masai mara safari kenya

The Masai Mara in Kenya is nature's epic masterpiece.

A little bit about Masai Mara

Rolling hills, sprawling savannahs, dramatic river crossings and of course... more wildlife and adventure than any movie could ever portray. Welcome to the Masai Mara, home to the lions of ‘Big Cat Diary’, temporary residence of the ‘Great Migration’, mighty Maasai warriors and some of the most luxurious safari lodges on earth.

The Masai Mara features a stunning kaleidoscope of wild and rugged landscapes, warm and welcoming people and an exciting array of creatures – big and small. World famous for hosting the epic Great Migration, the Masai Mara welcomes 1,5 million wildebeests onto its sprawling savannahs each July through October. The Masai Mara National Reserve and conservancies are brimming with life and offer safari travellers a wide variety of activities to choose from. Whether you take to the skies for a high-flying hot-air balloon adventure at sunrise or hit the road for a 4x4 safari, you’re sure to leave the Masai Mara with unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories.

Going on a Masai Mara safari

Part of the fun of going on safari is planning your safari. We’ve been there... and know how it feels. As avid travellers we can imagine you have loads of questions while planning your trip to the Masai Mara. Very few places on earth are as unspoilt, adventurous and authentic as the Mara eco-system.

Reading up on the Masai Mara, finding out what you might encounter, exploring your accommodation options... we've done most of the work for you and created this site to help you find all the answers to any questions you may have. To top it off, we've brought together a top-notch collection of Masai Mara safari lodges and camps for you to choose from. Naturally, we're only an e-mail or message away if you need a little extra help planning your safari.

About the Masai Mara

Known as one of the world’s most famous wildlife areas or ‘the world’s eight world wonder’, the Masai Mara has endless plains, breath-taking vistas and abundant wildlife. Learn more about the Masai Mara here.

Masai Mara special offers

Dreaming of the perfect safari holiday? We’ll help you find your way while planning your trip and provide you with a selection of the best available deals. Check out our latest Masai Mara special offers and discounts.

Getting to Masai Mara

Whether you’re arriving from far, far away or travelling to the Masai Mara from a destination in the region. We’ll guide you through your options for getting to the Mara and for getting around once you’re here.

As newbie safari travellers, we were blown away by our experience of the Conservatory - the animals in abundance; the landscapes; the people; the smells and sounds.

It was an amazing experience to actually see the river crossings, that we had seen so many times on TV during the wildebeest migration.

We saw a leopard on a tree and we were lucky enough to watch four lionesses and three cubs eating a fresh hunt. In the evening safari we were able to explore a massive variety of hippopotamus and a crocodile.

Masai Mara lodges & camps

The Masai Mara is rough and rugged, however you don't have to rough it during your stay. Eco-chic safari lodges with four-poster beds, sundowners with your favourite G&T and infinity pools overlooking the African savanna await.

We’ve selected a variety of warm and welcoming Masai Mara safari lodges and camps for you to choose from during your stay. Each of the accommodation options we’ve selected is known for offering premium safari activities, first-class accommodation and every creature comfort you could wish for during your stay.

All accommodations in Greater Masai Mara

Browse all camps & lodges

National Reserve accommodation

Browse Masai Mara NR accommodations

Mara conservancies accommodation

Browse conservancy lodges & camps

Masai Mara lodges we love

We would like to share a few accommodation options with you for your stay in the Masai Mara. Our safari lodge options come in a variety of price ranges, giving you plenty of possibilities to find the right Masai Mara safari camp for your travel budget.

Keep in mind that the following are simply suggestions. We offer tailor-made safari experiences and look forward to creating just the right mix of Masai Mara safari accommodation and activities based on your personal preferences. We look forward to helping you create the bespoke Masai Mara safari of your dreams.

Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

lodge location Mara Triangle

Kenyan hospitality meets Maasai-inspired luxury on the lush green banks of the Saparingo River. &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp lies on the edge of the Oloololo escarpment, where riverine forest meets the sweeping plains of the Masai Mara.

from US$ 435 per person per night

Cottars 1920s Safari Camp

lodge location Olderkesi

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp offers guest vintage luxury at its very best. Cream-coloured tents decorated in 1920s epic safari style, professional Maasai safari guides and above all a sense of elegance and class - this classic Kenyan safari camp has it all.

from US$ 1,059 per person per night

Elewana Sand River Camp

lodge location Musiara Sector

Ideally situated in one of the most remote parts of Masai Mara National Reserve, Sand River Camp pays homage to romantic 1920s safaris. Its design reminds guests of the many African adventure themed Hollywood movies created in that time period.

from US$ 670 per person per night

There were lion cubs galore, a baby zebra born in front of my eyes, pretty much everything an avid photographer could hope for.

The Maasai people were extremely welcoming, and were there to make sure our experience was nothing but the best. We will definitely be back.

The Big 5 and more - giraffes, zebras, hippos, lions with their families, cheetahs and hundreds of wildebeests - no shortage of amazing game sightings every day...

Masai Mara highlights

The Masai Mara is a dream come true for everyone who ever watched ‘Out of Africa’ and longed for the adventurous, romantic nostalgia of an African safari in the wild. The Great Migration, big cats and Maasai warriors await.

The Masai Mara is a photographer's paradise. This region is known for pristine riverine forests, dramatic towering escarpments, stunning sprawling savannahs and of course... all the creatures, big and small, that roam the land. Add a visit to a Maasai village to your stay for a cultural immersion and gain some insight in the day-to-day life of your hosts. For an extra special birds-eye view of the African plains, take to the skies during a hot-air balloon safari. When it comes to crafting the safari of your dreams, the sky is the limit.

Balloon safari

View golden plains from above

Maasai people

Extraordinary cultural meetings

Exhilarating wildlife

Wildlife up close and personal

The Great Migration

Wildlife spectacle in the Masai Mara

Safari activities

Drive, walks & more

Masai Mara National Reserve

Kenya's premier wildlife reserve

Luxury accommodation

A luxury safari home from home

Mara North Conservancy

Enjoy the perks of a conservancy

Conservancies in Kenya are the way to go; protecting the extraordinary wildlife whilst giving the local community an income, together with education on the interaction between the two.

Wonderful area for wildlife viewing. Having been there twice both times were awesome experiences! Will return again.

The highlight of our trip to Mara was seeing the migration at the Mara river. A once in a lifetime experience to see the Wildebeest migrating. An amazing scene of nature it was.

Masai Mara video

The best way of understanding what the Masai Mara and its conservancies are about is by seeing some thrilling footage from the area. Watch this video to experience Kenya's Masai Mara, its splendour and to meet some of our celebrity wildlife species.

Be careful, after watching this video you can be sure that you want to travel to Kenya. Today.

We saw 8 lions in one drive, and a hippo pod being circled by a dozen crocodiles that launched into the water, trying to get the baby hippos in the center of the pod. Wow!

I was fortunate that when I was recently in the Mara North Conservancy there were so few tourists. I saw plenty of wildlife. The sightings of big cats were especially good.

The Mara Triangle is the most beautiful, lush area of the Masai Mara. Loads of elephants and all types of wildlife without all the land cruiser traffic found in other areas of the Mara.

Send your enquiry

We hope you have found all information needed to decide that the Masai Mara in Kenya is the perfect place for your next safari adventure. Still have questions? Or maybe you would like some more specific information about the different lodges? Please fill in the contact form and we will get back to you soon!

• Masai Mara National Reserve & conservancies
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Masai Mara National Reserve

A visitors guide to the masai mara national park.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife reserve, and possibly it’s best for a safari (though faces stiff competition from Amboseli and Tsavo East for this title). Created in 1968 the reserve is around 1,550 km sq, and made up of vast open grasslands, dotted with rocky hills and acacia woodland. It’s sandwiched between several large conservancies on the northern border, conservation areas to the east and west and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park on the southern border. This makes the reserve part of a much larger East African ecosystem and a critical checkpoint for the Great Wildebeest Migration between July and October each year.

As well as the annual Masai Mara migration, the reserve is home to the big five. There are an estimated 300 lions in the Masai Mara – one of the highest densities anywhere in Africa – and sightings of the thick-maned lions are virtually guaranteed, particularly if you’re on the open plains. Cheetah, spotted hyena and other carnivores such as bat-eared fox and black-backed jackal are common, as are elephant, and there’s a small but healthy population of endangered black rhinos. Alongside the spectacular game viewing, there have been over 570 bird species recorded in the reserve, from raptors to ostrich .

The Masai Mara National Park can be broadly divided into three parts:

1. The Eastern Sector

The eastern sector from the Mara & Talek rivers to the Ngama Hills makes up around half the reserve, and is the closest part of the reserve to Nairobi and the most visited. The Ngama hills rise above the main Sekenani Entrance Gate and are a prominent feature of the landscape, visible from all areas of the park and a useful landmark if you’re doing a self-drive Masai Mara safari . The hills themselves don’t have as much wildlife as the plains below, but dense thickets on the slopes attract elusive black rhino, so it’s worth doing a tour of the hills.

The plains surrounding the hills are the classic East African safari landscape of short grassed savannahs, dotted with the occasional acacia tree. For the best wildlife viewing in this part of the park take a detour from the main roads, and use the smaller tracks that wind their way between the main routes. Big cats and cheetah are common here, along with their prey of antelope, gazelle , eland, and ostrich , along with plenty of elephants. The South Mara Bridge is the only crossing between the eastern and western sectors of the park, and offers a great spot to take a bush picnic with views over a large hippo pool.

2. The Central Sector

The central plains lie between the Mara and Talek rivers in the heart of the Masai Mara. Game viewing here is exceptionally reliable – particularly for big cats, many of which are habituated to vehicles, meaning you can very close for top viewing and photos without fear of driving the cats away.

Cupping these central plains are the Mara River and its tributary the Talek, the only permanent water sources flowing through the Masai Mara National Reserve. The area is covered with dozens of deep hippo holes, and the Mara River supports much aquatic life including hippo, crocodile and otter, along with plenty of birdlife. The lush forest that edges the rivers is home a strong leopard population, vervet monkeys and bushbucks. It’s this central section of the park that is home to one of nature’s greatest shows – when the Great Wildebeest Migration comes to town and crosses the Mara River. This can actually happen several times during the wildebeests’ 2-3 months in the Masai Mara. There a number of regular crossing points, most of which are in a 5 km stretch of the Mara River, up-water from where the Talek joins the Mara. Lookout Hill, opposite the Serena Lodge is the best vantage point for seeing the herds congregating and crossing the river.

3. The Mara Triangle

The most westerly section of the Masai Mara Reserve is known as the Mara Triangle, and is divided from the rest of the park by the Mara River on its eastern side. Oto the northwest is the Oloololo Escarpment making for a dramatic backdrop to the scenery as it 400 meters above the wildlife grazing on the plains. In July and August the grasslands of the Mara Triangle are heaving with wildebeest, zebra and gazelle – as well as their many predators.

This section of the park is less visited and less crowded than the rest of the Masai Mara and has limited – though quality – accommodation options

Masai Mara map

Map of Masai Mara National Park, courtesy of MaraNorth.com

Getting to Masai Mara Game Reserve:

The Masai Mara is 270 km from Kenya’s capital Nairobi, and the 4-5 hour drive between the two via Narok can be tough going. Most people opt for a 45-minute flight. In the reserve itself, the eastern side of the park now has all-weather roads, making for easy driving conditions. Through the rest of the park roads are almost all un-signposted dirt tracks and can be rough driving requiring a 4X4. If you’re planning a self-drive safari there is only one bridge inside the reserve across the Mara River, so plan your route and time accordingly.

Best Time to visit Masai Mara:

The Masai Mara is a year-round safari destination, with big cats and big game on view all of the time. December to February are the driest months and a great time to see the big cats in action. The great migration Masai Mara portion usually takes place from July to October. As the migration is a natural event that’s largely driven by the weather, these dates are not 100% certain, but very likely. Travelling to the park outside of peak season will mean no migration, but fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation.

Masai Mara highlights:

• The main highlight of the park is the great wildebeest Masai Mara migration.
• Aside from the migration, the Masai Mara is famed for its dense lion population, with the males sporting particularly shaggy, dark manes.
• The Masai Mara offers perfect conditions for an early morning balloon safari , giving a birds-eye view over the wildlife sprinkled plains in the rosy-tinted dawn light. Balloon safaris take off from Keerok lodge are usually completed with a bush breakfast with bubbles.

Masai Mara hotels:

There are dozens of camps and campsites in the eastern sector catering for all budgets, in the park and fringing the borders of the park. The central plains area is serviced by a handful of high-end safari camps. In the Mara Triangle, there’s only one camp (Little Governors) and one lodge (Mara Serena, with its prime position overlooking the Mara River crossings used by the great migration), though there are a number of high-end camps on the edge of the Mara Triangle  Mara Engai Wilderness Lodge, Kichwa Tembo, Bateleur Camp, Mara Siria, Kilima Camp and Mpata Safari Club.

Game drives are often confined to the same section that the safari lodge or campsite is in, so check with your lodge before booking. If you’re visiting for more than one night it’s a good idea to divide your time between different hotels so you can see as much of the Mara as possible.

Search & book hotels in and around Masai Mara National Park

Have you been to the Masai Mara or have any tips for visiting this game reserve? Please share with us in the comments section below!

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The Masai Mara National Park is one of the world’s greatest safari destinations, sharing unfenced borders with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania , and encompassing endless rolling plains, breathtaking scenery, and an abundance of wildlife. The Mara offers unrivalled views of the world’s greatest migration - a wildlife spectacle of over 1.5 million wildebeest moving in a circular direction between Kenya and Tanzania in search of grasslands that have sprouted after the rain. Crossing the Mara River is part of their journey and is a sight to behold as distressed herds attempt to get across the crocodile-infested waters. Visitors also have the rare opportunity of interacting with the Maasai people, learning about their century-old traditions and bush survival skills.

The Masai Mara is phenomenal all year round and offers exciting game drives, bush walks, hot air balloon safaris, and a selection of luxury and tented accommodations.

Each year the Masai Mara National Reserve is visited by thousands of tourists who come here to watch the exceptional population of game and the annual migration of zebra and wildebeest. The “Great Migration” takes place every year from July to October when millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania.

Jun 9, 2024

South Africa Trip

Shann was very helpful and was always quick to respond to any questions that I had. She provided with multiple options for each stage of our trip, and overall provided a great service. Would highly recommend!

Jun 8, 2024

Thanks Pascal you are amazing!

From the moment we arrived in South Africa, our safari adventure was nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled in the heart of the African wilderness, we found ourselves surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Kruger National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Our accommodation was luxurious yet seamlessly integrated into the natural environment, offering us stunning views of the savannah from the comfort of our private deck. Each day began with an exhilarating sunrise game drive, where our expert guide shared his deep knowledge and passion for the local wildlife. Witnessing the "Big Five" was an awe-inspiring experience that left us in complete awe of nature's magnificence. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and made sure we felt safe while immersing ourselves in the wilderness. Evenings were equally enchanting, with sundowner drinks enjoyed against the backdrop of a fiery African sunset, followed by sumptuous dinners under the starlit sky. The cuisine was a delightful fusion of local flavors and gourmet dishes, perfectly complementing the day's adventures. The sense of community at the lodge was heartwarming. The staff were attentive, ensuring every need was met with a smile, and fellow travelers quickly became friends as we shared stories around the campfire. Our South African safari was more than just a holiday; it was a transformative journey that connected us with nature and left us with lasting memories. For anyone seeking an adventure that combines luxury, education, and unparalleled wildlife encounters, a safari in South Africa is an absolute must. We left with hearts full of gratitude and a profound appreciation for the natural world, eagerly planning our return to this magnificent land.

A great experience

Pascal was wonderful to work with! When one camp option fell through he quickly found an equal alternative for our group. He was always very responsive to my many emails and texts. I would highly recommend Safari.com.

Jun 7, 2024

Leché was fantastic - thank you!

Leché was fantastic - super helpful and so patient with me. Provided all the options and was so quick responding to any questions (of which I had many!). So grateful and I can't wait for our holiday!

Top notch service

Catherine was very helpful and responsive. Our trip was postponed due to the pandemic and she efficiently advocated for us with the game reserves to rebook our trip. Also, the SA embassy in our region required additional police certification of our reservation, the Safari.com team went to the police station and sent us the certified documents on the same day. Amazing service. Highly recommend!

Jun 6, 2024

Pascal is an outstanding Safari…

Pascal is an outstanding Safari consultant!!!  He's very personable, warm, professional, and very detailed. He made a perfect itinerary. for my trip to Victoira Falls. I would highly recommend him at Safari Travel Agency, will not be disappointed. They are a top-notch company, and Pascal is a great asset for sure. I have traveled the world and was surprised by the level of professionalism and knowledge that I gained working with him. Being a sales professional and world traveler, I'm very picky, but they checked all the boxes. Thank you so much, and all the best.

Jun 5, 2024

Mel was amazing. She shred with us the her large experience and knowledge about SA. Unfortunately we had to change our plans. But otherwise, we would close deal with her.

Professional and organised

Thank you Mel Du Toit you have helped create my dream adventure in Africa.Your customer service and attention to detail with no judgment of budget has made booking with you a breeze.Very Informative, Professional and organised.

Jun 4, 2024

Tanya Lomas from Safari.com really went…

Tanya Lomas from Safari.com really went above and beyond to assist us in finding a camping site in southern Kruger.

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How to plan the best safari in Masai Mara in Kenya

Itineraries, transportation, accommodation, safari prices, and best time to go. This is the best guide on how to plan the perfect safari in Masai Mara in Kenya.

Think about a perfect safari experience and you will probably end up imagining a safari in Masai Mara in Kenya. This world-renowned national reserve is not only Kenya’s biggest pride, but is also one of the most beautiful places in the world. Expect to see vast grasslands where more than 1 million zebras and wildebeest roam freely, herds of elephants drinking water next to water buffalos and if you are patient enough, lions, cheetahs and leopards quietly searching for a hunt.

Visiting Kenya without exploring Masai Mara is missing something special, and with so many wild experiences to look for, options to move around the park and prices that go from just a couple of hundreds of dollars to even thousands per day. Even so, it is important to understand what makes Masai Mara so special and how to make the most of your time and money. This is how you plan the best safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

Understanding Masai Mara

Known as “the greater Masai Mara ecosystem” , this large ecosystem consists of two natural reservoirs ( Mara Triangle and Masai Mara National Reserve ), several smaller private conservancies and some Masai villages around the parks. They are located 255km south-west from Nairobi (about 5-6 hours’ drive) and right next to the border between Tanzania and Kenya. In fact, Masai Mara limits the Serengeti National Park and you can even say they belong to the same ecosystem, just in a different country.

Before you visit Masai Mara, take into consideration how many days you want to spend inside the national reserve, where would you like to stay and what kind of activities are you planning to do. These decisions will significantly have an effect on how expensive your trip to Masai Mara will be.

Still, no matter if you are going on a group tour, a private safari or as an independent self-driving traveler, it is nice to understand the options you have.

Read more: Tsavo, Amboseli or Masai Mara – Which safari park in Kenya should you visit?

Masai Mara National Reserve

This is the largest section of the Masai Mara and home for the largest concentration of animals in the park. It is basically an obligatory stop if you want to explore the best of Masai Mara and no matter at what time of the year you go, it will never get boring.

Expect to see large concentrations of wildebeest, zebras, elephants and lions.

Mara Triangle

Located in the west side of the Masai Mara and isolated from the rest of the park by the Mara river, the Mara Triangle is considered by many safari experts as the most beautiful spot in the whole Masai Mara. “The Mara Triangle is what makes Africa the most beautiful continent on earth”, said my tour guide Chris, after I asked him what makes the Mara Triangle so special.

Here is the perfect spots to see less crowds of tourists, but also thousands of wildebeest taking a rest and waiting for the right moment to continue their migration.

Private conservancies

Private conservancies are usually owned by private luxury lodges. These are unfortunately not places you can simply get in and out, as you would have to pre-book a visit to any of the conservancies or stay at the lodges.

A visit to a private conservancy can be on one side very rewarding – they usually know better where to find big cats – but also way more expensive. It is the perfect option for those who want to splurge themselves on a holiday.

