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• Family Safari in the Masai Mara

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By Matthys van Aswegen

Safari Travel Planner

A family holiday in the Masai Mara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that your kids will never forget. Exploring one of Africa’s greatest wilderness areas seeing elephants, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffes and massive herds of antelope against photogenic savanna backdrops will enchant kids of all ages. The Masai Mara is also one of Africa’s best safari destinations for families because of the ease of spotting game on the open plains, the thrilling dramas of the Great Migration scenes, and a host of child-friendly places to stay.

Having the perfect family holiday in the Masai Mara is all about where you stay. Research family-friendly lodges (some lodges have minimum age limits) and be sure to book one that offers family tents or rooms (with their own dining and lounge areas), kids’ activities such as nature walks, treasure hunts, bow and arrow shooting, fire making, storytelling and special extras such as kids’ adventure clubs.

Consider staying at a lodge or camp on a conservancy where you can do guided bush walks, to give the kids a break from long game drives (walks are not permitted in the national reserve). Some lodges offer child minding services but these usually need to be requested before your trip. Most upmarket lodges and camps that allow children will be able to cook child-friendly meals.

Another option for families is renting one of the private houses on conservancies bordering the Masai Mara. These houses – which come with their own team of staff – can only be booked exclusively, which means you’ll have privacy as well as more freedom for the children.

If you have young children, it’s a good idea to book a private game drive vehicle for your family, so that you can tailor the length of your game drives and choose your own schedule (usually morning game drives start very early) and also not disturb other guests.

Keep in mind that many camps and lodges are unfenced, so you need to keep a careful eye on your children and not let them wander around on their own.

Doing a fly-in safari is the easiest option if you have small children, as the drive to the Masai Mara from Nairobi is long and on bumpy roads. It’s a short flight on scheduled or chartered planes from Nairobi (and other destinations in Kenya) to the airstrips in the reserve or in the conservancies. You won’t need your own car once you’re in the reserve as most lodges and camps offer guided game drives, and will pick you up from the airstrip.

As with any African travel with kids, make sure that you get any required vaccinations at least six months before you travel. The Masai Mara is a malarial area, and you should consult your doctor about the necessary prophylactics. The most important thing is to prevent being bitten, so always dress your kids in long-sleeved shirts and trousers and spray with mosquito repellent – especially around dawn and dusk – and use a mosquito net when sleeping.

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With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you tailor your itinerary to your perfect adventure., 24/7 support, personalised, popular masai mara safaris, these recommended tours for masai mara can be tailor-made to match your budget..

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The Masai Mara National Park is one of the world’s greatest safari destinations, sharing unfenced borders with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania , and encompassing endless rolling plains, breathtaking scenery, and an abundance of wildlife. The Mara offers unrivalled views of the world’s greatest migration - a wildlife spectacle of over 1.5 million wildebeest moving in a circular direction between Kenya and Tanzania in search of grasslands that have sprouted after the rain. Crossing the Mara River is part of their journey and is a sight to behold as distressed herds attempt to get across the crocodile-infested waters. Visitors also have the rare opportunity of interacting with the Maasai people, learning about their century-old traditions and bush survival skills.

The Masai Mara is phenomenal all year round and offers exciting game drives, bush walks, hot air balloon safaris, and a selection of luxury and tented accommodations.

Each year the Masai Mara National Reserve is visited by thousands of tourists who come here to watch the exceptional population of game and the annual migration of zebra and wildebeest. The “Great Migration” takes place every year from July to October when millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania.

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Make memories of a lifetime on a quintessentially Kenyan family safari holiday

Masai Mara family safari holidays

The ultimate safari destination that has inspired countless journeys, films and works of literature.

This is big sky country, and stunning to behold: an iconic setting graced by wildlife galore, it’s easy to combine with other hotspots, especially the coast .

The reserve is bordered by private conservancies and the accommodation and experiences on offer are wonderfully diverse. For first timers and old hands alike, this is our ultimate Kenya luxury family safari holiday destination.

Within easy reach of Nairobi , and the Serengeti just over the border, the Mara has plenty to offer a Kenya family safari. The landscape typifies East African savannah: 1,100 square miles of endless plains under vaulted skies, thorn trees, winding rivers, dense forests, kopjes and undulations skirted by rivers, and the magnificent Oloololo Escarpment to the west.

There’s wildlife around every corner, up every tree and in every thicket: journeys of giraffe, crashes of rhino, dazzles of zebra, prides of lion, pods of hippo… and the ideal environment for cheetah in full sprint. Famous for the Great Migration and the Big Five , the very fortunate might glimpse roan antelope and bat-eared foxes too.

Staying within the reserve buys you quickest access to migration river crossings and beautiful ballooning — but the surrounding private conservancies boast far fewer vehicles and an enticing range of activities like walking , night game drives, horse riding… wherever you choose, you’re in for a bucket list family safari.

July to November is migration primetime, but the Mara is an excellent Kenya family safari destination year-round. We love the rains for dramatic skies and spectacular sunsets — a fabulous time for photography.

From visits to the local  Maasai communities , to scenic flights and all-day game drives, adventure abounds in this family safari holiday wonderland.

Talk to us about your next big adventure.

Our favourite masai mara experiences.

The home of the hot-air balloon safari; soaring above the Mara's vast plains is tough to beat.

Hot air balloon safari

Big five safari

Great migration safari

Kids safari

Private guide safari

Walking safari

Cultural Immersion

Bird safari

Itinerary ideas, suggested itineraries for your masai mara family safari holiday, kenya safari and beach holiday.

Combine the world-famous Masai Mara with some time on Kenya’s gorgeous coastline with our signature Kenya family safari and beach holiday.

Kenya wildlife and conservation safari holiday

Combine the world-famous Masai Mara with beautiful scenery and incredible conservation successes in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

Places to stay

Recommended accommodation for your masai mara family safari holiday.

Angama Mara

Our Luxury Rating

andBeyond Bateleur Camp

Cottar's 1920s Camp and Bush House

Ngare Serian

Karen Blixen Camp

Naboisho Camp

Mara Bush Houses

Hemingways Ol Seki Mara

Sanctuary Olonana

Why travel with coral tree, we are the specialists in luxury africa family safari holidays.

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Every journey is tailored with your specific wishes in mind

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Masai Mara Safaris

This magnificent reserve plays host to one of the planet’s most amazing wildlife spectacles each year – the great migration, as well as superb gameviewing year-round..

Meaning “spotted” in the Maa language of the Maasai, it’s easy to see why the Masai Mara is so called. The rolling grasslands of this 1,500km² reserve are dotted with flat-topped thorn trees, dappled with cloud shadow and during the Great Migration, flecked with an unbelievable number of wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s gazelle.

Between July to October, over two million wildebeest and thousands of zebra migrate north from Tanzania’s Serengeti in search of fresh water and new grass. They are what most visitors come to Kenya to see; however, the Mara has reliably good gameviewing throughout the year.

The herds attract plenty of large predators such as lion, leopard and hyena, and the interactions between the animals are extraordinary. River crossings are particularly exciting, as the wildebeest are preyed upon by hundreds of hungry crocodiles waiting in the seething waters.

The plains of the Masai Mara are the permanent home of all of the “Big 5” as well as a plethora of antelope ranging from the tiny dik-dik through to the imposing eland. So even when the wildebeest and zebra herds have departed for the Serengeti, you’ll find this one of the best places in all of Africa to observe big game species such as black rhino and cheetah.

As the reserve can get busy, staying in private concessions adjoining the Masai Mara provides a measure of exclusivity. It also allows visitors to enjoy activities not permitted in the main reserve such as walking safaris. Whilst game drives are the most common means of exploring the Mara, why not consider floating over the landscape in a hot air balloon? This magical experience provides a bird’s eye view of the reserve, and concludes with an indulgent champagne breakfast in the bush.

Masai Mara Highlights

• Kenya’s most famous reserve
• Site of the annual wildebeest migration
• Plentiful predators as lion, leopard and cheetah
• Exceptional animal interactions
• Iconic landscapes of open savanna
• Classic and luxury safari camps
• Maasai cultural encounters

July to September is when the annual wildebeest migration takes place. However, the Masai Mara offers excellent gameviewing all year round.

If you plan to go during the Great Migration, be sure to book early as our camps and lodges tend to fill up quickly during this period.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

Subscribe below to keep up to date, find out more about our tailor made african safaris, our recommended, kenya sample itineraries.

The following itineraries are just some of the many experiences that we can design for you. All of our tours are private, independent and tailor-made to your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin creating your personalised Kenya experience.

Best of Kenya and Tanzania

This safari combines the best wildlife experiences of Kenya and Tanzania, including the Samburu, Lake Nakuru, the Masai Mara and Serengeti.

Highlights of Kenya

Discover the Highlights of Kenya on this classic safari itinerary, taking in the Samburu National Reserve, Mt Kenya, Lake Nakuru and the renowned Masai Mara.

Inspiring Sights of Kenya

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Family safari in the Masai Mara – Visiting with Kids

Family safari in the Masai Mara – A family vacation in the Masai Mara is a once-in-a lifetime experience adventure that your kids and spouse will never forget. Experiencing one of Africa’s greatest wilderness plains, seeing the big five like lion, elephants, buffalo, rhino and leopard, accompanied with giraffe and massive herds of antelope plus millions of wildebeest and thousands of zebras, against photogenic savannah backdrops will charm kids of all ages. The Masai Mara is as well one of Africa’s best safari destinations for families because of the ease of spotting wildlife on the open plains, the thrilling drama of thunder of hooves as the millions of wildebeest cross Mara river from Tanzania’s Serengeti National park (Great Migration) and a host of child friendly places to stay,

Enjoying a perfect and on point family holiday in Masai Mara, is all about where you stay, use family friendly lodges because most of the lodges or camps have minimum age limit and Great Adventure Safaris can help you get the best family lodge or camp and you will be assured of booking a lodge or camp with family suits with your own dinning and lounge area, kids’ activities such as nature walks, bow and arrow shooting, fire making, storytelling and any other extras.

Note that if you are traveling with kids, you need to look at a lodge or camp that is located in a conservancy where kids can do guide bush walks but remember such walks are not allowed in the national reserve. Some lodges and camps offer child minding services but we normally request for them in advance before the holiday. Most upmarket lodges and camps that allow kids, will be able to cook child friendly meals but it is better you contact Great Adventure safaris in advance and we make prior requests.

If you are a kind of traveller, looking for privacy as well as more freedom for the children, you can still opt to renting one of the private houses on conservancies bordering Masai Mara. The house comes with own team of staff and can only be booked exclusively.

It is a good idea to book a private game safari vehicle for your family and mostly if you have kids with you on a holiday. This helps you tailor the length of you game drives and choose the schedule that suits the kids. For kid’s protection, keep in mind that most of the lodges and camps are not fenced, so make sure that you keep a keen eye on your kids and do not let them wander around on their own.

In – Conclusion

As with any African holiday with kids, you should make sure that you get all the required vaccinations at least seven months before your actual dates of travel with exception of COVID-19. The Masai Mara falls in the malarial zone and you should ask your doctor or your medical specialist about the best repellants and carry all the medication with you, most importantly is to prevent your kids from being bitten by mosquitos and other insect, so keep your kids dressed well and you can click on the link to read more about what to wear of the Mara safari, you will also get to know when it is chilly and hot. Contact Great Adventure safaris now to book your perfect family safari in the Masai Mara Kenya.

40 Masai Mara National Park Safari Tours By AJ Kenya Safaris Ltd

Imagine a world where endless plains meet abundant wildlife, where the Maasai people’s rich culture intertwines with Africa’s raw beauty, and where life moves to the rhythm of the great wildebeest migration. Welcome to Masai Mara, Kenya’s premier safari destination!

