Masai Mara Camping Safari - 4 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this safari?

  You'll stay in a simple hotel for one night and basic permanent tented camps for two nights in Masai Mara. The tented camps offer walk-in safari tents with single beds and mattresses. Facilities are basic, with flushing toilets and hot water (when the boiler works), but there is no electricity for lights or charging in the tents.

• What type of transportation is used for the safari?

  We use 7-seat 4x4 safari vans designed for wildlife viewing, featuring sliding windows and large pop-up roofs. While road conditions can vary, the vehicles are comfortable, regularly serviced, and allow flexibility for wildlife stops. Seat belts are mandatory, and speed governors are set to 80kph for safety.

• What meals are included and how are they prepared?

  The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners. Meals are prepared by the crew, often with fresh local ingredients. Breakfasts are typically cereals, with warm options if time permits. Lunches are light, like sandwiches or salads, served en route or in camp. Dinners are hot meals with a mix of continental and local dishes. Assistance with cooking is welcome but not compulsory, and travellers are asked to wash their own dishes. Bottled drinking water is an additional expense.

• Who leads the tour group?

  You will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who manages the trip and assists travellers, along with an expert driver/guide and a camp cook. The CEO has general knowledge of the region and wildlife, while the driver/guide is certified for safaris.

• What is the typical group size for this safari?

  The maximum group size is 7 travellers, with an average of 5. The trip runs frequently to offer flexibility, so group sizes can sometimes be smaller.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage.

• Are there any important health considerations or vaccinations needed?

  We recommend consulting your physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for the latest health information and recommended inoculations. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory for Kenya, regardless of your country of origin. Malaria is present in some regions, so preventative medication and insect repellent are advised. A basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers are also recommended.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Kenya?

  As of January 1st, 2024, all travellers to Kenya, regardless of nationality, must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) scheme, as visitor visas have been eliminated. A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is also required. Please check the official eTA site for the most up-to-date information. A valid Yellow Fever certificate may also be required upon entry.

• What currency is used and what should I know about money exchange?

  The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES/KSH). You can obtain shillings by exchanging foreign currency (USD, British Pound, Euro are easiest, but USD notes older than 2006 are not accepted) or by using ATMs in major centres. Large USD notes ($50, $100) often get better exchange rates. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted at ATMs. Credit cards are accepted in major cities but are not widely used elsewhere and may incur a 5-10% fee. It's best to carry a combination of foreign cash and debit/credit cards, as power outages and ATM cash shortages can occur. Travellers' cheques are not recommended.

• What are the guidelines for tipping?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, way to show appreciation for excellent service and directly impacts the local community. For group staff, a guideline is $5 USD per day for the CEO and driver, and $2-5 USD per day for the supply crew. Local guides can be tipped around $1 USD per couple of hours, and restaurant servers typically receive 10% of the bill.

• How much emergency money should I carry?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances like route changes due to natural disasters, although this is a rare occurrence.

• Are there extra costs for solo travellers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, so there is no single supplement. Solo travellers are paired with someone of the same sex in twin or multi-share accommodation. An optional "My Own Room/Tent" can be booked for a single room/tent throughout the trip.

• What optional activities are available?

  In Nairobi, optional activities include a Bomas of Kenya Tour, visiting the Carnivore Restaurant, National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum, or Railway Museum. In Masai Mara, a Maasai Mara Balloon Safari is available.

• What are the safety and security considerations for this trip?

  In Nairobi, always use hotel safety deposit boxes for valuables, avoid wandering at night, and take taxis after sundown. Be cautious of scammers approaching you on the street. Avoid taking photos of police stations, airports, or government buildings. Generally, for all travel, use a neck wallet or money belt, leave valuable jewellery at home, and lock your luggage. The CEO can amend itineraries for safety. For free time activities, use good judgment. Avoid protests and demonstrations. Water-based activities should be accompanied by a guide.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and contravene local laws. The exploitation of prostitutes is also not acceptable. CEOs have the right to expel group members who violate these rules.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Hand washing of clothes can be done at the campsites, which have simple facilities. It is recommended to bring biodegradable soap and a string for a drying line.

• What are the main highlights of this safari?

  The main highlights include exploring the Masai Mara National Reserve, viewing diverse wildlife in search of the "big five," and experiencing two nights in a safari camp.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism through supporting community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to their projects.

• Do I need to complete a medical questionnaire?