Take into consideration, visiting a conservancy does not mean you will see more wildlife than in the national reserve.

Keep in mind

Just like in most national parks in Africa, entrance fees will be the highest cost when planning a trip. While the 24 hour day pass to the Masai Mara National Reserve cost 70 USD per day, visiting the Mara Triangle conservation area will cost additionally 40 USD and visit a private conservancy can start at around 100 USD per day.

Check all prices at the official sites of the Mara Triangle , the Masai Mara National Reserve and the Mara Conservancies.

NOTE: Travelers with limited time and higher budget can also get a private charter from Nairobi airport to Masai Mara. Flights can be schedule regularly during the day from Wilson Airport in central Nairobi and it can take you from Nairobi to Masai Mara in just 30-45 minutes for around 200 USD.  Before booking a private flight , consult with your tour operator or lodge the fly-in safari tours they might offer.

Best places to stay in Masai Mara

With entrance fees to Masai Mara being your highest expense, and transportation costs being quite fix from the beginning, accommodation will determine if you are getting a more luxurious or budget experience in your safari.

It is true that if you check on hotel booking platforms, you will probably see lodges inside Masai Mara starting at hundreds of dollars. But don’t worry.  Most of these accommodation options include some kind of activity that you can also get on a private tour or organize yourself.

Masai Mara is one of the best national parks in Africa, when it comes to finding accommodation under your desired budget. Options are plenty and no matter if you go on a budget or stay in a villa with a private pool,  the quality of the safari experience will be almost the same.  

Read more: How to plan a visit to Amboseli National Park

With only three options available, public campsites are only located on the Mara Triangle side of the park with prices starting at 30 USD a night. Furthermore, 5 private campsites are also located inside the Mara triangle. Prices for these camps tend to be more expensive, but facilities and services are way better. From private campsites you can also schedule walking safaris or drives around the national park

Camping options and prices are available at the official website of Mara Bookings

Lodging outside the national park

An excellent option for keeping that budget under control is staying outside the national park. Don’t worry, sleeping outside the park does not mean staying out of the action. The towns of Talek, Keekorok or Kawai are located right next to the gates of Masai Mara and  here you can find accommodation for more than 1/3 of the price as inside the national reserve.  

What are the disadvantages? There is nothing more exciting and simultaneously scary as hearing lions roar in the middle of the night – something that is only possible if you stay inside the gates of the national reserve.

Lodging inside the national park

With most world-renowned lodge companies and luxury companies having accommodation options inside Masai Mara, here you can also have plenty of choice and pricing. Unfortunately, due to its outstanding location, expect prices to be way higher – a price to pay for a more rewarding experience. Lodges inside the Masai Mara National Reserve start at 150-200 USD a night per person.

Staying inside Masai Mara is an experience like no other. Hear baboons grunt in the early morning or lions roar in the middle of the night. If camping is not your cup of tea and you want to make the most of your experience in Masai Mara, this can be the right option for you.

Lodging in a private conservancy

With private airstrips and facilities that exceed the imagination, lodging in a private conservancy is an experience of a lifetime. Four seasons, Fairmont and &Beyond are some of the companies that have turn safari experiences into playgrounds for adults.  

Expect to be welcome with cocktails and smoothies, or simply getting woke up with a glass of ice coffee. At the same time, be prepared to spend at least a couple of thousand of dollars just for a few days.

NOTE: If you are planning to stay on a mid-range or a luxurious lodge, it is way better to plan your trip with a private local tour operator. Tour operators get better rates than private clients when booking accommodation and even though you have to book a full package including a driver and game drives, it will end up being way cheaper than planning it independently.

Other activities in Masai Mara

Doing 3-4 full days of safari in Masai Mara is not an activity for everyone. After hours of driving around the natural areas, landscapes can become monotonous and the excitement of seeing an elephant or a lion is not there anymore. I’m not saying it happens all the time, but anyone who has done a safari before knows what I’m talking about.

Fortunately there are lots of additional activities to do in Masai Mara. One of the most popular and recommended ones is a tour to a Masai village.

Read more: Everything You Need To Know About The Wildebeest Migration

These villages are located outside the natural reserve. Here, local Masai will tell you more about their culture, their traditions and how they used to live decades before globalization. You can also see some of the craft that the local families make, as well ask them questions about life as a Masai in the current age and their villages.

Some people complaint that most of these Masai do these activities for the money it provides and the experience is not “real”. However, everyone benefits from these cultural tours. We, by having more awareness about the disappearing Masai and them by earning the money they need to offer their families a better future.

Other options are walking safaris organized by the lodges (around 20-30 USD), as well balloon rides early in the morning (around 350 USD).

Read more: How ethical is to do cultural tourism in Africa?

Best time to visit Masai Mara

What is the best time to visit the Masai Mara? Well, this question can be quite open, as most of us plan a trip based on the budget and the experience we want to get.

Masai Mara is known for having excellent wildlife experiences all year round. However, most wildlife lovers agree that the best time to visit Masai Mara is during the wildebeest migration (mid-June to October). During this time, millions of wildebeest move from Kenya to Tanzania crossing the Mara river. This gives a great opportunity for encountering some of the wildest safari experiences in the world. At the same time, expect prices to almost double for safari tours and lodging to be booked months in advanced.

Additionally, November to February is still considered high season. Prices are not as high as during the migration, but still you can see plenty of wildlife.

March til May are on the other hand a low season. Grass is high due to the heavy rain and visibility is limited. Predators do not have difficulty to hunt and they can easily hide. Still, prices are way lower during this season and the chances to see all big five in a single trip is still there.  

Read more: What are the top safari experiences in Africa

Group tour, private tour or self-drive safaris

Any type of safari in Masai Mara is already a big expense. Safaris in Masai Mara are considered one of the most expensive experiences worldwide and considering which option is the one with most value is a very valid question when planning a visit to Masai Mara.

While group tours offer a very budget friendly option for travelers who want to focus on saving money, take into consideration that you will be traveling with lots of people (around 6-8 on a van). This will significantly affect how personal your experience in Masai Mara will be, as well the flexibility of the whole trip itself.

On the other hand independently driving to Masai Mara will give you all the flexibility you want, but zero knowledge of where you are going. Self-driving in Masai Mara means driving in very difficult conditions and budget wise, it won’t be cheaper than traveling with a tour.

Insurance costs, rental costs and park fees will be quite high if you travel to Masai Mara as a self-driver and unless you have a good understanding of wildlife and the Masai Mara itself, the chances of seeing big cats, will be quite small.

I personally found going on a private company the best option for visiting Masai Mara. Private operators adapt very easily to your budget conditions and offer the flexibility you simply can’t get on a group tour. It is definitely more expensive than going on a group, but I think it gave me way more value, than if I visited Masai Mara in a van full of people, or if I rented a vehicle and drove myself.

I booked my trip with Africa Kenya Safaris , a local company based in Nairobi. Before our trip, we discussed exactly what I wanted to explore and in what budget I was traveling. Since they also know all the lodges and camping sites, they could also analyze for me which ones would be the best according what I wanted and offered a good price. After comparing the prices of planning a trip independently or separately, this was the best value I could find.

NOTE: While foreign tour operators seem on their online presence to be most trustful than local companies in Kenya, getting in contact with a Kenyan company is the best way to get the best knowledge and value out of your tour.

Read more: How to prepare for your first safari trip

How much a safari in Masai Mara costs?

With so many variables and options, it is really difficult to fully calculate how expensive a safari to Masai Mara can be. Still, if you are planning to travel to Masai Mara on a budget, expect to spend around 600-700 USD for a four day tour in low season.

Furthermore, if you are staying in a mid-range lodge with all meals and private games drives included, plan anything between 800-1000 USD per person for a 2 person private safari.  

Read more: How to plan a trip to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

What type of safari in Masai Mara should I book?

A budget safari can be fun, but you have to keep in mind that you will have to share vehicle, have less privacy and end up having less time.

Still, if the budget is a big concern for you. These are the best Masai Mara Tours under 400 USD in SafariBookings

If you are looking for a more private mid-range experience, you can also find private tours for a higher budget, but offering a more memorable trip. A mid range tour cost anything between 700 to 1200 USD and in these tours you will get a private safari vehicle, better lodging (4-star) and better guidance.

Finally, if budget is not a question and you want to experience Africa like the rich and famous, luxury tours start around 1500 USD per person for 3 days at Masai Mara and can go up to thousands more.

In SafariBookings , you can get in touch with operators from all over Kenya and create personalized tours directly with the top tour operators in the region

How would I plan my next trip to Masai Mara?

After getting a good glimpse of Masai Mara and try different activities, lodges and traveling options, I would plan my next trip mid-October or beginning November. It is a time when conditions are excellent for wildlife viewing and additionally, there are still large chances of seeing thousands of wildebeest crossing.

At these months, you would not encounter as many visitors as in other times like Summer or Christmas and because the peak season is almost ending, prices are lower and offers can be easily found.

Read more: How to cross overland from Kenya to Tanzania

How to book the best safari online?

When it comes to planning a safari, SafariBookings is by far the best platform to book safaris online

They have the largest database of tour operators in Africa and you can simply send a request and negotiate a tour and a price directly with the operator. You don’t have to pay any additional fees and you can send as many requests as you want.

I’ve used SafariBookings when traveling to Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Kenya. They made a huge difference for me in understanding prices, activities and local operators in the area. I was also able to find tours for as little as 300 USD when I traveled to Amboseli National Park in 2021.

These are some of the most popular tours in Masai Mara at SafariBookings

How do I find cheap flights to Kenya?

Finding a cheap flight anywhere around the world is not always easy. It’s about comparing platforms, selecting the right routes and booking at the right time. Fortunately, platforms like Skyscanner became known as an all-in-one tool for booking flights at the lowest cost possible.

They analyse every potential company and sub-contractor in order to find the lowest price available for you. Not only that, but you can also select the option “Travel Anywhere” and let Skyscanner find the cheapest place to travel at any selected date.

I check all my flights first at Skyscanner , and in 90% of the cases, I find the best option for me to book.

Also, by booking here using Skyscanner , you will support my blog and help me create more amazing and useful content.

MY FAVORITE NATIONAL PARKS

Saxon switzerland national park, masai mara natural reserve, bwindi impenetrable forest, white desert protected area, victoria falls national park.

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Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary located in the Narok County of Kenya. Named after the Maasai people, the area’s indigenous inhabitants, and the Mara River which divides it, this reserve is globally renowned for its exceptional wildlife population, picturesque landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. Spanning approximately 1,510 square kilometers, the Maasai Mara offers visitors an unforgettable opportunity to witness the beauty of nature at its finest.

Established in 1961, the Maasai Mara National Reserve forms a part of the greater Mara ecosystem, which also includes the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. The reserve is situated at an altitude of 1,500 to 2,170 meters above sea level, providing a variety of habitats to support its diverse wildlife population. The area experiences two rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains from November to December.

The Maasai Mara is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the famous “Big Five” – African elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Additionally, it hosts over 450 bird species, including vultures, marabou storks, and ostriches. The reserve is globally renowned for the annual Great Migration, during which over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Mara River in search of greener pastures between July and October.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. With its unparalleled natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural experiences, a visit to the Maasai Mara is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Activities to Do in The Mara

Walking safari, horseback safari, wildlife photography.

MAASAI MARA FACTS

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the world’s most famous and important wildlife conservation and wilderness areas. Here are some facts about it:

Great Migration

People & culture, why visit the maasai mara, extraordinary wildlife, luxury safari lodges and camps, breathtaking landscapes, the great migration, get in touch, +254113420342, [email protected], maasai mara national reserve, narok county, kenya., monday - sun: 06:00- 18.00, send us a message we will get back to you..

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• Masai Mara Safari

The ultimate guide to your next Masai Mara Safari

Get to know masai mara.

By Matthys van Aswegen

Safari Travel Planner

A first-rate Masai Mara safari experience brings together abundant big cat sightings with the chance to see the annual wildebeest migration.

The Masai Mara Reserve is known worldwide for its abundance of cats, portrayed by numerous wildlife documentaries.

The profusion of cats and the annual Great Migration that enters the reserve from July to October makes for concentrated wildlife interaction.

Places like the Musiara Swamp, Rhino Ridge, and Topi Plains are some of the most famous locations. The best places for migration safaris are the banks of the Mara or Talek rivers or the confluence of the two.

Combine your visit to the reserve with a stop at the neighboring private conservancies, where numbers are more controlled and walking safaris, night drives, and off-road driving are allowed.

A Masai Mara safari can be a wonderful experience but disappointing if not well-planned.

Many lodges bring hordes of visitors into the reserve during peak season, from July to the end of September, so get an expert to book somewhere that suits your taste.

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Why Maasai Mara?

• It’s home to the amazing seasonal Wildebeest Great Migration
• It hosts the highest concentration of big cats
• It offers spectacular Birdwatching Safaris
• Rich culture and historic Maasai Mara experiences

Where to go in Maasai Mara

• Mara Triangle
• Masai Mara Conservancies
• Masai Mara National Reserve
• Ol Kinyei Conservation

The Mara River is a river in Kenya’s Narok County and Tanzania’s Mara Region that runs through the Maasai Mara/Serengeti environment and crosses the wildebeest migration path.

The Mara River basin spans 13,504km2 (5,214 square miles), around 65 percent in Kenya and 35 percent in Tanzania.

The river runs for roughly 395km (245mi) from its origins in the Kenyan highlands to Lake Victoria, where it springs from the Mau Escarpment. The basin may be split into four land use and/or administrative divisions.

The Mara River is the main barrier for wildebeest herd crossings in the middle of the year, but smaller breakaway groups also cross the Talek and Sand Rivers. As late as November, stragglers have been observed crossing the Talek.

The Mara Triangle is where the  Great Migration herds enter and depart the Masai Mara National Reserve from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, making it a perfect location to witness this incredible wildlife display.

The Mara Triangle has a hot air balloon launch point, and this aerial pastime is not to be missed. Flying high over the Mara plains as the sun sets turns the scenery golden and allows you to view wildlife from the air, an unforgettable experience. The hot air balloon flight can be arranged through your camp or resort.

While the Masai Mara National Reserve is the focal point of the Greater Mara Ecosystem, several conservancies were established that border the unfenced national reserve in the last decade.

These conservancies are on private land owned by Maasai families that has been set aside for wildlife conservation and tourism.

The landowners lease their land to safari companies and lodges, who then pay monthly fees, which go back into the community, funding education and other development initiatives.

In return, the Maasai are still allowed to graze their cattle on the land, but only under strictly controlled conditions.

As a result of the establishment of conservancies, Maasai communities have benefited from economic upliftment, while wildlife numbers have increased as land that was once overgrazed is now being rehabilitated as wilderness.

Mara conservancies are the best option for people wanting a low tourist density Masai Mara safari experience, as most of the concessions only have a few camps and don’t allow self-driving, so there’s a limit to how many vehicles will be at sightings.

The other bonus of staying in a conservancy is doing the activities that aren’t allowed in the national reserve, including bush dinners, night drives, off-road driving, and walking safaris , which are all fantastic ways to experience the wilderness and animals.

On walks in the bush, Maasai guides will track animals and teach you about the ecosystem, its fascinating animal, bird, and insect life, and the medicinal and cultural uses of plants.

The conservancies, which cover an area of land almost the same size as the national reserve itself, are concentrated around the northern end of the reserve. They also lie to the east of the Masai Mara in more remote locations.

By staying at a Maasai-owned conservancy, you not only experience the luxury of exclusive wildlife viewing but also contribute to community conservation, improving the lives of local communities and helping wildlife numbers to increase.

Mara North Conservancy

On the northwestern edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve, the 74 000-acre Mara North Conservancy is one of the best concessions for its abundant wildlife, quintessential savanna landscapes, and commitment to community conservation.

Projects here work to rehabilitate overgrazed land and natural habitats and support the management of grazing areas.

Game viewing is excellent, and particular highlights are big cat sightings and the dramatic herds of the Great Migration . Out of all the conservancies, it has the greatest number of camps – ten in total – but there’s still a lot of space and privacy, with nearly 700 acres per tent.

Mara Naboisho Conservancy

It’s easy to see why this 50 000-acre conservancy is hailed by many as the top concession in the Masai Mara for Safari.

To the north of the national reserve, the Mara Naboisho Conservancy has only seven camps (877 acres per tent), so there’s plenty of wilderness without other cars, and the environmental impact is limited.

Here the concentration of wildlife is high, with abundant big cats and herds of wildebeest, elephants, and giraffes. It also ticks all the boxes for successful community conservation.

The conservancy was established when more than 500 Maasai land-owning families decided to connect their land to allow for wildlife movement. The Maasai now practice controlled grazing to allow the land to recover from intensive herding.

Enonkishu Conservancy

At the northern end of the Greater Mara Ecosystem, the 6000-acre Enonkishu Conservancy is focused on improving cattle management so that the ecosystem and wildlife can regenerate and local communities have sustainable income from grazing and conservation fees.

Wildlife to spot includes plenty of plains game, giraffes, buffalo, elephants, and a pride of lions that lives on the edge of the conservancy.

Ol Kinyei Conservancy

With only two small camps (as well as two mobile camps) on its 18 700-acres of grassy plains and undulating hills, the Maasai-owned Ol Kinyei Conservancy provides ample privacy and exclusivity.

It offers superb wildlife viewing, with a resident lion pride and leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and more than 300 bird species. The camps in the conservancy also offer game drives in the neighboring Mara Naboisho Conservancy.

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

One of the oldest and most successful conservancies, Olare Motorogi (made up of the former Motorogi and Olare-Orok Conservancies), has been a blueprint for other concessions and community conservation in the Masai Mara.

It also offers exceptional wildlife viewing (with large numbers of lions and elephants), with one of the highest concentrations of animals and the lowest tourist densities in the Mara.

There’s a 94-bed limit on the conservancy with just one room per 700 acres on its 33 000-acres of riverine forest, valleys, and acacia woodland.

Olderikesi Conservancy

Along the eastern border of the national reserve close to the Serengeti in Tanzania, the 24 700-acre Olderikesi Conservancy is located in one of the most remote areas in the Masai Mara ecosystem.

It’s also one of the most exclusive concessions, as there are only 20 rooms on the entire conservancy – a distribution of one room per 1200 acres.

Olderikesi is your spot if you’re looking for solitude on your Masai Mara Safari. It’s also particularly rich in game and is known for fantastic lion, leopard, and cheetah sightings.

Mara Siana Conservancy

Recently established in 2015 by 1200 landowners, the 7898-acre Mara Siana Conservancy lies some distance from the Masai Mara National Reserve to the east.

If you want to get off the beaten track, this is a good option, as it’s more remote than some of the other conservancies and only has two lodging options.

In this secluded valley, there’s plenty of wildlife to be spotted, from prides of lions, herds of elephants, cheetahs, leopards, buffalo, and the occasional Black rhino and pack of wild dogs.

Loita Hills

Lying to the northeast of the Masai Mara, the little-visited mountain range of Loita Hills is home to Maasai communities and beautiful landscapes of immense plains, thick forests, verdant hills, and mountain peaks that loom up to 2150m (7054ft).

While this isn’t a conservation area, and there’s less wildlife than in the conservancies, there’s still game to be spotted, from buffalo and bushbuck to Colobus monkeys, as well as plenty of birds.

However, the main reason to visit Loita Hills is to witness the traditional Maasai culture, visit community projects and experience a walking safari with Maasai guides in an area where few other tourists venture.

There are a few options for walking safaris: staying at a base camp and doing day walks into the surrounding area or making a multi-day trip of up to 12 days staying at mobile camps with all your equipment and provisions carried by donkeys.

Loita Migration

While everyone has heard about the Great Migration, hardly anyone knows about the Loita Migration.

Around May, at the start of the dry season, a smaller movement of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and other antelope make their way from the Loita Plains (that lie to the north of the Masai Mara National Reserve) southwards into the reserve itself.

The animals move through the Mara Naboisho, Olare Motorogi, and Ol Kinyei Conservancies, so if you want to experience this mini version of the migration, book a stay at one of the camps in these concessions for your Masai Mara Safari.

