Experience the Wild Up Close with MasaiMara.ke’s Open-Sided Land Cruiser Rentals
The Ultimate Safari Game Drive Vehicle for Photography, Visibility & Immersive Wildlife Viewing
If there is one safari vehicle that truly changes how you experience the Masai Mara, it is the open-sided Land Cruiser. After more than a decade guiding across the Mara’s plains, river crossings, and black-cotton tracks, I can say this clearly: your vehicle is not just transport—it is your viewing platform, your photography studio, and your comfort zone in the wild.
At MasaiMara.ke, we offer open-sided Land Cruiser safari vehicle rentals designed specifically for game drives inside the Masai Mara National Reserve and surrounding conservancies. These vehicles are built for maximum visibility, superior off-road performance, and serious wildlife photography, while still delivering the reliability that the Mara’s terrain demands.
Whether you are a photographer, a wildlife enthusiast, a honeymoon couple, or a small group seeking a premium safari experience, the open-sided Land Cruiser is widely considered the gold standard for immersive game viewing in the Masai Mara.
What Is an Open-Sided Land Cruiser Safari Vehicle?
An open-sided Land Cruiser is a 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser safari jeep that has been professionally converted for game drives with:
- Open or roll-up canvas sides (no glass windows blocking your view)
- Tiered or raised safari seating for better sightlines
- Reinforced suspension and heavy-duty off-road tires
- UHF radio for guide-to-guide wildlife tracking
- Power supply / charging ports in many vehicles
- Safari-grade safety rails and support frames
Unlike closed vehicles or minivans, open-sided safari vehicles remove visual barriers, allowing you to photograph, observe, and track wildlife without reflections, window frames, or restricted angles.
In short: this is the closest you can get to the action while staying safe and compliant with park rules.
Why Choose an Open-Sided Land Cruiser in the Masai Mara?
1) Unmatched Visibility for Wildlife Viewing
- 180° to 360° unobstructed views
- No glass glare, no window frames in your shots
- Perfect for tracking moving predators like cheetahs and lions
- Easier to follow birds in flight and fast-moving hunts
2) The Best Vehicle for Safari Photography
If photography is a priority, this is the vehicle you want:
- Clean sightlines for long lenses and wide-angle shots
- Faster repositioning for changing light and animal movement
- Better low-angle and eye-level wildlife perspectives
- Ideal for sunrise and sunset game drives in the Mara
Many professional photographers specifically request open-sided Land Cruisers for the Masai Mara.
3) True Off-Road Performance
The Masai Mara is not a smooth park:
- Black cotton soil becomes deep mud in rainy season
- Riverine tracks get rutted and slippery
- Some prime wildlife areas require serious traction
Our open-sided Land Cruisers are:
- Full 4WD
- High ground clearance
- Safari-modified suspension
- Built to handle Mara conditions year-round
4) A More Immersive Safari Experience
Without windows:
- You hear the Mara before you see it: lions calling, hyenas whooping, birds alarm-calling
- You smell the rain, the grass, the river, the dust
- You feel part of the landscape, not sealed away from it
This is as close as you get to a classic African safari experience while still being safe and comfortable.
The open-sided Land Cruiser is the ultimate safari vehicle for those seeking an immersive and intimate wildlife experience. Without the confines of glass windows, you can fully engage with your surroundings, making it easier to capture stunning photographs and enjoy unobstructed views.
Key Features:
- Unobstructed Views: With open sides, you have an unparalleled 360-degree view of the landscape, making it easier to spot wildlife and capture those once-in-a-lifetime shots.
- Enhanced Wildlife Encounters: The absence of windows allows you to hear the rustle of the wind, the distant call of a lion, and the subtle movements of animals—offering a sensory experience that’s as close to nature as possible.Rear Open and Elevated Seating: The rear of the vehicle is open and elevated, providing you with the best possible view even while sitting down. There’s no need to stand up or rely on a pop-up roof—every seat offers a prime vantage point for viewing wildlife and taking in the stunning scenery.
- Safety and Comfort: While the sides are open, the vehicles are equipped with safety features such as roll bars and are designed with your comfort in mind. The seating is cushioned and spacious, ensuring a comfortable ride even during longer game drives.
