Maasai Mara Safari: Legendary Wildlife & Cultural Safari - 4 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. For some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before traveling?

  We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travelers should carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory for Kenya, regardless of country of origin. Malaria is present in some regions; discuss preventative medication (prophylaxis) with your doctor and use insect repellent.

• Does the tour operator have an email newsletter I can subscribe to?

  Yes, our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories, and contests. You can subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/. You can also sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn about how the company invests in the global community.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 14 travelers, with an average of 10.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please ensure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used if circumstances outside our control require a change to our planned route.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a tour operator tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  We believe solo travelers should not have to pay more to travel, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for my trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory to participate on any of our trips. At a minimum, you must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. We strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program and is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Guidelines (per person, per day): CEO: $5 USD, Driver: $5 USD, Supply crew: $2-5 USD. Local guides: $1 USD (per couple of hours). Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the cost of the bill.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include: In Nairobi, you can take a Bomas of Kenya Tour, visit The Carnivore Restaurant, the National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum, or Railway Museum. In Maasai Mara, a Hot Air Balloon Safari is available.

• What are the main highlights of the Maasai Mara Safari?

  The main highlights of this trip include exploring the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve in a 4x4 safari, spotting diverse wildlife while on the hunt for Africa’s elusive 'big five', visiting a traditional Maasai village to gain insight into local culture, and enjoying lunch at a G Adventure-supported community project.

• What modes of transportation will we take on this trip?

  The safari part of this trip is done in private, 7-seat 4x4 Land cruiser vehicles designed for wildlife viewing with sliding windows and large pop-up roofs. If there is a large group, 2 or more vehicles will be used, and the group will be split up. Travel can involve long drives and poor road conditions at times.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for securing luggage. Your group leader can amend the itinerary for safety. Exercise good judgment during free time and when selecting optional activities. For night-time excursions, it's recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis. Water-based activities should be accompanied by a guide.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners are included.

• Are there any rules I should know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips; possessing or using drugs contravenes laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to our philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Shillings can be obtained by exchanging foreign currency (USD notes newer than 2006, British Pound, Euro are easiest) or using ATMs. USD cash is required for visas at borders. Avoid Travellers’ cheques. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted debit cards; consider bringing both Visa and Mastercard. Credit cards are used in major cities ONLY, often with a 5%-10% fee. Do not rely solely on cards due to potential power-outages or ATM issues in rural areas. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards is best.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all our travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable, including the Equaldex tool.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• Where will we stay during the trip?

  Accommodation for this tour includes hotels for 3 nights.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the local representative (Phelix: +254 729 692 653 from outside Kenya, 0729 692 653 from within Kenya) or our local office in Nairobi (+254 727 208 832 from outside Kenya, 0727 208 832 from within Kenya). Sales team numbers for various regions are also available.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and a certified driver/guide.

• Will I get my own room?

  Please note that if you have booked the 'My Own Room' option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour includes a G for Good Moment (Amani Ya Juu Lunch in Nairobi), a Welcome Meeting with your CEO and group, Maasai Mara National Reserve entrance and wildlife safari drives, a Maasai Village Visit, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.