FAQs

In the Masai Mara, the weather varies significantly throughout the year, offering unique experiences for visitors in each season. Understanding the nuances of the weather can greatly enhance your safari experience.

January – February
During these months, the weather in the Masai Mara is generally warm and dry. Average daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Clear skies and abundant sunshine characterise this period, making it perfect for wildlife viewing. The grass is relatively short, offering excellent visibility of animals such as lions, elephants, and giraffes.

March – May
This is when the long rains come. April sees the most rain, but it doesn’t rain all day. Trails might get muddy, so be careful on safari. Mornings start cool at about 13°C (55°F) and warm up later.

June – August
These months are characterised by cooler temperatures and dry conditions. The average daytime temperature is around 25°C (77°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping to 10°C (50°F). Clear skies dominate the landscape, offering stunning views of the savannah. This period coincides with the Great Migration, a remarkable natural spectacle as millions of wildebeests and other herbivores move through the Mara. Predator sightings are common during this time as they follow the herds.

September – December
These months are when the short rains arrive, refreshing the landscape after the dry season. Daytime temperatures are higher at 27°C (81°F), and nighttime temperatures are around 12°C (54°F). The rains bring a burst of greenery, revitalising the vegetation and attracting migratory birds back to the area. Wildlife sightings are generally easier as the grasses begin to recede, providing clearer sightlines.

Ilora Retreats is nestled in the central Olkiombo area of the Masai Mara, close to Rhino Ridge. This prime location is renowned for its rich wildlife diversity, offering frequent sightings of majestic creatures such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, elephants, various antelopes, and the occasional black rhino. Moreover, we are conveniently positioned near the main Mara migration crossing point, famously known as the Serena crossing.

Key Distances:
Nairobi: 290 km / 6-7 hours
Narok: 140 km / 4 hours
Sekenani Gate: 40 km / 1.5 hours
Talek Gate: 15 km / 40 minutes
Musiara Gate: 18 km / 45 minutes
Main Mara Crossing: 5 km / 10 minutes
Olkiombo Airstrip: 2 km / 7 minutes

At Ilora Retreats, our accommodations are designed to offer the utmost comfort and luxury amidst the rugged beauty of the Masai Mara. Each of our 14 luxury tents boasts modern en-suite amenities, ensuring a memorable stay for our guests. From free-standing bathtubs for relaxation to electricity-free refrigerators for keeping beverages cool, we prioritise both convenience and serenity. In-room personal lockers provide added security for valuables, while washroom essentials and relaxing hot shower baths cater to every comfort need. All our sockets are universal, so you don’t need to bring adapters from home; just plug in your devices and stay connected. Our flush-equipped toilets ensure modern convenience, while private decked verandas offer stunning views of the wilderness. We are also dedicated to inclusivity and accessibility at our camp: all common areas, including the dining tent, spa, and bar, are equipped with ramps for easy wheelchair access, and two of our tents are specifically designed with ramps for guests using wheelchairs. We encourage guests with special accessibility needs to reach out to us in advance for any additional assistance. At Ilora Retreats, we strive to elevate your safari experience through luxurious accommodations that complement the unique beauty of the Masai Mara.

There are a range of facilities designed to enhance your safari experience and ensure a truly memorable stay. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Savannah from our sundowner deck, where you can sip on refreshing drinks as the sun sets over the horizon. Take a refreshing dip in our swimming pool, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. Rejuvenate your mind and body with some yoga sessions or a workout in our gym. Pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment, allowing you to unwind after a day of adventure. Experience the magic of dining under the stars with our bush dinners and breakfasts, where you can indulge in delicious cuisine surrounded by the beauty of nature. For a unique cinematic experience, join us for Bushflix under the African sky, where you can watch classic films in a truly wonderful setting. Many more facilities are waiting to be discovered at Ilora Retreats – come and experience them for yourself!

Pets are not allowed at Masai Mara, hence not allowed at Ilora Retreats.

When travelling to Kenya, it’s mandatory to have a yellow fever vaccination in some countries like India etc. You will receive a certificate on a WHO-prescribed yellow card, which is necessary for travel to these countries. While the chances of contracting diseases are minimal, it’s suggested to take precautions. We usually do not have mosquitoes, and rooms are sprayed during turndown. If needed, we can provide extra spray or assistance. Malaria is not prevalent, but it’s recommended to consult your doctor about taking preventative medication and using insect-repellent spray or cream. Tsetse flies, though rare, found in sub-Saharan Africa, can transmit African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness. While there’s no vaccine or medicine to prevent this, travellers can protect themselves by wearing long-sleeved clothing and hats and using insect repellent to prevent tsetse fly bites.

To obtain a visa for Kenya, you have two options: an online application or a visa on arrival. A single entry visa costs USD 32 and can be valid for up to 90 days. If you apply online, there are some service charges and transaction cost, and the total cost comes to about USD 50. The exact validity is decided upon arrival based on your itinerary. The processing time for an e-visa is usually 1 to 5 working days, requiring simple documentation such as a passport copy, air tickets, hotel bookings, and itineraries. In case your e-visa doesn’t arrive on time, carry the payment proof to get a visa on arrival without paying again. Additionally, there is an East Africa tourist visa for USD 100, providing multiple entries to Kenya. Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity from the date of intended arrival, with at least 2 blank pages for the visa. You can apply for a Kenya visa online at: Kenya: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en

The Masai Mara is renowned for its rich diversity of wildlife, offering incredible opportunities for animal sightings. Visitors to the Mara can expect to see iconic African species such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, elephants, hippos, various antelopes, and buffalo. Additionally, the Mara is home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing. This spectacle attracts predators like lions and crocodiles, providing thrilling wildlife encounters. Birdwatchers will also delight in the Mara’s avian diversity, with over 450 bird species, including ostriches, eagles, vultures, and storks. With its abundance of wildlife, the Masai Mara offers a wonderful safari experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet, and it occurs annually in the Masai Mara. It involves the movement of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores across the plains of East Africa in search of fresh grazing and water. The migration typically begins in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania around July and continues into the Masai Mara in Kenya from around August to October. This natural phenomenon attracts predators like lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles, resulting in dramatic scenes of hunting and survival. Witnessing the Great Migration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering unique opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers to observe nature’s raw beauty and the circle of life in action.