In this post, we’ll guide you through the marvels of Masai Mara, exploring its diverse ecosystem, things to do, captivating attractions, unique experiences, and top-notch accommodations. But before then, let us share our contact details and our most booked Masai Mara National Park safaris.

Contact Us To Start Planning Your Masai Mara Safari

The time to plan your Masai Mara Safari is now! We invite you to contact us via WhatsApp or phone at +254-704-532-105 .  

We are also available through email at [email protected] or [email protected] .  

If you prefer, you can leave us your details by filling our “ Book a Safari Form ” and we will get back within 12 hours.

Masai Mara Video - Filmed by James Gatheru, Our CEO:

Our most booked, luxury masai mara packages.

10 Day Kenya Classic Safari

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Kenya Itinerary 10 Days. OlPejeta-Samburu-Masai Mara

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Blissful, 4-Day Keekorok Lodge Masai Mara Safari

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7 Days, Giraffe Manor and Masai Mara Luxury Safari

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Just the Vacation You Need - 4 Days at Base Camp Masai Mara

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Masai Mara: Why this 5-Day Big 5 Safari is the Perfect Honeymoon

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Experience True Safari Luxury with this 3-Day Masai Mara Classic Safari

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Unforgettable, 4-Day Trip to Masai Mara - Big 5 and More

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Our Best Selling, 5-Day Masai Mara Safari

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4 Days Big 5 Safari in Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara

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A Relaxed, All-Inclusive 6 Days Safari in Kenya

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8-Day Safari in Kenya - A Holiday with Purpose

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9-Day Helicopter Safari: An Exclusive Look into Kenya’s Finest

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12-Day Kenya Safari and Beach Holiday - A Dream Vacation

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14-Day, Wildlife and Beach Honeymoon Safari

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Beat the Wanderlust with This 14-Day Wildlife-Beach Honeymoon Safari

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Masai Mara National Reserve, also known as the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and sometimes referred to as Masai Mara National Park, is a world-renowned Kenya safari destination where nature’s magic unfolds before your eyes.

With its abundant wildlife and sweeping plains, it’s no wonder that Masai Mara is considered one of the world’s most incredible wildlife areas. From the big cats that roam the land to the great wildebeest migration , the national reserve guarantees a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Must-See Attractions in Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara is home to some of the world’s most captivating natural wonders and wildlife spectacles, making it a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast. In this section, we’ll explore the must-see attractions in Masai Mara, including the awe-inspiring Great Wildebeest Migration, the fascinating Mara Triangle, and the chance to encounter the legendary Big Five in their natural habitat.

The Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration is an annual natural spectacle that takes place between July and mid-September, featuring a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traversing the plains of Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing lands. This breathtaking event has been described as one of the “greatest shows on Earth,” as it offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the circle of life unfolding before your eyes.

The dramatic river crossings, where enormous crocodiles lurk beneath the water’s surface, are particularly thrilling and not to be missed. Ensure a peak experience by scheduling your Masai Mara safari during the height of the migration season.

The Big Five and Other Wildlife Encounters

Masai Mara is not only famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration but also for being home to the legendary “Big Five” – the African elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any Masai Mara safari . In addition to the Big Five, the reserve boasts an incredible array of other wildlife species, including:

As well as over 450 bird species.

Prepare your binoculars and camera for an unparalleled wildlife experience.

Exploring the Mara Triangle

The Mara Triangle, a lesser-known but equally captivating region of Masai Mara, is a must-visit for any wildlife enthusiast. This pristine area, located in the southwest corner of the reserve, offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities , including the chance to spot the Big Five in a single day.

The Mara Triangle is also known for its breathtaking scenery, with its pristine riverine forests, rolling hills, and sweeping plains providing a picturesque backdrop for your wildlife encounters. Remember to include a visit to this hidden gem while planning your Masai Mara adventure.

Unique Activities to Enhance Your Masai Mara Experience

No Masai Mara safari is complete without indulging in some unique activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories. In this section, we’ll introduce you to some extraordinary experiences that will enhance your Masai Mara adventure, such as hot air balloon safaris , cultural encounters with the Maasai tribe, and horseback safaris and nature walks.

Let’s explore the array of exciting activities that await you in the magical Masai Mara:

Hot Air Balloon Safaris – Our Special Offer

Imagine floating above the African savannah, witnessing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Masai Mara from a bird’s-eye view. Hot air balloon safaris offer just that, providing a unique perspective on the reserve’s incredible wildlife and scenery. These safaris typically last for an hour and are followed by a luxurious champagne breakfast in the bush.

While the experience comes with a price tag, it’s an unforgettable adventure that’s well worth the investment. A hot air balloon safari is the perfect addition to your itinerary if you seek a truly unique Masai Mara experience. Those who book a Kenya safari with us between June and August get to enjoy a Masai Mara hot air balloon safari for just USD 395 per person.

The Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration: Mara River Crossing

The Masai Mara Wildebeest Movement has traditionally been considered the most important migration in human history. Almost 1.5 million wild animals from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania migrate to the Masai Mara annually. Masai Mara wildebeest migration is the dramatic river crossing between Serengeti and Mara River. The Masai Mara Migration safari runs between July and October and herd moves from Serengeti to the Masai Mara via the Mara River. This extraordinary event has helped to make the reserve one of South Africa’s most beautiful safaris .

Cultural Experiences with the Maasai Tribe

A visit to Masai Mara wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Maasai tribe. These traditional pastoralists offer a unique insight into their way of life, customs, and traditions, providing an unforgettable cultural experience.

During your visit to a Maasai village, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Learn about their unique customs
• Participate in traditional activities like dancing and singing
• Purchase beautiful, handmade beadwork as a memento of your visit

Ensure a holistic Masai Mara adventure by including a cultural encounter with the Maasai tribe.

Horseback Safaris and Nature Walks

For those seeking a more intimate connection with nature, horseback safaris and nature walks offer an up-close and personal encounter with the flora and fauna of Masai Mara. Riding through the African savannah on horseback provides a thrilling and exhilarating adventure, allowing you to:

• Get closer to wildlife than ever before
• Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the savannah in a unique way
• Feel the rhythm of the land beneath you as you ride alongside zebras, giraffes, and other majestic animals
• Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature

Nature walks, on the other hand, offer a leisurely way to explore the wilderness, with opportunities to spot wildlife by their footprints and dung while learning about the local plants and ecosystems. Both activities provide a unique perspective on the wonders of Masai Mara, ensuring a truly memorable experience.

The Rich Ecosystem of Masai Mara

The thriving ecosystem of Masai Mara is a product of its diverse habitats, making it a prime safari destination. The key factors that contribute to the ecosystem’s health and biodiversity include:

• The semi-arid climate
• The Mara River
• Acacia trees
• Elephant Pepper Trees

These elements create a perfect environment for various animal species to thrive. Additionally, the balance between the natural and human environments, including controlled grazing and zoning, helps maintain the ecosystem and support the wildlife population around safari camps in Masai Mara .

Although the Masai Mara ecosystem, including the Mara North Conservancy, faces challenges such as declining herbivore diversity and the effects of climate change, it remains a beautiful example of the savannah and one of the best-protected reserves in Africa.

The Maasai People: Guardians of the Land

The Maasai people, a traditional pastoralist group, play a vital role in preserving the land and wildlife of Masai Mara through their sustainable practices and cultural heritage. They are known for:

• their bright red robes
• intricate beadwork
• unique way of life, which includes living in traditional cow-dung, mud, and human urine huts called “manyattas”

Their well-preserved culture is one of the best in East Africa, and a visit to a Maasai village offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Maasai culture, making it an essential part of any Masai Mara safari.

Our Masai Mara Safaris – An Option for Every Traveller

No two Masai Mara safaris are the same, as this magical place offers a wide array of options for every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly tour, a mid-range package, or a luxurious experience, there’s a safari in Masai Mara that’s tailored just for you.

From game drives to bush walks with experienced guides , staying in luxurious tented camps, or even traditional Maasai Mara homes, your journey through Masai Mara will be nothing short of unforgettable.

Budget-Friendly Safari Options

Budget-friendly safaris in Masai Mara offer a more affordable way to experience the wonders of this incredible place without compromising on quality and wildlife encounters. For instance, Masai Mara Budget Safari Tours and accommodations outside the park provide cost-effective options for travelers on a tight budget.

On average, a 3-day/2-night budget safari, including accommodation, can cost around $600 to $800 per person. These packages usually come with transportation in a tour vehicle, park entrance fees, meals, and game drives with a professional guide/driver, ensuring you enjoy the best of Masai Mara without breaking the bank.

Mid-Range Safari Packages

Mid-range safari packages provide the perfect balance between comfort and affordability, allowing you to enjoy comfortable accommodations and exciting activities without stretching your budget too far. A 3 days/2 nights mid-range safari package can cost anywhere from \$900 to a few thousand dollars, depending on the type of accommodation and activities included.

While staying at mid-range lodges and campsites, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as:

• wildebeests

Plus, the Masai Mara is well-known for its abundance of birdlife, with over 450 species recorded in the area. So, with our Masai Mara safari packages , you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Masai Mara without breaking the bank.

Luxury Safari Experiences

For those seeking a truly unforgettable and exclusive Masai Mara experience, luxury safari lodges and tented camps like Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp offer top-notch accommodations, personalized services, and unparalleled comfort. These magnificent retreats provide a more intimate and secluded safari experience, allowing you to enjoy the African wilderness in style.

Luxury safaris in Masai Mara typically cost around US$450 to US$1500 per person per night during low season. From private game drives to bush dinners and sundowners, a luxury safari in Masai Mara promises a truly memorable adventure that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Top-Notch Accommodations in Masai Mara

Masai Mara offers a wide range of top-notch accommodations to suit every budget and preference. From budget-friendly lodging options to luxurious safari lodges and tented camps, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect place to rest your head after a day of thrilling wildlife encounters.

In this section, we’ll introduce you to some of the best accommodations in Masai Mara, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this magical place.

Budget-Friendly Lodging Options

If you’re looking for budget-friendly lodging options in Masai Mara, there are plenty of choices available that offer basic amenities and services without compromising on your safari experience. Some popular options include:

• Oseki Maasai Mara Camp
• Talek Bush Camp
• Greenwood Safari Camp
• Fairmont Mara Safari Club

These accommodations provide comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, hot water showers, and electricity, ensuring you have a pleasant stay while exploring the wonders of Masai Mara.

With the average cost per night for budget accommodations ranging from around £40 to £150, you can enjoy Masai Mara without breaking the bank.

Mid-Range Lodges and Campsites

For those seeking a balance between comfort and affordability, mid-range lodges and campsites in Masai Mara offer the perfect solution. Comfortable accommodations, excellent services, and a range of activities ensure a memorable experience in this stunning reserve. Some popular options include:

• Cottars 1920s Safari Camp
• Mara Bush House
• Sarova Mara Game Camp
• Porini Mara Camp

These mid-range accommodations provide a range of services and activities, such as:

• Game drives
• Bush dinners
• Guided walks

With prices typically ranging from $150 to $250 per person per night during low season, mid-range lodges and campsites provide a comfortable and enjoyable Masai Mara experience without stretching your budget too far.

Luxury Safari Lodges and Tented Camps

For the ultimate Masai Mara experience, luxury safari lodges and tented camps offer unparalleled comfort, exclusivity, and personalized services. Some of the best options include:

• Mara Intrepids Tented Camp
• Sentinel Mara Camp
• Mara Serena Safari Lodge
• Mara Engai Wilderness

These magnificent retreats provide a truly unique and secluded experience, allowing you to enjoy the African wilderness in style.

