Safari in Kenya: A 10-Day Journey Through Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru & Maasai Mara
- Amy
- Sep 26, 2025
- 21 min read
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Prelude: Safari In Kenya
At 20, it was his dream, a love for the wild already burning inside him, the rhythm of nature calling in a way most of us only see from far away. For me, back then, it was just something to tick off a list. But over the years, I’ve seen his passion take root. His patience in watching animals, his excitement in learning their ways, and his joy in simply being out there have shaped not only him but all of us as a family.
When the kids came along, they soaked up that same love. They talk about birds and animals with a detail that only comes from true curiosity. And slowly, without even noticing, his love for wildlife became mine too. Now, at 40, I see it clearly, this is no longer just his dream, it’s our dream. A journey built over years of small moments, countless chats, and his quiet influence.
In 14 years of marriage, he has pulled me gently into the world of safaris. Not just the thrill of spotting animals in the wild, but the deeper joy of learning about them, really knowing them. When I watch him and the kids excitedly share facts about birds and species, I feel the same pull, to belong in that world, not just as a visitor, but as someone who understands.
So when friends asked, “Where’s your next holiday?” and I replied, “Maasai Mara,” they looked confused. For them, the Great Migration might be a documentary or a short video clip. But for those who go there, it’s life happening in its rawest, most powerful form.
The magic of nature isn’t only in what you see. It’s in the awareness. And once you feel that, everything else changes.
Table of Contents: Safari in Kenya: A 10-Day Journey Through Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru & Maasai Mara Flight Options, Fares & First Impressions
Best Time to Visit
Day 1: Nairobi Airport, Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage/Giraffe Centre
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport → Transfer to Sarova Stanley Hotel → Visit the Giraffe Centre or Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Day 2 – Nairobi to Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island
Pick-up in safari jeep → Drive through the Rift Valley → Boat ride on Lake Naivasha + Crescent Island walk → Continue to Lake Nakuru.
Day 3-4 – Lake Nakuru
Check in at Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge → Lunch and rest → First game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Days 5 - Onroute Maasai Mara
Kenya’s grain basket region, Mountain Bongo Curio Shop, Sandgrouse Curio Art Gallery and Nakor
Day 6-8 – The Maasai Mara
Full-day game drives in the Greater Mara and Mara Triangle → Lions, cheetahs, elephants, wildebeest, giraffes, hyenas, rare sightings.
Day 9 – Nairobi
Return to Nairobi → Visit GPO, National Museum, Snake Park, City Market, and dinner at CJ’s → Overnight at Sarova Stanley.
Day 10 – Departure
Early morning flight from Nairobi back to Mumbai.
Morning Star Our Guide Alex Masila |
Flight Options, Fares & First Impressions
We flew direct from Mumbai to Nairobi on IndiGo. The flight, scheduled for 2:00 am, finally left at 3:45 am. Sometimes it’s worth paying more for reliability. IndiGo fares average USD 175–200 one way, while Kenya Airways also flies direct, usually a bit pricier at USD 400–650.
✈️ The nearest airport to the Maasai Mara is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, located about 15 kilometers from the city center. To reach Nairobi, you can book a direct flight from major international hubs in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America. From Nairobi, travelers usually take a short domestic flight to one of the airstrips inside or near the Maasai Mara (about 45 minutes) or enjoy a scenic road trip of 5–6 hours through the Great Rift Valley.
Mumbai’s Terminal 1 was chaotic with long queues, but Nairobi was the opposite. Immigration was quick, baggage came fast, and Jomo Kenyatta Airport felt clean and simple. Our hotel, Sarova Stanley, had arranged a pick-up for about €28 / USD 30, and within 20 minutes we were in the city. Safari companies also offer the same service, or you can easily book your own transfer.
🚖From the airport, you may conveniently book a taxi to the destination of your choice using EASY AIRPORT TAXIS BOOKINGS. Ubers are quite popular, reliable and easy to travel in Nairobi.