At Ilora Retreats, we strive to cater to a variety of dietary preferences and allergies. We offer a range of options to accommodate different needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options. However, for specific dietary requirements, such as Kosher, we recommend consulting with us beforehand to ensure we can meet your needs to the best of our ability. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we are committed to providing a delightful dining experience during your stay with us.

The Masai Mara is in the East Africa Time (EAT) zone, which is UTC+3. This time zone is consistent throughout the year and is shared with neighboring countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. It’s essential to adjust your clocks accordingly when planning your activities and travel arrangements in the Masai Mara to ensure you make the most of your time in this stunning wilderness. For reference, the time difference between Masai Mara and other major cities around the world is as follows: New York is 8 to 9 hours behind (UTC-5 or UTC-4), San Francisco is 11 to 12 hours behind (UTC-8 or UTC-7), London is 3 to 4 hours behind (UTC+0 or UTC+1), Dubai is 1 hour ahead (UTC+4), Delhi is 2.5 hours ahead (UTC+5:30), and both Beijing and Singapore are 5 hours.

Wildlife in the Maasai Mara is abundant year-round, with resident animals visible in all seasons. Temperatures are comfortable throughout the year, ranging between 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The Great Migration, particularly the river crossings, occurs from July to October, making this period ideal for witnessing this spectacular event. However, there’s plenty to see beyond the migration, so you can plan your visit any time of the year. Even during the rainy months of April and May, the lush green landscapes offer a unique safari experience. 

Pack light woollens or wind jackets and hats for chilly morning safaris, and tropical clothing like light t-shirts and pants for the rest of the day, with earthy colors recommended for safaris. Comfortable walking shoes for safaris and sandals for relaxation at the camp are sufficient. Bring a small umbrella or rain poncho for unexpected rain, sunscreen, sunglasses, and moisturising cream for sun protection, and your prescription medicines, dust allergy medication, and optional mosquito repellent. Carry personal entertainment gadgets, reading materials, a camera, and sufficient cash (USD) and credit cards. Don’t forget your passports, vaccination cards, air tickets, and required visas.

English is widely spoken and understood in the Masai Mara, particularly in tourist areas and accommodations. It serves as the primary language for communication between visitors and locals, making it convenient for travellers from English-speaking countries to navigate and interact during their safari experience. Additionally, many safari guides and staff are fluent in English, ensuring clear communication and facilitating memorable wildlife encounters during your stay in the Masai Mara.

Yes, WiFi is available throughout your entire stay at Ilora Retreats. Whether you’re relaxing in your tent, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a meal at our restaurant, you can stay connected with our WiFi service.

Booking flights to and from the Masai Mara is convenient and straightforward. Flights from Nairobi to the Masai Mara typically take approximately 45 minutes. Most airlines like Mombasa Air, Kenya Airways etc, which operate these flights allow passengers to carry up to 15 kilograms of luggage. If you are interested in booking flights, please write to us at sales@ilora-retreats.com. This ensures a hassle-free experience and allows you to focus on enjoying your safari adventure in the Masai Mara.

Ilora Retreats offers a diverse range of safari experiences to suit every kind of explorer:

1. Jeep Safari: The most popular way to explore the Masai Mara. A 4×4 Land Cruiser takes you across the rugged terrain, bringing you face-to-face with the incredible wildlife of the region. These safaris are led by trained guides who often double as expert drivers, ensuring both safety and rich storytelling along the way.
2. Balloon Safari: Experience the wilderness from the skies in a magical early-morning hot air balloon ride. Lasting about 45 minutes to an hour, you’ll gently glide over one of the world’s most iconic reserves, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the plains and its wildlife from above.
3. Walking Safari: A grounded and immersive way to discover the natural world. Walking safaris highlight the smaller wonders, unique flora, animal tracks, bird calls, and more. They are also a great way to connect with the land’s stories, traditions, and the cultural wisdom of the local communities.
4. Photography Safari: Our photography safaris are designed to help you capture the magic of the Mara. Our expert guides understand light, animal behavior, and positioning, ensuring you get those perfect wildlife moments, from golden-hour lion portraits to action shots on the run.
5. Birdwatching Safari: With over 470 species recorded in the region, the Mara is a paradise for bird lovers. Our birdwatching safaris, on foot or by vehicle, are guided by experts and include checklists and insights to help deepen your appreciation of the vibrant avian life around you.

Yes, you totally can. We often host solo travellers at Ilora, and they love it. You’ll have a guide with you on safaris, friendly staff around at all times, and plenty of space to enjoy some quiet or chat with other guests if you feel like it. It’s safe, comfortable, and a great way to experience the Mara your own way.

Yes. We have had families with young kids and guests well into their 70s enjoy safaris with us. The key is to plan it right, we help tailor the experience based on comfort levels. Some game drives can be shorter and more relaxed, and there are plenty of quiet corners at camp to unwind. Our team is always around to assist and make sure everyone’s comfortable throughout the stay.

Keep it simple and comfortable. Light, breathable clothes in neutral colors work best for safaris, think greens, browns, and tans. Mornings and evenings can get chilly, so pack a light jacket or sweater. A good pair of walking shoes, a hat, and sunglasses will go a long way. And don’t forget sunscreens!