Travel Tips

• The peak Great Migration months of August to October are especially busy in the Masai Mara, so be sure to book well in advance for lodging at conservancy camps.
• Keep in mind that many camps are small and intimate, so they only offer a few tented rooms and get booked up quickly.

• The best and easiest way to access lodges and camps on the conservancies is by flying into conservancies’ airstrips, where the lodge you’ve booked will have staff waiting to pick you up. You can drive to the conservancies, but you’re not allowed to self-drive inside the conservancy.
• If you stay in a conservancy, you can take game drives in the Masai Mara National Reserve to see the Mara River crossings during the Great Migration months.

Located in the far southwest of Kenya in the Great Rift Valley, the Masai Mara National Reserve is the East African country’s flagship park: a vast wilderness of abundant big game, spectacular landscapes and the scene of one of the planet’s most dramatic wildlife migrations. The reserve is named after the Maasai people, a semi-nomadic tribe of pastoralists who have long inhabited the region, and their word to describe this landscape – “mara” – which means “spotted” – a reference to the trees and bushes, as well as the shadows of passing clouds, that dot the plains.

The Masai Mara was established in 1961 as a wildlife sanctuary and today it encompasses an area greater than 370 000 acres, with no fences between the park and the neighbouring wilderness of the Serengeti National Park, across the border in Tanzania. The national reserve is only a small part of the Greater Mara Ecosystem, which also includes group ranches, community land and private conservancies.

The Masai Mara is one of the best places in Africa to see wildlife: the concentrations of game here are astounding. Resident in the reserve are the Big Five (although not many rhinos, and they’re hard to spot), as well as huge herds of plains game, hippos and crocodiles in the rivers and more than 500 species of birds. The reserve is particularly famous for its big cats – lions, leopard and cheetah – and the nature documentary show BBC’s Big Cat Diary was shot on the reserve’s plains. While the wildlife viewing at almost any time of the year is superb, the Masai Mara is best visited during the months of the Great Migration, when millions of zebra, wildebeest and gazelle make their way north into the park from the Serengeti, crossing the Mara River in search of fresh grazing. Watching vast herds of animals on the move, as well as the thrilling kills by the big cats that pursue them, is one of the most exciting safari experiences you can have, and it’s no wonder that the Great Migration is at the top of most safari travellers’ bucket lists.

Apart from wildlife, the landscapes of the Masai Mara are stunningly beautiful: the classic Out of Africa backdrops of seemingly never-ending savanna studded with photogenic acacia trees. To the west, the park is bordered by the Oloololo Escarpment, a dramatic plateau, while the rest of the park is made up of rolling grasslands, acacia woodlands, riverine forest and rocky hills.

Two major rivers – the Talek and the Mara – cut through the Masai Mara National Reserve, splitting it into three sectors: the Sekenani Sector, which lies to the east of the Talek River, the Musiara Sector, which is sandwiched between the two rivers, and the Mara Triangle, which is west of the Mara River. The Musiara and Sekenani Sectors are controlled by the Narok County Council, while the more remote Mara Triangle is administered by a non-profit conservancy company, the Trans Mara County Council.

Musiara Sector offers great game viewing in the Musiara Marsh, as well as some of the most spectacular wildebeest crossings at the Mara River. In the southeast of the park and bordered by the Sand, Talek and Mara Rivers, the Central Plains makes up the largest part of the reserve. The expansive grasslands of the Central Plains attract vast herds of plains animals, especially during the Great Migration from August to October, while the area is also famed for exciting big cat sightings. Within the Central Plains, the savanna of Paradise Plain is prime cheetah territory, while Rhino Ridge for black-backed jackals, spotted hyena and bat-eared foxes. Head to Lookout Hill for incredible panoramas of the Olpunyaia Swamp and sightings of hippo, as well as for scenes of wildebeest crossing the river during the months of the migration. As the closest area to Nairobi and with a huge number of lodges, hotels and camps, the Central Plains is the most popular area of the reserve for tourists.

The Masai Mara’s rivers are home to hippos and massive Nile crocodiles, as well as many species of waterbirds, while the Mara River, which wends its way through the national reserve, plays host to the biggest pods of hippos and also to the perilous crossings of wildebeest during the Great Migration.

One of the biggest mammal migrations on the planet, the Great Migration (otherwise known as the Great Wildebeest Migration), sees around two million wildebeest, gazelle and zebra – followed by hungry predators – move between the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania north to the Masai Mara National Reserve between June and September in search of fresh grass after seasonal rains. It’s been called the Eighth Wonder of the World and it’s easy to see why: the sheer scale of the herds is quite literally breath taking, and the everyday dramas of survival, hunting and attacks by predators are among the most thrilling wildlife sightings you can have. The most sought-after scenes from the Migration are the dangerous river crossings that the animals make across the Mara River, which usually take place in July and August in the Masai Mara. With a choice of lodges and camps near the Mara River, you’ll be able to stay close to the action, and spend game drives travelling between different crossing points on the river.

Going for a hot air balloon ride at dawn above the plains of the Masai Mara is an unmissable experience. Getting a bird’s eye view of the endless savanna dotted with game is definitely one way of taking your safari up a notch. There are several companies that offer sunrise balloon flights and trips can be booked through your lodge and the price includes transfers from your lodge as well as a champagne breakfast when you land.

Make a visit to a traditional Maasai manyatta (village) to learn more about the fascinating culture and history of the semi-nomadic people who call the Mara home. Learn about daily life in the manyatta and some of the traditional rituals and ceremonies that make up Maasai culture and see the villagers singing and dancing – the Maasai are famous for their jumping dance, where the warriors come together in a circle with one dancer in the centre jumping higher and higher along to the singing voices of the warriors. You’ll also be able to buy some of the exquisite and distinctive beaded jewellery pieces that the Maasai wear – a perfect souvenir or gift to take home.

If you want a unique experience in the Masai Mara, consider a Maasai homestay: spending a night or two in a Maasai manyatta just outside the reserve’s gates. You’ll get to see what daily life is really like for a Maasai community by helping out with village chores such as milking cows, and learning to make jewellery, but you’ll also get to spend time in nature doing bush walks with a Maasai guide.

• As one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations, the Masai Mara gets very busy, especially during the peak months of the year from June to September, when the Great Migration takes place, and during the Christmas holidays. The busiest region of the park is in the southeast, near the Talek, Sekenani and Olumuna gates, where there’s a spread of large hotels. The central part of the reserve is also particularly full during the Great Migration.
• The south of the Mara River has the park’s concentration of hotels and lodges, with 5000 beds, whereas to the north of the river there are only 500 beds. If you want to escape the crowds, head to the Mara Triangle in the west or stay in a camp on one of the many private conservancies that border the park to the north. Another way to avoid the crowds is to travel in early June or during October, when you’ll still have superb wildlife sightings but you’ll be sharing them with far fewer other cars. Early December is another great time of year to visit the Masai Mara – while you’ll have a bit of rain, the park is very quiet, and you’ll have the bonus of lush green landscapes and migratory bird species. It’s a good idea to book far in advance for lodging during the busiest months of June to October, but you should think about reserve a year in advance for accommodation and tours during the Great Migration – although you can also find some great last-minute offers.
• While there’s a general pattern for the movement of the Great Migration herds each year, the exact timing of the movements can be hard to predict, because it all depends on seasonal rainfall. There’s also no exact route that the herds take: large numbers of animals trek across the Mara River, crossing from the Serengeti into the Masai Mara and moving through the Mara Triangle in the west of the park, then turning east and crossing the Mara River again to move into the Sekenani and Musiara sectors of the park. The herds then make their way north into the conservancies that border the national reserve until the rains start in the Serengeti again and the animals start to move back south to Tanzania in search of fresh grass.
• To help you follow the herds, we have developed a web-based app – HerdTracker – which plots the exact location of the wildebeest migration in real time to a Google map. Sourced from pilots who fly over the parks, as well as local rangers and safari guides on the ground, HerdTracker works out the distances between the migrating herds and the camps and lodges in the Masai Mara (and the Serengeti across the border in Tanzania), which gives you the chance to find last-minute lodging as close to the herds as possible. We also have a live availability calendar to help you see which lodge still has last-minute rooms.

• Most travellers who come to the Masai Mara book an all-inclusive package which covers lodging, food, transport to and from the park and activities such as game drives. Booking a package is the most cost-effective way to travel to a pricey safari destination. If you’re travelling independently, you can hire a car and a driver to travel to the park from Nairobi (a six-hour drive) or from the closest town of Narok (three hours’ drive away) and to travel around the park. You can also travel on public transport to the park from Nairobi and Narok, although many lodges will be able to organise transfers. The most convenient and hassle-free way of getting to the park is by flying in – either to a camp’s private airstrip or to one of the several landing trips spread around the park, where your lodge’s game drive vehicle will be waiting to pick you up.

It offers superb wildlife viewing, with a resident lion pride and leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and more than 300 bird species.

The camps in the conservancy also offer game drives in the neighboring Mara Naboisho Conservancy.

Travel with Confidence

With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you tailor your itinerary to your perfect adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular masai mara safaris, these recommended tours for masai mara can be tailor-made to match your budget..

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When is the best month to travel to masai mara.

• Masai Mara in January

• There’s less rain in January than in December, with an average of 15 days of rainfall in the month. If it does rain then it’s usually a short shower in the afternoon. January is one of the warmest months of the year, and day time temperatures can reach 28C, with nights dropping to a minimum of 12C.
• January is a great month to visit the Masai Mara if you’re a birder: the birdwatching at this time of year is superb and there are many migratory species to spot. It’s also the birthing season, so this is the time to go to the Mara if you’d like to see baby animals taking their first steps.
• Masai Mara in February

• February gets more rain than January, with an average of 17 rainy days a month. Temperature wise, it’s the same as January: average highs of 28C and average night-time lows of 12C.
• February is a good month to visit the Masai Mara if you want to see lots of baby animals (up to half a million wildebeest are born this month), and you don’t mind afternoon thundershowers. Wildlife viewing is good, and birdwatching is excellent, with many migratory species present in the park.
• Masai Mara in March

• March is a rainy month. Nearly every day of the month will have afternoon thundershowers and there may be continuous rain.
• High rainfall in March means that roads get very muddy and can be challenging to drive on, and some camps close down until May. The park sees fewer visitors this month, while the landscapes are lush and green. A highlight in March is spotting migratory birds.
• Masai Mara in April

• April is the wettest month of the year, with an average of 23 days of rain. It’s slightly cooler than March but still warm with average maximum highs of 26C.
• Because it’s so wet, the roads can be tricky and some lodges close down, making April one of the least ideal months to visit the Masai Mara. On the plus side, it is the low season so you can get discounts on lodging and there are far fewer other tourists so the park is much quieter. It’s also the last month to spot migratory bird species.
• Masai Mara in May

• There’s slightly less rain in May than in April, but it’s still one of the wettest months of the year. May marks the start of several slightly cooler months (with average daytime highs are 25C), lasting until September.
• May isn’t an ideal time to visit the Masai Mara because of the amount of rainfall making wildlife viewing and driving around the park more challenging. Some lodges and camps are also closed because of the rain. One plus of visiting at this time of year is discounted rates for package tours and lodging and far fewer visitors to share sightings with.
• Masai Mara in June

• After the rainy season months of March to May, June is much drier – down from 20 days of rain to an average of 12 days of rain during the month.
• June marks the start of the busy season in the Masai Mara – the weather is dry, and the days are cooler than at other times of the year, and the wildlife viewing is excellent, although the majority of the herds of the Great Migration have not yet arrived.
• Masai Mara in July

• Along with August, July is the coolest month of the year, and night times can dip below 10C so bring along warm clothes and lots of layers for early morning game drives. Day time temperatures are pleasantly warm. July is also the driest month of the year, with an average of only 11 days of rain.
• In July the herds start moving into the Masai Mara from the Serengeti at the start of the Great Migration so it’s an ideal month to travel to the park if you want to witness the thrilling spectacle. The lack of rain at this time of year also means that the bush is thinning, making it easier to see animals. The downside of travelling in July is that it’s one of the busiest months of the year: prices go up and sightings can be very crowded.
• Masai Mara in August

• August is one of the driest months of the year, and has the same cooler temperatures of July: average lows at night of 11C and highs during the day of 25C.
• August is very popular time for people to visit the park to witness the daily dramas of the Great Migration. As the dry season progresses, it becomes easier to see animals in the thinning bush. In terms of wildlife viewing, it’s hard to beat. Along with September, it’s the busiest and most expensive month to visit the reserve.
• Masai Mara in September

• September is slightly warmer than August, going up to an average daytime high of 27C, however, nights can be as chilly as 12C so bring along warm gear. September remains in the dry period, with little rain to disrupt game viewing.
• Together with August, September is the most popular month to visit the Masai Mara (expect lots of other tourists and the highest prices of the year), as the spectacle of millions of animals moving in the Great Migration is in full swing.
• Masai Mara in October

• October is one of the warmest months of the year, but luckily temperatures don’t rise much above an average of 28C during the day. It’s also a relatively dry month with little rainfall.
• October is a wonderful month to visit the Masai Mara, as the majority of the herds from the migration are in the park, but there are fewer visitors, so viewings aren’t as crowded as August and September.
• Masai Mara in November

• November marks the start of the second rainy season of the year – the so-called “short rains”. With an average of 20 days of rain this month, you’ll likely to see thundershowers on most days of your visit, although they are often only short afternoon rain showers, after which the skies clear up.
• November is a good time to visit the Masai Mara to catch the end of the migration as the herds start making their way back down to the Serengeti in Tanzania. It’s a good month for birders too, as migratory bird species begin to arrive in the park. The only downside can be the rain but the thundershowers are usually short bursts of rain in the afternoon and are unlikely to disrupt your game viewing too much.
• Masai Mara in December

• December falls during the “short rains” – the second rainy season of the year – in the Masai Mara, and sees and average of 17 days of rain during the month. While the rain can be heavy, it usually only pours for a short time in the late afternoon and shouldn’t affect your game viewing too much.
• Longer grass from the rain makes wildlife viewing a little more challenging this month, although December is a fantastic month for birdwatching in the Masai Mara as the migratory species can be spotted. The birthing season which is called “Toto Time” starts this month, so if you fancy seeing baby animals being born and taking their first steps then plan on visiting the park between December and February. It’s less busy in early December than during the peak months of June to October, but it gets very busy in the park during the Christmas holidays.

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Faqs about maasai mara.

• Safari lodges have guest rooms similar to a hotel with en-suite bathrooms. They are comfortably furnished with facilities normally associated with a hotel rooms, except your rooms are normally set in beautiful wilderness settings, with nature and wildlife around.
• Tented lodges have rooms which are tents on a platform and with a roof and also have en-suite facilities with showers, flush toilets and hot water. Basically all the amenities of a hotel room, except canvas walls and roof.
• The boutique lodges and camps can be very stylish and smart in terms of design and decor, often with very spacious rooms and even going so far in some cases as having plunge pools for each room.
• Eco-camps and smaller tented camps have insect-proof tents with en-suite facilities including a safari shower and flush toilet.  They give a more authentic safari experience but the tents are comfortably furnished with proper beds and you don’t need to bring your own sleeping bag! The emphasis is usually on having excellent guides and great wildlife viewing away from the crowds. Guests often eat together and people travelling alone usually say that they found the atmosphere friendly and enjoyed meeting other like-minded travellers around the campfire in the evening or at dinner.
• The Adventure Camps are a budget option with guests bringing their own sleeping bags and towels. Accommodation is in small dome tented with a mattress on the floor. Each tent has its own nearby cubicle with a flush toilet, safari shower, and wash basin. The Adventure Camps are suitable only for those who don’t mind “real camping” and can put with some degree of “roughing it”. Apart from the accommodation in simple dome tents, the meals and the guiding are the same standards as the higher quality camps and game drives are in 4x4 safari vehicles. For those on a limited budget, the Adventure Camps are a good alternative to the big tourist lodges and minibus tours for those for whom the safari experience is more important than hotel accommodation.

Our Recommended Activities in Maasai Mara

• Masai Mara Adventure

The breadth and diversity of lodging and activities offered in the Masai Mara National Reserve means that every kind of traveller is catered for. Solo travellers will find it easy to join up with group tours that run the gamut from budget-friendly camping trips to all-out luxury with all the special touches, adventurous travellers will be able to self-drive in the park and pitch their tents in a campsite, families will find child-friendly lodges with a host of kids’ activities, while travellers looking for a romantic holiday will be pampered at luxury camps that are well-geared for intimacy and romance, with private pools and decks, beautiful rooms and indulgent extras such as private champagne breakfasts for two in the bush.

Travellers who are looking to experience the Masai Mara without lots of other vehicles around sightings should consider the Mara Triangle. There’s a limited choice of lodging options: the lodge is large and offers a lot of facilities – so would be better suited to families and solo travellers looking to meet other travellers – while the camp is small and intimate, which would be perfect for romantic travellers. Alternatively, there are 10 camps located in private conservancies outside of the Mara Triangle that offer game drives in the area, so staying outside the Triangle itself is also an option.

Adventurous travellers on self-drive trips will love the Mara Triangle, as this is the only place in the reserve where you can pitch your own tent. It’s also easier to self-drive in this sector.

Travellers – whether solo, family, adventurous or romantic – looking to get a bit off the beaten track and escape the crowds of the national reserve should book a stay at a private conservancy for their Masai Mara trip. Solo travellers looking for peace and quiet should look at staying at one of the smaller camps in a conservancy, while adventurous travellers will enjoy doing activities such as bush walks which are not permitted in the national reserve. Families are well catered for at some lodges and camps in the conservancies – just do your research to find out which ones have family tents or rooms and offer special kids’ activities. Romantic couples and honeymooners will find the intimate camps of the conservancies perfect for a special safari holiday.

See Maasai Mara in Your Comfort

• Affordable Safari in the Masai Mara
• Budget Masai Mara Safari
• Masai Mara Luxury Safari

The most cost-effective way to do a mid-range trip to the Masai Mara is to join a safari tour which offers transport, a guide and lodging as part of the package.

For those travelling independently, you have a lot of options for mid-range lodging. Outside of the park gates you’ll find the best selection of mid-range lodges, camps and hotels but there are also some excellent mid-range options inside the park. The eastern region of the park has the best concentration of value-for-money lodges and camps, but it is the busiest area of the park, so be prepared to share sightings with many other cars, especially during the peak months. Considerations to keep in mind are the size of the camp or lodge. If you’re looking for peace and quiet in the bush, book a smaller camp with only a few tents or rooms, rather than one of the 150-bed lodges.

If you want a good deal on lodging, avoid travelling during the peak months of August and September and instead travel during October and November instead, when you’ll still be able to see the migration but lodge prices are lower. If you don’t mind muddy roads and rain, travel during the wettest months (the low season) of April and May, when you can pick up great deals on discounted lodge rooms.

The Masai Mara is an expensive destination and everything from daily park fees to lodging is pricey, however, you do have some choices when it comes to planning a budget trip. The best budget-friendly way to travel is on a group safari and stay in campsites: your transport, guide, park entrance fees and meals are included in the package price.

You can travel to camps on the outskirts of the park on public transportation from the town of Narok and then book game drives into the park from your camp. There are a number of campsites outside the park gates – the least expensive lodging option – where you can either bring your own tent, rent a tent or pay more to sleep in a permanent erected tent. Another lodging option is to organise a homestay and spend the night with a Maasai family in a village outside of the park.

Some adventurous travellers prefer to hire their own 4×4 (and rent camping equipment from Nairobi) and explore the park on their own steam, staying at campsites outside the park or in the Mara Triangle. Having your own vehicle gives you plenty of freedom, and camping in the bush is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in nature. Be aware that the roads leading into the Masai Mara National Reserve are in bad condition – particularly between the town of Narok and the Talek and Sekenani Gates. It’s good to have some 4×4 driving experience in Africa and understand the rules of the park if you’re driving yourself: don’t ever go off road, and leave the wildlife plenty of space.

Inside the park, your camping options are limited to the Mara Triangle, where you can stay in either the public campsite or special campsites (which need to be reserved in advance). If you’re camping inside the park you need to be entirely self-sufficient and take in all of your own food, water and firewood.

