Selecting the best accommodation for your Masai Mara safari is key to enhancing your experience, as your lodging will play a significant role in the overall comfort and enjoyment of your trip. Different types of safaris, from budget-friendly camping to luxury tours, and the time of year you visit, can greatly influence your choice. Below is an expert guide to help you choose the best accommodation based on the type of safari and the time of year you plan to visit.
1. Luxury Safaris (July to October)
Best Accommodation: High-End Luxury Lodges and Camps
During the Great Migration season (July to October), luxury safaris are popular for travelers looking for exclusive, high-end experiences. The best accommodation for this period combines comfort with prime locations for wildlife viewing, often along the Mara River where the migration action is concentrated.
- Top Choices:
- Angama Mara: Positioned on the Oloololo Escarpment, offering sweeping views of the Mara plains and top-tier service.
- Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp: Located near the river, offering great views of the migration crossings with all the comforts of a high-end lodge.
- Mara Plains Camp: Nestled in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, it offers a private, exclusive experience with excellent game-viewing opportunities.
- Why These?
- Prime Locations: Many of these lodges are situated near migration paths, allowing for easy access to wildlife sightings without long drives.
- Exclusive Services: Luxury lodges offer private game drives, bush dinners, spa treatments, and personalized services, ideal for those looking for a premium safari experience.
When to Book: As this is peak season, it is essential to book these lodges 6-12 months in advance due to high demand.
2. Budget Camping Safaris (Year-Round)
Best Accommodation: Budget Campsites and Basic Tented Camps
Budget safaris are perfect for adventure seekers or travelers looking for a more affordable way to experience the Masai Mara. The accommodations in this category are typically simpler but still provide great proximity to the wildlife and safari experience.
- Top Choices:
- Mara Explorers Camp: A simple, affordable camp located near the Talek Gate, offering easy access to the park.
- Miti Mingi Eco Camp: A budget-friendly camp located just outside the Sekenani Gate, providing tents with en-suite bathrooms at affordable rates.
- Mara Sidai Camp: Basic tented accommodations located outside the park, ideal for budget travelers wanting close proximity to the Mara without breaking the bank.
- Kambu Campers Masai Mara: Kambu Campers is one of the most affordable options near the Masai Mara, offering a super budget-friendly rate of less than $100 per night. Located close to Sekenani Gate, this camp provides easy access to the Masai Mara Reserve and sits within two conservancies, making it an ideal base for exploring the wildlife-rich areas while keeping costs low. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those on extended stays who want affordable, no-frills accommodations.
- Why These?
- Affordability: These camps offer an authentic safari experience at a fraction of the price, making them accessible to a wider range of travelers.
- Close to Nature: Budget camps often provide a more rugged and immersive experience, with opportunities to hear wildlife at night and experience the raw beauty of the Mara.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but particularly advantageous in the green season (March to June) when prices are even lower, and wildlife is abundant without the large tourist crowds.
3. Great Migration Safari (July to October)
Best Accommodation: Riverfront Camps and Lodges
The Great Migration is one of the most sought-after safari experiences in the world, and the best accommodation during this time is situated close to the Mara River, where dramatic river crossings take place. These lodges offer quick access to the action and are often located in private conservancies or within the main reserve.
- Top Choices:
- Governor’s Camp: A tented camp located on the Mara River with front-row seats to the migration crossings.
- Serian Camp: Located in a private conservancy, offering exceptional access to migration herds with fewer tourists.
- Rekero Camp: Positioned near the river crossing points, ideal for witnessing dramatic predator-prey interactions.
- Why These?
- Best Locations for Migration: Staying near the river ensures you don’t miss the action and allows for early morning or late evening game drives when the wildlife activity is at its peak.
- Experienced Guides: These lodges often provide expert guides who specialize in the Great Migration, enhancing your chances of witnessing key events like river crossings.
Best Time to Visit: July to October, when the herds are crossing the Mara River.
4. Birdwatching Safaris (November to April)
Best Accommodation: Eco-Lodges and Bird-Friendly Camps
The period from November to April sees the arrival of migratory birds, making it the best time for birdwatching safaris. The best accommodation during this period will be in eco-friendly lodges that focus on the environment and provide guided birdwatching tours.