With prices starting from US$385 per person per night, luxury accommodations ensure that your stay in Masai Mara is truly unforgettable. From private game drives to bush dinners and sundowners, a luxury safari in Masai Mara promises a truly memorable adventure that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Travel Tips and Practical Information

Before embarking on your Masai Mara adventure, familiarize yourself with travel tips and practical information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From determining the best time to visit, choosing the right transportation options, to navigating health and safety considerations, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before setting foot in this magical land.

Best Time to Visit Masai Mara

Your preferences and priorities determine the best time to visit Masai Mara . The dry season from July 1st to October 30th is considered the ideal time to visit, as wildlife sightings are at their peak, and the weather is generally pleasant. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more budget-friendly experience, the months of January to March offer mild and dry weather, with lower crowd levels. Ultimately, the best time to visit Masai Mara will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.

Getting to and Around Masai Mara

There are several transportation options for getting to and around Masai Mara. The most convenient option is to fly from Nairobi to Masai Mara, with airlines such as:

• Airkenya Express
• Kenya Airways
• Hahn Air Systems

These airlines offer flights that take around 50 minutes. The cost of flying from Nairobi to Masai Mara can vary from £130 to £362 per person, depending on the airline and availability.

Alternatively, you can opt for a road transfer or self-drive option, with the driving distance from Nairobi to Masai Mara ranging from 225 km (140 miles) to 275 km (170 miles), depending on the gate or entry point you use.

Health and Safety Considerations

Prioritizing your health and safety is crucial when planning a trip to Masai Mara. Before your trip, it’s essential to ensure you’re up-to-date on vaccinations, such as:

• Yellow fever
• Hepatitis A
• Poliomyelitis

It’s also a good idea to consider comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical, evacuation, and activities like wildlife safaris and hot air ballooning.

Lastly, familiarize yourself with safety precautions, such as avoiding traveling after dark in isolated places, keeping valuables safe, and following the instructions of your guide. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a worry-free and enjoyable Masai Mara experience.

Bush Camping

Maasai Mara camping safaris prove a magic that does not exist anywhere else. Bush camping in Maasai Mara bring you closer to the Wild. Camping is restricted to several designated areas of the park, but a security team with 2 rangers is assigned on every camping site. Please stay within designated camping areas for extra precautions. We do offer camping gear, folding bedsheets, tools, and supplies but you can also bring your own items. We also work with some top-quality tented campsites that provide well organized Masais Mara camping safaris as well as a professional guide.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

A balloon ride will introduce you to nature beyond your imagination. The hot-air balloon safaris at Mara National Reserve are about one hour long. They take you along the savannah of Africa with arms thrown away from wildlife, meandering streams and landscapes. On board the balloon, you can see how Maasai Mara’s rivers meet the vast plain of Mara. The balloon flying distance is adjustable to get close to a maasai Mara. The balloon can also go higher to provide great views over the landscapes.

In conclusion, Masai Mara is a truly magical place that offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. From its diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife to its rich Maasai culture, the national reserve has something to offer every traveler. With various safari options, unique activities, and top-notch accommodations, your Masai Mara adventure is sure to be an unforgettable one. So, pack your bags, gather your courage, and embark on a journey through the heart of the African savannah. The wonders of Masai Mara await!

Key Highlights of a Safari in Masai Mara Kenya: 

• Discover the magic of Masai Mara with a safari tailored to your budget and preferences.
• Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, Big Five, & unique activities like hot air balloon safaris for an unforgettable experience!
• Get ready for your trip by learning travel tips & health/safety considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Next, we cover some frequently asked questions about Masai Mara Safaris.

Why Masai Mara is so famous?

The Masai Mara is world-famous for its spectacular Great Migration each July through October, when 1.5 million wildebeests grace the savannahs. This beloved reserve and its many conservancies are home to an abundance of wildlife, offering safari goers a wealth of experiences.

Why is Masai Mara so expensive?

The Masai Mara is a protected wildlife reserve managed by the local Maasai communities and requires visitors to pay park entry fees to support conservation efforts, which contributes to its overall expense.

Is 3 days enough for Masai Mara?

Generally, 3 days is enough to enjoy an exciting safari in Masai Mara and explore the reserve and its surrounding areas.

Is Masai Mara a malaria area?

Yes, there is malaria in Masai Mara and it is highly recommended to take antimalarials if visiting the area.

Which is the best month to visit Masai Mara?

For the best experience in Masai Mara, July to October is an ideal time to visit. This is the long cool-dry season, but be aware that this is usually the most expensive season.

Which is the Best Month to Visit Masai Mara National Reserve?

The dry season between July 1st and September 30th is the most beautiful month for Safaris in the Masai Mara National Reserve. It was primarily because dry weather brought abundant animal habitat and better viewing opportunities within large wilderness areas. 

Having your Masai Mara vacation planned this season can have some disadvantages. The first reason for the surge is the tourist traffic which means that the park is largely empty and the lodging is somewhat pricier than expected. Rains from 1 October to 15 December are an ideal time for a Masai Mara Safari Package.

Which is Better, Serengeti National Park or Maasai Mara National Reserve?

There can never be an absolute white answer; instead the solution lies at an analysis of similarities between the park sites’ game viewing opportunities. It would seem that these parks share the exact types of wildlife. Big Nine – Big Cat – Elephant and Giraffe – Hip-pods and zebras are sureties in both countries. 

Although a smaller lion population exists in the Seengeti, the numbers of these animals have been much lower in the Masai Mara than in the Serengiti. In addition each wildlife refuge comprises the larger ecosystem Serengeti that extends between South-West Kenya and Northern Tanzania .

How Much Does a Masai Mara Safari Cost?

Kenya safari costs vary according to your choice of accommodation and transport options. There’s Maasai Mara safari for everyone, ranging in budget and luxurious prices. Below is our safari package list and their rates. These numbers are from lower seasons, they are just estimates.

What Animals are Known as the Big 5 in Maasai Mara?

Big Five: the animals hunters have encountered which can be dangerous to hunt. This group is found in several parks throughout Kenya such as the game reserve of Maasai Mara and includes elephants, lions, rhinos, and African buffaloes. Masari Mara National Reserve in the Serengeti is a triangular nature reserve in Kenya. 

The Mara Triangle consists of the Masai Mara national reserve known for a large population the Big Five. This triangle is named for three rivers at its entrance: Talek, Olare Motorogi and Mara.

What Month is the Great Migration in Tanzania?

From September through October the Serengeti migration is at its peak. In June, the huge herds of animals can be seen from the west side of the Serengeti and north of the Serengeti in August. November and the shorter months of rain provide a chance for wildlife to return to Kenya. During this period of time, calving can occur between January and March.

Where is the Best Place to see the Wildebeest Migration?

Anywhere within viewing distance is an excellent site for seeing Maasai Mara migration. But the Mara River or the ndutus plain in Serengeti have been strongly commended. Various hotels offer decent views. These include Keekorok Lodge , Base Camp Masai Mara, and Angama Mara.

What Animals Live in the Masai Mara?

This is one of Africa’s most beautiful parks. Masai Mara is a biodiversity-rich reserve with an extensive ecosystem. In addition, it is important to note that the Park has over 96 species of animals and over 550 bird species.

How Do You Get from Nairobi to Masai Mara?

Based on your financial needs, safety concerns and individual needs, you could reach the Masai Mara via car or plane. Masai Mara to Nairobi is 280 km. While driving can be useful to see Kenya’s countryside, some travelers may feel it arduous and extremely tense. 

Flights, in contrast, have the benefit of comfortability, flexibility and timely. However, the listed flights may be less expensive to those seeking a low-cost Kenya safari to Masai Mara .

Elewana Sand River Camp

Lodge location Masai Mara National Reserve

Luxurious Sand River tented safari lodge on the Masai Mara and Serengeti border.

Sprawled out along the secluded overgrown riverbanks of the Sand River, the upscale Elewana Sand River tented safari lodge has a very pleasant 1920s classic safari feel to it. The camp is ideally located on the edge of Masai Mara National Reserve overlooking the soft rolling grassy hills and the endless plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti. It’s the perfect spot for year-round game watching.

At a glance

Great migration, game drives, luxurious tented rooms, nearest airport, meet your hosts, bring the family, take to the skies, stay together, foodies be ready, modern day comfort in a 1920s traditional safari atmosphere.

Picture this... you’ve just arrived at your safari lodge and receive a very warm and friendly welcome at the reception area. While your belongings are brought to your luxury safari tent, you’re led to the lodge’s tented lounge where you’re offered a seat in a comfortable leather armchair. As you take in the awesome view of the wilds before you, you’re offered your favourite cold drink while you soak up the lounge’s warm and inviting atmosphere. Dark wooden floors covered with oriental rugs, bookcases filled with books and a small bar tucked away in the corner - all elements add to the classic 1920s safari feel. Just outside of the lounge tables and chairs are set up beneath the trees for those who prefer to sit outdoors. A set of stairs just beyond the lounge take you down to the banks of the Sand River.

In total there are only 16 luxury safari tents at Elewana Sand River Camp. One of the safari tents is slightly larger and is ideal for families needing a little more room. In order to give each guest a sense of exclusivity, privacy and that ‘way out there in the middle of nowhere feeling’, the safari tents are all spread out throughout the bush along the Sand River’s north bank. There’s quite a bit of space between each of them, so you’ll definitely have your own peace and quiet to enjoy. The Sand River Camp is divided into two sections – the Little Sand River (or main camp) and the Sand River property. There are six tents off to one side of the main guest area and there are an additional ten located on the other side of the camp. Each of the two sections of the camp has its own dining area and tented lounges giving each area an intimate, exclusive atmosphere.

Trees growing along the banks of the Sand River offer shade and a lovely green, lush look to the safari lodge. Nestled between the trees in the lodge’s common area there’s a large infinity pool flanked by several comfortable sun loungers for you to lounge on. This area looks out across the river and is the ideal spot to recuperate in after a day of safari drives and other safari activities. One of the definite highlights of staying at this lodge is the fact that it lies along the Masai Mara National Reserve’s great migration route. The camp is located in the quieter south-eastern corner of the Masai Mara National Reserve in southwest Kenya, right along the border with the Serengeti in Tanzania . This is one of the most iconic safari areas in Africa.

The lodge is one of the first safari lodges to experience the annual trek of millions of wildebeest, gazelle and zebra en-route between the Serengeti and Masai Mara each year. Guests at Elewana Sand River Masai Mara are treated to a very picturesque view of neighbouring Tanzania’s plains and hills dotted with thousands of migrating animals. Don’t worry about having to stick to the popular great migration time period when planning your safari to this area. The plains in this area are home to a remarkably diverse population of grazers all year round and you’ll likely spot zebras, giraffes, warthogs and hartebeests just about any time of year. Naturally, if there’s prey... predators tend to follow, so you’re also likely to see cheetahs, hyenas, jackals and lions as well.

The Sand River Camp was entirely updated and renovated in 2019 and now offers its guests a very pleasant mix of modern creature comforts and vintage safari atmosphere. It has the grandeur and allure of the 1920s African safari Hollywood movie, but with all the modern comforts of the 21st century. Each of the camp’s spacious luxury tents rests on top of an elevated wooden platform, keeping it away from any creepy crawlies that may live on the grounds. The safari tents have a separate lounge area with comfy couch, a few of which convert into a spare bed. The lounge is also outfitted with an antique writing desk, a comfortable armchair and a digital safe for storing your valuables in. All elements adding to a very exclusive and classy style. A canvas flap separates the lounge from the bedroom. The flap can be opened during the day and if so desired, closed at night to create a separate bedroom. A very inviting large and comfortable antique wooden bed surrounded by mosquito netting awaits at the end of the day for a peaceful night of slumber.

