If you’re reading this you’re probably planning for your first Maasai Mara trip and if so this beginner guide was meant to find you
I recently went to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Africa’s most iconic wildlife safari for the first time and CANNOT believe that I not only SURVIVED but actually had a lot of fun
It is without a doubt one of the most unique things I have ever experienced in my life however to ensure that you have the best time here there are definitely things you need to know before going
And so in todays video is going to be about, I’m going to be telling you everything you need to know, from what to pack or prepare before going, quintessential activities you need to do while you’re here and also general etiquette and best practices to follow while you’re at this most amazing corner of the earth
Consider this your ultimate Maasai Mara Safari Beginner Guide! By the way this article is basically an excerpt of my youtube video which you can watch below if you prefer
https://youtu.be/3Pl-FE6nFEQ?si=HVtS4ZYNIW2iBdpuOtherwise without further ado let’s get straight into it!
What To Prepare/Pack
But before we head there we first need to talk about what to prepare for the trip, here are some essential things to add to your Maasai Mara Beginner Guide checklist
Vaccinations
The first one doesn’t just apply to Maasai Mara but to Kenya in general and that is vaccinations, now I want to preface this by saying that I am NOT a medical practitioner so you should double check whatever I recommend here with your doctor but I got these vaccines here before my trip
1. Smallpox
2. Thypoid
3. Hepatitis A
4. Poliomyelitis
5. Meningococcal
6. Yellow Fever
I also had a prescription of doxylin from my doctor which is used for when entering malaria zones, AGAIN its best to check all of this information with your doctor like I did before your trip to determine what you need.
Motion Sickness
Speaking of medication I also brought along some Travacalm because no one tells you this but the morning game drives around the Maasai Mara in a jeep can get quite bumpy and so if you’re prone to motion sickness like me definitely bring some along!
Sunscreen
This next one probably goes without saying but as you will be outdoor extensively sunscreen is a must! Any sunscreen is good, my go to’s are this roll on one from Roundlab for my face and this banana boat one for the rest of my body
Mosquito Repellent
Aside from sunscreen you also want to make sure you have some mosquito repellent while you’re there, I am using this one from bushman which I got off amazon which also comes with built in sunscreen however as it didnt specify the spf on the label I still reapply sunscreen beforehand I apply this repellent
You should reapply both the sunscreen and the repellent often
Long sleeve shirts
And to further protect yourself from the sun and the mosquitoes please also bring along some long sleeve shirts and this next one is important
Make sure the clothing you bring is neutral coloured like khaki, olive green or brown. Here’s some colour scheme examples for reference
You are specifically gonna wanna to avoid flashy and camouflage outfits
Cargo Pants
The colour scheme applies to the pants that you are wearing as well, by the way I got these cargo pants and these long sleeve shirt from Uniqlo!
Jacket
A common misconception that most people have, most people including me is that Africa is hot all year round
But you’ll be surprised at how cold Masai Mara can get particularly if you plan to join those early morning game drives
So I definitely recommend bringing along a light jacket and also to dress in layers so you can shed them as the weather warms up throughout the day
Boots
Oh and I also recommend bringing along a pair of boots!
How to Get To The Maasai Mara
Assuming that you’re all packed ready to go lets now talk about how to get there
If you’ve landed in Nairobi like I did you can either get to the Maasai Mara National Reserve via road or air
By road, the journey covers about 225 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours.
However I actually flew here instead, the flight takes around 45 minutes and from there you can be picked up by their safari lodge or tour operator, making it a convenient and time-saving choice for travelers eager to begin their safari adventure.
Where to Stay
Along with figuring out to how get here you will also need to work out where to stay
Now you do have the choice to stay within or just outside the reserve but I recommend staying in the reserve
It will cost you a bit more but trust me it is worth it
Staying inside the reserve is amongst the top things you need to do when you’re at the Masai Mara
I mean imagine waking up to a beautiful view of the Masai Mara!
In terms specifically where to stay, I went with the Muthu Keekorok Lodge
It is an iconic safari lodge that was established back in 1962 as the first ever lodge in the Mara, it boasts an ideal location near seasonal migration routes, providing visitors an opportunity to witness the incredible spectacle of wildebeests, zebras, and other wildlife up close.
The lodge is set within lush, landscaped grounds and features traditional African-inspired architecture with modern comforts. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy diverse cuisine at its restaurant, or unwind at the Hippo Bar, which overlooks a pond often frequented by hippos. Muthu Keekorok Lodge is not just a place to stay but a gateway to authentic wildlife experiences, offering game drives, guided nature walks, and cultural interactions with the local Maasai community, making it a memorable part of any Masai Mara adventure.
Whilst we are on the topic of things to do at the Maasai Mara, lets now talk about about the essential activites to add to your Maasai Mara Beginner Guide
Things To Do at the Maasai Mara National Reserve
Early Morning Game Drive
Yet another reason to stay within the reserve is that it’ll be super close for you to get to a game drive
Which is something that should be right at the TOP of your Maasai Mara Beginner Guide checklist
What is a game drive I hear you say? well it involves getting into one of these jeeps that has an open roof as it drives around the reserve getting you up close and personal to all the local residents of Maasai Mara
It is usually done first time in the morning around 6am as that is when the Mara’s wildlife at its most active.
It is also the best time to see the reserve itself as the early morning light paints vibrant colors across the sky and the reserve showcasing exactly why Maasai Mara is a world-renowned safari destination.
As the sun rises, animals begin their morning routines; lions and other big cats are often spotted returning from their nighttime hunts, while elephants, giraffes, and antelope graze peacefully across the plains.
