The Maasai Mara is Kenya's most famous reserve, and it has a reputation for being expensive. It can be — but it doesn't have to be. Most of the cost of a Mara safari comes from a handful of choices, and a few of them are easy to change.

Where the money goes

A typical Mara safari price is made up of four things:

  • Park fees. The reserve charges international visitors a fee for every 24 hours inside. It's lower from January to June and higher from July to December, when the Great Migration is in the Mara.
  • Accommodation. The biggest variable by far. The same game drives can be done from a simple camp or a luxury tented lodge.
  • Transport. A 4x4 with a driver-guide for the whole trip, plus fuel.
  • Extras. Hot air balloon flights, cultural visits and drinks.

1. Travel in the green season

From April to early June the long rains bring afternoon showers, lush grass and far fewer vehicles. Park fees are at their lower rate and many camps drop their prices too. Wildlife is still excellent: the Mara's lions, elephants and cheetahs live there all year.

2. Choose a simple camp

Budget and mid-range camps on the edge of the reserve offer clean, comfortable rooms or tents with hot showers and good food. You'll spend most of your time on game drives anyway. Staying just outside the gate can save a lot, as long as you're close enough to be in the reserve at sunrise.

3. Share the vehicle

A safari vehicle costs the same whether it carries two people or six. Travelling as a group of friends or family — or joining others — spreads that cost. Ask us about matching solo travellers into shared departures.

4. Go for three days, not two

It sounds backwards, but a two-day trip spends most of its time on the road from Nairobi. Three days gives you two full mornings in the reserve for very little extra, so you get far better value from the drive.

5. Choose your extras carefully

A balloon flight at dawn is unforgettable, but it's also the single biggest add-on. If the budget is tight, a sunrise game drive gives you the same golden light for free. Bring your own snacks and a refillable water bottle.

What you shouldn't cut

Don't compromise on the guide or the vehicle. A good driver-guide finds the animals, keeps you safe and makes the trip. A reliable pop-up roof 4x4 matters on Mara roads, especially in the rainy season.

Plan it with us

Every safari we run lists exactly what's included, so there are no surprises at the gate. Have a look at our 3-Day Maasai Mara Safari, or send us your dates and budget and we'll put together options that fit.