Frequently Asked Questions About Masai Mara Budget Safaris

Before you book your safari, read on for answers to the 8 most important questions about budget tours in the Masai Mara.

1: What can I expect on a budget safari in the Masai Mara?

A budget safari in the Masai Mara provides visitors with exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Wide-open savannah and plenty of animals make it easy to spot wildlife, and you can expect to go from one great sighting to another. You’ll be welcomed by extensive herds of grazers on the open plains, while predators are also commonly seen.

2: When is the best time to go on a budget safari in the Masai Mara?

There is no bad time to take a budget safari in the Masai Mara, though some seasons do offer better visibility for certain species. During the rains (from March to May), birdlife flourishes, the plains are dotted with newborn animals, and the vegetation is lush. From June to October, the game viewing is particularly excellent, with some big cats and herds of migrating wildebeest and zebras.

3: How do I choose an operator for my budget safari in the Masai Mara?

When researching a budget safari in the Masai Mara, it is important to consider the tour operator that you choose. Look for operators based on the type of tour you prefer whether it’s a private or shared tour, a lodge, tented camp, or hotel, or one with specialized features such as gorilla trekking or photography. Read reviews and ratings of different tour operators to get an idea of the quality of service they provide, and make sure that the operators you choose have the relevant certifications.

4: What types of tours are available for budget safaris in the Masai Mara?

Budget safaris in the Masai Mara offer a range of tour options. These include fly-in safaris, family and honeymoon packages, beach time activities, gorilla trekking, photographic safaris, mountain climbing, walking safaris, guided self-drive tours, chimpanzee trekking, overland tours, cycling safaris, canoeing, horseback safaris, birding tours, accessible tours, golf and wildlife safaris, and yoga tours.

5: What can I do to prepare for my budget safari in the Masai Mara?

It’s important to take the time to properly prepare for your budget safari in the Masai Mara. You should research the area ahead of time, familiarizing yourself with the terrain, climate, and wildlife. You should also make sure to pack the right clothes and supplies, including comfortable clothing suited to the weather, sturdy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.

6: What kind of accommodation is available on a budget safari in the Masai Mara?

Many budget safaris in the Masai Mara offer accommodation in lodges, tented camps, and hotels. Depending on the budget safari you choose, you may also have the option of camping under the stars in tents.

7: What kind of food is served on a budget safari in the Masai Mara?

During a budget safari in the Masai Mara, you will typically enjoy freshly prepared meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Options range from hearty international cuisine to traditional African dishes, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.

8: Is an airport transfer included in a budget safari in the Masai Mara?

Yes, an airport transfer is usually included in budget safaris in the Masai Mara. Many operators will pick you up from Nairobi, Mombasa, Diani Beach, Arusha, Entebbe, Dar es Salaam, Johannesburg, Kigali, Zanzibar, Kampala, Maun, Moshi, Victoria Falls Town, Addis Ababa, Windhoek, Lusaka, Kasane, Hoedspruit, Livingstone, Cape Town, Iringa, Harare, Mfuwe, Antananarivo, Bujumbura, Mwanza, Nelspruit, and Blantyre.