- All-Terrain Performance: Just like our standard Land Cruisers, the open-sided versions come with powerful 4×4 capabilities and all-terrain tires, ensuring you can navigate the Mara’s diverse landscapes with ease and confidence
Below are some images of the actual Land cruiser you can rent for your Masai Mara safari. Form to book is below this page.
Images courtesy of Kambu Campers, a tour operator which also operates a camp in Masai Mara. You can book these open-sides Jeep with them directly by contacting them.
Types of Open-Sided Land Cruisers in Masai Mara.
Completely Open-Sided Safari Land Cruiser:
This type provides an entirely open setup, allowing travelers to fully engage with nature, offering an up-close experience with the sights, sounds, and smells of the bush. These vehicles are ideal for game viewing and are frequently used in luxury fly-in safaris, where they pick you up directly from the airstrip.
Canopy-Covered Open-Sided Safari Land Cruiser:
For more protection against the elements, some open-sided vehicles come equipped with a canopy roof. This option provides shelter from the sun and rain while still maintaining the open sides for excellent visibility and interaction with wildlife. Both variations are commonly found within parks and reserves, enhancing the game drive experience.
- We offer two distinct types of open-sided Land Cruisers, each designed to enhance your safari experience by bringing you closer to the action while ensuring your comfort and safety. Here’s a breakdown of the options available:
- 1. Rollable Canvas Window Land Cruisers
- These vehicles are adapted from the traditional closed-body Land Cruisers, with a unique modification that replaces the glass windows with rollable canvas panels. This setup offers the flexibility to adjust your environment based on weather conditions and personal preference.
- Rollable Canvas Windows: These can be rolled up to provide an open-air experience, allowing you to enjoy unobstructed views and the full sensory experience of the Masai Mara. When rolled down, they offer protection from wind, dust, and rain while still allowing airflow.
- Versatile Setup: This type of vehicle is ideal for those who want the option to switch between an open-sided experience and a more enclosed environment depending on the weather and terrain.
- Comfort and Safety: With a traditional cabin structure, this option provides additional safety and comfort, especially for those new to the safari experience.
- 2. Fully Open-Sided Land Cruisers
- For those seeking a more rugged and authentic safari experience, our fully open-sided Land Cruisers are the perfect choice. These vehicles feature a simple setup in the back with no windows, offering an immersive connection with the wild surroundings.
- No Windows, Open Sides: The sides of the vehicle are left open, providing a direct and unfiltered view of the landscape and wildlife. This design is perfect for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who want the closest possible encounter with nature.
- Rollable Canvas Option: While the sides are open, these vehicles usually come equipped with rollable canvas panels that can be deployed quickly in case of inclement weather. This feature ensures you remain comfortable and protected, even in the Mara’s unpredictable conditions.
- Ideal for Enthusiasts: This type of vehicle is popular among seasoned safari-goers and photographers who prioritize proximity to wildlife and the natural environment.
What makes Open-sided Safari Vehicle such as 79 Series Most Suited for Masai Mara Luxury Safaris?
The Toyota Land Cruiser Series 79 is an exceptional choice for game drives in the Masai Mara due to its robust design and off-road capabilities. Key features include:
- High-Torque Diesel Engine and 4×4 Capabilities: Ideal for navigating challenging terrains like muddy paths and steep inclines.
- Durable Suspension and Steel Body: Ensures a smooth ride on rough terrain and offers protection against minor impacts.
- High Ground Clearance: Prevents undercarriage damage and allows smooth travel over obstacles.
- Safari Customization: Can be outfitted with pop-up roofs or open sides for enhanced wildlife viewing.
- Reliability and Easy Maintenance: Known for its mechanical simplicity and widespread availability of spare parts in Africa.
- Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines provide a long driving range, crucial for extended game drives.
These features make the Series 79 an ideal vehicle for both comfort and durability on Masai Mara safaris.
