FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions
Where is SAMANA Mara located?
SAMANA Mara is located on the south-eastern boundary of the Masai Mara National Reserve.
The camp resides on a privately owned 84-acre plot on the banks of the Ol-Olaimutiek River, one of the many tributaries of the greater sand river.
How do I get to SAMANA Mara?
a) The fastest and most convenient way to access the Masai Mara is by air; The nearest international airport is Jomo Kenyatta International airport in Nairobi. There are daily flights from Nairobi Wilson airport (45 minutes), Diani (2 hours) and Mombasa (2 hours) to Keekorok airstrip which is an approximate 40 minute drive to the camp. Reach out to us for assistance in booking flights to the Masai Mara.
OR
b) by road; a scenic drive from Nairobi which takes approximately 4 hours to Sekenani main gate, and an additional one hour from Sekenani main gate to Samana Mara.
Is there a limit to how much luggage I can carry?
For guests flying in to the Masai Mara by light aircraft, there is a strict limit of maximum 15kg per person including hand luggage. For guests traveling to the Masai Mara by road, there is no luggage limit.
What is the best time to travel to the Masai Mara?
The Masai Mara is famous for its high concentration of wildlife within the ecosystem. This makes the Mara a great destination to visit throughout the year. The most popular season however is between late June to October where the great wildebeest migration takes place. The largest migration of land mammals on the planet is a spectacle and guarantees for the best sightings!
What is the weather like in the Masai Mara?
The Masai Mara is located at an elevation varying from 1500 to 1900 meters. Opposite to what many people may think when coming to Africa, you can expect pleasant daytime temperatures which can get quite warm and much cooler nights. It’s always a good idea to bring along some warm clothing for early morning activities, and to keep you warm after sundown.
What should I pack for my safari?
For the cooler hours in the early mornings and evenings we advise you to pack a fleece sweater, windbreaker, long trousers, socks and comfortable walking shoes / boots or trainers. For the warmer hours during the day light clothing such as T-shirts, light blouses, shorts are recommended. A hat or cap and sunglasses are always great accessories to carry with you.
Your favourite camera will help you capture all your wonderful safari memories to look back at. Each tent is equipped with a pair of binoculars and a torch. Each bathroom is equipped with a hairdryer, bathrobes, bath slippers and bathroom amenities such as hand sanitizer, Body wash, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion. We advise guests to pack their preferred sun block and for guests sensitive to insects, it is recommended to carry an insect repellent suitable for your skin.
Do I need a travel insurance?
It is highly recommended that you take out adequate travel insurance to cover against illness, injury or hospitalisation while traveling. We also recommend all guests to purchase a temporary flying doctor's insurance which we can organize for you. This ensures guests can be airlifted to a medical facility outside the Mara in case of an emergency. Please note hospital/medical treatment is not included in this insurance and will need to be covered by your own private medical insurance.
Does SAMANA Mara cater to dietary restrictions?
SAMANA Mara gives guests the opportunity to inform about any dietary restrictions, requirements as well as allergies prior to arrival. This allows the chefs to specifically design menus based on guest wishes and requirements.
What is the currency in Kenya?
The Currency in Kenya is the Kenya shilling. Foreign currencies such as the USD are widely accepted.
However, please note that dollar bills printed before 2003 are no longer accepted in Kenya.
Will I need an adapter at SAMANA Mara?
Guests can borrow an adapter at SAMANA Mara, however almost all our sockets are universal.
It is always recommended to bring one from home just in case.
How can I pay for extras at SAMANA Mara?
Extras such as purchases of special alcoholic drinks at the bar may be settled in cash, by M-pesa mobile wallet or by credit card at the camp. Both MasterCard and Visa are valid payment methods at camp. If you would like to leave gratuities for the general camp staff, each tent is equipped with envelopes which should be handed over to management for equal distribution amongst the team. Tips for your personal guide and spotter can be given directly. For guidance on how much to tip please reach out to management. Please note only cash tips will be accepted (no credit card or M-pesa payments).
