Explore Destination · Kenya
Maasai Mara
Maasai Mara safari: The Maasai Mara National Reserve covers about 1,510 km² of rolling grassland in south-west Kenya, along the Tanzanian border.
- CountryKenya
- Best timeJuly to October for the migration, with August and September the busie...
- TripsTailor-made for you
- Destinations nearbyAmboseli National Park
Maasai Mara safari: what to know
The Maasai Mara National Reserve covers about 1,510 km² of rolling grassland in south-west Kenya, along the Tanzanian border. It is the northern end of the same ecosystem as the Serengeti, and from roughly July to October it hosts the wildebeest migration. Outside those months it remains one of the best places in Africa to see big cats.
What to know before you go
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The migration in the Mara
The herds usually arrive from the Serengeti in July and stay until October, moving back and forth across the Mara and Talek rivers. Crossing points on the Mara River draw large numbers of vehicles in August, so it pays to stay several nights and to work with a guide who knows the less crowded stretches.
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Reserve or conservancy?
Around the national reserve is a ring of community conservancies on Maasai-owned land, including Mara North, Naboisho and Olare Motorogi. They limit the number of beds and vehicles, and they allow night drives, guided walks and off-road driving, none of which is permitted in the reserve itself. Lease fees go directly to the landowning families. Conservancy camps cost more, and the difference in crowding is considerable.
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Resident wildlife
Lion, leopard and cheetah are all seen often, along with elephant, buffalo, hippo, giraffe and a small number of black rhino. More than 450 bird species are recorded.
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Getting there
The Mara is a five- to six-hour drive from Nairobi or a 45-minute flight to one of several airstrips. It can be linked with the Serengeti overland through the Isebania border post or by connecting flights.
When to visit Maasai Mara
July to October for the migration, with August and September the busiest. January to March is dry, quieter and very good for big cats. April and May are the wettest months, when some camps close and rates are lowest.
Where It Is
Maasai Mara and the other places we travel to nearby.
Maasai Mara
Trips to combine with Maasai Mara
We do not have a ready-made itinerary in this style yet. These trips are a good starting point, and we adapt any of them for you.
Plan Your Safari to Maasai Mara
Our team in Arusha answers in English, French, German and Spanish.
Questions about Maasai Mara
When is the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara?
The herds usually arrive in July and leave by late October. Timing varies with rainfall, and August and September are the most dependable months.
Is the Maasai Mara or the Serengeti better?
They are parts of one ecosystem. The Mara is smaller and easier to reach, with dense wildlife in a compact area. The Serengeti is about ten times larger, has the migration for more of the year and is generally less crowded.
How many days do I need in the Maasai Mara?
Three nights is the minimum for a good experience. Four gives a better chance of a river crossing in migration season.
Destinations nearby
Shall we plan your trip?
Tell us your dates and what you would like to see. A specialist in Arusha sends a route and a clear proposal within 24 hours.
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