If this post had to be just one word, it would be Magical. Masai Mara is the most amazing place I’ve ever physically stepped foot in, and that’s not an overstatement.
Prior to arriving, we spent the day in Nairobi. You can read about all about Fun Things To Do In Nairobi With Kids here.
We arrived in the evening, checked into our amazing game camp – Sarova Mara Game Camp, freshened up, and set out on our first game drive. It seriously felt like a dream being under the big sky of Africa. We were all giddy with excitement and lost in the awe of it all. Our feelings only elevated when we saw our first game – Buffalo. The oohs and aahhs were endless. The same reactions were elicited by the families of giraffes and elephants, and countless antelope. However, HOWEVER the most amazing sight to fill our gaze was the Black Rhino. We caught it in mid trot and then it was as if it slowed just for us. Even our Driver was taken in by the majesty of it. In fact, he told us it was only the second time in his five years driving throughout the Masai Mara to have spotted one.
Over the course of our three days in Masai Mara we ended up seeing all of the African Big 5, which includes the lion, leopard, black rhino, buffalo, and elephant. We also saw so much more – topi, antelope, impala, merkat, zebra, cheetahs, helmeted guinea fowl, gray heron, hyena, gazelle, giraffe, jackal, wildebeest, ground hornbills, secretary bird, ostrich, hippo, and baboons. We were excited with every animal sighting, no matter how big or small. There is something unbelievable about seeing all of the wild creatures in their natural habitat. My favorite time of day for a safari drive would have to be early morning. Dew was still in the air, the sun was rising, animals were up and about eating and or taking walks in groups. It’s just an amazing way to start the day. To be clear, I enjoyed every time of the day during our drives, but the morning was the absolute best.
On our second day, between game drives, we were honored to get a visit to an actual Masai Village. We were greeted by the Chief’s son, brother, and a group of young men of the tribe who have made it to warrior status. They welcomed us with a traditional dance and chant, including the renowned jumping competition.
From the moment we arrived, I think my whole family was enamored by the smiles, happiness, vibrant colors and friendliness of the Masai people. The young warriors were so kind to my kids, and especially took a liking to my son. Without request, one young warrior draped my son in his Masai cloth and invited him into the dance and jumping competition. Pictures couldn’t accurately reflect the way his face was beaming.
The Chief’s brother was a wonderful host. he took us into the center of the village, and then into one of the homes. Upon entering the home, we were introduced to a beautiful Masai mother and her 15 day old daughter. She was so happy and gracious to share her space with us, and to say I felt overwhelmed with gratitude is an understatement.
Once we finished touring the home, a group of Masai women awaited us and performed a welcoming song. There was no jumping, so this was definitely more my speed as far as being able to join in, lol. We took pictures and asked so many questions. The Chief’s brother told us to ask whatever we wanted so we could understand and hopefully appreciate their culture. We all took him up on his offer and asked a ton of questions. It was great to see my babies learning directly from the source. It was an education no classroom would ever be able to offer them.
If you get to Masai Mara, please please please inquire about visiting a village. Please remember that these are people’s homes, and they are graciously inviting you in to get a glimpse of their lives and culture, so be respectful and lead with gratitude.
On our final day, we drove out to no man’s land, the location between Kenya (Masai Mara) and Tanzania (the Serengeti). We were able to walk the 22 steps into Tanzania, so we’re counting it as a two country visit, haha.
We were also able to have lunch in the bush…like seriously, in the BUSH. It was amazing. We had a meerkat stalking us, but he was cute so we weren’t worried.
Planning The Perfect Trip To Masai Mara
Best Safari Tour Company For Family Vacation to Kenya
We booked with an amazing Kenyan owned company – Natural World Kenya Safaris. They really helped me get through the planning process with a peace of mind. I knew we wanted to get some city, safari, and beach time, so I looked for a company that would be available for all three. I didn’t want to juggle multiple companies…mission accomplished.
They offer various package levels ranging from economy to luxury. We splurged and chose the luxury package for the entire trip. The only hotels we had to book on our own were our stays in Nairobi, but Natural World will give you great recommendations to consider as well.
By booking with them, we had our own private vehicle the entire trip, which is always the best option when traveling with young kids. In addition to providing a great safari experience, Natural World guided us from the beginning to the end of our trip. Upon arrival, a driver picked us up from the airport, took us to the hotel to freshen up, and then took care of us throughout our City tour. Our driver, Prince was very knowledgeable and had an awesome personality. He pointed out points of interest, gave us so many cool Kenyan facts, and was kind enough to recommend best places to eat, and take us to places not included in our official tour (i.e. hours at the mall). Definitely request him as your driver.
Lastly, Natural World also handled our in-country flights as well, of which we took two – a private flight from Masai Mara to Diani Beach, and then a small commercial flight from Diani Beach to Nairobi. Without Natural World, the planning process and logistical coordination of doing three different cities across an entire country would have been so stressful.
About the Vehicle: We were in a huge 8 passenger Land Rover type vehicle. It was air conditioned, but we mostly opted for open windows and fresh air. Bottled water will be supplied, which came in very handy because it can get hot on safari. Our driver also had binoculars for all us, which again, came in handy because I completely forgot to pack the ones I purchased specifically for this trip.
During safari the top of the vehicle pops up, which brings even more breeze through, and allows for a great vantage point on spotting game.
Best Safari Game Camp in Masai Mara For Families
The Sarova Mara Game Camp was a wonderful experience. The staff was amazing, there was a wide variety of foods, several of which were Kenyan dishes, and the property is gorgeous. The Game camp is located right inside the preserve, so wild animals do roam throughout the property. Don’t worry, there weren’t any aggressive animals, but plenty of dik-diks, mongoose, baboons, and other monkeys. My kids got a real kick out of seeing all the animals all around.
The property also has a pool, though we didn’t have time to get in. In the evenings, the Camp puts on various shows, from dancing to talks with local Masai villagers. You can also enjoy the covered fire pit or pool table and darts. Most of our nights were spent hanging out there while my kids channeled their inner pool hall sharks.
All of the rooms are actually tents. There are no keys, but rather just zippers. At night there is an inside lock, so you can sleep with peace of mind. We stayed in the Family Tent, which is a combination of tents 11&12. One tent was the primary tent with a king sized bed, and the second room came standard with two twin beds, but they brought in a third twin to accommodate all three of our children. Check out the walk through of our family tent on our YouTube channel.
Bonus Tips: While planning this trip, I came across advice to add an in-country flight from Nairobi to Masai Mara to avoid the 5 hour drive. I knew I was going to take two other in-country flights and wanted to save in this area, so we opted for the road trip. I am so glad we did! The drive is long, I will not sugar coat that, but it was beautiful. When you initially get outside of Nairobi, you’ll drive through the suburbs, and a heavily populated area at one point (I cannot remember the name of the town), but then you eventually get to more wide open space, and before you know it the beauty abounds. A good portion of the trip is spent driving right alongside the Great Rift Valley, with it’s mountain and valley views, it was lovely. Our driver, even stopped at a perfect lookout point for us to take pictures, use the washroom, and check out the souvenir shops. There were also baboons littered along the route, just hanging out being all cool. It was a quick 5 hours thanks to the scenery.
If you are heading back to Nairobi or to the coast after Masai Mara, definitely charter the private flight. After being on hour long game drives in a vehicle, you’ll be great to just hop on a quick flight to your next destination. Natural World took care of the logistics, so it was carefree.
Whatever you do, just take it all in. Masai Mara is a magical place with so much beauty, from the people, to the animals, to the vast natural backdrop. If you have any questions about our trip, drop me a comment or email.
Happy Travels!
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