🚗You can also opt to rent a car and drive yourself, which can be easily arranged by BOOKING HERE.
Best Time to Visit
We chose August because it’s the peak of the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara. Millions of wildebeest and zebras cross over from the Serengeti, and predators follow closely behind. It’s nature at its most dramatic. The weather is dry and cool, which makes game drives more comfortable, though this is also the busiest and most expensive season. Lodges get booked months in advance and park fees are at their highest, but if you want to see the Migration, it’s absolutely worth it.
For the best time to visit Nairobi and Lake Nakuru, the dry months from June to October and again in January and February are ideal, as the weather is pleasant and animals are easier to spot around water sources. The Maasai Mara is magical year-round, but if the Great Migration is on your list, aim for July to October when the herds arrive.
Asante → Swahili for “Thank you.” Jambo → Swahili greeting, often used like “Hello.” (though locals more commonly say “Habari” or “Mambo”). Karibu → In Swahili means “Welcome” or “You’re welcome.” |
Day 1: Nairobi Airport, Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage/Giraffe Centre
We landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport where immigration was quick and our driver Simon greeted us with a cheerful “Jambo.” Driving into the city, we got our first glimpse of Nairobi’s polished side - new highways, stretches of green, and a skyline of glass towers. This day, we were to initially head to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where rescued baby elephants are cared for, but because of shortage of time, we decided to go to the Giraffe Centre instead. On the way to our first stop we passed Kibera, Kenya’s largest slum, a striking contrast to the modern city center. The highlight of the day was the Giraffe Centre, where feeding the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, some gentle, some playful. It gave us a joyful start to our time in Nairobi.
👉 For more details on Nairobi’s sights, museums, markets, and family-friendly activities, check out my dedicated blog post: What to Do in Nairobi in 3 Days (With Kids Too!) |
⭐ Relax in style after your flight! Enjoy premium lounge access at Jomo Kenyatta Airport. Book it here.
⭐ Spend 6-8 hours visiting Nairobi’s Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Center. Get close to rescued wildlife, learn their stories, and enjoy feeding giraffes up close. Book it here.
⭐ Take a 3-hour guided tour of Kibera Slum in Nairobi with local guides. See daily life up close, hear real stories, and get a fresh perspective. Book it here.
⭐ Spend a day exploring Nairobi’s wildlife. Visit the National Park, Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center for unforgettable encounters. Book it here.
Day 2: Along the Rift Valley Road: From Nairobi to Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island
Along the Rift Valley Road
After a hearty breakfast at 6:30 am, our adventure began with a pick-up in a fancy 8-seater safari jeep from the hotel. Alex, our trusted guide and driver for the next five days, greeted us with a warm smile and carefully loaded our luggage into the trunk, covering it with a blanket before making sure we were comfortable with plenty of water bottles for the road. As we set off, the morning air in the city was heavy with the smell of diesel, you can't escape Nairobi’s busy traffic. But the moment we crossed the city limits, the air changed completely, it was fresher, carrying the earthy scent of damp mud and greenery. The drive to Lake Naivasha took about three hours, winding through the lush Rift Valley where the views stretched endlessly, green hills rolling into the horizon, dotted with graceful acacia trees and tall, spiny Euphorbia candelabrum, a cactus-like tree native to the region. Along the roadside, baboons played and chased one another, while a lively vegetable market spilled over with color, bright tomatoes, piles of leafy greens, and the earthy smell of fresh produce filling the air as locals crammed the roadside to barter. With every passing mile, our excitement only grew. We were finally on our way, ready for the adventure we had been so eagerly waiting for.
Within the stretch of the Great Rift Valley in Kenya, there are eight major lakes, some freshwater, others saline or alkaline. Lake Naivasha is one of the freshwater ones, and as you get closer, you’ll notice the endless greenhouses along its shores, part of Kenya’s thriving flower industry.