Prices in the Masai Mara are highest during the peak migration months of August and September and lowest during the rainy season of April and May, so if you’re looking to pick up good deals on lodging, consider travelling during the wettest months of the year.

There’s no shortage of luxury lodging in the Masai Mara, so you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to picking a superb place to stay, whether it’s an intimate tented camp or a stylish lodge. Upmarket camps and lodges usually offer fully-inclusive packages that encompass all your meals and activities, such as twice-daily guided game drives, and if you’re on a concession, then night drives and bush walks. Extra activities such as hot air balloon rides can also be arranged through your lodge. From high-end properties you can expect fabulous locations stylish décor, lots of attention to detail, excellent service and amenities such as infinity swimming pools and spas.

To escape the crowds don’t stay in one of the large hotels in the east of the park but rather at one of the camps in the Mara Triangle in the west, or for even more exclusivity, book your trip at one of the luxury camps or lodges situated in one of the many conservancies that border the park. These private conservancies have a limit of the number of beds per hundreds of acres, as well as vehicle limit at sightings, so you’re guaranteed to avoid the cars that can pile up around a sighting in the Masai Mara itself.

For the ultimate Great Migration experience, stay at one of the mobile luxury tented camps which move position in the Greater Mara Ecosystem along with the herds of animals between July and October. These minimal footprint camps get you closer to the action than anything else, and you’ll get to experience the magic of camping in the bush – without actually camping. There’s no sacrificing comfort, as the spacious tents come with en suite bathrooms (flush toilets and hot bucket showers) and solar power, as well as communal dining and lounge tents decked out in rugs and antique furniture. Gourmet meals and attentive staff seal the deal. Mobile camps usually only have less than 10 tents, so you’re guaranteed an intimate experience that makes the most of an immersion in the wilderness.

Wherever you stay, consider hiring one of the top private freelance guides to the Maasai Mara – such as Jackson Looseyia, one of the presenters of BBC show Big Cat Diary – who will join you for all of your game drives and enhance your wildlife viewing immeasurably.

By far the easiest (and most luxurious) way of getting to the Masai Mara, or any of the conservancies, is by flying in on a scheduled or chartered plane. Some camps have their own private airstrip but if they don’t then you’ll be able to land at one of the landing strips scattered around the park, and your camp will arrange a pick up and transfer. If you’re travelling around Kenya after your Masai Mara safari, you’ll be able to fly to Mombasa or Malindi on the coast, as well as other safari destinations, or to Nairobi.

While you can organise your own luxury Masai Mara safari, many travellers prefer to have a tour operator put together a tailor-made package of flights, guides and safari lodges. Going through a tour operator will take a lot of the hassle out of arranging the trip, and also ensure that you’re staying at the right lodge or camp at the right time of year to see the best of the park’s wildlife.

Who is Travelling to Maasai Mara with you?

• Family Safari in the Masai Mara
• Masai Mara Honeymoon
• Solo Travel in the Masai Mara

A family holiday in the Masai Mara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that your kids will never forget. Exploring one of Africa’s greatest wilderness areas seeing elephants, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffes and massive herds of antelope against photogenic savanna backdrops will enchant kids of all ages. The Masai Mara is also one of Africa’s best safari destinations for families because of the ease of spotting game on the open plains, the thrilling dramas of the Great Migration scenes, and a host of child-friendly places to stay.

Having the perfect family holiday in the Masai Mara is all about where you stay. Research family-friendly lodges (some lodges have minimum age limits) and be sure to book one that offers family tents or rooms (with their own dining and lounge areas), kids’ activities such as nature walks, treasure hunts, bow and arrow shooting, fire making, storytelling and special extras such as kids’ adventure clubs.

Consider staying at a lodge or camp on a conservancy where you can do guided bush walks, to give the kids a break from long game drives (walks are not permitted in the national reserve). Some lodges offer child minding services but these usually need to be requested before your trip. Most upmarket lodges and camps that allow children will be able to cook child-friendly meals.

Another option for families is renting one of the private houses on conservancies bordering the Masai Mara. These houses – which come with their own team of staff – can only be booked exclusively, which means you’ll have privacy as well as more freedom for the children.

If you have young children, it’s a good idea to book a private game drive vehicle for your family, so that you can tailor the length of your game drives and choose your own schedule (usually morning game drives start very early) and also not disturb other guests.

Keep in mind that many camps and lodges are unfenced, so you need to keep a careful eye on your children and not let them wander around on their own.

Doing a fly-in safari is the easiest option if you have small children, as the drive to the Masai Mara from Nairobi is long and on bumpy roads. It’s a short flight on scheduled or chartered planes from Nairobi (and other destinations in Kenya) to the airstrips in the reserve or in the conservancies. You won’t need your own car once you’re in the reserve as most lodges and camps offer guided game drives, and will pick you up from the airstrip.

As with any African travel with kids, make sure that you get any required vaccinations at least six months before you travel. The Masai Mara is a malarial area, and you should consult your doctor about the necessary prophylactics. The most important thing is to prevent being bitten, so always dress your kids in long-sleeved shirts and trousers and spray with mosquito repellent – especially around dawn and dusk – and use a mosquito net when sleeping.

If you’re looking for a romantic safari destination , the Masai Mara will tick all of your East African safari fantasies: quintessential savanna landscapes, an abundance of animals and big cats, the drama of the Great Migration, as well as excellent camps and lodges that add special touches for Masai Mara honeymooners or romantic couples.

For the ultimate Masai Mara Honeymoon, prioritise exclusivity and intimacy when choosing your camp or lodge. Rather than staying at one of the massive lodges in the eastern section of the park – some of which have 150 beds – pick a small camp that has less than 10 tented rooms on your Honeymoon Masai Mara Safari.

A great option for romantic couples who want to escape the crowds of the Masai Mara is staying in one of the many private conservancies that border the reserve, which offer the same superb wildlife viewing and photogenic landscapes, but with a restricted number of beds per acre and a limited number of vehicles per sighting, which makes for a much more exclusive wilderness experience on your Kenya Honeymoon experience.

Mobile tented camps are also a wonderful option for a Safari Honeymoon in the Masai Mara, as they are usually very small, with only a few beds, and give you the chance to experience life under canvas in remote locations – but with the creature comforts of hot bucket showers, flush toilets, five-star quality food and stylish furnishings.

The best of the luxury camps – whether on a conservancy or in the reserve itself – combine incredible settings with romantically designed rooms – think lots of privacy, open-air bathrooms, private plunge pools, and, at one camp, even a four-poster bed under the stars. You can also book private game drives for more wilderness time without other guests.

The special experiences that camps can organise for romantic couples on their Masai Mara Honeymoon to make your stay even more memorable include private champagne breakfasts in the bush, couples’ massages, sundowner cocktails in spectacular locations, private candlelit dinners on your balcony or deck and sunrise hot air balloon rides for two.

Solo travel in the Masai Mara is an exciting adventure in one of the world’s top safari destinations, whichever way you choose to travel.

Self-drivers will have the freedom to explore the park on their own, while if you would prefer to join up with a group, there are plenty of options for organised tours, ranging from budget-friendly safaris where you stay at campsites, all the way up to the most luxurious and exclusive camps and lodges. Travelling on a tour is by far the most affordable way to experience the Masai Mara. Independent travellers looking to meet other travellers will have opportunities to socialise with other people at their lodge or camp either on game drive or at dinner (some camps do communal dinners).

If you’re looking to stay in a big hotel or lodge with lots of facilities, then pick a property in the eastern sector of the park or outside the park gates, as this is where the biggest concentration of large hotels is. For a quieter wilderness experience, choose to stay at a lodge in either the Mara Triangle or on one of the private conservancies, where guest numbers are limited and camps tend to be small and intimate.

What You Need To Know

• Welcome to the Masai Mara
• Highlights of the Masai Mara
• Wildlife in the Masai Mara
• Masai Mara Weather

Kenya’s flagship park, the Masai Mara National Reserve, is one of Africa’s finest wildlife destinations where quintessential safari landscapes of vast acacia-dotted savannas teem with animals. The stellar highlight of the Masai Mara is, without a doubt, the Great Migration, an annual movement of millions of wildebeest, gazelle and zebra migrating between neighbouring Tanzania the Kenyan park. Seeing the dramatic daily scenes of the Great Migration – the massive, noisy herds, the animals making the perilous crossing of the crocodile-infested Mara River and the thrilling big cat hunts – are among the best and most exciting wildlife experiences you can have in Africa.

Apart from the Great Migration, the Masai Mara has excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year, and sightings of four of the Big Five – leopard, lion, elephant and buffalo – are pretty much a given, making it a perfect first timer’s safari destination. The Mara is famous for its leopard, lion, and cheetah, but there’s plenty more game to see on the wide-open plains, from giraffe and eland to smaller predators such as bat-eared fox, spotted hyena and black-backed jackal.

While there’s a wide range of lodging options to accommodate all budgets, the Masai Mara’s luxury lodges and camps really stand out. Scattered across the park – in some truly spectacular remote locations – they offer a taste of the “Out of Africa” safari romance: tented rooms and suites that open right onto plains full of grazing animals, impeccable décor and antique furniture, four-poster beds, infinity pools and outdoor canvas bathtubs – as well as excellent service and well-trained guides who are not only experts at finding wildlife, but will also bring the bush to life with their storytelling skills. Luxury mobile tented camps that occupy different seasonal locations in the park give you the chance to get as close to the migrating herds as possible, without having to rough it. These camps combine an intimate low-key wilderness experience with luxury comforts: a recipe for the perfect safari.

While game drives are the focus of a Masai Mara safari, there are other plenty of other activities to include in your itinerary, from sunrise hot air balloon rides over the plains, cultural visits to local Maasai villages, picnics and sundowners in the bush, horseback rides, and visiting the locations from the film Out of Africa, while some lodges and camps offer a host of kids’ activities such as storytelling, bow and arrow shooting and fire making.

The Masa Marai National Reserve makes up just one part of the Greater Mara Ecosystem, which is also made up of community ranches and private conservancies owned by local Maasai, and which offer privacy and the exclusivity of limited numbers of visitors spread out across vast areas. As the Masa Mara has increased in popularity, many safari goers now choose to stay on these conservancies – many of which were established in the last 10 years – for the same wildlife experiences as the Mara but with far fewer other cars around. What’s also special about the conservancies is the option of doing walking safaris with Maasai guides, an exciting activity that is not on offer in the reserve. With their abundant game, spectacular scenery, commitment to community conservation and low tourism densities, the Masai Mara conservancies are now up there with East Africa’s best safari destinations.

Few places have a higher concentration of wildlife than the Masai Mara, and sightings of four of the Big Five are almost a guarantee on any trip (although rhino are harder to spot). The Mara is also one of the best reserves on the planet for seeing the three big cats: leopard, lion and cheetah. It’s no wonder that the BBC TV show Big Cat Diaries is filmed on the reserve.

Along with the Serengeti in Tanzania, the Masai Mara plays host to the greatest wildlife spectacle on Earth: the Great Migration. For most nature lovers, witnessing the movement of millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle across the Mara River and streaming through the vast plains of the Masai Mara, is one of the ultimate wilderness experiences. Seeing the daily dramas of survival and death are the stuff nature documentaries are made of.

The Masai Mara conservancies – private concessions which border the reserve and make up part of the Greater Mara Ecosystem – are reason alone to visit the safari area. These conservancies encompass nearly as much land as the national reserve and offer the same incredible wildlife densities – as well as the Great Migration herds – but without the crowds, as each conservancy adheres to a limited number of beds per acre.

The Maasai, one of Kenya’s most recognisable tribes, are part of what makes a visit to the Masai Mara so unique. These semi-nomadic pastoralists have a rich and fascinating culture and visiting a Maasai village or doing a homestay with a Maasai family can be one of the most memorable aspects of a trip to the Masai Mara. Many guides in the lodges and camps of the Mara are Maasai, and they share their superb tracking skills to wildlife spotting and a wealth of knowledge about the ecosystem, animals, plants and birds with guests. The private conservancies that border the national reserve are either owned by or leased from the Maasai, and the tourism industry provides important financial support to local communities as well as an incentive for continuing conservation projects and initiatives.

The Masai Mara has one of the best concentrations of game in the world and is the best reserve for spotting big cats – and that’s not to mention the legendary Great Migration that takes place here annually, providing the kind of dramatic scenes that you usually only see on nature documentaries. There’s plenty to the Masai Mara to warrant return trips.

As with any safari destination, there’s much to be said for returning to the Masai Mara at different times of the year for various natural attractions. The Great Migration months of July to October promise thrilling sights, but the other months of the year have their own attractions, such as migratory birds between November and April and baby animals being born during the rainier months of the year. Travelling during the quieter months of the year will also mean that you have more of the wilderness to yourself, as the migration period and the Christmas holidays can get incredibly busy, and it’s not uncommon to have many cars packed around a sighting.

The conservancies that border the Masai Mara are destinations in their own right, offering abundant game, spectacular scenery and the exclusivity of only a few camps over massive areas. If you stay inside the park itself on your first visit, it’s definitely worth returning to the Mara for a different experience on a conservancy and for the chance to do walking safaris.

The Masai Mara has wildlife in abundance: the reserve is home to the Big Five, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to see lion, leopard, buffalo and elephant on any trip, although black rhinos are harder to spot. The reserve is particularly famous for its populations of big cats, with one of the highest concentrations of lion in the world, as well as large numbers of leopard and cheetah. Other predators include spotted hyena, black-backed jackal and bat-eared fox, while antelope species include topi, eland, reedbuck, impala and Thomson’s gazelle. Masai giraffe – the largest subspecies of giraffe found only in Kenya and Tanzania – is easily spotted.

The Great Migration is the most famous wildlife spectacle in the world, and the reason that many people travel to the Masai Mara. Each year, millions of antelope move across the savanna from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara, crossing the Mara River and falling prey to predators along the way.

While the Masai Mara is more renowned for its wildlife than its birds, its varied habitats are still home to more than 500 species of birds, from kori bustards, ostriches and ground hornbills in the grasslands to saddle-billed storks and goliath herons in the swamps to Schalow’s turaco and Ross’s turaco in the riverine forest and seven species of kingfisher in the rivers. There’s an incredible diversity of raptor species – 57 recorded species – as well as seven species of vulture, while migratory birds arrive in the reserve in November and stay until April.

Located near to the equator in southern Kenya, the Masai Mara is warm year-round, with higher temperatures from October to March and slightly cooler weather from June to August. There are two rainy seasons: March to May (known as the “long rains”) – April being the wettest month – and November to December (known as the “short rains”). The months of June to October are the driest in the year.

Weather wise, the best time to visit the Masai Mara is from June to October for the low rainfall and comfortable day time temperatures, although wildlife viewing is good in the park all through the year.

A big consideration for timing your trip to the Masai Mara is witnessing the Great Migration at the best time. The annual movement of animals into the park changes every year based on rainfall, but in general the herds move into the Masai Mara from July to October, while August and September are the peak months to see the migration.

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2024 Guide to your Masai Mara Safari in Kenya: All you need to know!

The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular safari destinations in East Africa . Without a doubt, a Masai Mara safari in Kenya   guarantees a memorable experience with spectacular game drives and stunning landscapes. This article will guide you through everything you need to know for a safari in the Maasai Mara in Kenya.

Why is Masai Mara famous?

About 300,000 tourists visit the Masai Mara each year because of the abundance of wildlife and its iconic Savannah landscape with desert date trees. The Masai Mara National Reserve is also famous for the Great Migration , referring to large numbers of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles crossing the Maasai plains and the Mara River searching for food and water between Tanzania and Kenya.

The Masai Mara is home to Africa’s Big Five game animals , as well as other impressive animals like cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and more. The Masai Mara is widely known as the most famous and leading safari destination in East Africa. It’s a paradise for photographers and travelers who love nature.

Despite covering only 0.01% of Africa’s total landmass, over 40% of Africa’s larger mammals can be found in the Mara.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is named in honor of the Maasai people , an indigenous ethnic group of semi-nomadic people famous for their culture and traditions like the red clothes. Visiting a Masai village is another reason why people choose Masai Mara, Kenya for a safari in Kenya .

The beauty of the Maasai Mara’s Landscape

The Maasai Mara Game Reserve is characterized by endless open Savannah plains, dotted (acacia) trees, and rolling hills. The word ‘Mara’ means ‘spotted’ in the ‘Maa’, language, which refers to the landscape in the reserve. The Mara River runs through the Mara National Reserve, which provides the only permanent source of water in the dry season. The Mara River plays an essential role in the Great Migration and is home to many other African animals like Nile crocodiles and hippopotamus.

The Maasai Mara in Kenya also offers big dramatic skies, beautiful sunrises, and outstanding African sunsets, which are a photographer’s dream to capture. There are also tour operators that offer more specialized photo safaris in the Maasai Mara.

Where is the Masai Mara National Reserve located?

The Masai Mara National Reserve is located in Southern Kenya, along the Great Rift Valley , and covers a surface of 1,510 square km (583 square miles). It’s about 224 km from Nairobi, the Capital of Kenya. The Masai Mara National Park borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, both are part of the larger Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem. The Mara-Serengeti ecosystem is one of the largest and most protected ecosystems on Earth.

Map Source: Maa Trust

How to get to Masai Mara?

There are several options to get to the Masai Mara in Kenya. The two most popular options are overland by (private) transfer or by plane. Another option is booking a complete safari tour . Many tour operators offer Masai Mara Safari Packages that include transfers from and to Kenya's stunning Masai Mara.

If you travel on your own, without a Masai Mara tour, you have four options; by plane, a transfer (taxi), public transport, or a self-drive.

Masai Mara by plane

Flying is the quickest and most comfortable way to get to the Masai Mara, but also the most expensive one. The Nearest International Airport to the Masai Mara Kenya is the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. It’s a 45-60 minute flight from the Mara, depending on the part you are staying in.

Luxury safari accommodations in the Maasai Mara often offer a private transfer by plane, and most of them have a private airstrip. There are also daily flights to the Masai Mara from Nairobi Wilson Airport , provided by airlines like SafariLink and Air Kenya . The aircraft will land on an airstrip near your camp. After this flight, a driver needs to pick you up for a drive to your accommodation . The cheapest return ticket by plane will start at around 350 US dollars.

Private transfer by car to the Masai Mara

In my opinion, a private transfer or taxi is the best option to travel to the Masai Mara from Nairobi airport.  The drive will take about 5-6 hours, depending on where you are staying. I love this way of traveling as get to know the country better by traveling overland. By driving through various villages, you get a glimpse of how the people live, and what they sell along the streets. It’s the best way to learn about Africa. Another reason to take a (private) transfer is that you can sit back and enjoy the scenery plus the opportunity to stop and take photos at the greater Rift Valley viewpoint, the world's largest valley . The downside of traveling overland is that the roads can be bumpy, especially the last part when you enter the long gravel road to the Maasai Mara. Be prepared for an 'African massage'.

The average price of a single transfer from Nairobi to Masai Mara is about 120 - 150 US Dollars per person. There is always an option to negotiate if you are traveling in a group.

Masai Mara by Public transport

Traveling to the Masai Mara in Kenya by public transport might be the cheapest and Africa’s most authentic way but at the same time the most uncomfortable and challenging way. To get to the Masai Mara by public transport , you need to use a   local public transport bus, called a "Matatu". There is no direct connection from Nairobi to Masai Mara and the journey will take about 9-11 hours without technical problems.

To reach Masai Mara by public transport, you first need to travel from Nairobi to Narok. The buses from the transport operator ‘Narok Line’ embark from Nairobi’s ‘River Road’ area, in the Central Business District. The matatu buses in Kenya will only depart when they are full, so there are no scheduled departure times. It’s advised to be there at about 07.00 AM. You can expect a bumpy, dusty, and uncomfortable drive.

Easy Coach Bus

Another option is booking a bus ticket with Easy Coach LTD to Narok ($10), either online through the Easy Coach website (Mpesa payment only), or at one of their offices.

Note that Easy Coach isn't going to the Maasai Mara, but when you arrive at the bus station in Narok , you can either take a matatu or a taxi from there.