- Top Choices:
- Basecamp Explorer: Known for its sustainability efforts, Basecamp is an ideal spot for birdwatchers with easy access to diverse habitats.
- Elephant Pepper Camp: Located in the Mara North Conservancy, this camp is perfect for those seeking an eco-friendly stay combined with excellent birdwatching.
- Olare Mara Kempinski: Offers luxury eco-accommodation with excellent birdwatching opportunities and access to riverine areas rich in birdlife.
- Why These?
- Sustainability: These camps prioritize eco-friendly practices, making them a perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers.
- Access to Birding Hotspots: They offer proximity to key habitats like riverine forests and wetlands where migratory birds are most active.
Best Time to Visit: November to April when migratory species from Europe and Asia arrive, greatly increasing the diversity of birdlife.
5. Family Safaris (December to February)
Best Accommodation: Family-Friendly Lodges with Child-Specific Activities
For families, the best accommodations are those that cater specifically to children with family-friendly activities, child-minding services, and educational programs about wildlife.
- Top Choices:
- Mara Intrepids Camp: Offers a family tent and specialized activities like the Adventurer’s Club for children, focusing on fun and educational experiences.
- Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp: Known for its spacious family suites and activities for younger guests, such as nature walks and visits to local Maasai villages.
- Sarova Mara Game Camp: Features a family-friendly atmosphere with a swimming pool, children’s activities, and comfortable family accommodations.
- Why These?
- Kid-Friendly Facilities: These camps offer spacious accommodations, tailored activities, and trained staff to keep children engaged.
- Educational Safaris: Many of these lodges provide guided safaris designed to introduce children to wildlife in an exciting, educational way.
Best Time to Visit: December to February during the short dry season when the weather is mild, and wildlife is abundant, making it a great time for family safaris.
6. Private Safari (Year-Round)
Best Accommodation: Exclusive Use Lodges and Private Villas
For those seeking a more intimate, personalized experience, private safaris offer exclusive use of lodges or villas, giving you complete control over your itinerary and game drives.
- Top Choices:
- Mara House by Asilia: A private villa offering exclusive use, perfect for groups or families seeking a bespoke safari experience.
- Cottar’s 1920s Camp: Offers private guides and vehicles, ensuring a personalized and tailored experience throughout your stay.
- Richard’s River Camp: Located in a secluded part of the Mara, offering privacy and exclusivity with all the comforts of a luxury lodge.
- Why These?
- Privacy and Exclusivity: These lodges offer fully private experiences, ideal for families, small groups, or couples seeking a romantic getaway.
- Tailored Itineraries: Private lodges allow you to craft your own itinerary, whether you want to focus on game drives, birdwatching, or cultural visits.
Best Time to Visit: Year-Round, depending on your preferences for wildlife or relaxation.
7. Honeymoon Safaris (Year-Round)
Best Accommodation: Romantic Tented Camps and Secluded Luxury Lodges
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, honeymoon safaris offer intimate experiences with luxurious accommodations, private game drives, and candlelit dinners under the stars. Many lodges and camps cater specifically to honeymooners, offering a mix of privacy, personalized service, and romantic settings.
- Top Choices:
- Mahali Mzuri: Owned by Sir Richard Branson, this lodge offers private, opulent tents with stunning views over the Mara and personalized romantic touches.
- Sala’s Camp: Located on the convergence of the Sand and Keekerok rivers, offering seclusion and direct access to the Great Migration route.
- Naibor Camp: A stylish, intimate camp that provides tailored honeymoon experiences with secluded tents, outdoor showers, and riverside picnics.
- Why These?
- Privacy and Seclusion: These lodges offer luxurious and romantic settings, ideal for couples looking for privacy while being surrounded by nature.
- Romantic Activities: Experiences like private bush dinners, hot air balloon rides, and sundowners make these accommodations perfect for a romantic safari.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but couples may prefer visiting during the dry season (June to October) for clearer skies and abundant wildlife. Off-peak seasons (March to May) can offer more privacy and serenity with fewer tourists.
8. Eco-Friendly Safaris (March to June, November)
Best Accommodation: Eco-Camps and Sustainable Lodges
For travelers who prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility, eco-friendly accommodations are the best option. These lodges often use renewable energy, support local communities, and practice conservation efforts, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free safari.