The Great Rift Valley is part of a giant tear in the Earth’s crust that runs almost 6,000 kilometres, from Lebanon all the way to Mozambique. In Kenya, it shows itself in soaring cliffs, volcanoes, and lush plains. The land here is slowly pulling apart, only a few millimetres each year, but over millions of years this tiny shift could break off the Horn of Africa from the rest of the continent and create a brand new ocean. |
Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island
On our way from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru, we made a full-day stop at Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable parts of our journey. We began with a peaceful boat ride past hippos and an incredible variety of birdlife, including the iconic African fish eagle. But the real magic happened on Crescent Island, one of the few places in Kenya where you can actually walk among giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and wildebeest.
If you’ve never walked alongside giraffes and zebras in the wild, this is your chance. It is an experience so surreal and special that it simply cannot be missed.
Lake Naivasha Boat Tour Timings: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The best way to experience Lake Naivasha is on a boat, gliding past hippos, fish eagles, and a dazzling variety of birdlife. If you ask for Lake Naivasha on your safari, the boat tour is usually included in the package cost. If not, you can easily arrange one on the spot. Just be sure to agree on the price in advance, which is usually around USD 25–40 per boat (shared). |
Crescent Island is one of the few places in Kenya where you can walk freely among giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and antelopes without the worry of predators. With a local guide, the walk becomes even more engaging as they point out animal behavior and birdlife along the way. The circuit is about 3–4 km and usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours at a relaxed pace, with plenty of stops to watch the wildlife. Flat and open, it’s an easy walk suitable for most visitors, and many combine it with a Lake Naivasha boat ride for the perfect half-day adventure. |
Crescent Island Timings:
Opening times: Opens at 8:30 AM; last entry at 4:30 PM; sanctuary closes by 5:45 PM.
Cost (entry fees for day visitors): Adult: ~ USD 33 ; Child: ~ USD 16
I’ve shared a full, detailed story about our Naivasha boat ride and Crescent Island walk (with plenty of photos and tips) in a separate post. You can read it here - Kenya’s Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island: A Family Adventure on Foot and Water |
Day 3-4: Lake Nakuru
We had completely forgotten how hungry we were and it was only after we reached our jeep safely back from the lake tour, we realized our famished state! We decided to halt at a food court close to Naivasha before we could continue to Lake Nakuru National Park. We stopped at a food court close by where we picked up some not-so-healthy but really tasty samosas, fried potatoes and spring rolls that would keep us filled until we reached our next destination. The drive to Lake Nakuru doubled as a mini safari, as we spotted more baboons and buffalos along the way. It was wondrous to see the wild greenery that plastered the entire drive. It’s because of this greenery that the weather remains cool all throughout the year. It took 1 hour and 45 minutes to Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, our next stay on our 8 days trip in Kenya. The lodge was situated inside the national park. Alex stopped to get tickets to the drive and then we proceeded inside a very green and well maintained park. We checked in, enjoyed lunch, and took a short rest.
The afternoon was set for our first game drive in Lake Nakuru.
Read in detail about my experience on the game drive in Lake Nakuru - A Walk Down Memory Lane, in the Wilds of Nakuru |
Day 5 - On route Maasai Mara
Kenya’s grain basket region, Mountain Bongo Curio Shop, Sandgrouse Curio Art Gallery and Nakor
We started the morning with breakfast and one last game drive in Lake Nakuru, hoping to catch the early stir of wildlife before checking out. From there, the road trip began, taking us through Kenya’s Grain Basket region. This area is known for its rich farmland, and the drive was lined with endless fields of maize, carrots, and potatoes. The landscape was lush and green, a refreshing contrast to the drier stretches we had seen earlier, and it almost felt like driving through an entirely different part of the country.
On the way, we made a quick stop at the Mountain Bongo Curio Shop. It’s the kind of place most safari travelers are nudged to halt at a part souvenir shop, part rest stop. Shelves were stacked with wooden carvings, beadwork, paintings, Maasai shukas, and plenty of trinkets meant to capture a piece of Kenya to take back home. While it had a good collection, the prices were on the higher side, so bargaining is a must before you buy anything. The stop was also practical, with clean restrooms and a chance to stretch before continuing the drive.
