Beyond the Safari - Things To Do In and Outside Masai Mara

The Masai Mara National Reserve offers a wealth of unforgettable activities that immerse you in its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. From serene hot air balloon safaris to cultural village visits and thrilling game drives, each experience adds a unique dimension to your adventure. Let us explore what these activities entail and how they enhance your safari experience.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of soaring above the African plains in a hot air balloon, a truly unique experience that begins with an early morning wake-up call. Although setting your alarm for 4:00 or 5:00 AM during your vacation may seem daunting, the rewards of this adventure far outweigh the inconvenience. The journey starts with a drive to the balloon launch site, where anticipation builds as you sip on a steaming cup of coffee or tea. As the balloon crew prepares for take-off, inflating the massive balloon with hot air, the excitement grows. Once the balloon is ready, you’ll climb into the basket, receive a quick briefing from your pilot, and then, just as the sun begins to paint the sky with fiery reds and golds, the balloon gently ascends into the air.

The beauty of a hot air balloon safari lies in the unparalleled perspective it offers. As you drift silently above the vast savannah, the world below transforms into a mesmerizing mosaic of acacia trees, meandering rivers, and sprawling plains teeming with wildlife. From this aerial vantage point, you can witness the daily drama of the Mara unfold below, with giraffes gracefully navigating the landscape, elephants wandering along riverbanks, and predators like lions and leopards stalking their prey. The pilot expertly maneuvers the balloon, sometimes descending closer to the ground to allow for incredible photo opportunities, capturing the rich biodiversity of the Mara from a perspective few get to experience.

For those visiting the Masai Mara between July and September, the balloon safari offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles - the Great Migration. Witnessing the endless herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving in unison across the plains is a sight to behold, and from the sky, the sheer scale of this migration is awe-inspiring. The opportunity to observe this phenomenon from a balloon, alongside the chance to spot predators in action, makes this an unforgettable experience.

The adventure concludes with a gentle landing in the heart of the Mara, where a champagne breakfast awaits. Amidst the wilderness, you’ll enjoy a spread of fresh fruits, pastries, and hot dishes, paired with a glass of bubbly, as you reflect on the awe-inspiring sights you’ve just witnessed. The serene flight combined with the luxurious breakfast creates a perfect end to an extraordinary experience.

However, it’s important to note that balloon flights are weather-dependent, and safety is the top priority. If weather conditions are unfavorable, flights may be canceled, but arrangements are usually made for a later flight or a refund. The entire process of inflating the balloon, flying over restricted areas of the reserve, and experiencing both high-altitude views and close-up wildlife encounters makes each hot air balloon safari a unique adventure, one that should be planned in advance due to limited availability. The cost for this once-in-a-lifetime experience typically ranges between USD 485 to 515 per person, making it an accessible luxury that adds immense value to any Masai Mara safari.

Maasai Village Visit

A visit to a Maasai village is a culturally enriching experience that provides a unique glimpse into the life and traditions of one of Africa's most iconic tribes. Typically included as part of a multi-day Masai Mara safari, this excursion offers a rare opportunity to interact with the Maasai people and learn about their customs, all while supporting the community with a small fee of around USD 25 to 30 per person. The village visits usually take place on the outskirts of the Mara Reserve, where the Maasai continue to live in traditional ways, largely untouched by modern civilization.

Upon arrival, you are welcomed by the village chief and guided through the village by a local Maasai guide, who is often fluent in English. The tour typically begins with a traditional Maasai welcome dance, performed by the villagers, which is both a cultural celebration and a means of greeting visitors. You will then have the opportunity to explore the village, known as a "Boma," which is a cluster of "Manyatta" huts - small, low dwellings made of mud, cow dung, and wood. These huts are minimally lit, with tiny windows, and inside, you can observe the simple, yet functional, living spaces, including an earthen stove used for cooking.

As you interact with the villagers, you’ll learn about the Maasai’s semi-nomadic lifestyle, their practices, and the significance of cattle in their culture. Despite living in the modern world, the Maasai have retained much of their traditional way of life, including their attire—vibrant shukas (cloaks) and intricate beadwork, which are a symbol of their rich heritage. The visit provides an authentic look at how the Maasai continue to live largely untouched by modern civilization, sustaining their communities in much the same way they have for centuries.

While the interaction with the Maasai is fascinating, it’s important to be aware that visitors may be encouraged to purchase handmade crafts as souvenirs. Though buying is not mandatory, some may find the sales pitches a bit insistent. Despite this, many visitors find that the cultural exchange and the insights gained during the visit far outweigh any minor discomforts.

For those concerned about the authenticity of the experience, it is worth noting that the village visits are not tourist traps but genuine interactions that help sustain the community. The entrance fee contributes directly to the village, often used to buy cattle or vegetables, and helps preserve the Maasai way of life. Whether it’s the vibrant clothing, intricate beadwork, or the famous warrior jumping dance, the visit offers a profound appreciation for a culture that has remained resilient despite the encroachment of modernity.

Overall, the Maasai village visit offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the customs and daily life of the Maasai people, making it an enriching complement to the wildlife experiences of the Masai Mara.

