Public Forum > Mara - Self Drive & Places to stay
Hello AA
Lodges and camps can be quite expensive in the Mara, but it does depend on what time of year you come - out of season, when the animals are still around, it is possible to get some excellent deals.
All of the campsites mentioned on this website are inside the Mara Triangle, and they are private sites situated along the river for you to use, but with no facilities. This is the cheapest way to visit the Mara, or you can even use the public campsites which are free.
If you are self-drive you will probably be able to work out a deal with any of the camps or lodges that we have listed on this site.
The cheapest way to do the Mara is with your own tent, vehicle, cooking facilities, and out of season - which is probably the best time to visit also.
Hope that helps.
Any more questions are welcome.
William
William
We are also thinking of doing a self-drive safari in Kenya, staying in the Masai Mara for a week or two. Is it safe to stay (on our own) at the special campsites in the Mara Triangle or do we need to hire an askari/guard for the night?
AP
Hello AP
It is safe to camp without an askari:
The Mara Conservancy is responsible for security of the whole of the Mara Triangle, however not individual campsites. There are two vehicles, each night, that patrol the Mara Triangle in the vicinity of the campsites. If those staying at the campsites decide that they need extra security then they can either bring their own askaris, or hire Conservancy Rangers.
The current rate is 1,000 KSh per ranger per night, and you must hire two rangers - no more or less.
More here:
http://www.maratriangle.org/blog/2009/9/4/important-changes-to-camping-in-the-mara-triangle.html
William
I visited Mara many timed; camped at the public campsites inside the park. Did never take an askari. Its quite safe. Nowadays I go outside the park for camping since the rates inside were raised.
Grtz
Mara
mara
I love all the photos and have followed events on programmes like Big Cat Diary. However, I cant afford camps like Litlle Gov etc. I am looking to fly to Nairobit and then Self drive. I do similar to Kruger. However, I am not clear on whether:
i). There is any good value accommodation in the mara? Is there if not is there any outsode.
ii). What about the campsites mention here - they are in the Mara? do you need your own tent?
iii). Any other advice?
AA