Soon after, we passed through Narok town, the gateway to the Maasai Mara. The streets pulsed with energy: buses crammed with passengers, motorbikes weaving through traffic, vendors hawking everything from fresh produce to clothes, and people rushing about their day. It was chaotic, yet alive in every sense. And then came the irony. Groups of young men sat idly on motorbikes, scattered across corners, simply watching the world go by. I couldn’t help but wonder what they were waiting for.
Maasai Village Mej’a
On our way to the Mara, we stopped at the town of Talek before turning onto a rough mud road that Alex jokingly called the ‘Kenyan massage.’ Our destination was Mej’a, a traditional Maasai village. For many, Kenya means safari, but for me, this moment was just as defining. I had goosebumps. The voices piercing the still air, the way the Maasai looked straight into my eyes, with a depth that felt ancient, their captivating traditions and way of life. It was one of those humble experiences that words can barely capture, one I can only do justice to in a separate story.
Read the full story here to discover this out-of-the-world encounter: Into the Heart of a Maasai Village |
Days 6–8: The Maasai Mara
No trip to Kenya is complete without the legendary Maasai Mara. For us, this was the most anticipated part of the journey, three days of full-day game drives across the Greater Mara and the Mara Triangle. From cheetahs lounging in the sun, prides of lions with playful cubs, elephants protecting their young, and even a rare serval cat sighting, every day held moments of pure magic. We witnessed hyenas stealing meals, giraffes striding gracefully across the plains, and wildebeest gathering nervously by the Mara River.
Rather than squeeze it all in here, I’ve dedicated a full post to our Mara adventure, where I share the stories, sightings, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters in detail, from a cheetah-hyena face-off to the Ashnil Pride’s newborn lion cubs.
Day 9 - Nairobi
Our last day in Nairobi began with a walk to the General Post Office where Rahul added Kenyan stamps to his collection and the kids picked up postcards. Next, we explored the National Museum with its exhibits on wildlife, fossils, and Kenyan history, followed by the Snake Park next door with its crocodiles, mambas, tortoises, and aquariums. Later we headed to the City Market, a treasure trove of beadwork, fabrics, baskets, and carvings, where bargaining was half the fun. As evening fell, we wrapped up our Nairobi stay with the city’s buzz still lingering.
We wanted to visit the Bomas of Kenya, known for its cultural dances, music, and traditional homestead replicas from different tribes, but it was closed when we were there. The Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) Rooftop offers great panoramic views of Nairobi and is worthwhile if you have some extra time. And of course, Nairobi National Park is a special experience, a real safari right next to the city, perfect if you don’t have time to go to the Maasai Mara or if Nairobi is your only stop. |
👉 For more details on Nairobi’s sights, museums, markets, and family-friendly activities, check out my dedicated blog post: What to Do in Nairobi in 3 Days (With Kids Too!) |
⭐ Escape the city and go on a half-day game drive through Nairobi National Park — lions, giraffes, and more just beyond the skyline. Book it here.
⭐ Join a 3-hour walking tour of Nairobi’s historic and modern highlights — culture, architecture, stories. Book it here
Day 10 - Departure
Our trip ended with an early morning flight back to Mumbai (6:40 AM). Bags were stuffed with souvenirs, cameras overflowing with safari photos, and hearts full of memories. Before boarding, we also explored the duty-free shops at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a pleasant surprise. Unlike the street markets, here the souvenirs were well-curated, fairly priced, and no bargaining was needed. From bead jewelry and Maasai shukas to Kenyan coffee and tea, it was an easy way to pick up last-minute gifts to take home.
Morning Star Safaris
An African safari is the stuff of dreams, often planned months or even years in advance. We, however, decided in July to travel in August, with just a month to plan what turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of our lives.