  Travellers with pre-existing medical conditions are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, signed by their physician, to ensure they have the necessary fitness and mobility for the trip. An average level of fitness is required, including being able to walk unaided, climb stairs, and carry personal luggage.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age to travel unaccompanied is 18. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the electricity situation during the trip?

  The power supply in Kenya is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. However, variable voltage, spikes, and sporadic power cuts can be expected. At the basic permanent tented camps in Masai Mara, there is no electricity for lights or charging batteries directly in the tents. Travelers will be able to charge portable chargers/power banks in the vehicle, but only when it is in motion.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. On some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time, so it's recommended to contact your airline for the most up-to-date information and to check in online in advance.

• Do I need to pay a departure tax?

  A departure tax of USD40 is usually included in most international air tickets.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the safari in Masai Mara?

  We stay at a basic permanent, private tented camp in Masai Mara. The camp features walk-in "safari tents" with single beds and mattresses.

• Are there electrical outlets or charging facilities at the safari camp?

  There is no electricity for lights or charging batteries at the permanent tented camp in Masai Mara. You may be able to charge portable power banks in the vehicle when it's in motion.

• What are the bathroom facilities like at the tented camp?

  The facilities at the tented camp are basic but include flushing toilets and hot water (when the boiler is working).

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners.

• Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

  Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.

• Is drinking water provided during meals?

  All bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.

• What type of vehicle is used for transport and wildlife viewing?

  We use 7-seat 4x4 safari vans, which are designed for wildlife viewing with sliding windows and large pop-up roofs.

• Is it mandatory to wear seat belts in the safari vehicle?

  Yes, for your own safety, it is mandatory to wear your seat belt at all times when in a vehicle.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 7 travelers, with an average of 5.

• Who will be leading the group on this safari?

  You will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who acts as the group manager and leader, an expert certified driver/guide, and a camp cook.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (easy). An average level of fitness and mobility is required, including being able to walk unaided, climb stairs, and carry your own luggage.

• What are the age requirements to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above can join when accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.

• Are there any specific health considerations for traveling to Kenya?

  A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory for all travelers to Kenya, regardless of origin. Malaria is also present, so prophylaxis and insect repellent are recommended. We advise consulting your family physician or a local travel clinic at least one month before departure.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• What is the local currency in Kenya, and what foreign currencies are best to bring?

  The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). US Dollars (especially bills newer than 2006), British Pounds, and Euros are generally easy to exchange. For visas, USD cash is required.

• Can I rely on credit cards and ATMs?

  ATMs are available in major centers, and Visa/Plus cards are most widely accepted. However, power outages or out-of-order ATMs can occur. Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities, and a 5-10% fee usually applies. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards is best.

• How much emergency money should I have access to?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Should I bring traveler's cheques?

  No, traveler's cheques are difficult, if not impossible, to exchange in many places in Africa.

• What are the tipping guidelines for the tour staff?

  Tipping is expected. Suggested guidelines per person per day are: CEO $5 USD, Driver $5 USD, Supply crew $2-5 USD. For local guides, $1 USD per couple of hours is suggested, and 10% of the bill for restaurant/café servers.

• What optional activities are available during the safari?

  In Masai Mara, you can opt to visit a Masai village or take a balloon safari. In Nairobi, optional activities include tours to Bomas of Kenya, the National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum, Railway Museum, and dining at The Carnivore Restaurant.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are paired with someone of the same sex without a single supplement. A "My Own Room/Tent" option is available if you prefer a private room/tent.

• What is the luggage allowance for this trip?

  Your baggage should be restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack, no larger than 30cm(height) x 30cm(width) x 60cm(length), with a maximum weight of 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and vehicle space is limited.

• What are some of the key inclusions of this tour?

  Key inclusions are the Masai Mara National Reserve entrance and wildlife safari drives, a safari camping experience, all transport between destinations and activities, a "G for Good Moment" lunch at Amani Ya Juu in Nairobi, and meeting your CEO and group.

• What is the power supply like in Kenya?

  The power supply in Kenya is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. However, variable voltage, spikes, and sporadic, unexpected power cuts can be expected.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, except on some specific combo tours.

• What happens if my luggage is delayed or lost upon arrival in Nairobi?

  Luggage delays are possible. It's recommended to keep important documents, valuables, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage. If luggage is lost, it usually takes 48-72 hours to arrive. You may need to purchase essential items locally and start the tour, as shuttling luggage to the wildlife park might not be practical. The tour operator will assist but is not responsible for incurred costs.