samaki watano

  Maasai Mara
How to get there....
     By Road

Traveling to the Maasai Mara by road offers a scenic journey that will take approximately 5 to 6 hours. The first leg of your journey from Nairobi to Narok will take around 2 to 2.5 hours, and you'll be treated to a beautifully smooth and picturesque road that winds through the stunning landscapes of Kenya.

Once you reach Narok, you'll find a convenient fuel station located just across the river. This stop is not only useful for filling up your tank but also serves as a great opportunity to grab a bite to eat, use the restroom, or stock up on snacks for the remainder of your journey. After leaving Narok and heading towards the Sekenani Gate, anticipate another travel time of about 2 to 3.5 hours, which will vary depending on the type of vehicle you are using. Fortunately, the road conditions remain excellent, ensuring a comfortable drive.

  By Air

If you prefer to take to the skies, there are several airlines that offer flights directly to the Maasai Mara from Nairobi. This mode of transportation takes roughly 40 to 45 minutes, allowing you to arrive at your destination in a fraction of the time it takes to drive. Among the various flight options, we highly recommend Safari Link for their reliability and service.

For travelers coming from the coast, flights from Mombasa, Diani Beach, or Malindi to the Maasai Mara will take around 2 hours. In this case, Mombasa Air Safari is an excellent option worth considering. Keep in mind that during your flight, you may experience a few stops to drop off other passengers at one of the six airstrips located within the Mara. While flying is undoubtedly the quickest way to reach the Mara, it does mean you’ll miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the rich and varied scenery of Kenya as you travel.

Additionally, if you are looking for a more personalized travel experience, charter flights directly into the Maasai Mara Ecosystem can be arranged through www.samakiwatano.com . These flights are best organized through a safari operator who can ensure a seamless experience.

   Maasai Mara - Climate

    Climate Overview

The Maasai Mara National Park, situated in southwest Kenya, enjoys a warm climate with cool nights throughout the year. Located just south of the Equator, the park sits at a higher altitude, ranging between 1,500 and 1,900 meters (or 5,000 to 6,200 feet), which contributes to its pleasant weather.

During the period from October to March, temperatures tend to be slightly warmer, while the months of June to August bring about cooler weather conditions. It’s worth noting that the nights can get quite chilly, with temperatures dipping below 10 °C (50 °F), particularly during the cooler months.

     Rainfall Patterns

The Maasai Mara receives an average yearly rainfall of approximately 1,400 millimeters (55 inches). April is typically the wettest month, while July tends to be the driest. The park experiences two distinct rainy seasons, with particularly heavy rains often occurring in April, which can lead to flooding in certain areas.

     Sunshine Hours

Visitors to the Maasai Mara can expect a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. The sky often remains clear, although there may be some afternoon cloud coverage that could lead to showers and thunderstorms, especially during the rainy seasons. Below are the average sunshine hours you can anticipate each day.

      What to Pack

When preparing for your trip to the Maasai Mara, be sure to include a sweater or fleece jacket, along with a windbreaker or raincoat. Early morning and evening game drives can be quite brisk, so layering is recommended. The savannah terrain can be dusty, so it's advisable to avoid wearing white clothing. While sandals are suitable for use within the camp, sturdy gym shoes or hiking boots are essential for walking safaris, ensuring you are well-equipped for any adventure that comes your way.

     Maasai Mara - Park Fees

When it comes to park fees in the Maasai Mara, these are typically paid to the accommodation where you are staying. If your journey includes driving through Sekenani Gate on the Narok side and you are planning to stay in the Mara Triangle, remember to hold off on paying your park fees until you reach the Triangle at Purungat Bridge.

Tickets can be purchased from KAPS online using a Visa card, and they can also be acquired upon your arrival at the Mara Triangle from an authorized KAPS employee stationed at one of the entry points, including Purungat Bridge, Oloololo Gate, or Serena Airstrip. It’s worth noting that Visa credit and debit cards are accepted at all entry points into the Mara Triangle, making the payment process straightforward and convenient for visitors.