Sidd started by reading reviews on Tripadvisor and Safaribookings and reached out to 4 to 5 companies. In the end, he narrowed it down to Morningstar and another highly reputed company with nearly flawless reviews. What tipped the scales in Morningstar’s favor was one person, Joysharon. She was prompt, flexible, and genuinely willing to work with both our budget and our preferred lodges. Most importantly, she was always accessible, whether on WhatsApp, email, or phone. We asked her countless questions, and she was consistently patient and helpful. She stayed in touch before, during, and even after our trip, which truly set her apart. Payments were also easy and stress-free. Unlike many others, Morningstar never pressured us to pay too early. We were even able to settle the balance just a couple of days before departure.
Instagram: @morningstar__safaris
Morningstar Safaris
TOURS &TRAVEL AGENCY
📞+254 742143599
Luqman Petrol Station, Mlolongo, 2nd Floor
Website: https://morningstarsafaris.com/
Our Guide Alex Masila
One of our requests while booking was to have Alex Masila as our guide along with a reliable vehicle. Looking back, that was the best decision we made. On an African safari, your guide makes or breaks the experience, and Alex made ours unforgettable. Traveling with two toddlers and two senior citizens, we needed someone understanding and accommodating, and Alex was exactly that and more.
From the first day, it was clear that Alex doesn’t just guide safaris, he lives and breathes wildlife. A father of three himself, I could imagine what an inspiring mentor he must be at home, passing down his passion and knowledge to the next generation. His depth of understanding was extraordinary. From animal behavior and anatomy to birdlife, landscapes, and even the subtle differences between regions, Alex brought every sighting to life. With him, it was never just about spotting animals, it was about truly seeing and understanding them.
Over five days, Alex’s network and rapport with other guides ensured we did not miss a moment. Even at busy sightings with many vehicles, he had an uncanny ability to position us perfectly, often in the best and closest spot. That personal touch transformed each encounter into something special.
Joysharon and Alex made the wilderness feel like home, and for that, we will always be grateful.
The package includes accommodations as per the itinerary, transport in a 4x4 Toyota Landcruiser, a pair of binoculars, unlimited game drives, unlimited bottled drinking water, a professional English-speaking driver-guide, park fees, and meals on a full-board basis. Special experiences such as a balloon safari and a boat ride with a Crescent Island visit are also part of the trip. Exclusions are travel insurance, visa fees, personal expenses such as souvenirs, and tips (with a guideline of about USD 10 per person per day). |
Food
Kenya is home to 42 different ethnic groups, yet one food connects them all: Ugali. Made from maize flour and steamed to a soft, thick consistency, it’s typically served with a hearty stew. Interestingly, Ugali is also among the very first foods introduced to babies, often paired with sour milk or plain milk.
Meals vary by region. For lunch or dinner, Ugali is the staple, but breakfast depends on where you are. In Mombasa, for example, mornings can be a flavorful affair with seafood or sweet treats like Mahhamri (a fluffy, donut-like bread). You might also find chapati or enjoy Maharagwe ya Nazi, kidney beans cooked in creamy coconut milk, served with rice or chapati.
While we enjoyed meals at Sarova hotels and CJ’s, we also noticed how much Indian food is part of Nairobi’s dining scene with curries, chapatis, biryanis, even paneer dishes were easy to find. A popular spinach dish, sukuma wiki (similar to saag), became my favorite, served almost at every meal. Alongside, we tried Nyama Choma (roast meat with kachumbari salad), and quick snacks like samosas and mandazis. Fresh juices, especially passion fruit and sugarcane, were refreshing and affordable (KES 150–250 a glass). And of course, Kenya’s own coffee and tea are a must, both strong and full of flavor.
Travel Essentials, Fees & Transport Costs for Kenya
Health & Travel Documents
Yellow Fever Vaccination – Take it at least 10 days before travel. The fee is ₹300 per person, payable in cash. Carry your original passport when you go. You must book an appointment in advance, either by calling or emailing the vaccination center. Officials usually check your vaccination card when you leave Kenya, rather than when you enter.