Open-Sided Land Cruiser vs Other Safari Vehicles (Quick Comparison)
| Feature | Open-Sided Land Cruiser | Closed Land Cruiser | Safari Van |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Unobstructed) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Photography | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best choice | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Off-road capability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐ to ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Comfort in bad weather | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Immersion | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Best for | Photographers, premium safaris | Families, all-weather trips | Budget safaris |
Expert take: If wildlife viewing and photography matter most, open-sided Land Cruiser wins.
Where Our Open-Sided Land Cruisers Operate
Our vehicles are ideal for:
- Masai Mara National Reserve (game drives from Sekenani, Talek, Oloolaimutia sectors)
- Mara Conservancies (Mara North, Naboisho, Olare Motorogi, Ol Kinyei, Lemek, etc.)
- Fly-in safaris where open-sided vehicles are standard inside conservancies
- Private and shared game drives depending on your booking type
⚠️ Note: Some conservancies prefer or require open-sided vehicles for internal game drives because of their low-impact design and viewing advantages.
Why are Safari Vehicles Open?
Safari jeep Land Cruiser 4×4 vehicles are designed with open sides to maximize the safari experience, offering unmatched visibility, immersion, and accessibility. The open design allows passengers to enjoy unobstructed views of wildlife and the surrounding landscape, making it easier to spot and photograph animals from any angle.
The absence of windows and doors not only provides better airflow and comfort during long game drives but also enables closer interaction with nature, enhancing the sensory experience. These vehicles are particularly ideal for photographers, as they offer flexibility for camera equipment setup and better positioning for capturing wildlife.
Despite being open, they are designed for safety, as animals are accustomed to the presence of these vehicles and perceive them as non-threatening as long as passengers remain calm.
Are open-Sides Safari Jeeps Safe?
Open-sided safari Jeeps are surprisingly safe when it comes to wildlife. Animals like cheetahs, leopards, and even lions don’t see humans inside the vehicle as prey. They look at the Jeep as one big, non-threatening object, and in most cases, lions won’t even give you a second glance.
But while the wildlife isn’t much of a concern, the real risks come from elsewhere. These Jeeps don’t have side panels, crumple zones, or anti-roll protection, which means they aren’t built for safety in case of accidents, especially on highways. Plus, being exposed to the elements is no joke. Early morning drives can be freezing, and if it rains, you’re left battling the cold and wind, which can lead to discomfort and even respiratory issues. For families with kids or anyone who prefers more protection from the elements, closed vehicles offer a much safer, more comfortable ride.
In fact we used closed-sided Land Cruisers and safari vans for all transfers to and from Masai Mara.
More detailed below;
Why Open-Sided Safari Vehicles are Safe for Game Drives
Open-sided safari vehicles are widely considered safe for game drives due to several factors, including thoughtful design and the expertise of the guides who operate them.
- Expert Guidance and Training:
Guides are highly trained in animal behavior and know when to approach or retreat, minimizing risks during wildlife encounters. They follow strict safety protocols, ensuring passengers remain safe while observing the animals. By understanding animal behavior, these guides can predict movements and make quick, safe adjustments to the vehicle’s position when necessary.- Here are some more helpful guides to explore especially if doing self-drive in the Mara;
- Wildlife Perception of Vehicles:
Research shows that animals such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards do not see safari vehicles as a threat as long as passengers remain seated. The design of the vehicle, with elevated seating and open sides, allows it to blend into the environment. This minimizes the risk of triggering aggressive behavior from the animals, especially when the guides maintain a safe distance. Check out this guide on why animals such as lions or cheetahs don’t attack safari vehicles – even when inside open-sides vehicles. - Vehicle Design for Safety:
Open-sided vehicles are designed with reinforced frames, providing structural stability during low-speed drives. The elevated seating keeps passengers safely distanced from the wildlife while offering excellent visibility. The vehicles typically move at slow speeds (under 40 km/h or 24.8 mph), reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring passengers can safely enjoy game viewing.