The safari tent’s en-suite bathroom features a freestanding copper bath with hot and cold running water, twin washing basins and flushing toilet. As an added perk, the bathroom features a glass door leading to an outdoor shower where you can shower beneath the stars or amidst the early morning sounds of a waking Masai Mara. A variety of complimentary toiletries are provided during your stay. At the front of the tent there’s a wooden deck with a few comfortable lounge chairs. This is the ideal spot to relax and unwind with a cold drink while overlooking the river. The camp also offers a slightly larger safari tent especially for families. The 'family suite' consists of one double room and an additional room with a twin bed, en-suite bathrooms and a shared central lounge. The family tent is designed and decorated similar to the regular sized spacious safari tents. Cots and highchairs are available upon request. Keep in mind that this is an unfenced camp in a big game area with wild animals often wandering into the camp for a visit. Because of this the camp is mostly recommended for families with older children. Children must always be under adult supervision.

Elewana Sand River Camp food experience

When it comes to food, you’re all set at this safari lodge. Whether it’s time for a sundowner (a fine glass of wine - or whatever your drink of choice may be - accompanied by delicious snacks while watching the sunset on the Masai Mara plains) or you’re having a bush meal while out and about, each culinary moment is prepared with attention to detail. Wonderful cuisine and friendly service add to the overall appeal of this safari lodge. You can either dine in the common dining area or in a more private setting. All meals are served in style at fully laid out tables.

Activities at Elewana Sand River Camp

During your stay at Sand River Camp, local Masai guides and trackers will be at hand to take you on thrilling safari drives in comfortable 4WD Toyota Land Cruisers. You can choose to embark on a full day safari with a picnic lunch or you can go on separate morning and afternoon game drives and have lunch back at camp. Game viewing in the area is excellent and shared game drives are included in the price of your stay (private safari’s available at a surcharge). There’s quite a large concentration of big cats in this part of the Masai Mara and the terrain you’ll encounter during the drive is simply beautiful. During the game drive you’ll head towards the grassy plains and riverine forests of the Masai Mara in search of elephants, lions, zebra, leopards, cheetahs, hyena, giraffe, hippos, wildebeest, impalas, mongoose, jackals, warthogs and baboons.

Although most of your attention may be aimed at the animals on the ground, don’t forget to keep an eye on the treetops and skies. Birdwatching is outstanding within this part of the Masai Mara National Reserve. If you visit the camp during the great migration you may see the herds of wildebeest literally pass through the shallow Sand River right next to the camp. Although it’s quite a sight to see, it’s not the same as the dramatic river crossings the wildebeest make across the Mara River. The Sand River is an easier river to cross for the herds.

Other activities offered by the Sand River Camp include excursions to a local Maasai village and Maasai school. This is a great way to experience local traditions and to learn more about the people who have inhabited the region for centuries. For those moments that you’re looking for something to do at the camp itself, there’s plenty to choose from. For instance, there’s a billiards room, there are books to read and there are board games to choose from. If you’re up for a high-flying adventure, you can also take to the skies for a hot air balloon ride safari (surcharges applicable and pre-booking required).

Tripadvisor comments Elewana Sand River Camp

I spent two nights at Sand River, highly recommend. The tents are comfortable and you can hear lots of wildlife during the night. The food was incredible and the staff were all very accommodating. Our game drives were exciting, the guide (Alex) was extremely knowledgeable. Highly recommend! Marthagoodluxurytr

What a magical place. The setting along the banks of Sand River is idyllic. The camp, staff and food were all outstanding. Outdoor shower a new experience, we had elephant walking past and baboons playing while showering. Melanie M

6 Days, 5 Nights Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Safari Holiday Itinerary and Price

The best way to experience Kenya’s beauty is with the best  6 Days, 5 Nights Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Safari Package.  In 6 days, our package takes you and your children to the best attractions that offer maximum value for kids. 

They include Nairobi Safari Walk, Nairobi Animal Orphanage, David Sheldrick Elephant orphanage, Giraffe Center, and Masai Mara  National Reserve . These are, beyond any doubt, all the best destinations for families safari in Kenya.

Each destination has many children-friendly lodges and camps, great attractions, as well as excellent infrastructures. Every destination in our 6 Days Kenya Family Safari Package also offers lots of activities to keep the kids engaged during your stay in the national parks.

For instance, the Masai Mara  is a world of dreamy sunsets and a must-have destination in every Kenya Family Holiday Itinerary. Masai Mara in Narok is a land of diverse landscapes, African wildlife , enthralling hot-air balloon safaris, and wildebeest migration.

Contact Us to Book Your Family Safari to Kenya 

You can book this Kenya safari with kids as it is and have a great and adventurous time with your family. Alternatively, email us via [email protected] or [email protected]  or call or WhatsApp us at +254-748-258-880 to customize your trip.

We will happily tailor-make the perfect Kenya safari with kids for you to Nairobi and the Maasai Mara.

The Summarized, 6 Days, 5 Nights Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Safari Itinerary

The detailed 6 days nairobi & masai mara family safari itinerary .

Without further ado, here is the detailed, 6 Days Nairobi and Masai Mara  safari for families  with a stay at the leading lodge and camps in  Masai Mara and Nairobi.

Day 1: Pickup from JKIA, Nairobi Safari Walk, & Nairobi Animal Orphanage 

Our professional safari guide will be at the airport an hour before your plane touchdown to welcome your family to Kenya. The guide will brief you about the safari so he can be sure that you know what to expect during your six days family safari in Kenya.

You will board your exclusive 4×4 safari land cruiser and head to Nairobi National Park for a tour of the Nairobi Safari Walk and Nairobi Animal Orphanage.  With the raised wooden boardwalk, the Safari Walk allows for a super view of the animals in the national park .

It allows the children and adults to discover what they will find in other parks and reserves in Kenya. Here, you will find several animals like primates, antelopes, big cats, zebras, rhinos, and bongo. It is also home to over 150 species of indigenous trees.

After a while, you will cross over to Nairobi Animal Orphanage , a rehabilitation and treatment center for wild animals. The kids will enjoy watching close cheetahs , lions, warthogs, serval cats, jackals, leopards, monkeys, hyenas, buffalo, baboons, and Sokoke.

The orphanage also plays home to several birds like guinea fowls, parrots, ostriches, and crowned cranes.  

By now, the kids might be tired and need rest; this is the perfect time to end day one of your Nairobi & Masai Mara family safari holiday. The safari guide will take you to the safari camp for check-in and leave you to take lunch and relax for the better part of the afternoon.

Day 2: Visit David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is only 18 minutes from the Serena Safari Camp. The plan is to spend the morning at the hotel relaxing and then head to this attraction by 10.30 am. 

Established by Daphne Sheldricka, the center acts as a rescue for endangered elephant calves and rhinos within the country. It prides itself on nurturing back to life hundreds of animals by providing round-the-clock specialized treatment and care. 

This encounter could also be the highlight of your family vacation in Kenya . Opened once a day from 11-12 pm, a Kenya family holiday here allows you a view of the beautiful rapport created between these elephants and their caregivers. 

You and your children will get to watch the calves being fed, bathed, and exercised. After, the guide will take you back to the safari camp for lunch and rest for a few hours. You also have an afternoon adventure at Giraffe Center, one of our must-visit destinations in Nairobi.

At 2.30 pm, the guide will take you to this attraction, which is only 30 minutes away from most of the lodges and camps in the city.  Started in 1975, the Giraffe center is a wildlife sanctuary that began with the aim of conserving Rothschild Giraffes at the brink of extinction.

By then, the giraffe numbers numbered 120, which has since tripled thanks to the park’s excellent conservation efforts. The center is a brilliant addition to your Kenya family holiday. It teaches your kids the importance of environmental conservation and entertains them with many exciting activities.

The center has a raised, 6-meter platform from where your kids will be able to feed, pet, kiss, and take selfies with these adorable creatures. The experience is like none other, and you can measure this from the countless amounts of giggles flowing freely out of your kids. 

On the property also lies several warthogs frolicking in the muddy pools of water. The latter is a delight to watch, especially if the action involves more than two mud-hungry warthogs. The center closes at 5 pm, the perfect time to head back to your chosen lodges and camps.

Day 3: Transfer to the Maasai Mara & Afternoon Game Drive at the Reserve 

Hungry kids are a thing you do not want for the 6-hour drive to the Masai Mara in Narok, so do not, by all means, shy away from that hearty breakfast you have at your hotel. The 281.1-kilometer journey starts as soon as you check out of the hotel. The journey is exciting and eventful.

You will make brief bathroom stops to accommodate your kids’ bathroom and snacking needs. The first stop is at Great Rift Valley Viewpoint (1.5-hrs from Nairobi), letting you and your children enjoy the great view and a rest.

The next stop is at Narok town (3-hrs from Nairobi). Here you can shop for anything your need, visit the bathroom and stretch your legs. You still have 3-hrs to cover from here. From here, the guide will take you to the accommodation for check-in and leave you to take lunch.

At around 3 pm, you will enjoy your first game drive at Masai Mara  National Reserve .  

Day 4: Full-Day Game Drive at Masai Mara National Reserve with Packed Lunch 

Home to almost half of Africa’s largest mammals, the Masai Mara is a must-visit attraction during a family safari to Kenya. The plan is to be in your 4×4 safari Landcruiser after breakfast for the morning safari in the Masai Mara.

The Masai Mara, you will notice, is surreal at dawn, extraordinary with a lot of beautiful calm. The hundreds of free-roaming zebras, warthogs, impalas, lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, wildebeests, hyenas, hippos, giraffes, cheetahs, and baboons add to its appeal.

Your game viewing slowly takes you through this emotional terrain. The guide makes sure you and your children don’t miss a moment of that sensational savannah grassland. Lunch is at the jungle in the Masai Mara – you will be able to see wildlife as you take your packed lunch.

You resume your family safaris in the Masai Mara immediately after lunch. Afternoon game drives are busier regarding wildlife activity than morning game drives. You head to the park’s western escarpment, which has the highest concentration of wildlife. 

The escarpment of the west lies hidden behind the Mara River, popularly known for wildebeest migration. Pristine is the word often used to describe this area; true to that, visits are rare. Exciting is the fact that the area offers a good vantage for the annually occurring wildebeest migration.

The mentioned is a blood-rushing world wonder involving almost two million wildebeests, zebras, and impalas crossing the crocodile-filled Mara waters. Those who book this safari of Masai Mara between July and October experience this spectacle in Masai Mara.

And you have a lot to explore in the Masai Mara. The afternoon turns into an early evening game viewing. The Masai Mara terrains are different, and this uniqueness makes the reserve such a sport. While the sandy and thick Ngama Hills are a black rhino attraction, the central plains, lush and grassy, attract the much calmer straight game.

The Oloololo escarpments are, on the other hand, very rocky and scenic, with its plateau proving the best among the park’s viewpoints.  On day 4 of your safari in the Masai Mara with kids, our guides will introduce you to all the reserve offers.

Day 5: Bird Walking Safari, Visit a Maasai Village, & Lion, Elephant, or Hyena Lecture

The Masai Mara is a bird lover’s haven. Expect to find over 300 different species of birds right at the safari camp. The guided bird walking safari happens around the hotel premises and along the river. 

You can expect to see birds such as weavers, kingfishers, flycatchers, sunbirds, and more. Expect to get the best from our highly trained Maasai bird guides. 

At around 11 am, the safari guide will take you to a Maasai village. Trust the Masai Mara village visits to bring the best out of your Family Safari in Kenya. Your children will love dancing along to the Maasai tunes and dances and listening to the people’s tales.

Buy your kids some Maasai ornament souvenirs, or take a snap of them with the tall mountain morans before heading back to the camp for lunch. After lunch, you will have a wildlife conservancy lecture in the Mara.

