Narok is a town in Kenya that is known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage. Some of the top sights in Narok include:

  1. Maasai Mara National Reserve: This world-famous wildlife reserve is known for its stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife. Including the big five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros).
  2. Lake Nakuru National Park: This national park is located just outside Narok and is famous for its large flocks of flamingos and other waterbirds. As well as its populations of rhinoceros and other wildlife.
  3. Narok Museum: This museum provides a fascinating insight into the local culture and history of Narok. With displays on traditional Maasai customs, weapons, and tools.
  4. Oloololo Gate: The main entrance to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Oloololo Gate offers stunning views of the Mara Plains and is a popular spot for wildlife watching and photography.
  5. Maasai Cultural Village: Visitors can learn about the customs. Traditions, and way of life of the Maasai people by visiting a traditional Maasai cultural village.
  6. Loita Hills: This remote and scenic area is located in the eastern part of Narok and is known for its rolling hills. Scenic vistas, and rich cultural heritage.
  7. Maasai Market: This vibrant market is a great place to buy souvenirs. Local crafts, and other products, and is also a hub of local activity and culture.
  8. Narok Hot Springs: These hot springs are located in the nearby town of Suswa and are a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Who come to relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters.

Mara Naboisho Conservancy

Mara Naboisho Conservancy is a 50,000 acre wildlife conservation location in Kenya’s Greater Mara Region. The Mara Naboisho Conservancy is now the second one biggest conservancy withinside the vicinity and has a better density of flora and fauna than the adjoining Masai Mara National Park.

The biggest pleasure withinside the Greater Mara Region – comprising 20 lions – has made the conservancy its home. In addition to the abundance of resident game, the Mara Naboisho Conservancy additionally serves as a migration hall for numerous 100000 animals among the Masai Mara National Reserve and the Loita Plains to the east.

Attractions

Naboisho Conservancy is a super area for safari-goers who need to get off the crushed course and enjoy the authentic African wilderness. The conservancy is domestic to a various array of wildlife, which includes lions, elephants, giraffes, and plenty of more.

Visitors can participate in numerous activities, which includes sport drives, bush walks, and night time safaris. There also are numerous motels and campsites placed in the conservancy, supplying travelers with quite a number lodging options.

Whether you’re seeking out an adrenaline-crammed journey or a calming retreat, Mara Naboisho Conservancy is certain to have some thing for you.

Accommodations

  • Porini Mara Camp.
  • Kicheche Valley Camp.
  • Naboisho Camp.
  • Encounter Mara Safari Camp.
  • Ol Seki Hemingways.

Why travel at this time

The Mara is fairly quiet during these months. There’s plenty of wildlife to spot, including prolific big cats, giraffes, elephants, the occasional black rhino and migratory birds.

It’s also when a lot of animals give birth. There are perfect photographic conditions through the first part of the year, with clear skies and flowers that bloom after the short rains of November and December.

Rates

The rates for Mara Naboisho Conservancy vary depending on the type of accommodation and the time of year. Here are some approximate rates for the different types of accommodation:

  1. Safari Camps:
    • Low Season (April to May): $250 – $350 per person per night.
    • High Season (June to October): $400 – $700 per person per night.
  2. Luxury Tented Camps:
    • Low Season (April to May): $350 – $500 per person per night.
    • High Season (June to October): $600 – $1000 per person per night.
  3. Exclusive Use Houses:
    • Low Season (April to May): $1500 – $2500 per night for the whole house.
    • High Season (June to October): $3000 – $5000 per night for the whole house.

Kigio Wildlife Conservancy

The Great Rift Valley is best approximately hours far from Nairobi. Adventure seekers in no way get sufficient of this magical location with its variety of lakes, herbal formations and wildlife. One such appeal is Kigio Wildlife Conservancy. In addition to wildlife, the conservancy has astonishing view of Mount Longonot, the Aberdares and Naivasha.