A taxi shouldn't cost you much more than $50 and you can often share a taxi. I tried this option myself, and it worked perfectly fine for me. I booked my ticket online (Nairobi to Narok) and could choose my seat. From Narok, I arranged a private taxi to the Northern Maasai Mara Conservancies (Lemek, Enonkishu, Ol Chorro). Get in touch if you need contacts for a private transfer!

Be aware that if you choose to go with a matatu, your luggage will be squeezed inside, and the buses are mostly dirty and old. The drive from Nairobi to Narok will cost about 3 USD without a tip for the driver. To continue your way to the Masai Mara, you need to take another matatu in Narok. The matatu from Nairobi drops you off at the top of a hill, 1.5 km away from the buses that depart to the Masai Mara. You can either walk or ask a motorbike driver to bring you to the ‘Naivas supermarket’, that’s where the buses depart.

To continue your journey to the Masai Mara, you need to take a bus towards Sekenani Gate , located on the eastern side of the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Make sure to have accommodation in this area and tell your driver where you’re staying before you leave Narok, so they know where to drop you. This second drive from Narok to the Masai Mara will cost about 5 USD excluding a tip for the driver.

Self drive in the Masai Mara

It is possible to do a self-drive in the Masai Mara , but it’s recommended to go with a local field guide who knows the area, the rules, and who understands the seasonal patterns and behavior of the animals. Roads toward and inside the reserve can be tough, and it can be quite complicated to find where to go in the Masai Mara.

If you choose to do a self-drive in the Masai Mara, you need to be well-prepared. Do your research about the areas in and around the reserve, within the Greater Masai Mara ecosystem , the different entrance gates, the fees, your car maintenance like refueling, and the road conditions.

Wildlife Course in the Maasai Mara

Have you ever considered doing a wildlife course in the Maasai Mara as an alternative to a regular safari trip?

If you are a nature and wildlife lover and want to enhance your knowledge of the natural world and African wildlife, a field guide course in the heart of the Maasai Mara is the perfect fit!

These wildlife courses - varying from 6 days to 1 year - are not only for the ones who pursue a career as a safari guide but for all nature enthusiasts who want to spend meaningful time in the African bush in order to get a better understanding of the natural environment and animal behavior. It's a great alternative to an 'ordinary' group safari trip, ticking off the Big Five as you will learn so much more from all the experienced trainers.

  I wrote an article about my personal experience of doing a wildlife course in the bush and 14 reasons to consider a safari guide course .

Since October 2021, I'm a qualified Field Guide (NQF2), and as a photographic tour leader, I offer private or small group photo safaris in Africa. Send me an e-mail at [email protected] to enquire about the possibility of going on a Kenya photo safari with me or if you want to receive more information about booking a wildlife course in the Maasai Mara .

The Best Time for Safari in Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara Kenya is an all-year-round safari destination   because of the excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year. In general, the best time to go on safari in Masai Mara is from July to October, during the dry season. During these months, the chances of sightings near waterholes and rivers are high and there is no or little rainfall.

The most popular time to visit the Masai Mara  is during July and August because of the highest chance of seeing the Wildebeest migration. At the same time, it’s the busiest and most expensive period to travel to the Masai Mara.

When planning your Masai Mara safari it’s important to be aware of the two rainy seasons . You can expect long rains from April to May and short rains in November and December. The advantage of the rainy season is that the scenery is green, which is great for birders. From October onwards, you can also be lucky to spot more newborns.

I love to plan my Masai Mara safari in June, September, October, or November.

    RELATED: What to pack for safari in Africa? Use this Safari Packing Guide !

The Great Migration in the Maasai Mara

During July and August, the Mara plains are full of wildebeest, zebra, and antelopes who migrate between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. Every year, more than 2 million animals are crossing the mighty Mara River in search of food and water. This world’s largest multi-species migration is a phenomenal wildlife viewing. While crossing the Mara River there’s always a high risk of getting caught by crocodiles and other predators.

This natural spectacle of the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara attracts many tourists every year and is the busiest - and most expensive - time in the Masai Mara. Therefore, it's advisable to plan your stay in advance if you want to view this natural phenomenon.

Fun Fact: Did you know the Wildebeest (or Gnu) is part of The Ugly Five animals of Africa? And that these five ugliest safari animals in Africa can all be found in the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the surrounding conservancies?

Is Masai Mara safe?

Safaris in the Masai Mara are safe, especially if your safari is primarily an organized tour or organized by your accommodation. For your safety, listen to the advice of your safari guide and make sure to follow the safety rules. The reserve itself is well protected by professionally trained and certified park rangers . The Mara is located far from agitated areas, so there’s no need to worry about safety in the Maasai Mara .

How many days do you need in Masai Mara?

A 3-day Masai Mara safari is the minimum to get the best out of your experience. It’s recommended to have at least two to four full days in the park to explore the variety of wildlife and sceneries. Many tour operators offer Masai Mara safari packages, which can be interesting because you don’t need to arrange everything on your own. If you have time, I recommend staying at two or three different lodges in different parts of the Mara and I also highly recommend booking a balloon safari .

  RELATED: What to expect on a hot air balloon safari?

Is Masai Mara expensive?

The Masai Mara is an expensive tourist destination . Depending on the style you are used to traveling, prices vary. Masai Mara Safari packages cover all costs for accommodation, fees for Masai Mara National Reserve, (private) guides, meals, the vehicle, fuel, and more.

For instance, a budget 3-day Masai Mara safari package starts at 270 USD per person sharing. Budget means staying in a budget camp and sharing a vehicle with a group of 6 to 12 persons. Luxury safaris in Masai Mara can easily cost 1000 USD per person per night.

If you are an adventurous traveler and want to arrange everything on your own, you can spare some money. However, the park fees of the Maasai Mara National Reserve are not negotiable and they are not cheap. Until 2023, they were 80 USD per persoon for non-resident adults, but increased up to 200 USD in 2024.

Park Entry Fees Masai Mara 2024

The Narok County Council has increased the Masai Mara entry fees for 2024 and they differ per season.

The entrance fee for Masai Mara in 2024 for non-resident adults varies from 100 USD from 1st January until 3th June 2024, to 200 USD per person for the daily entrance fee into the Masai Mara National Reserve from 1st July until 31st December 2024. Children from 9 to 17 years old pay 50 USD, and children under 8 can enter free of charge.

Here's an overview of the Masai Mara Park Entry Fees in 2024 :

• USD 100 per day, per adult
• USD 50 per day, per child from 9-17 years
• Children 8 years and below are free
• USD 200 per day, per adult

Which part of Masai Mara is best?

The two rivers of the reserve, the Mara River and Talek River , naturally divide the reserve into three parts; Sekenani, the Mara Triangle, and Musiara.

Mara Triangle

It takes some more effort to drive to the Mara Triangle because it’s more remotely located and only a few accommodations are based there. This part is less crowded, and it’s the gateway to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Especially during the Great Migration, it would be great to spend time in or near the Mara Triangle, but in general, I would suggest focusing more on the accommodation than the location in the Mara.

Mara Conservancies

Apart from the areas inside the reserve, several private conservancies border the Masai Mara National Reserve. These conservancies are also part of the Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem, all without fences so that the wildlife can roam freely from the Maasai Mara National Reserve into the conservancies and vice versa. If it suits your budget, it’s a lovely way to get a more exclusive experience and an abundance of wildlife. Examples of Mara Conservancies are Enonkishu Conservancy , Lemek Conservancy, and Naboisho Conservancy.

Which is better, Serengeti or Masai Mara?

Serengeti and Maasai Mara are both amazing safari destinations that share the same ecosystem, wildlife, climate, and types of landscapes but there are some differences. For example, The Serengeti National Park is larger than the Masai Mara National Reserve and also more expensive. The main reason for the price difference is that tourists stay inside the Serengeti, where you have to pay a daily concession fee in addition to the National Park fee (140 USD in total).

I honestly can't say which is better, the Serengeti or the Masai Mara. Both offer an outstanding safari experience, but my favorite is the magical Maasai Mara.

Is Masai Mara malaria free?

Malaria is sparse in the Masai Mara because of its altitude. Mosquitoes generally do not live at those elevations, but they can exist. On my last visit to the Masai Mara, I brought antimalarials but I didn't take them. I do use mosquito repellant and I wear long trousers when the sun starts setting. I'm not a doctor, so my best advice is to consult a doctor before heading to Africa.

Is Masai Mara fenced?

There aren't any fences between the Mara and Serengeti and the surrounding conservancies, so wildlife is free to roam throughout the land. Communities or private establishments use fences, but it can harm the animals. There is a lot of attention to preventing fencing in the area.

How to enter the Masai Mara National Reserve?

There are 6 entry gates to Masai Mara to make it easier to reach the beautiful National Reserve. Below you can find the 6 Masai Mara gates. Using the correct Masai Mara gate can save you hours of extra driving.

• Sekenani Gate , located on the Eastern border of the reserve
• Talek Gate , located on the Northwestern side of Masai Mara National Reserve
• Musiara Gate , located on the north-eastern side of the reserve, near Oloololo gate
• Oloololo Gate , located on the north-eastern side of the reserve, near Musiara Gate
• Ololaimutia Gate , located on the northeastern side of the reserve
• Sand River Gate , located on the southern end of Masai Mara national reserve

Where to stay in Masai Mara?

Where to stay in the Maasai Mara depends on your wishes and budget. In the southeastern part of the reserve, near the Talek, Sekenani, and Olumununa gates, you can find many accommodations varying from budget to luxury lodges.

We prefer staying at a private Mara conservancy . These exclusive conservancies have strict limitations on visitor numbers, they are smaller and often allow off-road driving. Most of the guides are local (Masai) people, who know the area very well. Last but not least, the population of wildlife is often higher because of strict conservation management. Below you can find examples of accommodation I have stayed at:

• Mid-Range : Wild Bandas , Enonkishu Conservancy
• Mid-Range :   Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge , Ololaimutia Hills, on the northeastern side of the reserve
• Luxury : Ashnil Mara Camp , Talek, Masai Mara National Reserve
• Luxury : House in the Wild , Enonkishu Conservancy

Is a safari in Masai Mara worth it?

Yes. a Masai Mara safari is totally worth it!  Whether it’s your first safari or one out of many, you won’t regret going (back) to the Mara. The amount of wildlife is stunning, the landscapes are wonderful, the guides and staff speak English, and you can join a cultural experience with the Maasai tribe.

Book a Maasai Mara Safari in Kenya

Looking for the best deals for a safari in the Maasai Mara operated by 5-star rated tour operators? Find interesting deals and Maasai Mara Safari Packages , ranging from budget safaris to luxury safaris.

Maasai Mara Safari in Kenya

In case you have any questions about planning your safari in Kenya or getting around in the Maasai Mara, feel free to contact me. If you are planning your first-ever safari, it might be useful to read the following articles:

• What to expect on a game drive in Africa? 15 things you need to know
• 7 tips to make the most out of your safari game drive
• If you're a keen photographer you might be interested in reading my tips for planning a photography safari in for example the Masai Mara
• What to pack for a safari in Africa? Use this Safari Packing Guide

I hope this article was helpful for you to plan your Maasai Mara safari itinerary. If so, I would be extremely thankful if you'd share this blog on social media and leave a comment below.

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Kenya | The Complete Guide to a Masai Mara Safari

The masai mara, in a few words, which animals can be spotted in the masai mara, safari adventure in the masai mara.

Internationally renowned for its abundant wildlife and iconic landscapes, the Masai Mara Reserve stands among Africa’s most breathtaking wildlife reserves. An undisputed destination for safaris, we decided to embark on our very first family safari adventure there…

What does a day on safari in the Masai Mara look like? Did we encounter the Big Five? You will find all the details down below 🦁

Ready to experience an unforgettable adventure on a safari in Kenya?

Let us design a tailor-made trip for you, with an itinerary and accommodations designed to meet all your expectations and budget.

Contact us now at [email protected] to receive your personalised quote!

Article Summary

The Masai Mara is a picturesque highland characterized by undulating terrain ranging from 1500 to 2180 meters. It derives its name from the indigenous tribe residing within its boundaries, namely the Masai people, and the flowing Mara River that meanders through its expanse.

In the Masai language, “mara” translates to “spotted” or “speckled”. Thus, the name “Masai Mara” can be interpreted as “ the lands of the Masai in a speckled landscape “, alluding to the scattered patterns formed by acacia trees and thorny bushes, which give the plains a spotted appearance.

Located in southwestern Kenya, seamlessly connected to Tanzania’s renowned Serengeti National Park, the Masai Mara National Reserve forms an integral part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem . With a sprawling expanse of over 1,500 km², the Masai Mara Reserve showcases gently rolling hills adorned with vast grassy savannahs and shallow marshland areas . Offering a less crowded experience than its Serengeti counterpart, this majestic haven encapsulates the allure of untamed wilderness.

One of the Masai Mara’s most spectacular attractions is the incredible wildebeest migration . Twice a year, millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and Thomson’s gazelles, traverse the reserve in search of fresh grazing lands. When faced with the daunting task of crossing the Mara River, these herbivores gather in herds, surpassing even 10,000 individuals, hesitating due to the presence of water and the lurking predators that await them.

Masai Mara History

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is situated on the ancestral lands of the Maasai , a semi-nomadic tribe who gracefully traverse the vast plains with their livestock in search of lush pastures. Living harmoniously alongside wildlife, the Maasai hunt solely for ceremonial purposes, occasionally targeting lions and resorting to buffalo during times of desperate hunger.

During the mid-19th century, eradicating the bovine plague and implementing conservation policies led to a significant increase in the number of cattle and local wildlife. In 1948, the Mara Triangle was formally established as a game reserve . The inaugural “hunting safaris” attracted hunters from all around the globe. However, the region was ultimately devastated.

In 1961, the Maasai Mara region had only 9 lions remaining . As a result, it was designated as a natural sanctuary under the administration of the Narok District Council. Over the years, this territory gradually expanded, bringing joy to the wildlife but negatively impacting the local populations. In 1974 , some lands were returned to the Maasai people, and the Maasai Mara was officially classified as a national reserve . Unlike national parks, it is not managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service but by local authorities.

In 1994, the district of Narok underwent division. The Maasai Mara faced numerous challenges with inadequate security measures, leading to rampant poaching and illegal grazing . Each year, thousands of animals fell victim to these activities. In 2001 , the Mara Triangle’s responsibility was entrusted to a non-profit organization, the Mara Conservancy , which has demonstrated remarkable success in combating poaching .

How to reach the Maasai Mara?

From Nairobi, one can reach the Maasai Mara by either plane or car.

The airplane is the fastest option (approximately a 45-minute flight from Nairobi) and the most convenient. Regular flights connecting Nairobi to any of the four airstrips near the reserve are usually operated by local airlines. The cost per person for a one-way ticket ranges between $150 and $300 , depending on the season and availability.

When driving , the journey between Nairobi and the Maasai Mara (+/- 240 kilometers) takes approximately 5 to 7 hours . The typical route involves taking the A104 road westward until Narok, then continuing southwest towards Sekenani. While the road is generally paved up to Narok, certain sections can be bumpy and challenging, especially during the rainy season.

➜ Self-driving is not as common as in Namibia, for example, but renting a 4×4 vehicle to reach the Maasai Mara is possible . However, for the safari within the reserve, it is highly recommended to enlist the services of an experienced guide . You have several options to choose from: book a game drive with your accommodation or lodge , hire a vehicle with a knowledgeable driver who will also serve as your guide during the safari, or seek assistance from a local ranger at one of the six access gates to the reserve (Oloololo Gate, Musiara Gate, Talek Gate, Sekenani Gate, Ololaimutia Gate, and Sand River Gate).

When is the best time to visit the Maasai Mara?

With sunny weather and excellent safari conditions (short grass, easy river crossings), the dry season (from January to March and from July to October) offers an ideal time for a safari adventure in the Maasai Mara. During the hot season (from December to March), temperatures range between 28° and 32°C. It’s best to visit in August or September to witness the annual wildebeest migration .

The rainy season typically occurs from April to June and November to December . While these periods offer greener landscapes and generally lower accommodation rates, frequent downpours can make driving conditions especially challenging.

With nearly 95 documented mammalian species within its boundaries, the Masai Mara reserve is home to a diverse array of iconic African wildlife:

• the “ Big Five ” (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceros, and buffalos), coined by trophy hunters due to the challenge of hunting them on foot. However, leopards and black rhinoceroses are considerably more elusive to observe…
• gnus and zebras traversing the reserve in search of lush grazing lands during the annual great migration
• giraffes, gracefully munching on acacia trees
• cheetahs , which are becoming increasingly difficult to spot, as there are reportedly only around thirty left in the Masai Mara
• hippopotamuses and crocodiles
• gazelles, antelopes, and other herbivores, such as impalas, topis, kudos, etc.
• over 500 species of birds

To maximize the chances of observing active wildlife, it’s advisable to begin a safari early in the morning . Just before sunrise, the alarm clock rings, nudging us from slumber. With the first light, the camp comes alive with the melodious symphony of birds and the calls of animals. Although nothing is yet visible, the atmosphere is electric! After hastily devouring breakfast, we ensure we haven’t forgotten anything (binoculars, cameras, water bottles) and embark on our first family safari adventure !

The camp is situated just a few kilometers away from Sekenani Gate. As our drivers handle the entrance fees, several Masai women gracefully approach our vehicles, offering to sell their beautifully crafted necklaces, bracelets, and other delightful souvenirs.

The reserve gates open, and as we step onto the trail, we are greeted by many animals. Just a few meters away, zebras, wildebeests, and impalas enjoy lunch . Amongst the trees, the giraffes gracefully indulge in their feast .

Our guide provides us with insights into the wildlife that surrounds us. He diligently observes signs of animal presence and fresh tracks and communicates with other guides to determine our next destination. As we traverse the plains, we immerse ourselves in the breathtaking beauty and vastness of the landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see .

When multiple voices resonate on the radio, excitement levels escalate in the car. The congregation of vehicles leaves no doubt: there is something to observe! After gathering information, it turns out a leopard is hiding with its prey at the base of a tree, deep in a small ravine .

Several drivers go above and beyond, disregarding the usual guidelines (no more than 5 cars near an animal, a minimum distance of 25 meters). The outcome: no one sees anything, and the animal hides even deeper 😒

The vehicles start to disperse as two hyenas emerge behind us …

Captivated by the leopard’s prey, the hyenas leave him no choice but to flee, relinquishing his meal. An apparition of spotted elegance swiftly emerges from the bush . Although the photo may be blurry, the memory it captures remains vividly real. 🐆

This time, we know we won’t see the leopard again. As we part ways with the hyenas indulging in their feast, we forge ahead with our exploration, eager to uncover new adventures.

Not far away, two other felines await us, lazily lounging in the shade of a tree. Several cars are once again present, but they keep their distance due to the cheetahs’ inactivity. Although we would have loved to witness the world’s fastest animal hunting a gazelle instead of napping, the moment remains truly magical 🤩

We are privileged to witness the sole surviving pair from the legendary Tano Bora . Derived from Swahili, “Tano Bora” symbolises the extraordinary alliance of five male cheetahs in the Masai Mara, renowned for their magnificence.

Indeed, male cheetahs are solitary animals. While they may sometimes form coalitions to defend a territorial area better, these social groups rarely exceed two or three individuals from the same litter. The Tano Bora coalition, consisting of two pairs of brothers from different families and a solitary cheetah, was exceptional .

For three years, Olpadan, the loner, led the coalition, organizing hunts that allowed them to tackle prey up to ten times their size . In 2019, he was attacked by his peers and received medical treatment from veterinarians before rejoining the coalition at the bottom of the hierarchy. He left multiple times, only to return… until he was ultimately excluded in 2021. In early 2022, he was found dead, bearing the marks of several bites, presumably inflicted by his former allies. A month later, Olarishani, another member of the coalition, disappeared. Then a third. The two remaining survivors appear calm before us, and yet …

While driving around a hill, we come across two majestic buffaloes .

And then, finally, our first lions ! Hidden in thick bushes, they can barely be seen… We’re searching for a majestic Simba-like mane, but they all seem young. We can’t help but feel a bit disappointed, but their sight is truly awe-inspiring 🦁

Crossing a dried-up watercourse can be quite nerve-wracking, not to mention the occasional bruised arms 😅

Approaching a herd of zebras , two individuals catch the eye with their restless behavior. At first glance, it may seem like a playful interaction, but it is a dispute. It is difficult to determine whether it is a matter of hierarchy or territoriality. However, one thing is clear: the confrontational movements and intimidation tactics are anything but friendly. From kicks and shoves to bites on the neck, they refuse to back down 😅

Not far from the two rivals, a family of elephants boldly indulges in a delightful feast without a care in the world.