Here you can choose among;

• Lion Lecture – Your kids will learn more about the lions found in the Masai Mara and in the Mara Naboisho Conservancy. They will learn to identify lion’s pride and tell their ages from features such as nose, tail, and mane.
• Elephant Lecture – They will get information about elephant social hierarchy, species, lifespan, threats, diet, rituals, population, and more.
• Hyena Lecture – Your kids will get more information about the hyenas’ population behavior, movement color, body pattern, shape, face, and more. 

Day 6: Morning Game Drive/Optional Hot Air Balloon, Transfer to Nairobi, International Flight 

Your 6 Days, 5 Nights Family Safari to Masai Mara and Nairobi has ended, but not without one more game viewing in the reserve. After breakfast, you will head to the reserve for a morning adventure and hope to catch a hunt as well as other activities for the last time.

The morning viewing will end at around 11 am, the perfect time to get a transfer to Nairobi. You will take lunch on the way during this transfer as you will arrive in the evening, at around 5 pm. 

The alternative is to start the day with a hot air balloon ride. Without adding that fun-filled balloon safari, you cannot claim this to be the ideal Kenya family safari with children.

A Masai Mara hot-air balloon safari takes you and your children to paradise, and all you have to do is sit on your balloon basket and have fun. The ride costs USD 450 Per Adult & USD 350 Per Child.

The balloon ride is a bird’s eye view of the park. If you thought the park was beautiful, brace yourself for jaw-dropping views from the balloon ride. The ride outlines the park’s entire landscape. 

This allows you and your children to visit parts of the park unreachable by car. From sunset to an hour later, you are treated to this splendor. And when you think it’s over comes a tasty breakfast accompanied by your best bottle of champagne.

You enjoy a final game viewing from here and start the road trip to Nairobi. Upon arriving at Nairobi by 5 pm, our safari guide will take you to JKIA for your international flight. Bye, we hope to welcome you and your children back to Kenya soon.

Items Included in the 6 Days Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Safari Price

• All pickups and transfers 
• Services of a professional, gold or silver-level safari guide
• Accommodation on a full-board basis as detailed above
• The services of an English-speaking tour guide/driver
• Private game drives in a 4×4 safari Landcruiser as outlined in this itinerary
• Mineral water and refreshments in the safari vehicle
• Visit Nairobi Safari Walk on day 1
• Visit Nairobi Animal Orphanage on day 1
• Visit David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage on day 2
• Visit Giraffe Center on day 2
• Afternoon game drive at Masai Mara on day 3
• Full-day game drive on day 4 with packed lunch 
• Guided bird walking safari on day 5
• Visit a Maasai village on day 5
• Conservation lecture on day 5 – Lion, Elephant, or Hyena 
• Morning game drive on day 6 

Items Excluded from the 6 Days, 5 Nights Kenya Family Safari Price

• Optional hot air balloon ride at USD 450 Per Adult or USD 350 Per Child 
• Pre-travel expenses (e.g., passports and visas)
• Travel insurance
• Costs such as baggage fees, laundry charges, luxury drinks such as champagne, etc.
• Tips and gratuities
• Money transfer fee
• Bush dinner at USD 60, bush breakfast at USD 55, or a sundowner at USD 50 Per Person 

Safari Price Per Person Sharing for 6 Days Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Safari 

Note : A child is any person between 3-11.9 years. The safari is based on two adults & two Children. 

Masai Mara Family Holiday – About Masai Mara National Reserve 

A family holiday in the Masai Mara introduces you to over 40% of Africa’s largest mammals. These include endangered species such as cheetahs, wild dogs, black rhinos, and more. 

Its ecosystem has the highest density of big cats and the biggest population of African lions. The various organizations estimate that slightly over 825 lions are in reserve.

Simply put, the Mara is where all the world’s magic gathers. It hosts all the big 5 – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes- and is a UNESCO designated world heritage site .

The World Travel Awards has declared Mara Africa’s leading national park for six years since 2014.  In 2007, the reserve was dumbed, one of the 8th wonders of the world.

So, if you only plan a single safari with kids, it must be a Kenya family holiday to Masai Mara. On a Kenya family holiday to the Masai Mara, you can go for bush dinners, walking safaris, hot air balloon safari, and more.

Why You Should Choose Our 6 Days, 5 Nights Kenya Safari with Kids

Our goal is to introduce you and your children to the 96 different mammals, reptiles, amphibians, the big 5, and the over 450 birds that reside in the Mara. We promise to make this the perfect Kenya family safari holiday you will ever have.

And thanks to the magnificent Mara scenery and ambiance, our dream doesn’t seem so far-fetched. Some of the children-friendly adventures we have packed for you on this six days tour include:

• Walking safaris at Nairobi Safari Walk 
• Close encounter with animals at Nairobi Animal Orphanage   
• Interact with elephants at David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
• Feed and kiss giraffes at Giraffe Center 
• Enjoy the view at the Great Rift Valley Viewpoint 
• Game drives at Masai Mara National Reserve 
• Guided bird walking safaris at Basecamp Masai Mara 
• Lion, Elephant, or Hyena lecture at Basecamp Masai Mara
• A Maasai village visit  
• Wildebeest migration for July – Oct travelers
• Optional hot air balloon safari 
• Optional bush dinner and breakfast

Visiting the Masai Mara with Kids – FAQs

Traveling with kids can be a lot of fun, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. If you’re planning a trip with your little ones, make sure to read through the FAQs below to help ensure that your journey is as smooth as possible.

1. Are kids allowed for Masai Mara safari?

The Masai Mara is a family-friendly destination, and children of all ages are welcome on safari tours . However, some activities in the Masai Mara may not be suitable for toddlers, such as bush dinners, walking safaris, and hot air balloon rides.

2. How long is Maasai Mara from Nairobi?

The Masai Mara is approximately 350 km from Nairobi, and it typically takes 5-6 hours to reach the Masai Mara by road. You can also opt to go the Maasai Mara National Reserve using a flight, which takes about 45 minutes.

3. How much is a safari in Nairobi?

A safari in the capital of Kenya for families will typically cost around \$1,000-\$1,500 per person, depending on the activities you choose and the accommodations that you select.

4. Which is the best month to visit Masai Mara?

If you want to be part of the great migration and see the glory of Masai Mara National Reserve, then you should plan your trip for July through October. This is both the time of year when the Masai Mara is at its busiest, as well as the most beautiful.

5. How many days are enough for Masai Mara?

There are many activities such as game drives, wildlife viewing, and guided bush walks that can be enjoyed in the national reserve for families and for multiple days. And since coming for a safari in the Masai Mara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, plan on staying at the reserve for about 5 days. This would also be sufficient time for families looking to experience the great migration. 

6. How do I book safari for Masai Mara?

You should book your Masai Mara safari with the leading tour provider to ensure you get value as this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. MaasaiMaraSafar.in is the best tour provider in Kenya , and we can provide you with family-friendly activities such as birdwatching, game drives, and more.

7. How is the road from Nairobi to Masai Mara?

The road from Nairobi to the Masai Mara is well-maintained and tarmacked, ensuring a smooth ride for families. However, the roads in the Masai Mara are not tarmacked – we advise you have a 4×4 safari land cruiser to guarantee your comfort.

8. Can children go on safaris?

Yes, children are welcome on safaris in the Masai Mara and other family-friendly destinations. There are many activities for children as well as lodges and camps for staying at in the national park.

9. What is a family safari?

A family safari is a trip to Masai Mara or other wildlife-filled destinations that allows families the opportunity to enjoy activities such as game drives, wildlife viewing, and walking safaris.  The safari also includes staying at children-friendly lodges and camps.

10. How much is a safari in Kenya?

The cost of a safari in the Masai Mara or Nairobi varies depending on the activities, accommodations, and length of your trip. It is also important to note that the great migration in the Masai Mara safari cost is higher than tours done at other times of the year.

11. Is Kenya a good family holiday?

Yes, Kenya is an excellent family holiday destination with plenty of activities to enjoy and places to explore. Whether you’re planning a safari adventure in the Masai Mara or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Mombasa , you will say “we had a once in a lifetime experience” by the end of your safari.

Plan your trip to Kenya

How to get to Masai Mara from India – Access to Masai Mara in Kenya and getting there

Witnessing the Spectacle: A Complete Guide to the Great Migration Kenya

Ultimate 3 Day Kenya Safari Experience: Discover Wildlife & Adventure

Explore the Wild: Ultimate 3 Day Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi

Kenya Private Safari: Experience the Ultimate Personalized Wildlife Adventure

Explore the Wild: Top Safaris to Kenya for Thrilling Adventures 2024/2025

QUICK LINKS

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• Kenya, Kiambu County, Ruiru Town Greec Towers, Office Number D7 and D8
• +254-748-258-880
• [email protected]

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5 Days Amboseli and Masai Mara Air Safari Package

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This is an exclusive 5 Days Amboseli & Masai Mara safari package. The tour offers the best game viewing with backdrops of the lofty Mt. Kilimanjaro. As well as the famed wildlife sanctuary Masai Mara Game Reserve . This wildlife air safari package stays in high end lodges where game drives are conducted using open sided 4×4 Safari jeeps. Travel from Amboseli to Masai Mara is by air landing at airstrips located in Masai Mara game reserve.

Your Kenya holiday safari starts in Nairobi where you meet a member of our team for a safari briefing. Thereafter, you will be transferred  to Wilson Airport to board your scheduled flight to Amboseli national park.

Your first safari destination will be at Amboseli national park. Here you will spend two nights exploring one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Kenya. This park is situated close to Kenya and Tanzania border. Amboseli National Park lies at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, this is the highest mountain in Africa at 5,896 m. Its snow capped summit presents a splendid view in the clear wild. You will spend the best of the two days in the Amboseli national park.

Our 4 days Masai Mara Migration safari offers more time in Masai Mara game reserve. You will spend 3 nights at this most amazing game park.

Why travel to the Masai Mara Game Reserve?

It’s one of the world’s most famous game reserves where you find the BIG 5 and other wildlife varieties in abundance. During your 2 days safari in Masai Mara, you will see lions, hippos, crocodiles, giraffe, wildebeests, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, hyenas, jackals, buffalo and leopard. Masai Mara also has a variety of antelopes, impala and gazelles breeds alongside the numerous bird species.

When is the best time to visit the Masai Mara?

Your Game Drives in Masai Mara will include a visit to Mara river. This is where the annual wildebeest migration takes place from July through to October. Your safari guide will also drive you to Talek River or Sand river where the wildebeest crossing also takes place.

We recommend a hot air balloon safari in Masai Mara at any time of the year.

Our 5 Days Kenya air safari package runs on private and exclusive basis. hence it can depart at the client's most convenient dates. This tour is also child friendly.

Guests enjoy the exclusive services of  their English speaking guide . We also have multilingual tour guides available on request.

This safari package price includes:

• 3 meals per day while on safari
• game park entry fees
• Flights and airstrip transfers

Travel to Amboseli National park and Masai Mara game reserve by air or 4×4 Jeep.

• Day 1 Nairobi – Amboseli National park
• Day 2 Amboseli National park at the foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro
• Day 3 Flight to Masai Mara Game reserve
• Day 4 Masai Mara game reserve – Full day game drives, hot air balloon safari
• Day 5 Breakfast, transfer to the airstrip to board your flight to Wilson airport.

Wildlife to see

Main Destination:

Pick up from Nairobi hotel at 0730 hrs to start your 5 Days Kenya air safari package, travel to the Amboseli National reserve at the foot of snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Arrive in time for lunch. Afternoon game drive is taken. Dinner and overnight at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli Serena Lodge

Luxury lodge located in Amboseli National park

Lunch & dinner

Drinking Water (Other Drinks not Included)

Amboseli-Nairobi-Masai Mara

5 Days Amboseli & Masai Mara safari package continues after an early breakfast you will be transferred to the airstrip to board your flight departing Amboseli at 0815hrs, arriving at Wilson airport at 0850hrs. Connect with your flight to Masai Mara departing at 1030hrs arriving at Keekorok Airstrip at 1110hrs. On arrival you will be picked up and transferred to Mara Serena Safari Lodge with a game drive enroute.