- Top Choices:
- Basecamp Explorer: A leading eco-lodge in the Masai Mara that runs entirely on solar energy, supports local Maasai communities, and offers tree-planting programs for guests.
- Mara Bush Houses: Known for its sustainable practices, including using rainwater collection, solar power, and supporting anti-poaching initiatives.
- Elephant Pepper Camp: An award-winning eco-camp that limits plastic use, conserves water, and focuses on minimizing its environmental footprint while providing luxury.
- Why These?
- Sustainable Practices: These lodges follow eco-friendly protocols such as reducing carbon footprints, using renewable energy sources, and employing eco-conscious building designs.
- Community and Conservation Focus: Many eco-lodges invest in local communities and wildlife conservation efforts, offering guests a deeper connection to the Maasai Mara ecosystem.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and November are ideal times for eco-friendly safaris, as you can enjoy the green landscape with fewer tourists, contributing to less impact on the environment while enjoying lower rates.
9. Group Safaris (Year-Round)
Best Accommodation: Group-Friendly Camps and Safari Lodges
For groups of friends or families traveling together, the best accommodations are those that provide group-specific amenities like spacious tents, private villas, and shared common areas. These lodges cater to the social aspect of group travel while still offering exceptional safari experiences.
- Top Choices:
- Mara Intrepids Camp: A tented camp with family and group accommodations, offering shared game drives and group activities like nature walks and bush picnics.
- Mara Bush Camp: Provides larger tents and common dining areas perfect for groups, along with private game drives tailored for group interests.
- Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp: Known for its private family tents and group-friendly amenities, ideal for larger groups seeking exclusivity.
- Why These?
- Spacious Tents and Group Areas: These lodges provide larger tents or family units, allowing groups to stay together comfortably. Some offer exclusive-use camps for ultimate privacy.
- Shared Activities: These lodges often include group-focused activities such as private game drives, guided walks, and group dinners around the campfire, making the safari a social experience.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, depending on group preferences. Dry seasons (June to October) are great for game drives, while green seasons (November to April) provide beautiful landscapes and ideal birdwatching opportunities.
10. Photography Safaris (Year-Round)
Best Accommodation: Photography-Centric Camps and Private Tented Lodges
Photographers require accommodations that provide easy access to prime wildlife areas, expert guides who understand the needs of wildlife photographers, and flexible schedules that allow for optimal light conditions.
- Top Choices:
- Rekero Camp: A camp known for its proximity to the Mara River, ideal for capturing stunning migration crossings and predator action.
- Serian’s Nkorombo Mobile Camp: Offers private mobile camps with exclusive use of vehicles, designed to get close to the action and wildlife.
- Naibor Wilderness: Located on the Talek River, this camp provides access to varied ecosystems, making it ideal for photographers seeking diverse wildlife shots.
- Why These?
- Flexible Schedules: Photography-focused camps often allow for early starts and late returns to maximize the best lighting conditions for photography.
- Expert Guides: These lodges provide photography guides who understand the specific needs of wildlife photographers and know the best angles and spots to capture breathtaking shots.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but July to October during the Great Migration is ideal for action-packed photography, while the green season (March to June) offers vibrant landscapes and fewer tourists.
11. Walking Safaris (June to October)
Best Accommodation: Walking-Friendly Camps and Lodges in Private Conservancies
Walking safaris offer a more intimate and immersive way to explore the Masai Mara. These safaris are typically done in private conservancies where off-road walking and game viewing are allowed. The accommodations for these safaris are usually small, eco-friendly camps located in remote areas to ensure privacy and a closer connection to nature.
- Top Choices:
- Saruni Mara: Located in a private conservancy, offering guided walking safaris led by Maasai warriors, providing guests with unique insights into the flora, fauna, and wildlife behaviors.
- Elephant Pepper Camp: Known for offering walking safaris in the Mara North Conservancy, providing an authentic bush experience and luxury in equal measure.
- Mara Bush Houses: Exclusive-use accommodations with guided walking safari options, perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort.
- Why These?
- Expert Guides: Walking safaris are led by experienced guides who provide deep insights into the ecosystem, animal tracks, and smaller details often missed on game drives.
