The Masai Mara is one of the most popular places in Africa. It attracts many travelers throughout the year. Here, one can see exotic animals that are not found in urban cities. For example, you can see elephants and zebras roaming together in their natural habitat. If you are fond of adventure, then the Mara will be an ideal destination for you. However, you may think of spending a lot of money if you visit this place. In that case, we’d like to mention that you can visit the Mara without incurring a significant expense. You need to travel there according to a plan. Let us find out some easy ways to travel to the Mara on a budget.
- Pick the right time to visit
Make sure to visit the Masai Mara at a proper time. For example, you should visit the place during the off-season. At this time, there will be fewer crowds in this locality. Therefore, there will be less demand for tourists. It will minimize prices to a large extent. However, it doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to watch animals. Also, try to visit the place on weekdays. One can expect plenty of crowds on weekends. However, the same is not true on weekdays. Therefore, you can purchase plain tickets and book hotel rooms affordably on these weekdays.
- Find cheap flights and ways to get there
It is no wonder that tourists need to spend a lot of money on flight tickets. Airplane charges are usually quite high at present. There are many aviation companies providing travel facilities at high rates. However, it is possible to avoid paying much when visiting the Masai Mara. Compare the prices of several flight companies before traveling here. It will help you understand which company is providing the most inexpensive rates. It’ll be a good idea to look for flights to Nairobi. From there, you can come to the Mara by bus or shared van. In this way, you can spend less. However, the time taken would be longer. You can also share the price for traveling by van with others. There are many small airline companies available providing you with flights to Nairobi. Also, do not pack heavily before coming here. Thus, you can avoid paying a lot of money for heavy luggage.
- Join group safaris
Always try to go on a group Safari. If you like to save cash, a private safari will not allow you to get the job done. This is because you need to pay for the entire vehicle. Moreover, you also need to make a payment to the guide. On the other hand, you can share the costs when joining a group. You can also see many exotic animals while going on group safaris. This is another plus point of joining group safaris to the Masai Mara. It will likewise allow you to perform some interesting activities. For example, you can visit the local villages and learn their traditions. Make sure to inquire about group tours for many hotels. They can help you find affordable options out there. Sharing the tour during the Masai Mara along with others will help you enjoy more.
- Eat simple food and buy local snacks
You might fancy consuming delectable cuisine while visiting the Masai Mara. Delicious food will help you enjoy your tour better. However, you need to pay a lot of cash to do so. You will find many popular eateries here that will provide you with interesting food items. But you need to pay more for them. On the other hand, you can search for smaller food outlets if you like to save cash. These eateries will provide you with delicious food without breaking your bank. For example, you can try rice and fresh fruit. You may also purchase snack items from markets, rather than tourist shops. It will help you save cash. Do not forget to carry a water bottle wherever you go, right here. If the water is finished, remember to refill the bottle. Your accommodation can also provide you with free lunch and dinner. Ask them about this before booking any hotel in the Mara.
- Book smart
If you’re going to the Masai Mara, make certain to book things beforehand. It will allow you to get these items at a comparatively affordable rate. Look for offers from companies out there. Verify whether there is anything included in the price. Find out whether you need to pay extra for hiring guides. The same can be said about the park entry fees as well.
Final remarks
Traveling to Africa and visiting the Mara will be a wonderful idea. However, there’s no need to spend a lot of money while doing so. If you like to get some tips on traveling to the Mara on a budget, then go through the article mentioned here.