Even in the car, several stomachs start to rumble. However, our guide suggests one final stop before returning to the campsite for the midday meal.

Here we are on the banks of the Talek River , overlooking a herd of hippos . In the day’s blistering heat, the chances of witnessing these semi-aquatic animals emerge from the water are slim. Thus, we patiently observe them at rest, with their eyes, ears, and nostrils protruding. A few trumpeting sounds can be heard, but no signs of an imminent battle exist. False alarm …

After a satisfying lunch and a delightful afternoon siesta, we hop back into the car for another exhilarating game drive in the Masai Mara Reserve. Our agenda for this afternoon is to search for majestic lions amidst the rugged terrain. At least, that’s what we hope for 😅

In the hills, herbivores are less abundant or more challenging to spot. One might encounter the occasional giraffe, a few aged buffalos, or a splendid zebra…

Time passes, turning stormy. With fewer animals to observe, it feels long, especially for the children …

Until you approach an embankment beholding two majestic lionesses gracefully resting in its shadow.

While one remains undisturbed, peacefully napping, the other gracefully moves to a vantage point, ready to commence its grooming ritual. With ample opportunity to observe, pure bliss envelops us 😍

It is hard to resist spending the afternoon observing such a spectacle, but we venture deeper into the hills in search of Simba. We cross one last stream before having to turn back …

First, the silhouette of a majestic male elephant emerges on the horizon atop the hill. Then, right in front of us, a mother elephant graces our presence, accompanied by her three adorable offspring .

The youngest one stays close to his mother, who is still nursing. The two older ones move ahead leisurely without venturing too far.

After a gestation period of 22 months, one of the longest among terrestrial mammals, a mother elephant establishes a profound bond with her baby, who will remain under her protection for several years. Nursed for approximately two years, the elephant calf stays close to its mother to learn and grow until it becomes sufficiently independent to fend for itself.

Observing this mother and her baby elephant, we can feel the deep bond that unites them. The sight of this majestic matriarch transports and deeply touches us 😍

One can barely notice the male drifting away, casually passing by a giraffe engrossed in feeding among the acacia trees.

The light softly fades away, and we wish to linger with Big Mama and her young elephants. But the reserve gates will soon shutter; it is time to turn back.

To our right, a hyena stealthily emerges from the bushes. It swiftly crosses in front of us, headed towards the hill. Towards an immense herd of buffaloes !

Watching her progress alone raises questions about her intentions. Clearly, she does not have the stature to take on a buffalo. Could she be scouting for other hidden hyenas nearby? Or has she sensed an injured animal?

Lost in our assumptions, eyes fixed on the hill, barely noticing what is unfolding behind us … Silently emerging from the ravine, a pride of lions is approaching !

The pride is truly impressive, with a staggering count of at least 13 lions, each emanating regal grace . The lionesses showcase formidable muscular strength, while several young males flaunt their slender manes. Unusually, one of them even displays distinct markings on its coat.

The scene is surreal, especially considering that we are alone now and no car will be able to reach us so close to the reserve closing time. We find ourselves amidst a pride of lions . Even our guides take out their phones to capture this unexpected encounter, preserving it forever.

The air is thick with tension, an intense hunt underway . The lions, seemingly nonchalant, move gracefully amidst the vehicles, barely acknowledging our presence. With wide-open windows, it’s impossible to remain unaffected when we’re this close. Their intentions, always unpredictable, keep us on edge 😂

As minutes tick away, hope for action lingers in the air. The pride remains at a comfortable distance, finding solace amidst the towering grass. Alas, the hunt will not commence at this very moment.

The guides leave us no choice but to embark on our journey toward the reserve gates. We take one last look, imprinting the memory of this magnificent encounter, and then we set off.

We steal a final glance behind us as we prepare to depart the valley. The buffalo herd appears serene, resting upon the hill. For now…

Returning to the camp is like floating on a cloud. We barely even notice the few raindrops brought by the storm… We pass the reserve gates a few minutes late after a far less comfortable journey than the morning 😅 But nothing can take away the stars we have in our eyes.

Tonight, during the aperitif, there will be discussions of lions and buffalo hunting. Most likely, these conversations will continue during the meal as well. And undoubtedly, around the campfire, with our guides and the Masai who guard the camp. Not every night one falls asleep after witnessing a pride of 13 lions 😍

Helpful information

• The Masai Mara Reserve entrance fee is $100 per day for non-resident adults ($50 for children aged 9-17), increasing to $200 per day starting July 1, 2024. Only credit card payments are accepted.
• You can purchase entry tickets through the reserve’s website . Remember to print the proof of your transaction!
• Walking within the boundaries of the Masaï Mara reserve is strictly prohibited.
• Vehicles can operate at reduced speeds (maximum of 50km/h) between 6 am and 7 pm.
• It is prohibited to exit a vehicle except at designated observation points.
• When approaching animals, it is important to minimize noise as much as possible.
• A maximum of five vehicles are allowed near the animals.
• Feeding animals is strictly prohibited.

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• Meet The Team
• Meet The Guides
• Traveller Reviews
• Sustainable Travel
• Kenya Safaris
• Kenya/Tanzania Safaris

Masai Mara Safaris

• Nairobi safaris
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• For Our Friends Over 50
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• Amboseli National Park
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• Our new Nairobi Airport kiosk
• Important Travel Information
• East Africa
• Kenya Travel Guide
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• Nairobi – Mombasa Train Schedule
• Wildlife of Kenya
• Masai Mara Lodges
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• Suggested Packing For a Safari
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• Safari Gallery
• Booking Terms and Conditions
• Safari FAQs

• Travellers' Choice
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• Customised Excursions

The Masai Mara National Reserve, sometimes known as Maasai Mara, is located on Kenya’s western border with Tanzania . 

Masai Mara National Reserve is approximately 580 square miles.

Established in 1961, the Masai Mara was a much smaller reserve of 200 square miles. The reserve massively expanded over the years and was given National Reserve status in the 1970s with a section of the land returned to the local Maasai community , creating cohabitation between humans and wildlife. The reserve’s location and vast quantity of wildlife makes it one of the most popular game reserves in Kenya today.

Entrance Fees & Permits

The cost to enter the Masai Mara National Reserve is $ 100 per adult (January-June) and $200 per adult (July-December) Children (9-17 years) $50 per child per day and children (0-8) Free.Rates are per 12 hours day.

Hours of Operation

The four currently open gates of the Masai Mara National Reserve are open daily between 6am and 6pm.

Masai Mara National Reserve is located 260 miles from Nairobi, the drive time via the A104 takes approximately six hours. There are four main gates into the reserve, namely: Talek, Sekenani, Musiara and Oloolol.

A flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Masai Mara National Reserve will take approximately 54 minutes.

View our flight safaris 

Weather & Climate

The winter months of June, July and August present dry, cooler weather with temperatures averaging around 75 F in winter, rising to around 80 F in Kenya’s summer. The reserve sees sunshine year round and has two distinct rainy seasons. The short rains fall in November and December, while the long rains fall in April into early May.

Read more on the best time to visit the Masai Mara.

Avoiding Crowds

An ideal time to experience the incredible wildlife complement of the Masai Mara National Reserve while avoiding crowded plains and lodges, is to enjoy a safari in the reserve in the fall months of May and early June and again in Kenya’s spring months of September and October. Game viewing is still exceptional with viewer visitors on the reserve. Birders will want to visit in January and February, just after the short rains and just before the long rains start towards the end of March.

Value for Money

With such a wide variety of accommodation to choose from, experiencing a safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve can definitely be considered value for money. From larger, group and family-friendly lodges to intimate luxury tented camps, there are accommodation options to suit all visitors.

Popular Wildlife Sightings in Masai Mara National Reserve

One major draw to experiencing the Masai Mara National Reserve is to have a chance to witness the great wildebeest migration , which takes place around July each year. The vast complement of wildlife makes the Masai Mara National Reserve one of the best game reserves in Africa. Home to the “Big Five” and a myriad of plains game, safari experiences are exceptional, with the reserve a flurry of vehicles and wildlife action during the peak season between July and September.

The Terrain

The Masai Mara National Reserve comprises mostly vast open grassland with areas of acacia trees set together to create a forest-like area. The Siri Escarpment of the East Rift Valley forms a border on the western part of the reserve with the Talek, Mara and Sand Rivers running through the reserve, providing water for the land and a great number of wildlife in the reserve.

Game Drives

Open 4×4 safari vehicles are the most popular means of experiencing the wonders of the Masai Mara National Reserve, many lodges offering this experience in the early morning and late afternoon. Some game drives will be conducted in closed 4×4 vehicles with a pop-up roof, operated by local safari ground operators. There is the option to spend a full day in the reserve, a picnic lunch packed to be enjoyed in a quiet location out on the plains of the reserve.

Guided Walking Safaris

While walking safaris or bush and trail walks are not permitted within the main Masai Mara National Reserve , there is the option to enjoy a walk of around one to two hours with a Masai guide or professional safari guide in one of the conservancies or smaller private reserves within and around the greater Masai Mara National Reserve.

Masai Mara National Reserve Lodging – Distance from park entrance

Accommodation is strategically placed around the Mara North Conservancy and ranges in size and style. From intimate luxury tented camps to well-established four star classic lodges, guests will be accommodated in true safari settings in one of the Masai Mara’s key conservancies.

Mara North Conservancy  Lodging – Distance from park entrance

Accommodation options in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy range from humble three-star camps to luxury, high-end safari lodges, all set near the wildlife-rich valleys and ravines of the conservancy. Options exist for all types of budgets.

Olare Motorogi Conservancy Lodging – Distance from park entrance.

There are only nine lodges and camps in the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, making a safari in this region of the Masai Mara ecosystem an intimate experience. Options range from comfortable camps to luxury lodges, suiting a variety of safari budgets.

Mara Naboisho Conservancy Lodging – Distance from park entrance

Mobile tented camps, eco-friendly basic tented accommodation, luxury lodges and high-end tented accommodation are all available in the Mara Triangle. Intimate experiences to accommodation suited to families and small group establishments exist in the Mara Triangle.

Mara Triangle Lodging – Distance from Park Entrance.

Maasai Mara Cultural Village Visit

Spend time with a local Maasai community as they share their daily lives, rich traditions and share their cultural habits with you. Visits are arranged by lodges and camps, offering a diverse Masai Mara experience.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

An amazing way to experience the vast number of wildlife in the Masai Mara National Reserve is to view the reserve, terrain and inhabitants from above. Hot Air Balloon rides take place before sunrise, the launch site in neighbouring Mara Triangle.

• When is the best time to visit Masai Mara National Reserve?

The dry, winter months of June to August marks the best time to visit the Masai Mara National Reserve. The lack of rain means the low grass offers amazing game viewing opportunities. July is also the time to witness the Great Migration , thousands of wildebeest thundering across the Mara River from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

• How much does a safari in Masai Mara National Reserve cost?

With a variety of accommodation options to choose from, pricing for a Masai Mara National Park safari will cost between approximately USD400 per person sharing for larger, hotel-style accommodations or comfortable camping options, right up to over USD1000 per person sharing for more luxury and intimate camping or lodge experiences.

• How to get to Masai Mara National Reserve?

By road, a drive from Nairobi to the Masai Mara National Park will take around six hours, while flying into the Masai Mara will take around an hour from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. There are several airstrips within the Masai Mara National Reserve and six entry gates if arriving by road.

• What makes the Masai Mara National Reserve so special?

Home to an immense number of wildlife species as well as incredible birdlife, around 500 bird species recorded. A highlight of visiting the Masai Mara is having the chance to witness the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeest cross between the Serengeti and Masai Mara.

• What animals can I see in Masai Mara National Reserve?

The Masai Mara is home to the “Big Five”  which are lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo, as well as a myriad of plains game. Nocturnal creatures include porcupine, white-tailed mongoose and civet cats. There are around 500 species of birds.

• When is Masai Mara National Reserve open?

The gates of the Masai Mara National Reserve are open between 6am and 6pm.

• Do you need to book in advance to visit Masai Mara National Reserve

Guests embarking on a Masai Mara National Reserve will usually be pre-booked on their safari experience, noting that booking as far out as 12 to 18 months in advance is sometimes required.  

• What’s the best way to see Masai Mara National Reserve ?

Open 4×4 safari vehicles or enclosed 4×4 safari vehicles with a pop-up roof is the best way to experience the magic of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Drives usually take place early morning and late afternoon. Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Mara is a wonderful way to get an aerial view of wildlife and wilderness.

• What hotels, lodges, and camps are near Masai Mara National Reserve ?

Some of the top safari lodges are present within the main Masai Mara National Reserve. Ilkeliani Camp is an intimate camp with only 12 luxury tents, while the Sarova chain of hotels presents the Sarova Mara with up to 72 tents in all. 

• What restaurants are near Masai Mara National Reserve ?

There are no specific restaurants guests will be able to visit while staying at the Masai Mara National Reserve. Guests will enjoy their meals at their lodge or camp of choice. 

• What attractions are near Masai Mara National Reserve ?  

The key focus of visiting the Masai Mara National Reserve is to enjoy an exceptional safari within the reserve, however, guests will have a chance to visit a local Masai Mara village and embrace local tradition and community culture.

MASAI MARA SAFARI EXCURSIONS FROM NAIROBI 2, 3 & 4 DAY MASAI MARA DRIVE IN SAFARI TOURS

Masai mara overnight road safari - 2 days.

2-day Masai Mara game reserve tour on a road safari with intensive game viewing drives in search of the Big five.

Transport to the Masai Mara including game viewing drives is in private pop up top safari minivan or 4×4 Land Cruiser jeep.

Masai Mara Game Reserve, 2 Days 1 Night Safari (Group)

• Tour in our Standard Customized Pop-top 4WD Toyota Land cruiser Jeep.
• Services of experienced English/other language speaking safari tour guide/driver
• Stay in economy, comfort or luxury lodges / tented camps ( please choose)
• Game viewing drives
• Masai Mara game reserve entrance fees
• Meals on safari
• Bottled drinking water in safari vehicle
• The flying doctors emergency medical evacuation/ rescue insurance cover
• Pick up/drop off at Nairobi hotel or residence
• Government taxes and local levies

Masai Mara Private Safari

Nairobi Masai Mara Game reserve safari proceeding by road via the great rift valley escarpment and scenic masai country.

A Kenya safari tour rich in diversity and which offers unlimited game viewing opportunities in private safari minibuses or 4 x 4 cruisers. The Masai Mara Kenya safari tour is themed on scenery, wildlife and masai culture. We start from Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. The safari drive is via the Nairobi suburbs, past tea and coffee plantations, the Great rift valley escarpment and through masai country.

• Courtesy Nairobi airport-hotel pick up/drop off transfers
• Services of an experienced English / other language speaking safari tour guide/driver
• Stay in Comfort, Luxury & Superior Luxury safari lodges / tented camps ( please choose )
• The flying doctors emergency medical evacuation/rescue insurance cover
• Pick up /drop off at Nairobi airport/ Nairobi hotel or residence

Masai Mara Group Sharing Safari

Join the Nairobi Masai Mara Game reserve group safari. The Masai mara safari tour is rich in diversity.

Transport and game viewing drives are provided in shared safari designed open topped minibuses. A maximum of 6 persons are accommodated in each 8 seater safari minibus. This is to allow for a guaranteed window seat and access to the open roof. The theme of this Kenya safari is wildlife,awesome scenery and masai culture.

• Shared Transport in our Standard Customized Pop-top 4WD Toyota Land cruiser Jeep.
• window seats & view from open top.
• Services of a an experienced English/ other language speaking tour guide/driver.
• Accommodation at Economy (Enkorok Mara Camp) or Comfort (Masai Mara Sopa Lodge).
• Park entrance fees.
• All meals on safari.
• Bottled drinking water in safari vehicle.
• The flying doctors’ emergency medical evacuation/ rescue insurance cover.
• Pick up / drop off at a Nairobi hotel or residence.

The Great Masai Mara Safari - 4 Days

Masai Mara 4-day safari tour proceeding by road from Nairobi with a stop to view Great rift valley escarpment and via scenic Masai country.

• Transport in a customized 4x4 pop up top Land Cruiser jeep
• Services of an experienced English/ other language speaking safari tour guide/driver
• Stay in economy, comfort or luxury lodge / tented camps ( please choose )
• Private game viewing drives in a 4x4 pop up top Land Cruiser jeep
• The flying doctors emergency medical evacuation/ rescue insurance cover.
• Pick up /drop off at your Nairobi airport/ Nairobi hotel or residence

MASAI MARA FLY IN SAFARIS FROM NAIROBI 2, 3 & 4 DAYS

2 days, 1 night: masai mara fly-in tour.

Fly into Masai Mara from Nairobi on a flight safari tour package exploring the magnificent game reserve. Explore the Mara on rewarding game viewing drives in customized pop up top 4×4 land cruiser jeeps

• Nairobi airport-hotel-airport transfers
• Return Nairobi-Masai Mara Flight
• Accommodation at your chosen lodge /tented camp
• Game viewing drives in a Private 4x4 land cruiser jeep.
• The Flying Doctors Medical, Emergency and Rescue cover.
• Pick up and drop off at a either Nairobi airport,hotel or residence.

Nairobi to Masai Mara Flight Safari - 3 Days

Here’s your chance to “wing in” to world famous Masai Mara and discover the Big Five.

All game drives feature customized pop top 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeeps on this tour package.

4 Days, 3 Nights: Masai Mara Fly-in Safari

Fly into Masai Mara on a flight for 4 day safari tour package exploring the magnificent game reserve.

Explore the Mara on rewarding game viewing drives in customized pop up top 4×4 land cruiser jeeps.

• Return Flights Nairobi-Masai Mara-Nairobi

MASAI MARA FLY IN SAFARIS FROM MOMBASA/ BEACH 2, 3 DAYS MASAI MARA SAFARI TOURS FROM/TO MOMBASA

• Flight and Drive

2 Days, 1 Night Masai Mara Fly-in Safari

From Beach to Beach

From the Kenya coast you’ll travel by air to the Masai Mara on this 2-day, 1-night fly-in safari. Stay at a camp or lodge of your choice.

3 Days Masai Mara Fly-in Safari

The 3 days, 2 nights direct Mombasa Masai Mara air/flight safari.

Masai Mara game reserve safari by air from the Kenya coast with accommodation at camps and lodges. Game viewing drives are conducted by the host lodges / camps. Lodges and camps at the Masai Mara conduct game viewing drives in 4 wheel cruisers on a seat in car basis.

3 Days Masai Mara Fly & Drive Safari (Group)

Mombasa Masai Mara Game reserve safari from Kenya Coast beach hotels utilizing flight and road via Nairobi. This is an alternative to the direct Mombasa- masai mara air safari. The Kenya safari is rich in diversity and offers more game viewing range because we provide exclusive use of safari vehicles for transport and game viewing drives.

• Air ticket: Mombasa-Nairobi-Mombasa.
• Transfers: Hotel- Airport- Hotel.
• Transport in a customized pop up top safari Jeep
• Services of an experienced English or other language speaking safari tour guide/driver.
• Accommodation at Economy (Ol Moran Tented Camp, Mara Chui Camp, Enkorok Mara Camp) or Comfort (Mara Sopa).
• Game viewing drives.
• Pick up / drop off at Mombasa, Bamburi, Kilifi and North Coast area beach resorts

MASAI MARA FLY IN SAFARIS FROM MALINDI /WATAMU RESORTS 2, 3 DAYS MASAI MARA SAFARI TOURS FROM/TO MALINDI RESORTS

Your lodge host will lead game drives through the Masai Mara in 4-wheel Land Cruisers.

Malindi to Masai Mara 3 Day Fly-in Safari

From the Kenya coast you’ll travel by air to the Masai Mara on this 3-day, 2-night fly-in safari. Stay at a camp or lodge of your choice.

