The Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the spectacular Great Migration. Whether you’re seeking an unforgettable wildlife experience during the peak migration season, a budget-friendly adventure in the low season, or a well-balanced trip in the mid-season, there’s a perfect safari package for you.
This guide breaks down the best Masai Mara safari packages by season, highlights top accommodations, and provides expert tips to maximize your safari experience. We also explain how off-peak travel can save on park fees and why Safari Travel Plus is the best choice for your Masai Mara adventure.
Best Masai Mara Safari Packages by Season
Peak Season (July – October): The Great Migration Safari Packages
Peak season is the most popular time to visit the Masai Mara, as over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross from Tanzania’s Serengeti into the Masai Mara, braving the crocodile-infested Mara River. This is the ultimate safari experience for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and first-time visitors looking for an unparalleled African adventure.
Why We Recommend These Packages
- Guaranteed sightings of dramatic Mara River crossings
- High predator activity, with lions, cheetahs, and leopards in action
- Best game viewing conditions with dry, sunny weather
- Premium lodges and tented camps located near key migration routes
Who Is It For?
- First-time safari-goers wanting the best wildlife experience
- Wildlife photographers and videographers
- Luxury travelers seeking top-tier accommodations
- Adventure seekers wanting front-row seats to nature’s most dramatic event
Recommended Peak Season Safari Packages
1. 5-Day Luxury Great Migration Safari
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Olonana, Governors’ Camp, or Angama Mara
- Highlights:
- Witness the Mara River crossings firsthand
- Guided game drives in custom 4×4 vehicles
- Exclusive hot air balloon safari over the Mara
- Sundowners overlooking the savannah
- Cultural visits to a Maasai village
2. 7-Day Ultimate Migration Safari & Big Cats Experience
- Accommodation: Rekero Camp, Serian Nkorombo Mobile Camp, Mara Serena Safari Lodge
- Highlights:
- Full-day game drives tracking the migration
- Stay in mobile camps positioned along the river crossings
- Guided walking safaris with Maasai warriors
- Night game drives in private conservancies
Best Accommodation Choices During Peak Season
- Mara Serena Safari Lodge – Offers breathtaking views of the Mara River
- Sanctuary Olonana – Luxury tents overlooking a private section of the river
- Governors’ Camp – Located near key crossing points with excellent wildlife proximity
When to Go for the Best Migration Experience
- Late July – August: High chances of witnessing the first dramatic river crossings
- September – October: Peak predator activity as herds move deeper into the reserve
Peak Season Travel Tips
- Book early: Camps and lodges fill up fast; secure your spot 6-12 months in advance
- Prepare for higher costs: Park fees are $200 per person per night, and premium lodges charge peak rates
- Hire an expert guide: A knowledgeable guide enhances your chances of witnessing key wildlife moments
Mid-Season (November – February): Shoulder Season Safari Packages
Mid-season in the Masai Mara offers excellent wildlife viewing with fewer crowds and moderate prices. While the migration has moved south, resident wildlife remains abundant, making this a great alternative for those seeking quality safaris without peak season costs.
Why We Recommend These Packages
- More intimate safari experiences with fewer vehicles at sightings
- Great time to see big cats, elephants, and rhinos
- Lodges and camps offer discounted rates compared to peak season
Who Is It For?
- Couples and honeymooners seeking a quiet safari
- Budget-conscious travelers wanting excellent game viewing without the high costs
- Birdwatching enthusiasts (seasonal migratory birds arrive)
Recommended Mid-Season Safari Packages
1. 4-Day Classic Mara Safari
- Accommodation: Mara Explorer Camp or Kichwa Tembo Camp
- Highlights:
- Private game drives with fewer tourists around
- Luxury bush dinners under the stars
- Walking safaris with expert naturalists
2. 6-Day Romantic Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari
- Accommodation: Cottar’s 1920s Camp, Mahali Mzuri
- Highlights:
- Exclusive tented camps with luxury spa services
- Scenic bush picnics and sundowners
- Hot air balloon safari with champagne breakfast
Best Accommodation Choices During Mid-Season
- Mara Plains Camp – Exclusive and perfect for photography safaris
- Mahali Mzuri – Sir Richard Branson’s luxury camp with sweeping savannah views
- Cottar’s 1920s Camp – A nostalgic safari experience with classic elegance
Mid-Season Travel Tips
- Park fees drop to $100 per person per night, making it more budget-friendly
- Book flexible itineraries to take advantage of seasonal discounts
Low Season (March – June): Green Season Safari Packages
The low season, also known as the “Green Season,” brings lush landscapes and newborn wildlife. While it’s the least busy time of the year, it offers incredible value for money and a unique perspective of the Masai Mara.
Why We Recommend These Packages
- Significantly lower prices on accommodation and park fees
- Lush, green landscapes perfect for photography
- Fewer tourists, providing a more intimate safari experience
Who Is It For?
- Budget-conscious travelers wanting high-end experiences at lower costs
- Wildlife photographers preferring dramatic landscapes and unique light
- Travelers interested in baby animals and predator interactions
Recommended Low Season Safari Packages
1. 3-Day Budget Masai Mara Safari
- Accommodation: Mara Leisure Camp or Basecamp Explorer
- Highlights:
- Affordable game drives with excellent wildlife viewing
- Nature walks and cultural visits
- Optional hot air balloon ride at discounted rates
2. 5-Day Family-Friendly Safari
- Accommodation: Sarova Mara Game Camp, Mara Sopa Lodge
- Highlights:
- Interactive safari activities for kids
- Guided walking safaris
- Maasai cultural experiences
Low Season Travel Tips
- Enjoy fewer crowds and reduced park fees ($100 per person per night)
- Be prepared for occasional rain, but it rarely disrupts game drives
- Great time for exclusive lodge deals and added-value activities
Why Choose Safari Travel Plus?
At Safari Travel Plus, we specialize in crafting personalized safari experiences tailored to your interests and budget. Here’s why we are the best choice for your Masai Mara safari:
- Expert Local Guides: Our professional guides have intimate knowledge of the Masai Mara, ensuring the best wildlife encounters.
- Handpicked Accommodations: We only recommend lodges and camps that offer excellent views, comfort, and authenticity.
- Flexible & Customizable Packages: Whether you want luxury, mid-range, or budget safaris, we tailor each package to your needs.
- Competitive Pricing: We offer the best deals, including discounts during the low and mid-seasons.
- Sustainable Travel: We partner with eco-friendly lodges and support local Maasai communities.
Final Tips for an Unforgettable Masai Mara Safari
- Book early for peak season to secure the best lodges and game-viewing spots.
- Consider off-peak travel to save on costs while still enjoying fantastic wildlife.
- Pack appropriately – lightweight clothing, binoculars, and a quality camera are must-haves.
- Take a hot air balloon safari for a breathtaking aerial view of the Mara.
- Choose a knowledgeable guide to enhance your safari experience.
Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration, looking for intimate wildlife encounters, or seeking an affordable African adventure, our expertly crafted Masai Mara safari packages ensure an experience of a lifetime.