- Private Conservancy Access: Being located in conservancies, these camps offer a quieter, more private safari experience where walking safaris can be conducted legally and safely.
Best Time to Visit: June to October, when the dry season allows for better walking conditions, and wildlife is concentrated around water sources, making sightings more frequent.
12. Masai Mara Night Safaris (June to October)
Best Accommodation: Night Safari-Friendly Camps in Private Conservancies
Night safaris are a unique and thrilling way to explore the Masai Mara after dark, giving you the opportunity to see nocturnal species like civets, leopards, and genets. These safaris are only available in private conservancies where night drives are permitted.
- Top Choices:
- Kicheche Mara Camp: Located in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, this camp is perfect for night game drives that reveal the Mara’s nocturnal life.
- Richard’s River Camp: Offers night drives in the Mara North Conservancy, giving you a chance to spot elusive night animals in their natural habitat.
- Ol Seki Hemingways Mara Camp: Set in the Naboisho Conservancy, where night drives are a key highlight, allowing you to witness the Mara after dark with an expert guide.
- Why These?
- Nocturnal Wildlife Sightings: Night drives are your chance to see a different side of the Mara’s wildlife, including predators that are more active under the cover of darkness.
- Exclusive Access: These camps are located in conservancies, where fewer visitors mean you get a more private, uninterrupted experience.
Best Time to Visit: June to October, during the dry season, when animals are more easily seen and the weather is ideal for night activities.
13. Cultural Safaris (Year-Round)
Best Accommodation: Camps Offering Cultural Experiences with Maasai Communities
Cultural safaris in the Masai Mara offer a deeper connection with the land and the people who call it home. The best accommodations for cultural safaris are those that are integrated with local Maasai communities, providing authentic interactions and experiences that go beyond wildlife viewing.
- Top Choices:
- Mara Engai Lodge: Offers immersive cultural experiences, including Maasai village visits, Maasai warrior training, and guided bush walks with Maasai guides.
- Maji Moto Eco Camp: Run by Maasai communities, this eco-friendly camp provides guests with the opportunity to engage in Maasai customs, including beadwork, storytelling, and nature walks.
- Saruni Mara: Focuses on cultural interactions with Maasai guides, offering bush walks, village visits, and educational tours about Maasai traditions.
- Why These?
- Cultural Immersion: These camps offer not just wildlife safaris but also cultural exchanges, giving visitors a chance to learn about Maasai traditions and lifestyles.
- Community Support: Many of these lodges and camps are either owned by or work closely with Maasai communities, ensuring that tourism dollars directly benefit local people.
Best Time to Visit: Year-Round, as Maasai culture and traditions are ever-present, making any time a good time for a cultural safari. However, visiting during the dry season (June to October) makes outdoor activities more comfortable.
14. Masai Mara Family Safaris (December to February, June to August)
Best Accommodation: Family-Friendly Lodges and Camps
Family safaris in the Masai Mara are designed to cater to children and parents alike. The best family-friendly accommodations offer spacious family tents, kid-friendly activities, and guided safaris specifically designed to educate and engage younger travelers.
- Top Choices:
- Sarova Mara Game Camp: A family-friendly lodge with activities like nature walks, bush dinners, and storytelling sessions around the campfire.
- Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp: Offers family suites, game drives tailored for kids, and a swimming pool, making it perfect for family safaris.
- Mara Intrepids Camp: Provides family accommodations and activities like the Adventurer’s Club, where children can learn about wildlife and Maasai culture through fun, interactive experiences.
- Why These?
- Child-Friendly Amenities: These lodges provide large family suites, swimming pools, and educational programs designed to engage children with the wildlife and culture of the Mara.
- Specialized Game Drives: Many family lodges offer shorter, child-friendly game drives that focus on making wildlife viewing fun and educational for kids.
Best Time to Visit: December to February and June to August, when the weather is mild, and school holidays make it a convenient time for families to travel.
Conclusion
When planning your Masai Mara safari, the time of year and the type of safari experience you’re seeking will dictate the best accommodation choices. Whether you’re embarking on a Great Migration safari, seeking eco-friendly lodging, or looking for a family-friendly adventure, choosing the right place to stay will enhance your overall experience. From luxury lodges for romantic getaways to budget camps for adventure seekers, there’s a perfect option for every traveler and season.