MASAI MARA FLY IN SAFARI PACKAGES FROM DIANI/ BEACH 2, 3 DAYS MASAI MARA SAFARI TOURS FROM/TO DIANI RESORTS

• Flight and Drive (Group)

From Beach to Beach to Wildebeest - 3-Day Masai Mara Air Safari

It’s An Easy Flight From Diani To The Mara

From your beach resort it’s a quick flight over Kenya’s scenic landscape to the premier game park of Africa.  Natural World Safaris will transfer you to an area airport for your morning flight. We’ll handle all the arrangements and get you from surf to safari in a quick and easy 2-ho

3 Days Masai Mara Fly & Drive Safari

Mombasa Masai Mara Game reserve safari from Kenya Coast beach hotels utilizing flight and road via Nairobi.

This is an alternative to the direct Mombasa- masai mara air safari. The Kenya safari is rich in diversity and offers more game viewing range because we provide exclusive use of safari vehicles for transport and game viewing drives.

• Transport in a customized pop up top safari mini-van
• Stay at Mara Sopa lodge/Olmoran tented camp/ Budget Camp
• Pick up / drop off at Mombasa, Bamburi, Diani, Kilifi beach resorts

ADD - ONS/ EXCURSIONS AT MASAI MARA 4 HOURS / 1 HOUR OF FLIGHT

• 4 Hours / 1 Hour of Flight

Masai Mara Air Hot Balloon Flight

On the date of your hot air balloon flight, the balloon operating company shall collect you from your safari lodge/ tented camp in one of their custom safari jeep at around  5AM  for a drive to the  hot air balloon launch.

Masai Mara Village Visit

Experience the history and culture of Masai tribesmen while visiting either Masai Mara National Reserve or Amboseli National Park…

This visit is optional while on your Kenya safari.

Masai Mara Game Reserve Lodges/Camps

• Superior Comfort

Orng’atuny Mara King Camp, Masai Mara

Orng’atuny Mara King Camp is located in  Maasai Mara , Ololaimutiek village, Mendungii Hill, 3.5km from Oloolaimutia Centre. The camp is right inside Mendungii hill, an  area considered  important for both wildlife and indigenous trees.

The camp borders the Maasai Mara park, right opposite Zebra hill and the Oloryegoriong forest that are home to both Elephants and Lions.

Mara Chui Camp

This is an exclusive tented camp at Maasai Mara for those who want to be true to wild experience

La Maison Royale (LMR) Mara Camp

La Maison Royale Mara Camp is located in a private Olare Motorogi Conservatory in the Maasai Mara ecosystem in Kenya.

siana springs tented camp

Siana Springs in the local Maasai language means “the plentiful springs”. It is truly an area of abundance in flora, fauna and cultural attributes

Enkorok Mara Camp

Enkorok Mara Camp is set on 30 acres of private land in Masai Mara  Siana’s Conservancy

Elangata Olerai Luxury Camp

Elangata Olerai is a luxury tented camp, a striking combination of contemporary style and comfort set.

Mara Sopa Lodge

Located high on the slopes of the Oloolaimutia Hills, Masai Mara Sopa Lodge was one of the first safari lodges to be built in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve

Mara Leisure Camp

Set in what is considered Kenya’s prime wildlife area, Mara Leisure Camp is located along the Talek River, at the confluence of the Masai Mara’s four wildlife viewing areas, on the northern boundary of the Masai Mara Game Reserve

AA Lodge Mara

AA LODGE MARA  is located at the world famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve in the South Western part of Kenya

With luxury facilities and at the same time a tourist Eco-Lodge – preserving the environment, meeting and exceeding National Environmental Management requirements

Azure Mara Heaven

Azure Mara Haven Hotel provides superb luxury facilities, world-class service and an outstanding accommodation experience with a creative blend of art, comfort and the Maasai Mara Safari experience

Mara River Lodge

Mara River lodge lies on the Mara River at the edge of Maasai Mara Game Reserve and overlooks deep pools where crocodiles and hippos bask all day

Mara Sun Lodge

Mara Sun Lodge has elegant spacious rooms designed with the comfort of our guests in mind.

Sentrim Mara Camp

Sentrim Mara Lodge is located adjacent to the Maasai Mara Game reserve, 3 km from Sekenani gate.

Losokwan Luxury Tented Camp

Losokwan Camp is an authentic Kenyan safari camp offering the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding Masai Mara wilderness without compromising on comfort or responsive service.​

Tipilikwani Luxury Lodge

The family tents have a stand alone bath tub in addition to showers. Excellent food, personalized service and traditional Kenyan hospitality further compliment the prime location.

Mara River Camp

Mara River Camp is a classic tented camp tucked away on the banks of Mara River

Keekorok Lodge

Keekorok Lodge is the first property located in the  Masai Mara Game Reserve  and it offers traditional accommodations with private patios.

Matira Camp

Experience the adventurous Maasai Mara with its fascinatingly diverse landscape and a legendary wealth of animals.

Emayian Luxury Camp

The camp is located at the hills of Ololaimutiek village 2km from the Ololaimutia Gate of the Great Maasai Mara National Reserve.

MARA SIMBA LODGE

Whether you want a boost of rejuvenation or simply escape for the weekend to unwind, check into Mara Simba lodge to achieve your wellness goals.

Zebra Plains Mara

Zebra Plains Mara Camp is set below the Oldonyo Loip Ridge facing the open plains of the Maasai Mara.

ILKELIANI CAMP

Nestled in a river glade in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, the area is a favorite for elephants coming to drink from the Talek River.

Basecamp Masai Mara

Basecamp Masai Mara – fittingly referred to as the ‘mother of all camps’ by our staff – is where our story started.

LOYK MARA CAMP

LOYK MARA CAMP as one of our base camps for LOYK HOTELS has a lot of different facilities to satisfy the demand of our Guests who value the sense of privacy and peace to make them fill comfortable in the heart of the wild nature.

OLENGOTI ECO SAFARI CAMP

The Olengoti´s group of tents are set along the banks of the Talek river placing us in the front seat in one of the most dramatic and exclusive natural shows in the world, “The Great African Migration”.

Sarova Mara Game Camp

The rolling plains around the camp are teeming with wildebeest, gazelles and zebras during the migration months, and the camp is situated right in the center of their migration path.

Mara Serena Safari Lodge

The breathtaking landscapes of Masai Mara National Reserve, uninterrupted views of the Mara River and a design inspired by a traditional Maasai Manyatta set Mara Serena Safari Lodge as an unforgettable destination for safari holidays.

Mara Siria Camp

The Mara Siria Camp is a luxurious and eco-friendly safari tented camp in the North-West of the Masai Mara.

This new and distinctly unique Mara Engai Wilderness Lodge is nestled amongst pristine Kenyan Ravine forest on the Oloololo (Siria) Escarpment

Kandili Camp

Experience an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Africa reviving its inspiring stories

Karen Blixen Camp

Karen Blixen Camp encompasses 22 large luxury canvas tents – each set on a beautiful wooden platform with a spacious verandah. On the cushion daybed one can enjoy an afternoon siesta, taking in the wonderful surroundings.

The Royal Mara Safari Lodge

The Royal Mara Safari Lodge is situated directly on the annual wildebeest “Great Migration” route, near the two world famous wildebeest migration Mara River crossing points and near Leopard Gorge, all made internationally known by the BBC’s Big Cat Diary television program.

Naserian Mara Camp

Camp’s Mission; to create and share authentic luxury African safari experiences with the discerning traveller. Enjoy our luxurious setting, receive an education and explore the culture and nature of the enthralling rolling Savannah plains in our Kenyan Maasai Mara national park.

Mara Treetops Luxury Camp

Mara Treetops Luxury camp consists of 7 tents uniquely blended with modern and traditional materials.

The Luxury tents consists of a large private balcony overlooking the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Talek river, spacious bedroom and bathroom with a bath tub and shower. Each of the tents have high Internet connection.

Mara treetops is 6 hour drive from Nairobi, 45 minutes from Wilson airport or 2 hours from the coastal region to Olkiombo Airstrip in Maasai Mara.

Mara Eden Safari Camp

Mara Eden Safari Camp is a small boutique camp on the banks of the great Mara river that offers you an untamed wilderness experience.

Hidden deep in the Maasai Mara game reserve, along the great Mara river, lies a magical, untouched and untamed valley with crocodiles basking on the banks of the river and hippos fighting for dominance against a backdrop of absolute wilderness, for centuries the great wildebeest migration has thundered through this hidden valley and crossed the Mara river.

You can sit out on the varendah and watch the magic of the African wilderness unfold before you.

Eagle View Camp

Eagle view is located on an escarpment, with sweeping views that overlook the Koiyaki Plains, a natural salt lick and watering hole all providing a common hunting site for predators and unique game viewing perspectives. With this modern eco-camp, we invite you to gaze towards the future of sustainable tourism.

Fig Tree Camp-Ngamboli Tents

Fig Tree Camp  is located on the banks of the Talek River in the world famous  Masai Mara  game reserve . The Camp is situated on the northern border of the game reserve and its central location makes all areas of the park accessible during game drives.

To make an evening a real adventure, at the  Fig Tree Camp  one can choose to stay in a tent or a chalet, giving the best of both worlds. The rooms spaciously line up along the Talek River, overlooking the plains of the game reserve.

Fairmont Mara Safari Club

The Fairmont Mara Safari Club, a luxury Masai Mara resort hotel in Kenya, re-opened in 2009 following an extensive renovation program.

Surrounded on three sides by the breathtaking Mara River, and on the edge of the world’s Seventh “New” Wonder of the World – the Masai Mara – Fairmont Mara Safari Club is the epitome of tented luxury.

A Top 20 Luxury Resort by Travel & Leisure Magazine The Fairmont is a host to a number of fine dining, safari and outdoor activities.

Mara Crossings Camp

Mara Crossings Camp is a luxury tented camp located on the banks of the famous Mara River. Its location is in close proximity to the various migratory crossing points thereby adding to its already unique list of features. This exclusive camp offers guests a very personalized stay with friendly staff waiting to pamper and cater to their every whim! Echoing the tranquil tones of the mighty river the camp comprises eight bold, spacious tented suites with four double and four twin/triple tents and one suite ideal for photographers, honeymooners or family.

Hammerkop Migration Camp

With only 7 exclusive tents, Hammerkop Migration is an intimate safari camp in the heart of the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. Accessible only by air or 4×4, the camp is perfect for calm wildlife photography away from the congested areas of the park.

Hammerkop Migration Camp enjoys a simply unique setting. The safari camp is set on an oxbow of the legendary Mara river, surrounding it except for the short opening that acts as entry to the site.

A wildlife enthusiasts’ dream, Hammerkop Migration is the only camp in the Masai Mara National Reserve not only almost completely surrounded by the river and numerous hippo pools, but is also the closest camp to a wildebeest crossing, a mere 200 meters from your tent.

Neptune Mara Rianta Luxury Camp

The perfect base for your exclusive Safari adventure is the Neptune Mara Rianta Luxury Tented Camp.

Nestled in the heart of the exclusive Masai Mara North Conservancy. Immersed in the original bush among indigenous plantations and trees, the 20 luxury tents are directly overlooking the Mara River, which winds itself around the camp with gently flowing waters surrounded with wild life and teeming with large groups of Hippos.

Tanzania safaris frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit tanzania.

The best times to visit Tanzania are December through March or June through October during the dry seasons, when the game viewing is at its best. The rains usually last from April to May then occur again in November when there are fewer tourists and vegetation flourishes. During February, wildebeest are calving, giving you a front row seat to the baby's first moments in the savannah.

How much does a safari in Tanzania cost?

A mid-range safari with lodging runs $350 to $400 per person, per day while a high end luxury safari with all the trimmings ranges from $600 to about $1000 per person, per day. Read more about safari costs for Tanzania.

Kenya or Tanzania: which is better for safari?

Both countries are reputed for outstanding game viewing. Tanzania’s jaw-dropping Mount Kilimanjaro, sweeping coffee plantations and the exotic island of Zanzibar make it unique from its northern neighbor, while Kenya's lush green landscapes make it a bit less tropical, climate-wise. The two countries are frequently combined into a single journey, given their proximity to each other and the fact that they are both locations for the must-see Great Migration. Read more about whether Kenya or Tanzania is better for a safari .

When and what is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is a wildlife spectacle, sometimes called The Greatest Show on Earth by safari enthusiasts, during which hundreds of wildebeest and other mammals head towards greener grazing pastures during East Africa's dry season. It is heavily dependent on the weather, specifically the rain which brings new vegetation upon which the wildebeest feed. Generally-speaking, herds are in the Serengeti from November to May. In May, as the grass dries up, herds begin the 500-mile migration north and by June they are in the greener plains of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. They usually stay here until October. From January on, they alternate between woodlands and plains, depending on the weather. In anticipation of the short rains—and the greener grasslands that come with it—the herds begin their trek down to the Serengeti. In November and December, they arrive to a flourishing green landscape where they stay until the cycle begins again.

Why book with us

• NWKS is a locally owned and operated tour company
• Guides are knowledgeable about the landscape, animals, plants, and history of the areas covered
• NWKS enjoys many 5-star reviews from clients that speak of our customer service
• NWKS provides customizable and affordable Tanzania safari tours
• Door-to-door, on-time hotel pickups and dropoffs
• Fulfilling clients’ expectations of seeing the “Big Five” on safari

Uganda Safari & Gorilla Trekking FAQs

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry season (December– February and June - August) when conditions are especially good for trekking to view mountain gorillas. Game drives in the national parks are also fruitful during this time.

Wear neutral colored, lightweight clothing on your Uganda safari. Dress in layers and bring a warm sweater for morning and nighttime game drives. For gorilla trekking, bring a waterproof rain jacket, hiking boots, long socks, hiking pants, bug repellant, and a daypack. A sunhat and gardening gloves are also a good idea; the jungle is dense and thick.

Natural World Kenya Safaris offers Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda with basic accommodations starting at $96 per person, per day, plus the Uganda gorilla trekking permit which costs $700 per person per day (the permits are required, and those fees are non-negotiable.) Costs increase from there. Natural World Safaris can provide basic, mid-range, and luxury trekking safaris and is eager to work with almost any budget.

Suggested tips range from $10 to $20 per person per day for a private guide and the same amount for your driver if that is a different person than your guide.

If you are on a guided safari or gorilla trek in Uganda, your chances of encountering problems are minimal. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions on your safari, particularly when traveling through urban areas or in regions close to the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The trek to spot gorillas can be strenuous. It could take anywhere from two to eight hours to find and observe the gorillas, depending on the time of year. Be prepared to hike for multiple hours through uneven terrain at high altitude. It is advisable to train before any gorilla trekking trip by walking uphill, or better yet, by taking day hikes.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, there are never any guarantees. There are no fences in the parks in Uganda and the gorillas are free to roam. However, our expert guides and gorilla trackers have years of experience taking guests to see these magnificent creatures. They know their favorite spots to congregate and work closely with park officials each day to provide the best possible chance of seeing gorillas in the wild.

Most mountain gorillas in Uganda live at between 4,900 to 7,500 feet. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the country’s mountain gorillas, has a high point of 8,550ft.

Rwanda Safari & Gorilla Trekking FAQs

The best time to go on a gorilla trek in Rwanda is during the dry season (June - September) when conditions are best for trekking to view the country’s highlight: the fascinating mountain gorillas.

Wear neutral colored, lightweight clothing on your Rwanda gorilla trek. Dress in layers and don’t forget a sweater for chilly morning and nighttime game drives. For gorilla trekking, bring a waterproof rain jacket, broken-in hiking boots, long socks, hiking pants, bug repellant, and a daypack. A sun visor and protective gloves – such as gardening gloves - are also useful.

Natural World Kenya Safaris offers Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Rwanda with basic accommodations starting at $720 per person, per day, plus the Rwanda gorilla trekking permit which costs $1,500 per person per day (the permits are required, and those fees are non-negotiable.) Costs increase from there. Natural World Safaris can provide basic, mid-range, and luxury trekking safaris and is eager to work with almost any budget.

Suggested tips for your guide are $25 per person, per day for a private guide and the same amount for your driver if that is a different person than your guide.

Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa, particularly if you are on a guided safari or gorilla trek. Your chances of encountering problems are minimal. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions on your safari, particularly when traveling through urban areas. Cross-border travel into the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Burundi is not safe, however, so steer clear of this.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, there are never any guarantees. There are no fences in the parks in Rwanda and the gorillas are free to roam. However, our expert guides and gorilla trackers have years of experience taking guests to see these magnificent creatures. They know their favorite spots to congregate and work closely with park officials each day to provide the best possible chance of seeing gorillas in the wild.

Most mountain gorillas in Rwanda live at between 8,000 to 13,000 feet. Volcanoes National Park has a high point of 15,000ft.

Contact us for more information

For more information about our safari excursions, or to book your dream safari trip with Natural World Kenya Safaris, simply get in touch with our friendly travel advisors. Give us a call on +254 704 001 122 or leave your details on our contact us page, and we'll reply as quickly as possible.

Our Accreditations and Booking Security

We are fully accredited by and proud members of the following industry organizations.

Natural World Kenya safaris is Member No.FA/440 - Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) bonding scheme . The scheme is insured to guarantee your holiday safari in the unlikely event that a bonded KATO member ceases operating.

Natural World Kenya Safaris is Member No.FA/440 Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) bonding scheme . The scheme is insured to guarantee your safari in the unlikely event that a bonded KATO member ceases operations.

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Situated in the southwest of Kenya, covering an area of 1,510 square km (583 square miles), the Masai Mara National Reserve is a land of breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife and endless plains.

The quintessential Masai Mara safari delivers many attractions, as the reserve is home to an excellent year-round concentration of game, including the more than two million wildebeest, zebras and other antelopes that make up the famous Great Migration. &Beyond owns 2 lodges in the Masai Mara; Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp and Bateleur Camp.

The reserve is a photographer’s and naturalist’s paradise, with abundant elephant, buffalo, giraffe, lion and cheetah alongside the migratory wildebeest and zebra. Leopards are frequently encountered, endangered black rhino hide in the dense thickets and large rafts of hippo and enormous crocodiles are found in the Mara River. The park is also home to over 450 bird species.

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Step into a world where time stands still and where wild wilderness thrives. Imagine yourself engaged in the Kenya Masai Mara safari, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and wonderful wildlife. Magical, right? Our Masai Mara eco-tour safari packages are crafted to ensure a beautiful and thrilling journey, providing you with the opportunity to witness the incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. As you explore the vast savannah, be prepared for encounters with majestic lions, graceful giraffes, and elusive leopards. For those looking for customised safari packages, check out our Masai Mara tour packages , planned to cater to all preferences and offer a range of experiences, from game drives to guided walks.

Get ready for your Masai Mara nature safari, filled with thrilling moments and memories that will last a lifetime.

• Multiple game drives
• Morning safaris and afternoon safaris
• Private 4×4 Landcruiser with top-rated guide
• One bush breakfast, and one bush dinner
• Stay in the most premium location of the park
• Sumptuous dining experience

ITINERARY - 4 Days

Located in the Great Rift Valley in the southwest part of Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve is the flagship wildlife park of Kenya. Known as the mother of all wildlife parks, Masai Mara is an ideal place for you to go on a safari if you want to see the African big five , namely the elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo, in all their glory! Being a mecca of wildlife, you will also get to spot other wildlife like wildebeest, gazelle, zebra, antelope, giraffe, ostrich, hyena, cheetah, and many more. Dominated by grassland savannah, pockets of riparian forest, rocky hills, and acacia woodland intersperse the plains of the National Reserve. It is world-famous for the annual wildebeest migration, in which 2.5 million wildebeests, gazelles, and zebras follow the rains searching for new grass. This Mecca of wildlife is also known for ‘Big Cat Diaries,' the popular series on BBC. With around 500+ bird species, the Kenya Masai Mara Wildlife Safari Experience is a great chance to spot bird species like the Kori Bustard, Rufous-bellied Heron, Sooty Chat, and many more. Our Masai Mara safari packages will give you a chance to experience breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife sightings!