Animals

There are over 300 fowl species inclusive of what’s stated to be the world’s biggest populace of grey-crested helmet shrikes. There are approximately 3,500 head of huge mammals, up from approximately a 100 head in 1996.

Grazing animals consist of African buffalo, not unusualplace eland, impala, waterbuck, Grant’s gazelle, Thomson’s gazelle and Grant’s zebra. Other species consist of noticed hyena, African leopard, hippopotamus, caracal, aardvark, aardwolf, honey badger and spring hare.

Activities

  • Fishing
  • Cycling
  • Birding
  • Game Drives.

Accommodation

At night time hippo and buffalo go to the camp to feed on floor salts and vegetation, withinside the morning zebra and giraffe wander via as extra than 250 forms of birds sing away.

Kigio Wildlife Camp now no longer handiest gives a number of the best requirements of lodging withinside the Rift valley lakes place however additionally a worthwhile experience. Day and night time sport drives are similarly worthwhile with a hazard to look aardvark, aardwolf and caracal.

Guests right here aren’t limited to sport drives handiest and might partake in complementary sport walks and motorcycle rides with informed nearby naturalists for a incredible all-spherical safari experience.

Masai Mara national reserve, also known as the Maasai Mara or simply the Mara, is a wildlife reserve located in southwestern Kenya. It is named after the Maasai people who inhabit the area and the Mara River that runs through it.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is famous for its abundance of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (African elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, and black rhinoceros), as well as other species such as cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and many types of antelopes.

How to access Masai Mara

Mara National Reserve has five entry gates that visitors can use to access the reserve. The number of gates can vary depending on the source.

  • Sekenani Gate: This is the main entry gate to the Masai Mara National Reserve and is located on the eastern side of the reserve, about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the town of Sekenani.
  • Talek Gate: This gate is located on the eastern side of the reserve, about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the town of Talek.
  • Oloololo Gate: This gate is located on the western side of the reserve and is used mainly by visitors staying in the conservancies on that side of the reserve.
  • Musiara Gate: This gate is located on the northern side of the reserve and is used mainly by visitors staying in the conservancies on that side of the reserve.
  • Sand River Gate: This gate is located on the southern side of the Masai Mara National Reserve and is used mainly by visitors staying in the camps and lodges in that area.

Conservancies within Masai mara

There are also several conservancies in the area that offer visitors a different safari experience. Some of the popular conservancies in the Masai Mara area include:

Mara Naboisho Conservancy

This conservancy is known for its high concentration of wildlife and offers visitors a more exclusive and intimate safari experience. Visitors can go on guided walks, night drives, and cultural tours.

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

This conservancy is home to a large population of lions and offers visitors a chance to see these majestic animals up close. Aditionally Visitors can also go on guided walks, night drives, and cultural tours.

Ol Kinyei Conservancy

This conservancy is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors can go on game drives, guided walks, and cultural tours.

Mara North Conservancy

This conservancy is located on the northern edge of the Masai Mara and offers visitors a chance to see rare and endangered species such as the African wild dog. For instance visitors can also go on game drives, guided walks, and cultural tours.

Tourists attractions

There are many tourist attractions in Masai Mara that visitors can enjoy. Some of the popular attractions include:

Game drives

The reserve is famous for its abundant wildlife, therefore visitors can go on game drives to see animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and many more.

Hot air balloon safaris

Similary this is a popular activity where visitors can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Masai Mara while floating in a hot air balloon. This is often followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.

Great Migration

Witnessing the Great Migration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrate between the Masai Mara and the Serengeti in Tanzania in search of fresh grazing lands.

Maasai villages

Visitors can visit Maasai villages to learn more about the Maasai people and their way of life. This is often followed by cultural performances and demonstrations.

Mara River

The Mara River runs through the Masai Mara and is an important water source for many animals. Visitors can go on boat rides and fishing trips along the river.

Bird watching

It is home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers.

Photography

The Masai Mara is a photographer’s dream, with stunning landscapes and wildlife. Visitors can go on photography safaris to capture the beauty of the reserve.

