From July to October, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other animals cross the Mara River. It’s a thrilling and unique experience to watch them travel from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara.

Must-try Activities:

• Experience the Masai Mara Great Migration tour that happens from July to October
• Enjoy several game drives and get a chance to spot lions, leopards, elephants, and more
• Head out on photography tours to click amazing pictures of the animals and the savannah

3) Olare Motorogi Conservancy - For the Night Owls

Why Visit?

The Olare Motorogi Conservancy offers an amazing Masai Mara Big Five safari year-round, with giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests calling it home. Predators like lions and hyenas can also be found in large numbers because of the herbivores in the region. During the Great Migration, you can see action as herds pass through the river crossings.

Must-try Activities:

• Enjoy off-road game drives that get you close to the exotic wildlife in their natural habitat
• Experience night safaris to spot nocturnal predators and various other animals
• Take part in several eco-tourism initiatives that support the Maasai communities

4) Mara North Conservancy - Where the Birds Sing

Why Visit?

The Mara North Conservancy offers stunning landscapes with golden grass, acacia trees, and a variety of wildlife, including the Big 5 and over 450 bird species. It has diverse habitats that support many animals, including elephants and wild dogs, making it a great spot for a Masai Mara camping safari. From December to May, the conservancy also witnesses the lesser-known Loita Hills migration, where thousands of local wildebeest trek across the Conservancy.

Must-try Activities:

• Visit Maasai villages and learn about Maasai culture and traditions
• Enjoy walking safaris for a more immersive experience of the region
• Get a chance experience Masai Mara luxury safari for an exclusive time in the Savannah.

5) Mara River – Watch the Great Migration

Why Visit?

The Mara River is famous for its role in the Great Migration, where wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross from July to October. It’s home to Nile crocodiles, hippos, and various predators, offering great wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities.

Must-try Activities:

• Watch thrilling migrational river crossings between July and September
• Spot hippos and crocodiles relaxing under the sun along the riverbanks
• Enjoy boat rides or photography tours along the beautiful Mara River

6) Ol Choro Oiroua - Right by the Mara River

Why Visit?

Ol Choro Oiroua Conservancy is a remote area located between the Mara River and open plains, surrounded by green riverine forests. It’s home to a variety of exotic animals and birds, though migratory animals rarely travel this far north.

Must-try Activities:

• See rare bird species like the white-backed vulture and Ruppell's vulture
• Enjoy Masai Mara game drives for spotting animals like lions, elephants, and more
• Stay in eco-friendly lodges that offer a sustainable and peaceful experience

7) Nashulai Maasai Conservancy – Where Culture Meets Wildlife

Why Visit?

The Nashulai Maasai Conservancy is the first local community-led conservancy in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Managed by the Maasai people, it focuses on wildlife conservation, preserving local culture, and supporting the community through sustainable practices and initiatives.

Must-try Activities:

• Visit Maasai villages with your Kenya safari packages to learn about age-old customs and traditions
• Participate in tree planting and other conservation activities conducted by locals
• Go on wildlife safaris led by expert Maasai guides who know the area inside out

The Six Main Entry Gates of Masai Mara National Reserve 

Masai Mara National Reserve has six main gates that allow easy access to different parts of the park. Each gate is placed in a convenient location, making it easier for visitors to enjoy Masai Mara wildlife tours and nearby stay options of their choice.

Sekenani Gate

Sekenani Gate is the most popular entry point to Masai Mara. Located in the southern part of the reserve, it offers convenient access to nearby stays and is the main entry for many tourists who are visiting the park.

Talek Gate

Talek Gate is located on the northern side of Masai Mara National Reserve. It is a key access point that leads visitors to the central areas of the reserve, where they can look at the exotic wildlife and enjoy memorable safari experiences.

Musiara Gate

Musiara Gate is situated on the eastern side of the reserve. It connects visitors to the central and southern regions, making it an ideal entry point for those seeking diverse ecosystems on their Masai Mara camping safari.

Oloololo Gate

Oloololo Gate lies on the western edge of Masai Mara. It provides access to the Mara River and other prime wildlife areas, offering a quieter and more peaceful entry for those seeking a less crowded experience.

Ololaimutia Gate

Ololaimutia Gate is located on the southern side of the reserve. It provides access to less crowded regions, which are known for their rich wildlife and offer a more relaxed safari experience for visitors.

