The Masai Mara National Reserve in Narok County in Kenya is one of Africa's most renowned safari destinations, famous for its rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the annual Great Migration. Visitors flock to the Masai Mara to experience the beauty of the savannah and the thrill of seeing the "Big Five" in their natural habitat.
To cater to the diverse needs and budgets of travelers, the Masai Mara offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly camps to luxurious lodges.
Budget Accommodations in Masai Mara
Mara Explorer Tented Camp
Mara Explorer Tented Camp offers a basic yet comfortable safari experience for budget-conscious travelers. Located outside the reserve near the Mara River, this camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms. Guests can enjoy meals under the stars and participate in shared game drives, making it a great choice for those seeking an authentic and affordable safari adventure.
Basecamp Masai Mara
Basecamp Masai Mara is a permanent tented camp ideal for budget-minded travelers wanting to be close to the action. Situated inside the reserve, it offers simple but clean accommodations. Meals are served in a communal dining area, fostering a sense of community among guests. Activities include bush walks and other safari experiences, providing excellent value for money.
Sentrim Mara Lodge
For those who prefer a more hotel-like experience on a budget, Sentrim Mara Lodge is an excellent option. Located just outside the reserve, this lodge offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Guests can arrange game drives directly with the lodge, ensuring a seamless and convenient safari experience without breaking the bank.
Mid-Range Accommodations in Masai Mara
Sarova Mara Game Camp
Sarova Mara Game Camp strikes a perfect balance between comfort and affordability. Located inside the reserve, this camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas. Guests can enjoy meals in the main dining tent, relax by the pool, or participate in game drives, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a mid-range option with ample amenities.
Mara Bush Camp
Mara Bush Camp offers a unique and intimate safari experience. Situated inside a private conservancy bordering the Masai Mara, this camp features just a few tents, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests can enjoy private game drives, meals prepared by a private chef, and stunning views of the Mara, making it a perfect option for travelers looking for exclusivity without the high price tag of luxury accommodations.
Maji Moto Eco Camp
For those interested in eco-friendly accommodations, Maji Moto Eco Camp is an ideal choice. Located outside the reserve, this camp uses solar power and locally sourced materials. The camp offers comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms, and guests can enjoy meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Activities include guided bush walks and cultural experiences with the local Maasai community, making it a unique and sustainable option.
Luxury Accommodations in Masai Mara
Little Governors' Camp
Little Governors' Camp offers an unforgettable, luxurious safari experience. Located inside the reserve, this camp features spacious tents with private decks, infinity pools, and outdoor showers. Guests can indulge in gourmet meals and enjoy private game drives and other exclusive activities, ensuring a high-end, immersive experience in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Angama Mara
Angama Mara is one of the most luxurious lodges in the Masai Mara, known for its stunning location on a rocky escarpment with panoramic views of the Mara plains. The lodge features luxurious suites with private plunge pools, a spa, and a swimming pool. Guests can savor gourmet meals, embark on private game drives, and even experience hot air balloon rides, making it a top choice for those seeking opulence and exceptional service.
Mahali Mzuri
Mahali Mzuri, founded by renowned conservationist Richard Branson, is an exclusive safari camp located in a private conservancy bordering the Masai Mara. The camp has just 12 luxurious tents, each offering breathtaking views and top-notch amenities. Guests can enjoy private game drives, meals prepared by a private chef, and a range of luxury activities, ensuring a truly bespoke safari experience.
Comparison of Accommodation Options
Location
- Inside the Reserve: Accommodations like Basecamp Masai Mara, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Little Governors' Camp, and Angama Mara are located inside the Masai Mara National Reserve. Staying inside the reserve allows for immediate access to game drives and wildlife viewing, providing a more immersive safari experience.
- Outside the Reserve: Options such as Mara Explorer Tented Camp, Sentrim Mara Lodge, and Maji Moto Eco Camp are located outside the reserve. These accommodations often offer more budget-friendly rates while still providing easy access to the reserve's attractions through organized game drives.
Amenities
- Tents: Budget and mid-range options like Mara Explorer Tented Camp, Basecamp Masai Mara, and Mara Bush Camp offer tented accommodations. These tents range from basic to luxurious, often featuring en-suite bathrooms and private verandas.
- Cottages and Lodges: Accommodations like Sentrim Mara Lodge and Masai Mara Sopa Lodge provide a more traditional hotel-like experience with comfortable rooms and additional amenities such as swimming pools and restaurants.
- Luxury Suites: High-end options like Angama Mara and Mahali Mzuri offer luxurious suites with private plunge pools, spa services, and gourmet dining, ensuring a lavish stay.
Activities
- Game Drives: All accommodations provide game drives, but the experience varies. Luxury camps like Little Governors' Camp and Mahali Mzuri offer private game drives, while budget and mid-range options typically include shared game drives.
- Bush Walks and Cultural Experiences: Some camps, such as Basecamp Masai Mara and Maji Moto Eco Camp, offer additional activities like guided bush walks and cultural experiences with the local Maasai community.
- Exclusive Activities: Luxury accommodations offer exclusive activities like hot air balloon rides (Angama Mara) and private dining experiences, enhancing the overall safari adventure.