Park entry fees

The entry fees vary depending on the nationality of the visitor and the duration of their stay. The fees were as follows:

  • Citizens of East African Community (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi) – KES 1,200 per person per day
  • Residents of Kenya – KES 1,200 per person per day
  • Non-residents – USD 80 per person per day

There are also additional fees for vehicles, cameras, and other equipment.

  • Motor vehicle fee is KES 3,000 per day for non-residents
  • and KES 1,000 per day for residents and citizens of the East African Community.
  • Professional camera fee is USD 50 per day for non-residents
  • and USD 20 per day for residents and citizens of the East African Community.

Best time to visit Masai Mara

High season from mid-June to October.In addition there are millions of wildebeest in the Mara, it also attracts many tourists.

How to get to Masai Mara

By road

One of the most common way to get there is by road, either by private car or shuttle. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, depending on the route and the mode of transport.

By air

There are several airstrips in and around the reserve , making it possible to fly into the reserve from Nairobi or other locations in Kenya. Some of the airlines that operate flights to Masai Mara include Safarilink, Air Kenya, and Fly540. The flight time is usually about 1 hour, depending on the departure point.

About Aruba Mara Camp

Araba Mara Camp is a tented camp on the Talek River, next to the Talek Gate in the northern Maasai Mara. From Nairobi drive 260 km through Narok. Right outside the gate so no parking fee if not on safari. 

Additionally, we even have a spacious campsite with facilities like kitchen/dining, lavatories and warm water shower, security, carwash, firewood, and laundry service.

Nature walks, going to of cultural village, bird watching and hot air balloon is available. Bush breakfast, sundowner, and full day drive with Lunch on request. A shuttle transfer from Nairobi may be arranged.

Accommodation

The Mara features 7 furnished tents with wooden decking, brick and tile bathrooms, a king-size bed with mosquito net, and 24-hour hot running water. All our tents have a river view and a fantastic view of the park.

The camp also has 5 smaller budget tents with 2 queen size beds (extra bed possible), hot water, and toilets in the camp. Aruba Mara Camp also has a camp for campers. The camp is located in a large area shaded by trees.

In addition to plenty of space for your tent, the campsite also offers small thatched roof tents and a small veranda. For groups of up to 40 guests, Aruba offers a quiet, private campground in the East. The camp has small tents at reasonable prices and they have the following.

Activities

Full-day game drives
Bird Walk
Nature Walk
Balloon Safari
Trip to the Sand River or Mara river
Bush breakfast
Bush picnic
Sundowner.

Sand River Masai Mara is a luxury tented camp located in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve in southwestern Kenya.

Sand River Masai Mara

The interior design and furnishings perfectly reflect that period. This reminds all visitors of countless Hollywood films that paid homage to a classic era of African adventure.

Attractions

  • Accommodation: Sand River Masai Mara offers 16 spacious and luxurious tented suites, each with a private verandah and an en-suite bathroom. The tents are decorated in a classic safari style and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Game drives: The camp offers morning and evening game drives led by experienced guides, who will help you spot and identify the wildlife in the area. The Masai Mara is known for its incredible wildlife, including the “Big Five” – elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos.
  • Balloon safaris: For a truly unique experience, guests can take a hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara at sunrise. The views of the park and its wildlife from above are truly breathtaking.
  • Cultural experiences: Sand River Masai Mara offers opportunities to meet and interact with the local Maasai people, including visits to local villages and schools.
  • Sundowners: After a long day of game drives and wildlife sightings, guests can relax with a refreshing drink and watch the sunset over the Maasai Mara.
  • Bird watching: The Maasai Mara is home to over 450 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
  • Location: Sand River Maasai Mara is located in a prime location within the reserve.This allows for easy access to some of the best wildlife viewing areas in the park

Sand River Masai Mara Accommodation and charges

Accommodation: The camp has 16 luxury tented suites, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private verandah overlooking the Sand River. The tents are spacious and are decorated in classic safari style, with large comfortable beds, writing desks, and lounge areas.

