What Are the Visa Requirements for Visiting Masai Mara?

What Are the Visa Requirements for Visiting Masai Mara?

Masai Mara is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in the world. Located in Kenya, it is home to the Big Five, stunning landscapes, and the Great Migration. If you are planning to visit Masai Mara, you need to know about the visa requirements to enter Kenya. This guide, created by Seko Tours, will explain everything you need to know in very simple language. We are safari specialists and can help you create a custom Kenya safari to explore Masai Mara and other beautiful places in the country.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Masai Mara?

Yes, most visitors need a visa to enter Kenya. Masai Mara is inside Kenya, so you must follow Kenya’s visa rules.

If you are from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, or most European countries, you need a visa to enter Kenya.
If you are from East African countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, or South Sudan, you do not need a visa to enter Kenya.
If you are from some selected countries, you may not need a visa. Check with Seko Tours or the Kenyan immigration website to confirm.

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Types of Visas for Visiting Masai Mara

There are different types of visas depending on your travel plans:

1. Kenya eVisa (Single Entry Visa)

This is the most common visa for tourists visiting Masai Mara.
It allows you to enter Kenya once and stay for up to 90 days.
You must apply online before your trip.
The cost is about $50.
Processing time: 2 to 3 business days.

2. East Africa Tourist Visa

This visa allows you to travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda with one visa.
It is good for people who want to visit Kenya and gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda.
The cost is $100.
It is valid for 90 days.
You must enter from the country that issued your visa (e.g., if you apply in Kenya, you must enter through Kenya first).

3. Transit Visa

This is for travelers passing through Kenya for less than 72 hours.
It costs $20.
If you have a short layover and want to visit Nairobi before heading to another country, this visa is for you.

4. Visa on Arrival (Not Available)

Kenya no longer offers visas on arrival.
You must apply for an eVisa before traveling.

How to Apply for a Kenya eVisa

Getting a Kenya eVisa is easy. Follow these steps:

Go to the official eVisa website: https://evisa.go.ke/
Create an account with your email and password.
Fill out the visa application form with your details (name, passport number, travel dates, etc.).
Upload a passport photo and a copy of your passport.
Pay the visa fee using a debit/credit card.
Wait for approval (usually 2-3 days).
Download and print your eVisa.

When you arrive in Kenya, show the printed eVisa at immigration.

Visa Requirements Checklist

When applying for your visa, make sure you have:

A passport valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
A recent passport photo.
A return ticket or proof of onward travel.
A hotel booking or safari itinerary (Seko Tours can provide this).
A credit or debit card for online payment.

Can You Extend Your Visa?

Yes, if you need more time in Kenya, you can extend your visa for up to 90 more days.

Apply online or visit the Immigration Office in Nairobi.
The cost is about $20.

Important Visa Rules

You cannot work in Kenya with a tourist visa.
If your visa expires, you may be fined or banned from entering Kenya again.
Always carry a copy of your visa and passport when traveling in Kenya.
If you are traveling with children, they must also have their own visa.

Planning Your Masai Mara Safari with Seko Tours

Once you have your visa, it’s time to plan your dream safari. Masai Mara is famous for:

The Great Migration (July – October)
The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Cultural Visits to the Maasai People

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At Seko Tours, we specialize in creating custom safaris based on your preferences. Whether you want a luxury safari, a budget-friendly adventure, or a photography safari, we can help you plan the perfect trip.