Planning a safari with your kids can be one of the most exciting adventures your family will ever embark on.
The Masai Mara, with its vast landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, offers a fantastic destination for a family safari. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we’ve crafted a 7-day itinerary filled with family-friendly activities, safety tips, and kid-approved accommodations.
Are Kids Allowed on Masai Mara Safaris?
Yes, kids are allowed on safaris in the Masai Mara. Many lodges and camps cater specifically to families, offering tailored activities that engage and entertain young travelers. It’s a fantastic way for children to learn about wildlife and different cultures in an immersive environment.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
Morning:
- Arrival at Nairobi: Fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi.
- Transfer to Masai Mara: Take a short flight from Wilson Airport to the Masai Mara. Most lodges offer airport pickups, making the transfer seamless.
Afternoon:
Check-in at &Beyond Bateleur Camp: This camp is an excellent choice for families with kids. It offers spacious family tents and various activities tailored for children.
Evening:
Relax and Unwind: Take the afternoon to rest after your journey. Enjoy a family-friendly dinner and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Introduction to the Mara
Morning:
Early Morning Game Drive: Start your day with a game drive to spot the “Big Five” – lion, leopard, elephant, buffal, and rhino. The local Maasai guides particularly are excellent at engaging kids with fun facts about the animals.
Afternoon:
Visit a Maasai Village: After lunch, visit a local Maasai village. Kids will love learning about the Maasai culture, traditional dances, and crafts.
Evening:
Family Time at the Lodge: Enjoy dinner together and share stories about the day’s adventures.
Day 3: Safari Adventure Continues
Morning:
Hot Air Balloon Ride: An unforgettable experience for the whole family. Glide over the Mara at sunrise and watch wildlife from above. It’s magical and safe for kids.
Afternoon:
Nature Walk: Back at the camp, join a guided nature walk. Kids can learn about smaller animals, insects, and plants.
Evening:
Star Gazing: After dinner, join a star-gazing session. The clear skies of the Mara offer spectacular views of the stars and guides often have telescopes and fun stories about constellations.
Day 4: Exploration and Relaxation
Morning:
Game Drive: Head out early to catch predators and other animals in action before the heat of the day.
Afternoon:
Pool Time: Many lodges, including &Beyond Bateleur Camp, have swimming pools. It’s a perfect way for kids to cool off and have fun.
Evening:
Boma Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Boma dinner, where you dine under the stars with entertainment like Maasai dances. It’s a delightful cultural experience for kids.
Day 5: Scenic Views and Wildlife
Morning:
Scenic Flight Over the Mara: Take a scenic flight to get a bird’s-eye view of the Mara River and the Great Migration (if you visit during the right season).
Afternoon:
Interactive Wildlife Learning: Some lodges offer interactive sessions where kids can learn about animal tracking, the ecosystem, and conservation efforts.
Evening:
Story Time: Gather around the campfire for some storytelling. Guides often share fascinating tales of the bush, which kids find captivating.
Day 6: Final Day in the Mara
Morning:
Last Game Drive: Make the most of your last full day with an early game drive. Perhaps you’ll spot any animals you missed earlier on the trip.
Afternoon:
Visit the Mara River: See hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. This visit is both educational and thrilling for kids.
Evening:
Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a special farewell dinner at the lodge, celebrating your incredible family adventure.
Day 7: Departure
Morning:
Breakfast and Packing: Have a leisurely breakfast and pack up your belongings.
Afternoon:
Transfer Back to Nairobi: Fly back to Nairobi for your onward journey home.
Now, let’s answer a few common questions we receive from our travelers that may help you decide if a family safari in the Masai Mara is right for you.
Is Masai Mara Better than Kruger?
The Masai Mara and Kruger National Park each offer unique safari experiences. The Masai Mara is famed for its spectacular landscapes and the Great Migration, while Kruger boasts a higher density of wildlife and well-developed infrastructure. Both are excellent choices, but the Masai Mara’s cultural experiences and the sheer spectacle of the migration often give it an edge for many travelers.
Which is Better: Masai Mara or Serengeti?
The Masai Mara and the Serengeti are part of the same ecosystem and share similar wildlife experiences. The Masai Mara is often favored for its more concentrated wildlife sightings and the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. The Serengeti offers vast, open landscapes and a more extensive range of accommodations. Your choice may depend on the time of year and personal preferences.
How Long Should I Stay in the Masai Mara?
A stay of at least three to four days is recommended to fully appreciate the Masai Mara. This allows enough time for multiple game drives, cultural visits, and relaxation. For families, a 7-day itinerary ensures a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed.
Safety Tips for Families
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure everyone drinks plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during game drives.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect from the intense sun.
- Follow Guide Instructions: Always listen to your guides, especially when on game drives or nature walks.
- Mosquito Protection: Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets to prevent bites.
- Health Precautions: Make sure your family is up-to-date with the necessary vaccinations and carry a basic first aid kit.
Kid-Approved Accommodations in Kenya
1. &Beyond Bateleur Camp
Located on the border of the Masai Mara, this camp offers family-friendly amenities, including spacious tents, refreshing lap pools, and a variety of activities designed for kids as part of their WILDchild program. Activities include creating colorful bead work, nature walks, fire making and more.
2. Tortilis Camp – Amboseli
Known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, this camp provides a family-friendly atmosphere with comfortable tents and engaging activities like guided bush walks and visits to a nearby Masai village.
3. Losiaba Tented Camp – Laikipia
Losiaba offers a unique experience with its star beds and a range of activities such as horseback riding, camel safaris, and fishing, making it a hit with kids.
4. Kifaru House – Lewa
This exclusive property provides personalized service and a child-friendly environment. The Lewa Conservancy is known for its rhino conservation efforts, which can be educational for children.
5. Elewana Lewa Safari Camp
Situated in the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this camp is popular with celebrities. It’s also home to the largest concentration of Grevy’s zebra in the world! Lewa offers family tents, a swimming pool, and a variety of activities such as game drives and walking safaris that are perfect for families.
Let’s Start Planning Your Perfect Family Safari Today
Ready to plan your family safari in the Masai Mara? Chat with one of our expert Explorer Safari travel planners today to book your perfect escape. We’ll customize every detail to suit your family’s needs, ensuring an adventure filled with excitement, comfort, and safety. Start planning now and let the Masai Mara’s incredible wildlife and landscapes enchant you and your loved ones!