Discover the breathtaking wilderness of the Masai Mara without breaking the bank. Crafted with budget-conscious adventurers and backpackers in mind, this 3-day, 2-night safari is designed to offer maximum value while minimizing costs. We’ve meticulously curated this package, leveraging our insider knowledge to ensure every shilling counts.
Why Choose This Budget Safari?
The recent increase in Masai Mara park entry fees, now doubled during the peak season, alongside the reduced ticket validity, has made safaris more expensive for many travelers. Moreover, overnight stays inside the reserve are now subject to an additional $80 fee per night. But here’s the good news: we’ve found the perfect loophole for budget travelers!
Stay Smart, Spend Less: Kambu Mara Camp
Our go-to accommodation, the award-winning Kambu Mara Camp, is strategically located just outside the reserve at Sekenani Gate. This means you’re exempt from the $80 overnight inside-the-reserve fee while still enjoying immersive natural surroundings. Picture yourself waking up to the sounds of the wild, with easy access to game drives, without the hefty price tag.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 01: Start of Your Safari from Nairobi
Your driver-guide will report to your hotel for the start of your safari, with a scheduled departure at 7:30 AM for a picturesque drive descending the Great Rift Valley and onwards to Masai Mara, Kenya’s most famous game reserve. The drive takes approximately 4.5 hours.
For budget-conscious travelers, there are flexible options to reach Masai Mara. You can choose to travel via public transportation, such as the Easy Coach from Nairobi to Narok, followed by a local matatu to Kambu Mara Camp. Alternatively, for those traveling in small groups, a more comfortable option is a private transfer in a 2WD Toyota Noah, costing around $160 one way, which becomes cost-effective when shared among at least two people. Let Kambu Campers know if you prefer this private transfer and they’ll help you arrange it.
En route, enjoy a brief stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint to take in the stunning panoramic views of this vast valley system, said to be visible from outer space. Arrive at Kambu Mara Camp in time for lunch and some relaxation amidst nature.
In the afternoon, you have the option to either embark on a cultural tour or rest at the camp. A visit to a Maasai village offers a unique insight into the traditional Maasai way of life, while the Beats of Beads Museum in Sekenani provides an opportunity to learn about Maasai beadwork and cultural heritage. Opting for a cultural tour instead of an afternoon game drive helps save on the $100+ park entry fee for Day 1, as you will only need to pay the entry fee for the full-day game drive on Day 2.
Dinner and overnight at Kambu Mara Camp.
Day 02: Full-Day Game Drive in Masai Mara
After an early breakfast, depart for a thrilling full-day game drive in the Masai Mara, lasting between 8 to 12 hours. This extensive safari experience will take you through some of the most wildlife-rich areas of the reserve, including Talek area, Central Mara Plains, Topi and Paradise Plains, Lookout Hill, Mara River, and even all the way to the Kenya-Tanzania border. You’ll have the opportunity to spot the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — along with a host of other wildlife species.
To reduce costs, we offer shared game drives whenever possible, allowing travelers to split the safari vehicle rental fees. We recommend packing snacks and water to avoid high costs of purchasing food within the reserve. Kambu Mara Camp also provides self-catering facilities and affordable packed lunch options.
Return to Kambu Mara Camp by 6:30 PM for dinner and overnight.
Day 03: Masai Mara to Nairobi
After a leisurely breakfast at the camp, prepare for your journey back to Nairobi. You can opt to take the budget-friendly route via matatu to Narok followed by the Easy Coach back to Nairobi, or choose a private transfer in a 2WD Toyota Noah for a more comfortable return journey. Whichever option you choose, you’ll carry unforgettable memories of your Masai Mara adventure.
Cost-Cutting Tips for an Even Cheaper Safari:
- Travel in Groups: Join our shared safari groups to split transportation and guide costs.
- Self-Catering: Kambu Mara Camp offers self-catering facilities. Bring groceries from Nairobi to save on meals.
- Flexible Transport: Mix public transport with private hires for a budget-comfort balance.
- Off-Peak Travel: Visit during the low season for reduced park fees and less crowded game drives.
Inclusions:
- 2 nights at Kambu Mara Camp (budget tented accommodation)
- Shared or private game drives (depending on your preference and group availability)
- Park entry fees (valid for 12 hours per day)
- Professional guide/driver
- Game drive in an open-sides Land Cruiser or Closed-body Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
- Bottled drinking water
Exclusions:
- Meals (self-catering available or affordable local options)
- Transport from Nairobi (customizable based on your budget)
- Personal expenses
Why Choose a Budget Masai Mara Safari?
- Affordable Adventure: Witness the Big Five without luxury price tags.
- Authentic Experience: Get closer to nature with budget-friendly camps like Kambu Mara Camp.
- Flexible Options: Shared tours, self-catering, and group safaris to suit every budget.
What Travelers Are Saying
- Backpackers love the community vibe at budget camps, where stories are shared around campfires.
- Solo travelers highlight the ease of joining group safaris to split costs.
- Family reviews often mention the affordability of self-catering options, perfect for cutting down food expenses.
Booking and Payment Details:
Rates for this budget safari start from as low as $300 per person, based on shared tents and shared safari vehicles. Payments can be made through various secure methods, including Visa or Mastercard, bank transfers, MPesa, and PayPal. Please note that wire transfers may incur additional fees, and card payments often have surcharge fees of up to 2%, depending on your bank.
How to Find the Best Masai Mara Safari Deals and Discounts
Finding the best Masai Mara safari deals requires a combination of research, flexibility, and strategic booking. According to seasoned travelers on forums like TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree, the best deals often come from booking group safaris directly with local tour operators rather than through international agents.
Local operators like Kambu Campers offer customized packages at lower prices since they eliminate the middleman. Traveling in the low season (March to May or October to November) can lead to significant discounts, as camps and tour companies lower their rates to attract visitors.
Another popular tip from budget travelers is to negotiate directly with operators—many are open to adjusting prices, especially if you’re booking for multiple people. Online travel communities and Facebook groups dedicated to African safaris often have members sharing last-minute deals and recommendations based on personal experiences.
Lastly, consider all-inclusive packages that cover transport, accommodation, meals, and park fees, as these often turn out to be cheaper than booking each element separately.
More Budget Travel Hacks for Masai Mara Safaris
- Travel Off-Peak: Fewer crowds and cheaper rates.
- Book as a Group: Splitting costs saves money.
- Self-Catering: Cook your meals to save on food costs.
- Bring Essentials: Avoid pricey tourist shops.
This safari is proof that adventure doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning, shared costs, and strategic accommodation, the Masai Mara is within reach for every traveler. Book your budget-friendly safari with MasaiMara.ke today and let the wild adventure begin!