For tourists from other countries, Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements for Kenya - Kenya requires a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate only if you are arriving from, or have transited through, a Yellow Fever risk country (many parts of Africa, South America, and some Caribbean nations). If you are traveling directly from the EU, USA, Canada, or most Asian countries, the certificate is not required on entry. However, it is strongly recommended for your own protection, since Yellow Fever is present in the region and some neighboring countries (like Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda) may ask for proof when you cross borders.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) – All visitors to Kenya, including infants and children, must have an approved eTA before starting their journey. The application is done online at etakenya.go.ke and costs USD 30 per person. It’s best to apply at least a week before travel, as processing can take a few days. You will need to upload your passport copy, a recent photo, and travel details, and payment is made online. Once approved, download and carry a printed copy of the eTA, as airlines and immigration officers may ask for it. The eTA is valid for single entry, and you must travel with the same passport you used for the application, which should be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Park & Activity Fees (Non-Residents)
Maasai Mara entry (adult): KES 15,000–30,000/day (USD 100–200 / INR 8,100–16,200)
Maasai Mara entry (child 3–17 yrs): KES 7,500–15,000/day (USD 50–100 / INR 4,000–8,100)
Lake Naivasha boat ride: KES 3,000–4,500 (USD 20–30 / INR 1,600–2,400)
Crescent Island walk: KES 3,000 (USD 20 / INR 1,600)
Nairobi National Museum: KES 1,800 (USD 12 / INR 975)
Snake Park: KES 1,800 (USD 12 / INR 975)
Giraffe Centre: KES 1,500 adult / 750 child (USD 10 / INR 800; USD 5 / INR 400)
Transport
Airport pick-up (Sarova Stanley): KES 4,500 (USD 30 / INR 2,400)
Safari jeep with driver-guide (per day, 6–8 seater): KES 23,000–35,000 (USD 150–230 / INR 12,000–19,000)
Hotels
Nairobi stays
Sarova Stanley is in the center of Nairobi, close to shops and offices. It’s one of the city’s oldest hotels, known for its charm and history. What makes it different is the flexible service, you can check in early, check out late, and they make travel timings easier. It also has good restaurants, a rooftop pool, and spacious rooms, giving you both comfort and a touch of old Nairobi. Approx. USD 150–220 per night.
Serena Hotel, Nairobi - Nairobi Serena Hotel is one of the city’s top luxury hotels, set near Central Park. It combines five-star service with elegant rooms, fine dining, a spa, gym, and pool. It’s known for security, comfort, and a calm environment despite being right in the city. Approx. USD 220–350 per night.
Hotel Boulevard, Nairobi CBD - Located near the city centre, Hotel Boulevard is a budget-friendly option with easy access to Nairobi’s main attractions. It offers basic but comfortable rooms, a garden, and a pool, good for travelers who want value in a central location. Approx. USD 60–100 per night.
Lotus Inn and Suites - Lotus Inn and Suites is a smaller, modern hotel that focuses on comfort and affordability. Rooms are neat and functional, and it’s often chosen by travelers looking for a simple, quiet stay with good service. Approx. USD 70–120 per night.
Lake Nakuru National Park stays
Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge - A game lodge located inside Lake Nakuru National Park, spread across 50 acres of scenic wilderness. The hilltop cottages offer sweeping views over Lake Nakuru, with wildlife often visible right from your veranda. Approx. USD 200–300 per night
Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge – A nice lodge on a hill with big views of the lake and plenty of wildlife around. Approx. USD 180–250 per night
Lake Nakuru Lodge – Right inside the park, easy to spot animals and enjoy the lake. Approx. USD 150–220 per night
Flamingo Hill Tented Camp – Cozy tents that give you the real safari feel, close to nature. Approx. USD 120–180 per night
Maili Saba Camp – A quiet camp, simple and comfortable, good for relaxing. Approx. USD 80–150 per night
Maasai Mara National Reserve stays
Little Governors’ Camp – Reached only by boat and a short forest walk, this intimate camp (17 tents) sits by a marsh in the Musiara sector, with wildlife often right at the doorstep. Every game drive begins with a boat ride across the Mara River, adding to the sense of exclusivity. Premium and intimate, usually USD 450–600 per night per person.