In the evening enjoy a game drive. Masai Mara game reserve is the northern part of the Serengeti, one of Kenya's most favored game-viewing areas. The reserve covers 700 square miles of magnificent wilderness. It is the Africa of the imagination; endless reaches of acacia-dotted grasslands studded with hazy hills. Afternoon game drive to see the sundowner as you trail the Big 5 i.e. Lions in large prides, Elephants, buffalos, zebras and numerous plain game. Dinner and overnight stay at Ashnil Mara Camp

Masai Mara National Reserve

Ashnil Mara Camp

The Masai Mara Game Reserve is arguably Kenya’s most popular game sanctuary. It is the most famous and most visited game reserve in Kenya. The film ‘Out of Africa’ was made to a great extent in this reserve. Virtually every type of wildlife can be seen at the Mara.

A spectacle worth seeing is the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle from Serengeti plains across the Tanzania border and the Mara River to reach Maasai Mara grazing fields from late June.

The dramatic crossing of the river and the preying on the migrants by predators can be viewed from early July to October. The reserve abounds with birdlife since the dose to about 452 species has been recorded. Hot air balloon safaris are readily available in this park.

Breakfast at Leisure then view game as you drive to the airstrip to board your Nairobi bound flight departing at 1115hrs to arrive Nairobi at 1300hrs .On arrival, our driver will meet you and drive you to your hotel where your Amboseli-Masai Mara Air safari ends.

Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently. Please treat all pricing as a guide only:

• All rates are subject to availability and may change without notice.
• Single supplements may apply.
• Request a quote or speak to one of our African Safari Experts for the best, most current rates available.

Rate Per Person

What's included.

• Full board accommodation whilst on safari
• Accommodation in double/triple room
• All park entrance fees to include government taxes
• Private game drives in a 4×4 safari Land Cruiser/ jeep with a pop up roof
• Amboseli-Masai Mara-Nairobi flight as shown on the itinerary
• Mineral water in the vehicle whilst on safari
• Amref flying doctors emergency evacuation cover
• Personalized service
• All airport and airstrip transfers
• Start and end in Nairobi.

What's not included

• Tips, Laundry, Beverages/Drinks
• International flights
• Travel insurance.
• Balloon flights USD 450 per person
• Masai Village visit USD 30 per person
• Nairobi accommodation before and after the safari
• holiday supplements not included in the price above

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Above and beyond.

My children and I travelled with Asili for our 7 day Kenya Safari. Visiting places of unsurpassed beauty, seeing amazing animals and experiencing new cultures.

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Kenya safari of a lifetime - made spectacular by asili.

Amazing and professional tour guides.

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8 Day Kenya Family Safari to Masai Mara Lodge & More

Tour length — 8 days, summary of this lodge safari.

• Max. Group Size 6 Travellers
• Starts & ends in Nairobi, Kenya
• Transport Game Viewing Vehicle / 4x4 Vehicle
• Wildlife Big 5, Chimpanzees, Exceptional Birding, Rhino & More
•   See Departure Dates

Quick Itinerary Overview

This private Kenya Family Safari takes you to an exciting mix of top Kenya safari destinations offering loads of activities to keep you and the kids enthralled.

After a short stay in Nairobi, you are whisked off to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, near Mount Kenya. At Sweetwaters Sanctuary in Ol Pejeta, you have the unique experience of meeting our closest relatives in Kenya's only chimpanzee rescue center. Then it is on to Lake Nakuru National Park for superb game viewing and bird watching, before exploring Hell's Gate National Park on foot or by bicycle. Next, take an optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha. Then we head to our authentic Masai Mara lodge and the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Here we look out for the Big 5 of Africa and a rich array of other wildlife, before visiting a local Maasai village to get a taste of traditional Kenyan culture. 

Accommodation on this private Kenya Safari is at family-friendly safari lodges and luxury tented camps. The trip is designed to keep driving distances to a minimum making this the ideal mid-range African safari for families with children

Itinerary for this Tour

Day 1: Nairobi – Kenya

On day one of this budget-friendly Kenya Family Safari, you arrive in Nairobi, where you and your family will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Kenya's capital, Nairobi, is jam-packed with activities to suit all tastes. Visit the world-famous David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust or go for a stroll in the Karura Forest. Alternatively, find a cafe and sample some genuine Kenyan coffee on Kenyan soil.

The first day is yours to explore the city or relax at the hotel and enjoy the rooftop swimming pool.

• Travel: Transfer from airport to hotel
• Accommodation: Hotel in Nairobi

Day 2: Nairobi to Sweetwaters & Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Kenya

After breakfast on day two of our Kenya Family Safari, you are collected from the hotel in Nairobi. From there you are driven north towards Mount Kenya. The whole afternoon is spent visiting rescued chimpanzees at Sweetwaters game ranch.

Set inside the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sweetwaters gives rescued chimps a second chance at a normal life. Sweetwaters is Kenya's only sanctuary for the rehabilitation of chimpanzees. Numbering nearly 40 animals, Sweetwaters provides an environment as close to their natural habitat as possible. The chimps are split into two groups separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River. You and your family will have the opportunity to learn all about our closest relatives, as well as other African wildlife! The Conservancy is also a dedicated black rhino breeding area making it an unforgettable stopover.

In the evening we enjoy dinner and spend the night at a tented camp. Sweetwaters is geared towards families and there are activities that will keep everyone engaged from board games and camel rides to lion tracking and night drives.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Travel: 220km (about 3.5hrs)
• Accommodation: Tented safari camp at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
• Included Activities: Sweetwaters chimpanzee sanctuary
• Optional activities (own cost): Night game drive, guided bird walks, lion tracking (morning only), board games and library, camel rides, tree planting, and watercolor painting

Day 3: Sweetwaters to Lake Nakuru National Park – Kenya

This morning, we leave Sweetwaters after breakfast and head for Lake Nakuru National Park. We arrive at our safari lodge in good time for lunch and after a refreshing stop, head out for an afternoon game drive.

Lake Nakuru, a soda lake on the floor of the Great Rift Valley is rich in birdlife and home to over 400 different species. Its claim to fame, however, is its large flocks of seasonal flamingos. The sight of millions of flamingoes making the lake appear ringed in pink is spectacular. In addition to the abundant birdlife, it is also an important haven for the endangered species of Rothschild's giraffe and both black and white rhino. The first national park visited on our Kenya Family Safari, Lake Nakuru is rich in wildlife. Our game drive gives you and your family the chance to spot lions, waterbuck, buffalo, baboons, zebras, hippos, and much more.

This evening we settle down at our family-friendly safari lodge overlooking Lake Nakuru and its wild surroundings. Sit back and relax, taking in the lovely views, swimming in the pool, and enjoying a hearty meal.

• Travel: 300km (about 4.5hrs)
• Accommodation: Safari lodge overlooking Lake Nakuru
• Activities: Game drive, Lake Nakuru National Park

Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Hell's Gate National Park – Kenya

On day four of this budget Kenya Family Safari, we indulge in a leisurely breakfast before driving to Lake Naivasha. Reaching Lake Naivasha, we visit the nearby Hell's Gate National Park which can be explored without a safari vehicle.

Hell's Gate National Park is characterized by diverse topography and stunning geological scenery. It is a rarity in Kenya because, due to a lack of large predators like lions, you can explore on foot. While exploring the park you can see African buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, baboon, and over 100 bird species including vulture, Verreaux’s eagle, augur buzzards, and swifts. Rare lammergeier vultures, as well as Chandler’s mountain reedbuck and klipspringer antelope also inhabit the park.

To get the most out of Hell's Gate, visitors are encouraged to hire bicycles (own cost) and explore nature's wonders.

After an active day of exploring Kenya, we drive to one of two comfortable safari lodges near Lake Naivasha for a tasty meal and a laid-back evening. We usually stay at a family-friendly safari lodge located along the shores of Lake Naivasha on expansive grounds where giraffes, monkeys, and waterbuck are regularly spotted, with hippos grazing on the lawns at night. Alternatively, we stay at another family-friendly safari lodge near Lake Naivasha, boasting large grounds with plenty of recreational activities for the whole family.

• Travel: about 100km (about 1.5hrs)
• Accommodation: Family-friendly safari lodge at Lake Naivasha
• Activities: Hell's Gate National Park
• Optional activities (own cost): Bicycle ride in Hell's Gate

Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

There is time to relax after breakfast this morning or take an optional boat ride (own expense) on Lake Naivasha. This boat trip offers the more adventurous a different perspective on the land-based animals, exceptional scenery, and plenty of up-close hippo encounters.

After your morning adventures, we set off for the world-famous Masai Mara National Park, the highlight of many a Kenya Safari! We travel to Masai Mara via the scenic Great Rift Valley and arrive at our camp in time for lunch. Then you have time to settle in and relax before our thrilling afternoon game drive in Masai Mara.

The iconic Masai Mara National Reserve is the backdrop for our amazing full-afternoon game drive. Welcome to the great plains of Africa! Masai Mara is an unfenced wilderness area that stretches over more than 579 mi² (1500 km²). The national reserve is home to the most famous East African tribe, the Maasai, whom you will see alongside the road herding cattle in their red robes. Masai Mara is home to herds of wildebeest, zebra, and other antelope as well as giraffe and buffalo. There are plenty of predators too with lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. We stay out until dusk when the animals are at their most active.

Day five of our budget Kenya Family Safari ends at our overnight safari lodge, arriving in time for dinner. We stay at one of two luxury tented camps near Masai Mara National Reserve. One of the tented camps is situated along the Oloirigynyisho River, looking out over Oloolotikoshi Hills. This comfortable camp offers beautiful sunset views and frequent sightings of zebras, wildebeests, elephants, and other wildlife at the river. The other mid-range safari camp is also close to Masai Mara Reserve, providing an authentic African safari experience in comfort and style, surrounded by the untamed bush.

• Travel: about 250km (about 5.5hrs)
• Accommodation: Tented safari camp near Masai Mara
• Activities: Masai Mara National Reserve game drive
• Optional activities (own cost): morning boat ride on Lake Naivasha

Day 6: Masai Mara National Reserve & Maasai Village – Kenya

On day six, we rise with the sun in the great African wilderness of Masai Mara National Reserve. We set off on an early morning game drive before returning to safari camp for breakfast. The cool morning is perfect for seeing the wild game at their most active before the heat of the day sets in. We return to the base camp where you can relax and soak up the wild African setting at your leisure.

After lunch, we embark on a two-hour nature walk with a local Maasai guide. The Maasai have lived on these plains for centuries and your guide will share his experience and expertise with you. Learn about the fauna and flora of the region and the way that the Maasai people use the plants. Your guide will teach you the hidden secrets of the African savannah, like how to find medicine in the bush and how to track wildlife and birds. In addition to this, your children can learn some bush survival tips like knowing how to behave in the presence of wild animals.

After this thoroughly informative and fascinating excursion, visit the Maasai manyattas. At this local village, a local Maasai guide will give you an intriguing account of the Maasai people and their age-old traditions. You will have the opportunity to see first-hand an ancient way of life that still survives on the plains of Mara today. Finally, participate shoulder-to-shoulder in some local Maasai traditional dances.

As the sun sets on a fulfilling day on safari in Kenya, return to your scenic tented safari camp for dinner and a relaxing overnight surrounded by nature.