Sand River Gate

Sand River Gate is positioned in the southwestern corner of the reserve. This gate is less frequented, offering a more private experience, and provides access to areas around the Sand River, which are popular during the wildebeest migration season.

Top Things to Do on a Masai Mara Tour 

Masai Mara tour packages offer a range of exciting activities that showcase rich wildlife, unique culture, and landscapes, making it a memorable adventure for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do on a Masai Mara Tour:

1. Hot-Air Balloon Safari - Admire Masai Mara from the Sky

Reasons to Try:

• Get a unique aerial view of the Mara’s landscapes and wildlife at sunrise.
• Experience a scenic ride over the savannah during your Masai Mara trip.

For those who love exploring, this experience is just one of many amazing things to do in Kenya, offering unforgettable moments in the heart of nature.

Where to Try:

• Ol Kinyei Conservancy
• Mara North Conservancy

2. Visit a Maasai Village - Learn about ancient Cultures and Traditions

Reasons to Try:

• Learn about Maasai traditions and daily life by interacting with the local communities.
• Experience authentic Maasai culture, including their music, dance, and way of living.

Where to Try:

• Nashulai Maasai Conservancy
• Mara North Conservancy

3. Game Drives - Enjoy Spotting Exotic Animals

Reasons to Try:

• Observe a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat on guided safari tours.
• Explore different regions for a diverse experience and exciting animal sightings.

Where to Try:

• Masai Mara National Reserve
• Mara Triangle
• Olare Motorogi Conservancy

4. Walking Safaris - Walk Around for a Closer Look

Reasons to Try:

• Walk through the savannah to observe smaller wildlife on your Masai Mara trip.
• Enjoy a more personal and intimate safari experience, guided by experts.

Where to Try:

• Mara North Conservancy
• Ol Kinyei Conservancy

5. Horseback Safari - Explore the Savannah in a Unique Way

Reasons to Try:

Ride across the reserve and get a close-up view of wildlife in an exciting way.

Where to Try:

• Olare Motorogi Conservancy
• Mara North Conservancy

6. Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration - How Nature Puts On A Show

Reasons to Try:

• See thousands of wildebeests crossing rivers and being chased by predators during migration.
• Experience one of nature’s most spectacular events between the months of July and October.

Where to Try:

• Mara River
• Mara Triangle

7. Stay in a Private Conservancy - Enjoy Exclusive & Luxurious Experiences

Reasons to Try:

• Enjoy a Masai Mara luxury safari with personalized services and private game drives.
• Stay in luxury camps and enjoy close wildlife encounters away from the crowds.

Where to Try:

• Ol Kinyei Conservancy
• Olare Motorogi Conservancy
• Mara North Conservancy

Best Places to Stay in Masai Mara 

Masai Mara has many places to stay, from luxury lodges to budget Masai Mara safari camps. There are options for every budget and type of experience, whether you want comfort or a simple, more basic stay. Here is a list of some of the best places to stay in Masai Mara:

1. Porini Lion Camp - Eco-friendly Stays in the Mara

Location: M5FF+6HW, Olare-Motorogi Conservancy, Maasai Mara, Talek, Kenya

Overview: Located in the Olare-Motorogi Conservancy, Porini Lion Camp offers a unique safari experience in a private conservancy, where guests can enjoy exclusive game viewing and an intimate atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Exclusive game drives via Masai Mara luxury safari with abundant wildlife encounters.
• Close-up interactions with lions, cheetahs, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitat.
• Eco-friendly camp with a minimal environmental impact, blending luxury with conservation.

2. Sand River Masai Mara by Elewana - Riverfront Views & More

Location: Sand River, Masai Mara National Reserve, Keekorok, Kenya

Overview: Set along the Sand River in the Masai Mara National Reserve, this camp offers an authentic safari experience with stunning views and easy access to the reserve's wildlife and migration paths.

Highlights: 

• Scenic location by the Sand River with riverfront views, perfect for Masai Mara wildlife tours.
• Comfortable, spacious tented rooms offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
• Easy access to the Great Migration and iconic wildebeest crossings along the river.

