Costs & Fees for Masai Mara
Dreaming of going on a safari? Then you've no doubt pictured the wide expanse of fields, lively watering holes, and incredible natural beauty of a place like Masai Mara National Reserve. If you've decided to make this one-of-a-kind destination your home base on safari, it's important to determine your budget, which means carefully considering all of the costs and fees.
See all Masai Mara safarisFees for Masai Mara National Reserve
The entrance fees for Masai Mara National Reserve differ for residents and non-residents, with residents of Kenya enjoying discounted admission. Non-resident adults pay $80 USD per person, children 3 to 18 years old pay $45 USD, and infants and children under 3 enter free of charge. There are other fees in place for different vehicles or for visitors interested in camping in the reserve, but, if travellers are on a tour, those fees are usually already included in the price.
| Non-resident prices (per person, per day) | Resident prices (per person, per day) | |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (18+ years) | $80 USD | $70 USD |
| Children (3-18 years) | $45 USD | $40 USD |
| Children (0-3 years) | free | free |
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Wondering how to have an unforgettable safari experience on a tight budget? Read our tips on budget safaris or check our tour deals.
How much does it cost to go to Masai Mara?
The price of your safari tour can be greatly influenced by various elements, which you can learn more about below. Luckily, TourRadar has a wide range of trips available to suit any budget. You can find a selection here.
Accommodation
The price of accommodation for a safari in Masai Mara depends on the level of comfort and luxury travellers expect. Budget travellers will spend their nights in small yet secure tented camps. They won't provide any luxury, but they'll keep visitors protected from the elements. Mid-range options, such as more permanent tents and small lodges, are available, offering a more comfortable experience in larger accommodations. Luxury accommodation is akin to staying in resort hotels and will cost much more.
Tour duration
One of the things that most effects the price of a safari tour is the length of the trip. When comparing prices, look closely at the number of nights the trip spends in your chosen park. Another consideration is game drives: each tour will have a certain number of these amazing excursions included in the price, but to make sure you're getting the best value for your money, check the number of game drives included in your tour.
Food
Generally speaking, meals will be included in a safari package. However, if you adhere to a specific diet or have any other dietary restrictions, it is important to consult the "what's included" section of your selected tour to avoid any unpleasant surprises along the way. If you anticipate requiring extra snacks or water, make sure to organize that before you set out on your safari adventure.
Transportation
There are two main options for travel within Masai Mara National Reserve on safari: safari vans and land cruisers. Safari vans are the more budget-friendly option and look like large vans you would expect to see on roads at home. The ride will be bumpier, and, as the vans are covered over, visibility can be limited. Land cruisers are more traditional open-air vehicles that, while expensive, allow the best visibility and comfort on safari, which translated to better pictures.
Tipping
While tipping isn't compulsory on safari trips, tips are always greatly appreciated and make a big difference in the lives of your local guides and trackers. The average tip amount for guides and drivers is about $3-6 USD per staff member, per day. During group tours, there is often a tip jar - travellers can add their money to it, and the tour leader will distribute it amongst the rest of the team.
Low vs high season
The cost of your tour may fluctuate depending on the season in which you travel. The high season, from July to October, coincides with the Great Migration. Travellers on a budget are encouraged to book well in advance, as prices may increase as the tour draws closer. Travel during the short rains, from October to December, means fewer crowds and lower prices, and, generally speaking, there will still be great visibility of animals.
Cash and card
If paying with a card, remember that there will likely be fees associated with international withdrawals. Remember to inform your bank of your travels, and take into account the additional fees you may come across while withdrawing cash from ATMs. Also, keep in mind that, while ATMs will be available in major cities, they are few and far between in remote areas. Keep in mind that smaller venues might only accept cash.
Currency
The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (not to be confused this with the Tanzanian or Ugandan Shillings). US dollars are often accepted on airlines and in major hotels and national parks but do bring some local currency for tips and shopping. It is best to exchange your money after arriving in Africa. Exchange bureaus are easy to find and they generally offer the best rates.
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