• Travel: Game drive in Masai Mara
• Activities: Masai Mara National Park, game drive, Masai nature walk, Maasai Manyatta visit

Day 7: Masai Mara Safari – Kenya

Spend a full day exploring the Masaai Mara National Park on day seven of your budget Kenya Family Safari. We go in search of the Big Five of Africa and the Great Migration (in season). From July to October, you are likely to see the spectacular annual wildebeest migration. There is also an option (own expense) to take an unforgettable hot air balloon safari. Dinner is served back at the well-equipped safari camp, where we spend the evening telling tales around the campfire and gazing at the stars.

The famous Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most popular and most visited wildlife sanctuary. It was used as the location of the well-known film ‘Out of Africa’ because of its spectacular scenery and outstanding natural beauty. Mara is home to a huge variety of plains wildlife from wildebeest and zebra to lions, cheetah, and hyenas. From July to August the park hosts one of nature's truly great events. Millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle migrate from the Serengeti, across the Tanzania border and the Mara River to reach the sweetgrass plains of the Masaai Mara National Park. It is awash with high drama. Crocodiles lurk in the river and lions and other predators lie in ambush in the long grass. In addition to the unforgettable game-viewing experience, about 452 species of birds have been recorded in this Kenyan national park.

• Travel: Big 5 game drive
• Activities: Masai Mara National Park, Big 5 game drive.

Day 8: Masai Mara to Nairobi – Kenya

After a leisurely breakfast, we exit Masai Mara and drive back to Nairobi, taking a packed lunch to enjoy along the way. In the afternoon we visit the famous Giraffe Centre in Nairobi. Here you have the chance to feed the giraffes by hand - a favorite with children and adults alike. In the evening, we enjoy dinner at the renowned carnivore restaurant where your budget Kenya Family Safari comes to a close.

After dinner, you will be dropped off at the airport for your onward flight or at your post-safari hotel.

• Travel: About 250km (about 6hrs)
• Activities: Nairobi Giraffe Centre

Kenya Safari Transport

The Kenya Safari will be conducted in a custom-made 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for game viewing. The 4x4 Land Cruisers are adapted for game viewing and fitted with refrigerators to keep your drinks cold out in the bush.

The maximum group size on this safari is six people, to guarantee each person a window seat on game drives.

Wildebeest Great Migration Explained

Please note that the Wildebeest Great Migration is seasonal. As a natural wildlife phenomenon, it is fluid and unpredictable. For this reason, seeing the Great Migration cannot be guaranteed.

The wildebeest and other wild herbivores migrate between Masai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti in Tanzania. These herds move in a massive circular route covering some 1200 miles (1931km). It is a continuous movement of wildlife that can be seen in different areas at different times of the year. During certain phases of this annual trek, the animals disperse or slow down, whilst at other times the migration picks up speed, with the herds becoming larger and denser. Not only does the Wildebeest Great Migration vary from place to place and season to season but the movement of these large wildlife herds varies from year to year.

Please talk to a travel expert from African Budget Safaris about seeing the Wildebeest Great Migration on your safari to find out more. Also, check out our detailed article about the Great Migration in Serengeti and Masai Mara .

Optional Extras and Excursions

For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry .

• Night game drives
• Guided bird walks
• Lion tracking* (morning only) 
• Board games and library
• Camel rides
• Tree planting 
• Watercolor painting
• Hot-air balloon safari in Masai Mara

Child Policy

This tour does take children.

Children of all ages, travelling with accompanying parents or guardian, are accepted on this family safari, on a private basis.

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• Transport in a custom-made 4x4 Land Cruiser (guaranteed window seat per person)
• Service of an English-speaking professional driver/guide
• Full board safari lodge accommodation
• Lunch and dinner on the last day
• Bottled water whilst on safari
• All park entry fees including government taxes
• All game drives as per the itinerary
• Visit to Giraffe Centre in Nairobi
• Nature walk & Maasai cultural tour
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• Post-safari accommodation in Nairobi

Scheduled Tour Departures Click on a departure date to enquire

• Sat, 17 Aug - Sat, 24 Aug 2024
• Sun, 18 Aug - Sun, 25 Aug 2024
• Mon, 19 Aug - Mon, 26 Aug 2024
• Tue, 20 Aug - Tue, 27 Aug 2024
• Wed, 21 Aug - Wed, 28 Aug 2024
• Thu, 22 Aug - Thu, 29 Aug 2024
• Fri, 23 Aug - Fri, 30 Aug 2024
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If you do not see departures listed for your dates, please do contact us for further info .

• If you know your departure date, you can browse tour departures by date here: all trips departing from Nairobi .

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5 DAYS MASAI MARA SAFARI IN KENYA

Ideal for those who value a slow pace of travel and really want to relish the full experience of a destination, our 5 days Masai Mara safari offers an exclusive experience of touring this premier wildlife reserve in East Africa with accommodation in exceptional luxury Tented Camps at prime spots in Masai Mara National Reserve, ideal for 2023 and 2024 wildebeest migration season.

A typical Safari Itinerary is listed below. Note that prices vary depending on the month or season of travel, with July to October being peak season while April to mid June is low season.

4 nights Masai Mara

Day 01: Start of your luxury Safari from Nairobi

Your Driver-Guide reports to your hotel for Start of the safari, with a 8am departure for a picturesque drive descending the Great Rift Valley and onwards to Masai Mara, Kenya's famous game reserve. ( Drive time 5.5 hours). You will be in your own private and exclusive 4x4 Landcruiser Safari vehicle. You will stop briefly enroute at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint to enjoy the stunning views of the largest Valley in the world, said to be visible from outer space. Arrive at your camp in Masai Mara for a leisurely lunch. Your afternoon game drive starts at 3.30pm, allowing spotting of the amazing wildlife in the reserve ranging from the Big Cats such as Lion, Leopard & Cheetah to Rhino, Elephant and Wildebeest. Our Driver-Guide will try his best to show you not just the ''Big Five'' animals but the ''Big Nine'' as well. Return to your tented camp by 6.30pm. Dinner and overnight at Mara Sarova Game Camp.

Day 02: Start the day with an early morning game drive in Masai Mara

You will be taken on two gamedrives today, one in the morning from 6.15am to 9am, before breakfast and the other in the late afternoon after lunch from 3.30pm to 6.30pm. Early mornings and late afternoons are considered the best time to spot animals at their most active. As your safari is private, your gamedrive timings are flexible, convenient if travelling with children or if on a honeymoon when you perhaps want to lie in longer on some of the days. You may also choose to have a full day game drive [ one for the whole day] with a packed picnic lunch at no extra cost. Return in the evening for dinner and overnight at the camp. Dinner and overnight at Mara Sarova Game Camp.

Day 03: Enjoy Full day in Masai Mara

Today you have an early rise for your estimated 6.15am Safari game drive during which you will see more of the Mara’s great wildlife. After a relaxed breakfast, proceed for a transfer to Governors Camp, nestled in the riverine forest along the winding banks of the Mara River, its waters teeming with bird-life, hippo and crocodile. Arrive at the camp late morning, for check in after which you enjoy a sumptuous lunch. Your afternoon game drive starts at 3.30pm, allowing you to explore further lying parts of the park. You then return back to your Camp by 5pm in time for Tea or Coffee. Dinner and overnight at Governors Camp.

Day 04: Enjoy a Maasai Village Visit and Nature Walk

You may choose to have a morning and afternoon game drive or even head out to the reserve for a long day game excursion with a packed picnic lunch. Optional activities such as the Maasai Village Visit and Nature Walk below are at additional cost. During the day you may also choose to be taken to a traditional Maasai tribe village on the outskirts of the reserve. The village visit which lasts an hour will give you a glimpse into the fascinating way of life of the Maasai, a nomadic warrior tribe of Kenya. During the course of the day, if you choose to book a nature walk, subject to availability, you would enjoy an hour long walk with the resident guide based at the camp. The walk allows you to closely observe and learn about the local flora and fauna within the vicinity of the property. { this walk will not be conducted into the main reserve so as to ensure your protection from wild animals}. Enjoy your afternoon safari gamedrive in the reserve during which you hopefully get to spot any of your favourite animals which you may have missed seeing so far during the trip. Return in the evening for dinner and overnight at the camp. Dinner and overnight at Governors Camp.

Day 05: Return to Nairobi

After a relaxed breakfast and Check out by 8:30am. Proceed with return road transfer back to Nairobi with a brief morning game drive en-route. You are expected to exit the park by 10am. ( Optional one way flight back to Nairobi available at additional cost). Arrive Nairobi by early afternoon [ typically by 3pm]. Drop off at your hotel, or free onward transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

Rates are per person sharing in US Dollars.

Rates depend on number of people travelling together in one vehicle hence 2 [two people] , 4 and 6 persons.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's included.

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary on Full board* basis in the camp.
• Exclusive transport in a 4x4 Landcruiser Jeep Safari vehicle. [ Option of free 4x4 open sided vehicle for game drives while staying at Governors Camp - noting that these camp vehicles usually carry other persons as well so it'll not be private and give the game drives as per set schedule ] .
• 07 Private Safari gamedrives for the tour
• Services of a certified Professional, English-speaking Driver~Guide including all his expenses & allowances
• Fuel, driver and car park fees, driver's allowance
• All Park Entry Fees for clients, driver~guide and vehicle
• Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirit and beers, teas and coffees at Governors Camp.
• Limited laundry at Governors Camp.
• 24 hour Back Up support if required.

What's not included

• International flight tickets and Visa costs.
• Tips, drinks, laundry, calls, personal insurances and all such costs of a personal nature.
• Credit Card Surcharge of 5 to 7% will apply or Bank Transfer Fees of USD 50.

Contact us using the form below to book the tour or for any questions We reply immediately

Add an Experience

Maasai Village Visit

US$ 40 per person

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Starting from US$ 455 per person

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A safari with a purpose, where you can be a part in preserving Kenya's Maasai Mara

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS / Created : Aug 12, 2024, 13:50 IST

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The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya offered tourists immersive experiences that supported conservation. Programs like the Mara Elephant Project and Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies involved visitors in tracking wildlife an … Read more

The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya offered tourists immersive experiences that supported conservation. Programs like the Mara Elephant Project and Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies involved visitors in tracking wildlife and community efforts to protect habitats. These activities aimed to preserve the ecosystem while providing an enriching, educational experience for visitors. Read less

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On Safari In The Maasai Mara With The Royal Family’s Preferred Tour Operator

Vogue once described Abercrombie & Kent as “purveyors of the exquisite” , and nowhere is that more true than in Africa, where the company’s diverse safari offerings marry pampering luxury with pure adrenaline. Exhibit A: the A&K Exclusive Tented Camp in Kenya.

The Vogue review: A&K Exclusive Tented Camp

There are good holidays, and then there are trips of a lifetime. Abercrombie & Kent’s pop-up luxury safari camp – in Kenya’s Maasai Mara – is very much of the latter ilk. Set up, exclusively, for each party of guests, at locations so deep in the world-renowned national park that hyenas have been known to perform raids on the outdoor kitchen, the custom-built tented village allows guests to truly immerse themselves in the vast wilderness of the savannah, without scrimping on the finer things in life. Here, you can spend your days chasing big cats on game drives before coming home to hot showers, three-course meals and a fully stocked bar. And once your stay’s complete? The camp’s taken down without a trace, the environmental impact minimal.

While the rules for safari dressing might demand neutral tones and sensible fabrics, the décor here is colourful, patterned and inspired by shweshwe prints. Almost totally designed and created by local makers, the tented village features canvas villas complete with hotel-standard beds, running water, hot showers and electric charging points. There’s a cosy open-air lounge and dining room, as well as a fire pit for whiling the night away.

