How to verify a Masai Mara safari operator
Quick answer
For the Masai Mara, check the KATO member directory, the Kenyan company registration, and the reserve or conservancy fees itemised per person per night. Conservancy fees differ from national reserve fees and are a common source of under-quoting.
Last reviewed by the SafariVerify team.
Reserve vs conservancy
The national reserve and the surrounding conservancies charge differently and permit different activities, such as off-road driving and night drives.
Ask exactly where you will be staying and driving, and which fees that implies.
Operator verification in Kenya
Search the KATO directory for the exact legal name, confirm the company registration, and match the payee account. KATO membership is voluntary, so absence prompts more checks rather than a conclusion.
Your checklist
- Search KATO for the exact legal company name
- Get reserve or conservancy fees itemised per person per night
- Confirm where you stay and where you may drive
- Match the payee account to the registered company
Sources
Licensing rules, fees and directories change. Always confirm details with the issuing body on the day you pay. See our methodology for what we can and cannot know.
Check the operator before you pay
Free, no account, about 60 seconds. One verdict — safe, caution or stop — with the sources shown.
Check an operator