3. Saruni Mara - Watch magical Sunset & Sunrise Views

Overview: Located in the Mara North Conservancy, Saruni Mara is a secluded camp offering a mix of luxury and nature, with a focus on private game drives and wellness.

Location: Mara North Conservancy Masai Mara, Kenya

Highlights: 

• Private game drives in the Mara North Conservancy, home to diverse wildlife and fewer crowds.
• Wellness and spa treatments are available, ensuring relaxation after thrilling safari adventures.
• Panoramic views of the Mara landscape, ideal for sunrise and sunset sightings.

4. Sala’s Camp - Feast along the Scenic Mara River

Overview: In the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, Sala’s Camp offers a peaceful escape with close proximity to the reserve’s wildlife. It’s ideal for guests seeking a more private and intimate safari experience.

Location: Maasai Mara Game Reserve, Narok, Kenya

Highlights: 

• Exclusive, intimate camp set in a prime wildlife-rich location near the river.
• Exceptional wildlife sightings, including big cats and elephants, right from your tent.
• Personalized Masai Mara camping safari with a focus on offering a quiet, peaceful safari experience.

5. Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp - Experience Cultural Immersion

Overview: Located on the Oloololo Escarpment, this camp offers spectacular views of the Masai Mara and access to some of the best wildlife viewing areas, ideal for a traditional safari experience.

Location: Oloololo Escarpment, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Highlights: 

• Stunning views from the Oloololo Escarpment, overlooking vast Mara plains full of wildlife.
• Located in a prime wildlife area, offering exciting game drives and off-road adventures.
• Traditional safari experience combined with luxury amenities and exceptional service.

6. Angama Mara - Enjoy True Luxury in the Mara Triangle

Overview: Angama Mara is a luxury safari lodge on the border of the Great Rift Valley in Kenya's Masai Mara. Angama Mara offers breathtaking views over the Mara with a focus on luxury and immersive safari experiences in a beautiful location.

Location: The Mara Triangle Conservancy Maasai Mara Game Reserve, Lolgorien, Kenya

Highlights: 

• Offers splendid opportunities for Masai Mara Big Five safari in the Mara Triangle.
• Hot air balloon safaris offer a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife and landscapes below.
• A luxurious experience with personalized service tailored to individual preferences.

7. Cottar’s 1920s Camp - Stay in an Old-fashioned Camp

Overview: Set in the Ol Derkesi Community Conservancy, Cottar’s 1920s Camp brings guests a vintage safari experience with a strong focus on luxury and conservation, while being surrounded by wildlife-rich areas.

Location: Ol Derkesi Community Conservancy, Masai Mara, Kenya

Highlights: 

• Vintage-style safari that combines nostalgia with modern luxury.
• Exclusive game drives in a private conservancy, ensuring unique wildlife sightings.
• Strong focus on conservation, community involvement, and sustainable travel practices.

8. Elephant Pepper Camp - Experience a Sustainable Stay in the Wild

Overview: Located in the Mara North Conservancy, Elephant Pepper Camp offers an eco-friendly, intimate safari experience where guests can enjoy both nature and culture in a private setting.

Location: Off C13 Road, Mara North Conservancy, Kenya

Highlights: 

• Eco-friendly and sustainable camp located in the centre of the Mara North Conservancy.
• Close wildlife encounters with elephants, lions, and leopards, offer unique safari moments.
• Amazing cultural interactions with the local Maasai community.

9. Little Governors’ Camp - For Those Seeking a Peaceful Getaway

Overview: Tucked in a quiet corner of the Masai Mara, Little Governors’ Camp is known for its intimate setting and its proximity to the Mara River, providing great wildlife sightings.

Location: Little Governors Road, Masai Mara, Kenya

Highlights:

• Located near the Mara River, ideal for enjoying Masai Mara Great Migration tours.
• Secluded atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful time among natural landscapes.
• Great for families and small groups, with personalized services and a cosy ambience.

10. Rekero Camp - Enjoy the Views of Talek River

Overview: Located along the Talek River, Rekero Camp offers a classic safari experience in the Masai Mara, with a focus on wildlife viewing and providing guests with a traditional bush camp experience.

Location: Talek river 2, Keekorok, Kenya

Highlights:

• Prime location along the Talek River, offering fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Best visited during migration, when the area is filled with wildebeest and predators.
• Traditional bush camp experience with excellent personalized service.