Privacy is one of the best things about this safari. Aside from your party, the camp’s staff and your own safari guide, you won’t see a soul while at base. In terms of the usual clientele though? It’s worth noting that Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are a favourite of the royal family.

Whatever you want. Genuinely. The camp team of experienced and attentive staff design menus in advance to cater for all dietary requirements, preferences and whims. Vogue was served everything from hearty British dishes to brilliant Indian cooking – the latter of which was served as a hot buffet in the picnic area of the Mara. The culinary highlight? A cooking class celebrating traditional Kenyan dishes such as ugali.

Head to Olonana Lodge , just outside of the park, to recharge for a couple of nights after your camping trip. This rustic-chic hotel has the friendly vibe of a ski lodge, along with a swimming pool and sumptuous suites with terraces overlooking a hippo pond.

A sunrise hot air balloon safari over the Mara, during which we flew over the treetops surrounding the Mara River, getting a rare glimpse of a baby rhino.

Before you go:

Episode three of the first season of David Attenborough’s Dynasties on BBC iPlayer. It follows the Marsh Pride, the most famous family of lions to live on the Mara. Fingers crossed you spot them while you’re there.

Early morning game drives can be a chilly affair; pick up a neutral-toned chore jacket to stay warm.

Radio Four’s Sounds of the Maasai Mara is a gentle first introduction to the savannahs and forests of the national park.

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8 stunning lodges for a luxe safari, from treetops tents to shipwreck cabins

These lodgings promise a once-in-a-life stay on sprawling savannahs, rolling plains and ancient forests, article bookmarked.

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It’s the bucket list break with wildlife and wilderness – and the safari holiday continues to elevate game reserve glamping to new levels of luxury.

But with big-name safari destinations spanning Africa and treks to see tigers and jaguars in Asia and South America , choosing the right canvas to tuck in for the night can be a challenge.

There are tents supporting conservation projects, desert sanctuaries and treetop lodges to zip into after jeep rides rolling with the prides, herds and packs.

Think private watering holes, sundowner cocktails and barbeque campfires with high-end creature comforts weaved into close encounters with the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo).

With grand lodges from Kenya to India , here are the top camps to go wild for on your next safari.

Read more on safari, wildlife and nature holidays :

• How to take a wildlife safari without leaving the UK
• Why your next safari should be in Argentina
• The best wild swimming spots for quick dips, short stays or a week-long holiday

Madikwe Safari Lodge, South Africa

Best for: spotting the big five.

The South African bush provides one of the best safari settings in the world, and at Madikwe Safari Lodge the chances of seeing the Big Five are high. There are three lodgings – family-friendly Lelapa, intimate Kopano and deluxe Dithaba – as well as a spa, restaurant and bar. All-inclusive dining experiences are plenty beneath the thatched roofs, while plunge pool dips promise unrivalled views of the plains.

Rooms available from {{#price}} {{price}} per night {{/price}} {{^price}} Check availability for dates and prices {{/price}}

Rates provided by Booking.com

Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing, shipwreck lodge, namibia, best for: desert discovery.

For a stay on Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, Shipwreck Lodge features wooden rooms that mirror stranded ships. Even in the desolate environment, hardy elephants, lions and brown hyenas wander near the eco ‘wreck’ of 10 cosy cabins and sandboarding, quad biking and beach lunches are all on the itinerary.

Puku Ridge, Zambia

Best for: leopard lovers.

If it's leopards you’re trying to spot, Puku Ridge could be your perfect stay – it sits in the South Luangwa National Park, otherwise known as ‘Valley of the Leopards’. Local art blends with classic safari-style furnishings – of course, khaki and beige – in the Zambian lodge’s eight tents with plunge pools and a communal campfire overlooking the plains and lively local watering hole.

Wilderness Jao, Botswana

Best for: bush interiors.

Botswana’s Wilderness Jao has unrivalled game-viewing on land and water in the Okavango Delta. Here, antelope meet zebra, and hippos swim shallow lagoons. Inside, recycled wood and glass designs bring the wild to the five safari suites, the library and the museum, and there’s even a star bed experience to get some shut-eye under the African sky after a mokoro canoe ride.

Mara Plains Camp, Kenya

Best for: wildlife photographers.

In the Olare Motorogi Conservancy on the boundary of the Maasai Mara , Mara Plains’ safari suites ooze old-world opulence with rich accents, canopied ceilings and copper bathtubs. Budding photographers will find a professional camera and a selection of lenses for shooting images of wildlife – particularly hippos and leopards – and you won’t have to go far before a big cat poses on your path.

Cherero Camp, Tanzania

Best for: the great wildebeest migration.

Forget the king of the jungle, Tanzania is often hailed as the king of the safari – with the Serengeti the stage for the annual Great Wildebeest Migrations to and from the Masai Mara. At Cherero Camp, six tented suites champion a slow safari experience with tipples on their private verandas. Think guided walks, golden hour drives and campfire stories deep in the Musabi Plains.

SUJÁN Sher Bagh, India

Best for: trekking with tigers.

Away from Africa, Ranthambore in India is a haven for wild tigers. Here, game drives travel the ancient forest past ruins and palaces in search of the ultimate big cat. Better still, SUJÁN Sher Bagh’s 12 tented jungle suites have private verandahs to search the surrounding canopy for the swish of an orange tail while waiting to feast on an Indian farm-to-table dinner cooked in a clay oven.

Tembo Plains Camp, Zimbabwe

Best: conservation camp.

On the Zambezi River, the Tembo Camp – or elephant camp in Swahili – sits within 128,000 hectares of wildlife conservation land. Aside from the show-stealing trunked giants, you’ll find painted dogs, lions and leopards paddling the waters of the Zambezi, and guests can spend afternoons playing games of cricket on the river’s banks before cosying up in one of four spacious double suites.

Read more: How to safari in Botswana on a budget

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Elderly Iranians Feel At Home At Noor Active Living in Santa Clara

By Julie Ershadi

Mahin Afkhami worked for an affiliate of Iran’s information and tourism ministry in the 1970s when the Revolution broke out. She and her husband, who had four children studying at universities in the U.S., found themselves unable to send them money to apply for green cards. The couple traveled west to sort out the status of their children’s visas, in what they believed would be a brief trip. They ended up leaving behind everything they had in Iran: their belongings, their wealth, and life as they knew it.

That was 38 years ago. Today, like the hundreds of thousands of Iranians who lived through the revolution and moved abroad, Afkhami speaks proudly of the efforts she made to rebuild her life and ensure her children’s success. Yet as she has advanced in years, she has made the decision to move to an assisted living facility rather than rely on her offspring.

Unlike many elders in the Iranian expatriate community who live with their adult children, Afkhami – who shies away from disclosing her age – is a resident of Noor Active Living , an assisted living facility located in Santa Clara , California. The idea behind Noor is to provide an environment that would be familiar to an Iranian population of patients, who often feel isolated receiving care outside of their home country and away from their families.

“My children want me to go and live with them, but I refuse,” she says in a recent afternoon. “I would be interrupting their lives. They come to visit me and I go over there, but I’d rather have my privacy and live here.”

Noor Active Living was founded with the purchase by a group of philanthropists of an existing assisted living center in need of major renovations in 2009. The idea was to create a place for elderly Iranians in the United States, based on the Kahrizak Charity Foundation , a nonprofit that provides care and a living environment for the elderly and handicapped in Iran.

The driving force at Noor is its executive director, Nazila Safari, a medical doctor in the U.S.  and Iran. Like virtually all of the residents and staff at Noor, Safari is an Iranian immigrant who had to start over in the United States.

Inside the Noor facility, the walls are decorated with calligraphy and traditional paintings. A small study contains a library of books in Persian , including War and Peace in translation, a book on Afghan cuisine , history books, and poetry. On all the floors are authentic Persian rugs , donated by one of the center’s patrons.

In the dining hall, the Iranian-born chef prepares a lunch of ghormeh sabzi (a herb-based stew) for the 12 residents and staff members. Even ta’arof , the Iranian form of etiquette, is present, as when the site manager invites a visiting reporter to stay for lunch.

Outside is a patio lined with persimmon trees and palm fronds. There, accompanied by three caretakers and another resident, Afkhami tells her story of leaving Iran and coming to the United States. She produces an issue of Kayhan International , dated June 3, 1976. Page 3 features her promotion to deputy director for technical and planning affairs at the Tourism Facilities Compan  of Iran.

The group is seated at a patio table spread with Iranian tea, a box of gaz nougat  (candy) fresh from Esfahan , and other traditional snacks. Everyone exchanges knowing glances and nods somberly as Afkhami describes how hard it was to rebuild her and her family’s lives from the ground up.

“I came here with just one small suitcase of things for myself because I didn’t have plans to stay,” she says. “But things got worse. Me and my husband were both in good positions over there, so we would’ve been killed. We never went back.”

“The children were working, going to school, and had a lot of expenses,” she recalled. “It was just the six of us working. Hard.”

Noor’s executive director Safari qualified as a doctor in Iran. But when she came to the United States 22 years ago, her degree was not recognized, and she had to attend U.S. medical school to continue her practice. While in school, she took a job as a live-in nurse with an elderly couple.

“At that time, I didn’t have anybody here,” she says. “So they became my parents, my grandparents, my whole family.”

Alone in a foreign country, she developed a close bond with the family that would change the course of her life.

“Their kids moved out,” she recalls. “I got married and took the elderly woman with me until I could find a place to put her. I noticed all of these assisted living places. I was looking for which one would give her as much love and support as I was giving her.”

It was during her search for a care facility that Safari discovered a pressing situation: here and there, solitary elderly Iranians living in facilities where they related to no one. “There would be one or two Iranians. When they would see me, they would say, ‘Oh my God, you speak Farsi ! Nobody understands me here, I don’t like the food – this is not good!’ It was bothering me,” she says.

Safari started going to assisted living homes in the little free time she had between work and medical school. She wanted to spend time with these elderly Iranians who had been alone up until then. She would sit with them at the care facilities where they lived, translate their words when necessary for the nurses, and spend time with them when their children weren’t available.

As she became more deeply involved in the field of elderly care, Safari helped to open a Sunrise Senior Living branch in Sunnyvale , California, a town adjacent to Santa Clara. According to the company’s website, Sunrise operates internationally with 315 facilities in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom .

Opening the Sunnyvale branch got Safari noticed by a group of directors hoping to start their own assisted living community, a not-for-profit facility created with the needs of elderly Iranians in mind. They asked her to help open Noor in 2009, and she agreed. She supervised renovations on the building that the group had acquired, but declined to run the facility, asking them instead to find someone else as she pursued her own professional activities.

After the completion of renovations in 2011, the facility sat unused for two years while the board searched for a substitute for Safari. They approached her again, this time with success. Safari has been director of Noor Active Living since 2013.

As a not-for-profit organization, Noor relies on donations from board members and community groups, as well as the fees charged to its residents. These funds cover expenses, and do not earn a profit for Safari and her staff, which is composed almost entirely of recent Iranian immigrants. The overarching aim, they say, is the respect, comfort and longevity of their patients, who have traveled so far and, in many cases, given up a great deal in the face of political turmoil in Iran.

“They had their independence, their house, their job, their respect in Iran,” Safari says. “They were looking forward to retiring there, going to the supermarket and speaking their own language, negotiating all of that. All of a sudden, they’re an immigrant, they’re brought to a new place where they can’t go anywhere or even speak the language.”

Chewing on gaz and sipping Iranian tea, Noor’s staff members echo the same sentiment that Safari described: what they do is more than a job – it is the love and care of the elderly members of their community, who are living thousands of miles away from the place they all call home. Afkhami, for her part, speaks warmly of the life she lives at Noor.

“We had everything over there,” she says, remembering her life in Iran before the revolution. “Now, this is the best place I could be. It is home.”

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