Walking Tours in Masai Mara Conservancies

Walking safaris in the Mara Conservancies offer an immersive experience that connects you to the wild in a way that vehicle safaris simply cannot. These guided bush walks allow you to step into the heart of the savannah, where every rustle of leaves and distant roar is magnified, bringing you closer to the rhythms of nature. Unlike the main Masai Mara National Reserve, where walking is prohibited, the surrounding private conservancies provide the perfect setting for these exhilarating walks.

These walking safaris are offered by certain accommodations, with a select few providing two distinct options: a shorter and a longer walk. The shorter nature walk, typically lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, and costing USD 50 to 75+ per person, takes place within the camp premises and serves as an ideal introduction to the local flora and fauna surrounding your accommodation. This walk offers a unique opportunity to engage with the environment, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty just outside their door.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the longer walking safari, costing USD 90 to 150+ per person, ventures outside the main reserve, enabling participants to connect more deeply with the wilderness. These extended walks are often enhanced by the inclusion of a packed breakfast or lunch, allowing guests to savor a delightful meal amidst nature during their journey. This option provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the area while enjoying the sights and sounds of the wild.

The best times for these walks are in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is gentle, and wildlife is most active. Led by experienced guides, often local Maasai, these walks provide invaluable insights into the ecosystem. The Maasai guides, born and raised in the region, share their profound knowledge of the land, wildlife, and culture, making the experience not only adventurous but also educational.

While walking safaris are generally safe, they do carry inherent risks as you are in the natural territory of wildlife. However, this very element of risk adds to the thrill of the experience. On foot, you are on equal footing with the wildlife, and the possibility of encountering elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, or cheetahs heightens the sense of adventure. It’s a sensory-rich experience, where you can observe not just the larger mammals but also the diverse birdlife, flora, and smaller fauna that you might miss from a vehicle.

Prices for both types of walking safaris vary significantly depending on the accommodation chosen. To ensure you find the best fit for your adventure, please consult us, and we will guide you in selecting the most suitable accommodation based on your budget and preference for either a short or long walking safari. Our expertise will help you create a memorable experience tailored to your interests in exploring the natural surroundings.

Night Game Drives in Mara Conservancies

Night game drives in the Mara Conservancies offer a unique and exhilarating way to experience the African wilderness. Unlike traditional daytime safaris, these nocturnal adventures allow you to explore the bush under the cover of darkness, revealing a different side of the Masai Mara’s ecosystem.

Some of the elusive creatures you might encounter include aardvarks, leopards, honey badgers, and the mysterious caracal. You may also spot bush babies, bat-eared foxes, and various species of nocturnal birds like owls and nightjars. The chance to witness these animals in their natural habitat, often hunting or foraging under the African night sky, is an unforgettable experience.

Night game drives in the Masai Mara are exclusively conducted in private conservancies such as Mara North, Mara Naboisho, Olare Motorogi, and others surrounding the main reserve. These drives typically start at 7 pm or 9 pm, with each lasting around two hours. Whether you embark on a drive before or after dinner, the experience is equally captivating. It is important to note that night drives are not permitted inside the main Masai Mara National Reserve, but only in the adjacent private conservancies.

Participants are accompanied by expert guides, often Maasai locals who possess an innate understanding of the land and its wildlife. These guides are equipped with 4x4 vehicles fitted with powerful spotlights, often using animal-friendly red filters, to illuminate the bush without disturbing the animals. Some vehicles are even equipped with heat-seeking night-vision cameras, providing a unique perspective on the nocturnal activity.

The cost of night game drives varies depending on the conservancy, and typically ranges from USD 60 to 120+ per person depending upon the accommodation you choose to stay at. These drives are usually arranged through your lodge or camp, and it’s mandatory to have an authorized guide and driver to ensure safety and compliance with conservancy regulations.

The experience of a night game drive is not just about the animals. It’s also about the atmosphere - listening to the distant roar of lions, the whooping calls of hyenas, and the rustling of nocturnal creatures in the underbrush. The night sky, free from light pollution, is often a spectacle in itself, with stars shining brightly overhead.

In summary, night game drives in the Mara Conservancies offer an unparalleled opportunity to see the Masai Mara come alive after dark, making it a must-do activity for any safari enthusiast.

Additional Activities Offered By Selected Accommodations

Bush meals and sundowners are two of the popular additional activities offered by the selected accommodations in and around the national park.

Bush Meals

Bush meals are one of the popular additional activities offered by the selected accommodations in and around the national park. These meals can range from simple packed picnic lunches enjoyed during a game drive to more elaborate breakfasts or dinners set up in scenic locations. Whether it's a casual lunch break or an extravagant dinner under the stars, the atmosphere of the wilderness transforms each meal into a unique experience. Guests can enjoy hearty barbeques or sophisticated multi-course dinners, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of the park, with sights and sounds enhancing the experience.

The cost of bush meals typically ranges around USD 40 to 80+ per person, depending on the accommodation you choose. Group sizes can vary, with a minimum of 2 and up to 7 or more participants.

Sundowner

Sundowners, a cherished safari tradition dating back to the early 20th century, provide the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. As the sun begins to set, guests gather at picturesque spots, often with breathtaking views, to enjoy drinks and light snacks while watching the sky transform into a canvas of warm colors. This time-honored ritual is a peaceful and reflective moment, allowing guests to soak in the beauty of the landscape as it transitions from day to night.

Sundowners are also priced around USD 40 to 80+ per person, with group sizes ranging from a minimum of 2 to 7 or more participants, depending on the accommodation selected.