Governor’s Camp – Larger and more accessible by vehicle, making it practical for families and first-time visitors who want comfort with easier logistics. Slightly less exclusive than Little Governors’, about USD 350–500 per night per person.
Kilima Camp - Kilima Camp is set on the Mara escarpment and has comfortable tents with amazing views of the savannah. Only downside of Kilima camp is they don't have a swimming pool but on their website they state if we want a pool we can use a pool from a neighbouring camp. They have spa services. Private conservancy, great for horseback safaris and group activities; full-board stays; perfect for photographers and teams. Expect about USD 300–450 per night per person, including meals and most activities.
Mara Maisha Camp – 4.5 km from Talek Gate, Mara Maisha Camp is famous for its stunning sunsets, best enjoyed from the terrace or poolside with unobstructed views over the Mara savannah. It has luxury tents with en-suite bathrooms; has restaurant, spa, and pool; good for comfort and wildlife. Luxury tents with amenities, about USD 280–400 per night per person.
Zebra Plains Mara Camp - Zebra Plains Mara Camp is set below Oldonyo Oloip Ridge with wide views of the savannah. The tents are big and comfortable, with bathrooms, hot showers, verandas, and mosquito nets. The camp has a pool, lounge areas, WiFi in common spaces, a bar, and both indoor and outdoor dining. Evenings are spent by the bonfire under the stars. You can join game drives, village visits, walks, or even a balloon ride. There are no spa services here, the focus is on the safari and the wilderness. Rates are usually USD 250–400 per night per person on full board, depending on season.
Zebra River Camp - a boutique luxury tented safari camp nestled along the bend of the Talek River within the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. A boutique option, typically USD 250–350 per night per person.
Sarova Mara Game Camp – Set in the Sekenani area, close to the Sekenani Gate, making it convenient for entry and game drives. A comfortable, well-known lodge, usually USD 250–350 per night per person.
Fig Tree Hotel – Inside the park itself, right by the Talek River, giving guests a true “in the wild” experience. Rates start around USD 200–300 per night per person, higher for river-facing tents.
Olkenyeyi – Positioned near the Talek Gate area, offering a balance between village life and proximity to the park. Mid-range, about USD 100–180 per night per person.
Go Green Hotels Limited – Located in Talek town, just 5 minutes’ drive from Talek Gate, ideal for quick park access. Budget-friendly, about USD 70–120 per night per person.
Talek Bush Camp – Nestled close to Talek Gate, giving a rustic, bush-style stay right on the park’s edge. Rustic and simple, usually USD 80–150 per night per person.
Many photographers, corporate teams, and adventure seekers prefer staying in tented camps over traditional hotels, especially in the Talek region of the Maasai Mara, due to their immersive wildlife experience and team-building-friendly setups.
Aruba Mara Camp – Riverside tents just behind Talek Gate, $70–$200 per night; great for photographers seeking wildlife views and teams wanting comfort with easy access to the reserve.
Greenwood Safari Camp – Rustic, eco-friendly tents near Hippo Pool, $100–$150 per night; ideal for corporate groups and smaller photography teams who enjoy quiet surroundings.
Crocodile Camp – Budget-friendly riverside tents, $70–$125 per night; perfect for photographers on a budget and teams looking for a relaxed, immersive bush experience.
Rover Camp – Minimalist, close-to-nature setup about 1.4 miles from the reserve center; suited for adventurous groups and photographers wanting a raw, authentic Mara experience.
Apasio Camp – Secluded, eco-conscious tents, $100–$180 per night; excellent for small teams or photographers seeking privacy and a tranquil wildlife setting.
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Now i want to go too..