Maasai Mara National Reserve

Kenya is among the world’s best spots to go on safari, from its undulating countryside to its beautiful beaches, from imposing mountains to the wonder that is the Maasai Mara. If you would like to go on safari while in Kenya, you may want to consider one of the three options listed below. Please note that only Option 1 is affiliated with and coordinated through Village Volunteers.

Option 1: Safari from Namunyak Maasai Welfare

Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s portion of the famous Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It is known for hosting the “Big Five” large mammals: lion, African elephant, African buffalo, leopard, and black rhinoceros. As an option within a stay at Namunyak Maasai Welfare, the program’s executive officer — who has become one of the most experienced Mara guides — offers volunteers a personalized day-long trip including transportation to and from the Mara, admission to the park, and a sumptuous lunch at a nearby resort.
$265 USD.

Itinerary

Namunyak Maasai Welfare is approximately two hours away from the Maasai Mara. On the day of your safari, you will depart early in the morning to allow the maximum time to explore the park and take pictures.

How to Register

To include Namunyak Maasai Welfare and Option 1 safari, please contact caroline@villagevolunteers.org. The safari fee will be added to your volunteer program invoice.

Option 2: from Nairobi by Car

Additional safari choices can be tailor-made to fit within your schedule and budget.

Day excursions in and around Nairobi

Spend a day in Nairobi where you can visit museums, the Nairobi National Park (the only park in the world right next to a major city; parkland with skyscrapers in the background!), sample local and international cuisine, go curio/souvenir shopping, visit the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center and more depending on your preference. From $100 USD.

Day excursions out of Nairobi

With one day, it’s possible to drive to Hell’s Gate National Park (the only park you can cycle through) where you can view wildlife, climb rocks, hike through the gorge and see some hot springs. From $250 USD.
You can also drive to Lake Naivasha, a bird paradise famous for its flamingos. While there, you’ll also get to see zebras, giraffes, antelopes, impalas and warthogs, among other animals.
Also from $250 USD.

2day/1night safaris

A minimum of 2 days is needed to enjoy a safari to most of our national parks. Game drives to view animals are done in the early morning and late afternoon when the animals aren’t hiding from the noonday sun. The parks you can visit include The Maasai Mara, Samburu National Park, Amboseli National Park, and Tsavo National Park. If you’re lucky you’ll spot a leopard and cheetah or two while on the game drives – they are stealthy creatures.
From $280 USD.

Other choices

In addition to the above, you can go mountain climbing. Mt. Kenya and Mt. Kilimanjaro are two of the most notable peaks in Africa, towering to 5199m (17,057 ft.) and 5895m (19,340 ft.). This typically takes 3-5 days. From $350 USD.
Traveling to Kenya’s Coast is quite a treat to unwind and experience new spicy cultures with awesome beaches, resorts, islands, historic sites, and a world of Swahili cuisine. To really enjoy the Coast you need to devote at least 2 full days.
From $400 USD.

2011 group safaris

There’s no better and cheaper way to experience Africa than as part of a group, and it’s a great way to meet new people. Some of the group safaris available this year (fixed dates) are listed below. The earlier you book the better.

Option 3: from Nairobi by Plane

How to Register

For more details or to sign up for Option 3, please contact Wendy Gaya directly at wendy2gaya@yahoo.com.

This safari is not coordinated through Village Volunteers and each volunteer should make his or her own arrangements directly with Wendy Gaya.