Masai Mara Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Travel Apps

Google Maps / Maps.me:
Download offline maps for Kenya for navigation and orientation, even without internet.
Google Translate:
Download the Swahili language pack for basic communication offline.
Uber / Bolt:
Use these ride-sharing apps in Nairobi for convenient and transparent city transport.
Wildlife Spotting Apps:
Apps like "Mammals of East Africa" assist in identifying species with descriptions and photos.
Packing Organizers:
Optimize your luggage with packing organizers from Eagle Creek.

Websites

Kenya Directorate of Immigration Services:
Official source for up-to-date visa information and application procedures.
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS):
Information on national parks, conservation efforts, and park rules.
AMREF Flying Doctors:
Visit their website for details on air ambulance membership options for emergencies.
Social Media:
Follow Kenyan safari operators and wildlife photographers on Instagram for inspiration and sightings.
Podcasts:
Search for podcasts on African safaris or Maasai culture for background knowledge.

Print Resources

Guidebooks

A general Fodor's Essential Kenya guide (check publication date) offers a broad overview and practical advice.

Detailed Maps

Safari operators or lodges often supply detailed maps of the Maasai Mara, showing reserve boundaries and routes.

Cultural Books

"Out of Africa" by Karen Blixen offers historical context. "The Maasai" by Tepilit Ole Saitoti gives insights into Maasai traditions.

Emergency & Medical Info

Knowing emergency contacts and procedures brings peace of mind.

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): Dial 999 (effective in urban areas).
AMREF Flying Doctors: +254 20 699 2299 for air ambulance services.
Keep your safari operator's emergency contact number readily available.
Note your travel insurance emergency line.

Hospitals & Clinics

Nairobi (major hospitals): Nairobi Hospital, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karen Hospital are reputable private hospitals.
Maasai Mara: Basic first aid posts exist at some camps. Serious issues take evacuation to Nairobi.
Confirm your travel insurance policy covers medical evacuation.
Carry a copy of your medical history and current prescriptions.

Document & Disaster Prep

Embassy/Consulate: Keep your home country's embassy contact in Nairobi handy.
Lost documents: Report lost passports to local police, then contact your embassy for assistance.
Natural disaster protocols: Follow local authorities and safari operator instructions during heavy rains.
Ensure your travel insurance from providers like World Nomads covers unforeseen events.

Plan for a Smooth Journey

Security Advisory

Awareness in Cities

Maintain situational awareness, notably in crowded urban areas.
Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar city neighborhoods.
Keep valuables out of sight and secure your belongings.
Use reputable transportation options like pre-booked taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Safari Zone Safety

Always follow your safari guide's instructions regarding animal encounters.
Stay inside the safari vehicle unless explicitly told it is safe to exit.
Do not approach or feed wild animals; this is for your safety and theirs.
Understand the emergency procedures of your lodge or camp.

Health Vigilance

Drink only bottled or treated water to prevent waterborne illnesses.
Protect against mosquito bites using repellent and wearing appropriate clothing.
Ensure all recommended vaccinations are current before travel.
Consult a doctor before your trip about antimalarial medication.

Health & Wellness

Staying Well

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of safe water throughout your journey.
Use insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk, to deter mosquitoes.
Protect your skin from the intense sun with sunscreen and appropriate clothing.

Medical Preparedness

Carry any prescription medications in their original containers.
Pack a basic personal first-aid kit for minor injuries or ailments.
Have a list of allergies and medical conditions readily available.

Connectivity & Power

Device Charging

Bring an universal travel adapter for Kenya's Type G sockets.
Portable power banks are useful for charging devices on the go.
Consider solar chargers for eco-friendly power in remote areas.

Staying in Touch

Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Safaricom) for better local rates.
Wi-Fi access is available at most lodges, though speed may vary.
Inform your home bank of your travel plans to stop card issues.

Booking Timeline

Early Planning 3-6 Months

Research and book your safari package and international flights.
Check passport validity (at least six months from entry date).
Consult a doctor for vaccinations and antimalarial prescriptions.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation.
Begin learning basic Swahili phrases for cultural interactions.

Closer to Travel 1-2 Months

Apply for your Kenya e-Visa online; complete this well in advance.
Book domestic flights within Kenya if not included in your safari package.
Acquire recommended Travel gear: clothing, first aid, Power adapter, binoculars.
Arrange for pet or house sitters if needed for your home.
Confirm your travel insurance coverage with providers like World Nomads.

Departure Preparations

Souvenir Shopping

Allow time for last-minute souvenir purchases at lodge gift shops or Nairobi's airport.

Shipping Options

For larger items, inquire about shipping from Nairobi, factoring in costs and time.

Airport Arrival

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure.

Final Safety Check

Always reconfirm flight details and ensure all valuables are secured for your journey home.

Travel Information Hub

Cultural Immersion

Maasai Traditions

Greetings:
Engage in respectful greetings and handshakes with locals.
Photography:
Seek permission before photographing individuals, especially Maasai people.
Swahili Phrases:
Learn basic Swahili phrases like "Jambo" (Hello) and "Asante" (Thank you).

Local Etiquette

Community Visits:
When visiting villages, dress modestly and accept hospitality gracefully.
Bargaining:
Bargain respectfully in markets; a fair price benefits the vendor.
Patience:
Embrace the "pole pole" (slowly, slowly) pace of life in Kenya.

Wildlife Spotting Guides

Big Cats

Learn about the behaviors of lions, leopards, and cheetahs to spot them more easily.

Herbivores

Familiarize yourself with elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest for better identification.

Birdlife

The Mara hosts diverse bird species; a basic bird guide brightens your viewing pleasure.

Planning Your Game Drives

Optimal Times

Early mornings offer cool temperatures and active predators.
Late afternoons are ideal for golden hour photography and animal activity.
Mid-day often sees animals resting, making sightings less dynamic.
Night drives (where permitted) reveal nocturnal species and unique hunting scenes.

Field Practices

Practice patience; great sightings often take quiet waiting.
Listen to your guide; they locate animals using knowledge and radio calls.
Keep conversation to a minimum to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Be ready with your camera; moments can be fleeting.

Wildlife Conservation

Conservation Initiatives

Support lodges and operators engaged in eco-tourism and conservation.
Contribute to local conservation organizations working to protect wildlife.
Grasp the role of conservancies in Maasai Mara in wildlife protection.

Responsible Viewing

Stay on designated tracks to prevent damaging the delicate ecosystem.
Never litter in the park; carry out everything you carry in.
Maintain a respectful distance from all animals, never provoking them.
Avoid using strong perfumes or deodorants that might disturb animals.

Quick Reminders

Download offline maps for Kenya on your phone before you travel. This gives navigation even without internet access, especially useful in cities.

Masai Mara Travel Resources