Why Open-Sided Safari Vehicles May Not Be Safe in Some Cases
Despite the advantages, open-sided safari vehicles can present certain risks and discomforts, particularly in specific situations:
- Cold Weather Exposure:
One of the biggest challenges with open-sided vehicles is exposure to cold during early morning drives. When the temperature is around 40°F (4°C) and the vehicle is moving at 40 km/h (25 mph), the wind chill can make it feel as cold as 28°F (-2°C). This combination of cold air and wind can make the experience uncomfortable, especially for passengers who are not dressed appropriately for the conditions. - Higher Risk for Children:
For families with young children, open-sided vehicles may not be the safest option. Children are more vulnerable to cold temperatures, and prolonged exposure to cold, windy conditions can increase their risk of hypothermia, respiratory issues, or a weakened immune response. Experts recommend that children be kept in environments where the temperature is at least 60°F (16°C). Therefore, choosing a closed-body vehicle that offers more protection from the elements is a safer and more comfortable choice for families. - Rollover Safety Risks:
Another important safety consideration is the risk of a vehicle rollover. In the rare event that an open-sided vehicle rolls over, passengers are much more exposed compared to those in enclosed vehicles. The lack of reinforced sides and limited protection increases the likelihood of serious injury or fatalities. Closed-body vehicles, by contrast, provide better structural integrity, reducing the risk of injury during accidents.
NTSA Restrictions on Open-Sided Safari Vehicles on Highways
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) of Kenya does not allow open-sided safari vehicles to be used on main highways, either as public service vehicles or private safari vehicles. This is because they fail to meet essential safety standards required for highway travel.
- Unsuitable for Highway Use:
Open-sided vehicles lack critical safety features such as airbags, side panels, and crumple zones that are necessary for high-speed road use. As a result, they are highly vulnerable in the event of a collision, which is why the NTSA restricts their use to within game reserves like the Masai Mara. For longer journeys on highways, travelers must use closed vehicles or safari vans that meet the safety requirements for public roads. - Lack of Structural Integrity:
Open-sided safari vehicles are specifically designed for low-speed game viewing within the reserve and do not have the structural integrity required for long-distance travel on highways. In the event of a highway collision, these vehicles offer little protection due to their open sides and lack of side-impact resistance. Therefore, closed vehicles, which are built with reinforced safety features, are required for transport to and from the reserve.
Situational Context: Open-Sided vs. Closed Vehicles
Even within the game reserve, there are strict speed limits for safety reasons. Open-sided vehicles are generally safe when driven at the recommended speeds of 40 km/h (24.8 mph) or less. Check out our Guide to Masai Mara Game Drive Etiquette and Rules. However, at higher speeds, such as those on highways, these vehicles become hazardous because passengers are more exposed and can be injured by sudden movements or accidents. This is why operators enforce slower speeds inside the reserve to ensure both passenger safety and minimal disturbance to wildlife.
- Vulnerability to Adverse Weather:
Another consideration is the vulnerability of open-sided vehicles to adverse weather conditions. Heavy rain, high winds, or intense sunlight can make them uncomfortable or unsafe. Passengers are exposed to the elements, which can lead to discomfort, health risks, or even accidents if visibility becomes poor. During the rainy season, closed-body vehicles or Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs provide a better balance of protection and immersion in the safari experience.
Conclusion: Weighing Safety and Comfort
While open-sided safari vehicles are a popular and generally safe choice for game drives within the Masai Mara, there are important factors to consider when deciding whether they are the right option for you. These vehicles provide incredible visibility and an immersive wildlife experience but come with limitations regarding cold weather exposure, safety for children, and vulnerability during accidents. Additionally, their use is restricted to game reserves, as they do not meet the safety standards required for highway travel.
For families with young children, or for those who prioritize comfort and protection from the elements, a closed-body vehicle is a safer and more comfortable option. Closed vehicles not only provide better insulation against cold and rain but also offer superior structural protection in the event of an accident. By carefully considering your group’s needs and the conditions of your safari, you can make the best decision for a safe and enjoyable adventure in the Masai Mara.
What’s Included When You Rent from MasaiMara.ke
Our Open-Sided Land Cruiser rental packages typically include:
- ✔️ 4×4 Open-Sided Toyota Land Cruiser Safari Jeep
- ✔️ Professional, experienced driver-guide
- ✔️ Fuel for the game drive
- ✔️ Vehicle park/conservancy entry fees
- ✔️ Driver park/conservancy entry fees
- ✔️ Vehicle insurance
- ✔️ UHF radio communication
- ✔️ Safari-modified seating and viewing setup
Not included:
- ❌ Guest park entry fees
- ❌ Picnic lunch / drinks
- ❌ Tips and gratuities
Who Should Choose an Open-Sided Land Cruiser?
