The Maasai Mara isn’t just a playground for grown-up safari lovers—it’s also one of the best wildlife destinations for kids! With Big Five sightings, cultural visits, and kid-friendly safari lodges, the Mara offers safe, thrilling adventures perfect for young explorers.
1. Family Game Drives
Why visit: See lions, elephants, zebras, and more in exciting yet safe guided drives designed for all ages.
Highlights: – Big Five spotting – Customizable drive durations – Fun animal checklists for kids
Timing: Early morning and late afternoon
Entry: Included in lodge or park package
Photo by Sneha Cecil on Unsplash
2. Visit to a Maasai Village
Why visit: Introduce kids to local culture with singing, dancing, and stories from the Maasai community.
Highlights: – Traditional jumping dances – Try on Maasai attire – Learn about huts and beadwork
Timing: Morning or afternoon visits
Entry: Approx. $20–$30 per person
Photo by Meg von Haartman on Unsplash
3. Junior Ranger Program (at select camps)
Why visit: A hands-on activity where kids learn tracking, bush safety, and wildlife fun facts.
Highlights: – Tracking animal prints – Mini nature walks – Badges and certificates included
Timing: Organized at family-friendly lodges
Entry: Included in camp activities or small extra fee
4. Mara River Hippo Spotting
Why visit: A safe viewing experience where kids can watch hippos and crocodiles from the riverbank.
Highlights: – Easy access points – Wildlife guides explain behavior – Great for photos
Timing: Daytime with guide
Entry: Included in park entry
Photo by David Clode on Unsplash
5. Balloon Watching (from the ground)
Why visit: Kids too young to ride can enjoy watching hot air balloons float over the plains.
Highlights: – Watch colorful balloons rise – See them land nearby – Fun early morning outing
Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM
Entry: Free (viewing only)
Photo by sutirta budiman on Unsplash
6. Nature Walks near Camps (Outside the Reserve)
Why visit: Safe, guided nature walks on private conservancies allow kids to explore safely on foot.
Highlights: – Learn about insects and plants – Animal dung tracking – Fun bush stories by guides
Timing: Morning or late afternoon
Entry: Often included in stay
7. Family Safari Camps (e.g. Mara Intrepids, Sarova Mara)
Why visit: Lodges with kid zones, special meals, and guides trained to work with families.
Highlights: – Swimming pools – Flexible meal times – Evening storytelling and bonfires
Timing: All day access
Entry: Included in lodge package
8. Wildlife Photography with Kids
Why visit: Guided photo sessions to teach kids how to capture animals with cameras or phones.
Highlights: – Learn framing and focus – Spotting behavior tips – Fun keepsake images
Timing: Day drives with guides
Entry: Free with most safaris
9. Bird Watching Bonanza
Why visit: The Mara has hundreds of colorful birds—perfect for beginner birders and curious kids.
Highlights: – Hornbills, eagles, and storks – Use of binoculars – Interactive bird checklists
Timing: Morning and evening
Entry: Included in game drives
10. Stargazing by the Campfire
Why visit: With almost no light pollution, kids can enjoy stargazing while toasting marshmallows.
Highlights: – Identify constellations – Learn African sky legends – Cosy family time under the stars
Timing: After dinner
Entry: Free at most lodges
Feature Image Credit - Photo by Bibhash (Polygon.Cafe) Banerjee on Unsplash