Charges: The rates for accommodation at Sand River Masai Mara vary depending on the season. Generally, rates start from around $750 per person per night.This is based on double occupancy, and can go up to $1,000 or more during peak season. Single occupancy rates and child rates may also be available upon request.

The rates typically include the following:

  • Accommodation in a luxury tented suite
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Soft drinks, local beers, house wines, and selected spirits
  • Twice-daily game drives in open safari vehicles
  • Guided walking safaris (weather permitting)
  • Local airstrip transfers

Additional activities, such as hot air balloon safaris, are available for an extra fee. It is important to note that rates are subject to change. It is advisable to check with the camp directly for the latest rates and any special offers that may be available.

How to get there

  • By air: The most convenient way to get to Sand River Masai Mara is by taking a flight from Nairobi to the nearby Mara Serena Airstrip, which is just a 45-minute flight away.
  • By road: The camp can also be accessed by road, either by driving from Nairobi (which takes approximately 5-6 hours).

About Mahali Mzuri Safari Camp

Mahali Mzuri Safari Camp is a luxury safari camp located in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in the Maasai Mara ecosystem of Kenya. The camp is owned and operated by Virgin Limited Edition, a luxury travel company owned by Sir Richard Branson.

The camp consists of 12 luxurious tented suites, each with a private deck offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The suites are designed to provide guests with a comfortable and luxurious experience while immersing them in the natural beauty of the African wilderness.

In addition to the accommodation, Mahali Mzuri offers a range of activities to guests, including game drives, guided bush walks, hot air balloon safaris, and visits to local Maasai villages. The camp also has a spa and wellness center, where guests can relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

One of the unique features of Mahali Mzuri is its commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation. The camp is built using environmentally friendly materials and operates on solar power. It also supports the local community by providing employment opportunities and supporting local conservation initiatives.

How to get at Mahali Mzuri Safari Camp

Mahali Mzuri Safari Camp is located in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which is in the Maasai Mara ecosystem in Kenya. Here are the general steps to get there:

  1. Fly to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya, which is the main international airport in the country.
  2. From JKIA, you can take a domestic flight to Mara Serena Airport, which is the closest airport to the camp. Flights from Nairobi to Mara Serena are offered by various airlines such as Safarilink, Air Kenya, and Fly540.
  3. Once you arrive at Mara Serena Airport, you will be picked up by a representative from Mahali Mzuri and driven to the camp. The drive from the airport to the camp takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes.

Alternatively, you can drive from Nairobi to the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, but this can take up to 5-6 hours and is not recommended as the roads can be rough and difficult to navigate.

Time to Visit

Check-in time is 2:00 PM and check-out time is 11:00 AM at Mahali Mzuri.

Activities

  • Spa and wellness center
  • Sauna
  • Message
  • Swimming Pool
  • Wildlife
  • Hot air balloon
  • Safari Walk

Wildlife

  1. Lions – The Maasai Mara is known for its abundant lion population, and guests at Mahali Mzuri have a good chance of spotting these majestic big cats. Lions are most active at dawn and dusk, so early morning and late afternoon game drives are the best times to see them.
  2. Leopards – While more elusive than lions, leopards are also frequently spotted in the Maasai Mara. They are excellent climbers and often rest in trees during the day, making them easier to spot from a distance.
  3. Elephants – These gentle giants are one of the most iconic and beloved animals in Africa. Mahali Mzuri is located near a seasonal river, which is a popular watering hole for elephants.
  4. Buffalo – African buffalo are large, formidable animals that often travel in herds. They are typically found near water sources, and guests at Mahali Mzuri may see them grazing on the savannah.
  5. Rhinoceros – Both black and white rhinoceros can be found in the Maasai Mara, although they are more rare than other game animals. They are endangered, so seeing one in the wild is a special experience.

In addition to these “Big Five” animals, guests at Mahali Mzuri may also see giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, cheetahs, and many other species of wildlife. The conservancy is home to over 300 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers as well.