✅ Ideal For:
- Wildlife photographers
- Filmmakers and content creators
- Honeymoon couples seeking a premium safari feel
- Small private groups (2–6 guests)
- Repeat safari visitors who want deeper immersion
- Conservancy-based safaris with night drives and off-road privileges
⚠️ Consider Alternatives If:
- You’re traveling in heavy rain season and want full enclosure
- You’re sensitive to dust or cold wind in early mornings
- You’re traveling with very young children who need more enclosure
In those cases, a closed Land Cruiser with pop-up roof may be more suitable.
Open-Sided Land Cruiser for Great Migration Safaris
During the Great Migration (July–October), open-sided Land Cruisers are especially valuable:
- Better angles at river crossings
- Easier tracking of moving herds
- Faster repositioning at predator action sites
- Cleaner photography in chaotic, fast-moving scenes
Important reality check: No vehicle guarantees crossings—but the right vehicle + great guide gives you the best chance to be in the right place at the right time.
Open-Sided Land Cruiser for Day vs Night Game Drives
- Day drives: Perfect for open plains, predator tracking, bird photography, and landscapes
- Night drives (in conservancies): Excellent spotlight viewing, unobstructed scanning, and better visibility for nocturnal species
Open-sided vehicles are commonly used in conservancies where night drives are permitted.
Safety & Safari Etiquette
Our open-sided Land Cruisers operate under strict safari rules:
- You remain seated and inside the vehicle structure
- No standing on seats or leaning out unsafely
- Guides control positioning at sightings
- Animals perceive the vehicle as one “object,” not individual people
- This makes open-sided safaris safe and standard practice across East Africa
Pricing: What Does It Cost?
We charge a flat pricing all-inclusive rental fee of $300 for a full day game drive but at times, our prices may vary depending on:
- Private vs shared game drive
- Duration (half day, full day, extended day)
- Reserve vs conservancy
- Season (high vs low)
- Group size
Typical ranges (guideline only):
- Shared game drives: from budget-friendly per-person rates
- Private open-sided Land Cruiser: premium daily rates reflecting exclusivity and vehicle type
📩 For exact pricing, email: Bookings@MasaiMara.ke with:
- Your dates
- Number of guests
- Where you’re staying
- Pick-up location
- Reserve or conservancy preference
How to Book Your Open-Sided Land Cruiser Safari
- Email Bookings@MasaiMara.ke
- Share:
- Safari date(s)
- Number of adults & children
- Camp or lodge name
- Pick-up & drop-off location
- Private or shared preference
- We confirm availability and vehicle type
- You receive your detailed safari plan and quote
Our game drives typically start around 6:00 AM for best wildlife activity.
Why Book with MasaiMara.ke?
- Local, Mara-based expertise
- Professionally maintained safari vehicles
- Experienced driver-guides who know the terrain and wildlife
- Transparent pricing
- Focus on responsible, conservation-aware tourism
- Vehicles positioned around key gates: Sekenani, Talek, Oloolaimutia
We don’t just rent vehicles—we build proper safari days.
Responsible Safari Travel & Conservation
Open-sided Land Cruisers are not just about experience—they support:
- Lower-impact wildlife viewing
- Better guide control of vehicle positioning
- Reduced off-road damage when used correctly
- Better guest education and appreciation of wildlife
At MasaiMara.ke, we believe great safaris and conservation must go together. The Mara’s future depends on how we drive, where we stop, and how we respect wildlife.
Final Expert Take
If you want:
- The best wildlife visibility
- The best photography platform
- A more immersive Masai Mara safari
- And a true classic safari experience
Then an Open-Sided Land Cruiser Safari Vehicle is the right choice.
It is not the cheapest option—but it is very often the best.
Book Your Open-Sided Land Cruiser Safari
📧 Bookings@MasaiMara.ke
Tell us your dates, group size, and where you’re staying—and we’ll design the right game drive for you in the Masai Mara.