Birdlife is also at its peak, with eagles, vultures, and other species taking flight to start their day. The quiet serenity of the early morning enhances the experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape and its inhabitants. Guided by knowledgeable drivers and rangers, guests learn about the unique behaviors and interactions of the wildlife.
One of the common misconceptions of the Maasai Mara is that you should only go during the great migration period period which takes place late July to August and again on their return south, around the last two weeks of October through early November but guess what? the residents of the reserve live there all year long and going there in the off peak period which is Jan to June actually means you pay half the reserve access fees AND also get see the wild life without the crowds
Bush Breakfast
Having a bush breakfast in the Maasai Mara National Reserve is a truly magical experience, allowing guests to enjoy a gourmet meal in the heart of the African wilderness. After an exhilarating early morning game drive, guests are guided to a scenic spot, often by the banks of a river or beneath the shade of an acacia tree, where tables are elegantly set up for an al fresco breakfast.
With sweeping views of the savannah, diners savor a range of freshly prepared foods—from tropical fruits and pastries to eggs cooked to order, accompanied by freshly brewed Kenyan coffee and tea. Surrounded by the sounds of nature, guests might spot elephants, giraffes, or gazelles nearby, adding to the thrill of dining in the wild. The experience is made even more memorable by attentive guides and staff who ensure comfort and safety while sharing fascinating insights about the surrounding wildlife. A bush breakfast in the Maasai Mara offers an unparalleled way to connect with nature, combining the joy of a delicious meal with the beauty and serenity of one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
Watch a Sunset/Sunrise
Watching the sunrise or sunset in the Maasai Mara National Reserve is an unforgettable experience and an absolute must-do for any visitor.
At dawn, the sky gradually brightens, filling with hues of pink, orange, and purple as the sun rises over the vast savannah. Wildlife stirs to life with the first light, and the crisp morning air carries the distant calls of birds and animals across the plains. Similarly, during sunset, the entire landscape is bathed in a golden glow, casting long shadows and creating a magical, almost surreal atmosphere.
The fading light silhouetting giraffes, acacia trees, and the distant hills adds a sense of tranquility and awe. Whether perched atop a lookout point, on a game drive, or simply at your lodge, the sunrise and sunset are moments of profound beauty, reminding visitors of the incredible natural majesty of the Maasai Mara. These peaceful times of day provide a perfect opportunity to reflect, take breathtaking photos, and appreciate the wild, untamed essence of this remarkable landscape.
Horseback Riding
The horseback riding experience in the Maasai Mara National Reserve offers a unique and exhilarating way to explore the stunning landscape and get up close to its wildlife. Mounted on well-trained horses, riders can traverse the vast savannah, riding through open plains, along winding rivers, and beneath acacia trees.
This activity allows for a more intimate connection with nature, as the horses move silently through the reserve, allowing riders to observe animals in their natural habitat without the usual distractions of a vehicle.
During the ride, you may encounter herds of wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and even predators like cheetahs, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Mara’s rolling hills and expansive grasslands. Expert guides, often from the local Maasai community, lead the way, sharing their deep knowledge of the ecosystem and wildlife, making the experience both thrilling and educational. Horseback riding in the Maasai Mara is a serene and unforgettable adventure, offering a fresh perspective of one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations.
Maasai Village
A visit to a Maasai village in the Maasai Mara National Reserve offers a deep and memorable insight into the culture and traditions of one of Kenya’s most iconic tribes.
The Maasai people, known for their distinct customs, vibrant attire, and close connection to the land, welcome visitors to experience their way of life.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a traditional welcome songs and dances, often including the famous “adumu,” or jumping dance, in which Maasai warriors display their impressive vertical leaps. Visitors are then invited to explore the village, including a look inside the traditional Maasai “manyatta” homes made of mud, sticks, and cow dung, showcasing their resourceful construction methods.
Guided by village members, guests learn about the Maasai’s daily practices, such as cattle herding, beadwork, and fire-making techniques, which have been passed down through generations.
Artisans in the village also offer beautiful handmade jewelry and crafts for sale, providing a meaningful way to support the community. This immersive experience allows travelers to connect with the Maasai culture and gain a deeper appreciation for their enduring traditions amidst the wilderness of the Maasai Mara.
General Etiquettes and Practices
But to ensure you are able to do alll the fun things we’ve talked about so far in this Maasai Mara Beginner Guide it is important to know that there are certain guidelines you need to follow to protect both yourself and the wildlife
One of the primary rules is to always stay within designated areas and follow your guide’s instructions, especially during game drives, as getting too close to animals can be dangerous.
Visitors are advised to remain inside vehicles at all times, unless at a designated safe area, to avoid startling or provoking wildlife.
Noise should be kept to a minimum to maintain a peaceful environment for both animals and other visitors, and flash photography is discouraged as it may disturb the animals.
This next one should be obvious but littering is strictly prohibited, as even small amounts of waste can harm the ecosystem. Just dont do it
Speaking of thing you should not do, feeding the wildlife is also strictly forbidden as it disrupts their natural behaviors and diets.
Respecting these rules not only protects the diverse ecosystem of the Maasai Mara but also ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Lastly, supporting local communities and respecting Maasai culture during village visits or interactions with locals enriches the overall experience while promoting sustainable tourism.
Outro
I do hope this Maasai Mara Beginner Guide has been informative and insightful in helping you plan for that trip to Maasai Mara
If you weren’t planning a trip to Masai Mara I hope this video has put this wonderful corner of the earth on your travel bucket list
If you have any further questions or anything else you wanna say dont forget to leave me a comment in the comment section of the YouTube video or follow me on Instagram and Tiktok!
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