About Masai Mara Safari Experience

A masai mara wildlife expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime thing to have. From the moment you set foot in this iconic destination, every sight, sound, and scent immerses you in the magic of the African bush. Exploring Masai Mara on thrilling game drives will have your heart racing with excitement as you spot majestic lions lazing in the sun or herds of elephants gracefully making their way to the watering hole. As the sun sets, the sky is painted in golden hues, you gather around a crackling campfire, sharing stories of the day's adventures with fellow travelers. And when night falls, you retire to your cozy safari tent, and sleep by the symphony of wildlife outside, all these is like a magical Masai Mara safari experience to have, which you remember for a long.

Sentrim Mara Camp is located in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, 3 km from Sekenani gate. The entire camp is spread out over 100 acres of tranquil surroundings. The main guest area consists of the Reception, Lounge, Restaurant, Bar, Fire Place, Pool Bar, beauty spa and Swimming Pool. The lodge has a total of 64 en-suite standard, superior tents as well as family houses (Concrete). All rooms are equipped with Private hot shower, In-room safe deposit box, solar power and coffee making facilities.

Tripadvisor- https://bit.ly/3PHG0il

Why go on a Masai Mara Safari with Us?

A journey straight into the heart of Africa’s wildlife wonderland. In Masai Mara, doing a safari is something that will never disappoint you. With its diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife, Mara truly offers an amazing experience for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you are going for the first time or the fifth; Masai Mara will never fail to amaze you. In Kenya, Masai Mara National Park stands as one of the top 10 destinations for safaris in East Africa. And with our Masai Mara nature safari packages, it is guaranteed that you will experience everything that might go beyond your expectations.

As the sun paints the horizon with golden hues, the Masai Mara comes alive with wildlife, and experiencing this in your safari is a beatiful experience to have. This also includes the famous and iconic Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. The Mara’s rich biodiversity extends beyond the famous quintet, offering a close-up experience of zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and an array of vibrant bird species.

Experience the thrill of tracking elusive predators, watch the elegance of giraffes silhouetted against the setting sun, and witness the spectacle of the Great Migration. Our expert guides leading your way—every moment—of your Kenya Masai Mara safari with Wild Voyager’s packages is a curated experience, blending adventure with comfort to make sure your safari is as enjoyable as it is awe-inspiring.

Big Five Animals in Masai Mara

The Masai Mara, known for its diverse wildlife, is home to the majestic Big Five: Lions, African Elephants, Rhinoceros, Cape Buffalo, and Leopards. The Big Five refers to the iconic wildlife that graces the savannahs and woodlands of this amazing Kenyan destination. These animals earned their name because they were fierce and difficult to hunt in the African desert.

Lion: In Kenya , witnessing the majestic lions of Masai Mara in their natural habitat is a truly thrilling experience that you will for sure get with our safari packages .

• Observing their majestic behavior and intricate social dynamics is a highlight of our safari. Because it is the largest and fiercest predator on earth, it is often referred to as the king of the jungle.
• The lion's natural prey are zebras, impalas, giraffes, and other herbivores, particularly wildebeests.
• Lions are typically peaceful animals that do not look scared by close proximity to people, although they have been known to attack humans.

African elephant: The gentle giants of the savannah hold the title of the largest land animal globally, making it a truly impressive sight to behold.

• Discover one of Africa's largest populations of elephants thriving in the Masai Mara region, where these magnificent creatures roam freely.
• Even though elephants are regarded as gentle giants, it is important to remember that these gentle giants are unpredictable and might charge at vehicles, people, or any other animal if they feel threatened.
• Enjoy observing these majestic creatures from a safe distance to admire their beauty and grace while respecting their space and natural behaviours.

Rhinoceros: Rhinoceros are an endangered species, and witnessing them during your masai mara wilderness excursion is a rare sighting and special experience.

• There are two different species: the black rhino and the white rhino. In our masai mara animal watching trip packages , you will get the chance to learn about their unique characteristics and behaviours.
• White Rhino: The white rhino got its name from the Dutch word "weid”, meaning wide, because of its big mouth. Its color is yellowish-grey. Its wide lips and square jaw help it graze on grass.
• Black Rhino: On the other hand, black rhinos have a pointed mouth, allowing them to feed on the leaves from bushes and trees.
• White rhinos are larger and more common compared to black rhinos, but both species face threats to their survival.

Cape Buffalo: Among the Big Five animals of Africa, the Cape Buffalo is known for its imposing presence and strength.

• In Masai Mara, Cape Buffaloes can be the most dangerous to humans and can charge at astonishing speeds when threatened due to their territorial nature and protective instincts.
• They are often found in large herds and spend their time grazing in floodplains and savannas.
• Dominant bulls take charge, adopting an aggressive stance when approached, while the other adults will surround the calves to protect them.

Witness the wild beauty of Masai Mara as you spot herds of Cape Buffaloes roaming the savannah, a true testament to the wilderness of the region.

Leopards: Witnessing these secretive cats in their natural habitat is an exciting highlight of any Masai Mara safari experience.

• Unlike lions, leopards are usually seen alone rather than in groups.
• Leopards are the most mysterious among the big five animals, often hunting at night, adding to their mystique.
• The Masai Mara offers a better chance to spot leopards compared to other reserves.
• Keep a sharp lookout during the day for leopards, as they tend to hide under trees or in the underbrush.

For a wonderful experience in Kenya , you should choose our Masai Mara Safari Packages , where you can witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Birdwatching experience in Masai Mara

Imagine yourself waking up to the melodious chorus of African songbirds. This is just the beginning of your Masai Mara savannah journey with Wild Voyager. It’s a beautiful and colourful journey amidst the Masai Mara, where birdwatching becomes a serene and exhilarating experience. This diverse ecosystem offers a spectacular array of bird species, which undoubtedly makes it a perfect destination for birding safaris.

The sky and landscapes are filled with more than 450 species of avian delights. A raptor group with 60 different bird species is particularly abundant. The majority of visitors who have taken a birding safari journey to Masai Mara are very interested in the uniqueness of the species they have seen there.

Birding with Experts

With our expert guides by your side, engage in the art of birdwatching. They can identify and provide insights into the behavior and habitats of avian inhabitants. From the majestic African Fish Eagle soaring high above the Mara River to the vibrant Lilac-breasted Roller flaunting its dazzling plumage, each sighting is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.

But watching birds in Masai Mara is not just about checking them off a list. It's about feeling closer to nature and wanting to take care of our planet. With our Masai Mara safari packages , which are meticulously crafted to make sure that every moment is filled with wonder and excitement, you will also learn to love and protect the special environment they live in.

Beyond the well-known, the Masai Mara offers exclusive sightings of endemic and migratory bird species. Every birdwatching tour will give you the chance to encounter species that are unique to this captivating region.

As you explore this diverse landscape, every turn may reveal a new feathered friend. Let the magic of birdwatching in Masai Mara light up your safari experience and leave you spellbound by the wonders of the wild. Book your safari today!

Unique Wildlife Encounters

In Kenya, the Masai Mara stands out among safari destinations, providing an abundance of distinctive wildlife experiences. Every safari adventure in the Masai Mara offers a unique and extraordinary tapestry of Kenya’s wildlife. Beyond the famous Big Five, this amazing ecosystem unfolds a diversity of distinctive encounters. Here's why you should consider our Masai Mara Safari packages:

• The Great Migration: Witness the breathtaking spectacle of millions of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River during their annual migration. It's a sight that words can't do justice to—you have to experience it to believe it!
• Close Encounters with Cheetahs: Come face-to-face with the world's fastest land animal as it surveys its kingdom with a regal gaze. These encounters, filled with raw beauty and untamed energy, are what make the Masai Mara Safari experience truly wonderful.
• The abundance of Giraffes: Observe the graceful giants of the savannah as they roam freely, their long necks reaching for the treetops as they munch on leaves. It's moments like these that remind us of the sheer wonder and diversity of life on Earth.
• Beyond the Big Five: While spotting lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos is incredible, the Masai Mara offers so much more! From elusive leopards to playful hyenas, every moment of your safari experience is filled with surprises and wonders of Masai Mara.

In a nutshell, the Masai Mara Safari offers a world of wonders, from the epic Great Migration to the captivating encounters with cheetahs and the abundance of herbivores like giraffes. With our customized safari packages, you are in for a thrilling adventure into the wilderness.

Activities in your Masai Mara safari packages

Your Masai Mara bush adventure experience is filled with excitement and adventure as you explore the wonders. Here is a glimpse into the thrilling activities that will be included in your Masai Mara safari packages:

Game Drives: A heart-pounding encounter with the wild inhabitants of the Masai Mara through exhilarating game drives. With our experts, you will have the opportunity to spot iconic wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and more in their natural habitat. Every safari is a chance to observe the wild beauty of the Masai Mara.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Take your Masai Mara safari experience to new heights with a hot air balloon ride over the vast savannah. Drift serenely above the landscape and witness the wildlife below with a bird’s eye view. You will get the chance to see breathtaking views of wildlife roaming freely and the stunning African sunrise painting the horizon in hues of orange and pink.

Cultural Encounters: Dive deep into the rich cultural tapestry of the Masai Mara with beautiful cultural experiences. Visit local communities to learn about their traditional way of life, participate in tribal dances, and interact with Maasai warriors who call this land home. It's a chance to gain insight into the vibrant heritage and traditions that have shaped the Masai Mara's identity.

Nature Walks: Lace up your boots and set out on foot to explore the hidden gems of the Masai Mara on guided nature walks. Explore diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense woodlands, as you learn about the flora and fauna that thrive in this ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for birdlife, small mammals, and other fascinating wildlife.

Photography Safaris: Capture the magic of the Masai Mara through the lens of your camera on dedicated photography safaris. You will have the opportunity to enhance your skills and capture stunning images of wildlife, landscapes, and the vibrant colours of the African bush. It's a safari experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

From pulse-pounding game drives to serene hot air balloon rides, there is no shortage of memorable experiences to be had on Masai Mara safari packages.

Planning Your Masai Mara Safari

Best time to visit masai mara.

Timing is everything when planning your safari adventure. Here's why:

• July to October: This period is considered the prime time to experience the Masai Mara, particularly if you are eager to witness the Great Migration. During these months, the Mara is alive with the thundering hooves of millions of wildebeests and zebras as they journey across the Mara River. It's a spectacle that's bound to leave you amazed.
• Dry Season (June to October): The dry season not only offers optimal weather conditions but also presents excellent opportunities for predator sightings. With vegetation at its lowest, predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs are more easily spotted as they roam the savannah in search of prey.
• Wet Season (November to May): While it may bring occasional rain showers, this time of year transforms the Mara into a lush green paradise. The landscape bursts into life, offering breathtaking scenery and a myriad of bird species for avid birdwatchers to admire.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Masai Mara depends on your personal preferences and wildlife interests. Whether you want to witness the drama of the Great Migration, the tranquility of the low season, or the vibrant birdlife during the wet season, every season in Mara offers diverse experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. No matter when you choose to visit, rest assured that your safari experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Safari Packing List

Here is a basic packing list for your Kenya Masai Mara Safari packages :

• Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing and sturdy, comfortable walking shoes
• Binoculars and a quality camera with a telephoto lens
• Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses
• Insect repellent and anti-malarial medication.
• Reusable water bottle and personal first-aid kit
• Power bank and adaptors for electronics.

Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before going on a trip to make sure you have all the necessary medications and vaccinations for your Kenya Masai Mara safari adventure.

Photography Tips for Masai Mara

A few general photography tips for Masai Mara are mentioned below:

Golden Hours: Capture Mara's beauty during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

Patience is Key: Wildlife photography requires patience; wait for the perfect moment to capture natural behaviors.

Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals for the sake of a photograph.

Now that you have read all the information, pack your bags and get ready to be amazed! Your Kenya Masai Mara safari is all set to be an incredible journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and thrilling wildlife encounters. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience! Book your Masai Mara Safari Packages with Wild Voyager today, and here you have an adventure you'll never forget!

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE COST

• Full board (all meals) accommodation at Masai Mara
• Top Naturalist for the game Drive
• Daily Park Permits at Masai Mara
• Private airport transfers in Nairobi, Nairobi local transport.
• A litre of drinking water per person per day.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE COST

• Travel cost to Nairobi and visa. Visa @ 70 USD per adult.
• Masai Mara to Nairobi return flight @ 320 USD Per person.
• Balloon Safari @450 USD per adult.
• Sundowner @45 USD Per adult.
• Maasai village visit @30 USD per adult.
• Any expenses of personal nature.
• Tips and gratuities.
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary inclusions.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

• Our billing is in USD, and payment currency is in USD.
• You can pay online by credit/debit card by clicking "Book now" and selecting Online payment.
• You can transfer to our US bank after clicking "Book now" and selecting Bank transfer.

THE FINE PRINT

• A minimum of 4 people are needed to operate the group.
• All meals included are at the camps/hotels/lodges unless otherwise stated. The meals included in the camps/hotels/lodges cannot be substituted with meals from outside in case such meals are missed for any reason. There will be no compensation for missed meals.
• On the last day, the exit from Masai Mara is at 10 a.m. If the group decides to extend, they can do so, but one day of extra park fees is applicable.
• There will be 4X4 private Landcruisers for safaris; travel between destinations may be in a Landcruiser or SUV, either of which will not be air-conditioned.
• Park permits are subject to change as per the revisions of government authorities. In such a case, we shall notify you, and a differential shall be payable.
• The Park permits for the Masai Mara National Reserve are valid in the main reserve only. There will be additional fees applicable if you wish to visit Mara Triangle or any private conservancy.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination is mandatory for travel to these countries. Some countries, like India, also make the oral polio vaccine mandatory.
• The local flights within Africa have a strict baggage allowance of 15 kg. Anything beyond the permissible free luggage allowance will be charged as per the fee advised by the airline.
• Guests are advised not to keep valuables in the vehicle while sightseeing. The Company shall not be responsible for the loss of valuables from the vehicle
• It is important to maintain strict adherence to national park entry and exit timings, which are usually sunrise to sunset but vary from park to park. Our guides and drivers are trained to adhere to the same. In case we are not able to adhere to any such timings due to delays at your end, like flight delays, shopping delays, or any other delay, you may be denied entry into the park after the official hours, and will not be able to reach your place of accommodation if that is inside the park. In such an instance, you shall be liable to book accommodation outside the park at your own expense.
• Also, any delay caused in exiting national parks beyond the agreed time slots in this itinerary may attract additional park fees, which will be payable by the guest. In this proposal, the park fees are built in as per the itinerary, and usually in Kenya, park fees are payable in slots of 24 hours, so if we spend extra time over the 24-hour slots as per this itinerary, that is additionally payable on the spot. Similarly, in Tanzania, park fees are per entry per day, so additional park exits/entries beyond this agreed itinerary shall attract extra costs for the additional park fees.
• African conditions are extremely tough on vehicles. While we meticulously maintain our vehicles at our workshops, you should not expect Africa to be your traditional touring experience. While it's certainly our aim to avoid them, it's important that you set off on your trip knowing that the occasional breakdown can happen and is best treated as part of the African adventure. Due to wet weather, there may be times when we have to take an alternative route, which will mean longer travel times.
• The indicated driving time between destinations is an estimate and may vary due to prevailing road conditions, weather, and traffic density.
• Confirmation of Hotels and other services is subject to availability until payment is made. Once we receive the booking amount, we will notify you once hotels are booked.
• Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical, or other. In these circumstances, we will make the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
• All bank charges, Swift charges, wire transfer charges, intermediary bank charges, payment gateway charges, etc. have to be borne by the payee/guest. We shall not be liable to bear any such charges at our end and shall only consider the net money reaching our bank account after the deduction of such charges as our receipt. In case the total receipts are less than the total tour invoices raised by us (whether due to short payments or due to deductions for charges mentioned in clause 9 above), it will be considered a short payment.
• All the above are your tour-specific terms and some general terms. For detailed general terms and conditions refer to https://www.wildvoyager.com/terms-conditions/ . By booking with us, you explicitly agree to these terms.

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4 Day Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi

“big five” mara safari, explore kenya’s greatest park, starting from/returning to nairobi area hotels, airport, or location of your choice., we’ll pick you up in style – your own private 4 x 4 land cruiser jeep..

Join our legendary 4 day Masai Mara safari from Nairobi – the Big Five Mara Safari – for a truly unforgettable experience!

When it comes to Kenya’s most famous and popular park, the Masai Mara National Reserve , there aren’t enough words to describe its grand place in the natural world – home to Africa’s “Big Five”, the greatest density of big cats, the richest eco-system in the region, and so much more.

Where else will you find untold numbers of wildebeests flooding into the park during the Great Migration ? And where but the Mara can you imagine the fantastic array of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, and some 90 other mammals, plus over 400 types of birdlife.

This crown jewel of Kenya’s natural reserves is its most visited park boasting dramatic bursts of wildlife on a bright palette of rolling hills, golden savannah, and distinctive acacia trees framing its unforgettable sunsets. No one who visits the Masai Mara is untouched by its shocking beauty.

For 4 days Africa Kenya Safaris will guide you through this magnificent park. This total immersive safari will give you plenty of time to absorb the Mara’s plains, rivers, and habitats, and the deep variety of animals that populate this ancient land.

What’s Cool about Masai Mara?

It’s big, beautiful and busy! During the animal migration season up to 2 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelle stream into the park on their yearly cycle for ever taller grasses on which to feed. Lying in wait for them at the crossing point on the Mara River are crocodiles and other predators such as lion, leopard, and cheetah in a timeless play for survival.

Here you may witness the beauty and drama of the forces of nature on display.

The Mara is also home to Maasai tribes, the original people of this land. We offer an optional visit to their local villages so that you may meet them and learn about their culture and enjoy their crafts.

If you wish, you’ll also have time over your 4-day adventure for an optional early morning hot air balloon safari above the park. As the morning light illuminates the hills below, you’ll witness the herds of wildlife filling the plains on a flight you will never forget.

Fast & Flexible

At AKS you write the rules. Travel and explore at your own pace in you own way. We’re fast, flexible, and always ready to respond to your requests. Book any of our stunning Masa Mara safaris in advance or even the day before. We’ll get you out on safari – pronto!

Depending on your choice of accommodation you can enjoy extras like a bush breakfast/lunch/ dinner, traditional dances around the boma, massage, aromatherapy, Ayurveda, special dietary menus, dinner at a Maasai homestead, game walks, overlook a natural watering hole, and more.

Stay Connected or Not. Your Choice.

We realize you’re on safari to get away from the usual. Still, there are times you may want to go online… perhaps to share your photos and adventures with friends. Our safari vehicles connect with Wi-Fi , about 75% of the time so you can usually connect when you want.

The Details

No one is more important to the success of your safari than your guide . At Africa Kenya Safaris , we have the friendliest, most experienced driver/guides. They will guide, host, inform, and look after you like the special guest you are. That’s our guarantee.

You’ll safari in style out to the parks in your own private 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep – the best way to experience Africa with its higher seating for better views and its rugged all-wheel drive.

We give you more at AKS – customization, flexibility, and lots of choices. Your safari includes park entrance fees, game drives, accommodations, and meals. Plus, we always offer economy, comfort, superior comfort, or luxury safari lodges or tented camps.

Please give us a shout at Africa Kenya Safaris to set up your personalized safari adventure for yourself, your family, and your friends.

Check Out Your Ride

Experience your Africa Kenya Safari in a customized pop-top roof 4x4x Safari Jeep that features: Portable fridge/Cooler Box, 4 Binoculars, long-range high-frequency radio, 4G/LTE broadband WIFI connectivity, AC 230 V Power Outlets, First Aid Kit, Safari Guide Books, Baby Seats (on request), Side steps (on request) and most importantly an expert multi-lingual safari guide who will ensure you have an incredible safari experience.

Nairobi - Masai Mara National Park

5-6 hour drive.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

7:30 am.  Your driver/guide will pick you up at your hotel, the airport, or the location of your choice. Board your private 4 x 4 Safari Jeep and we’ll head off to the Masai Mara Reserve.

Our route will take us through the Great Rift Valley, complete with dramatic views of the escarpment as we pass local farmlands and communities. We’ll make rest stops along the way and as we proceed to the park, we’ll head down to the Rift Valley floor, entering Masai country.

You may see the local herdsmen tending their flocks just as they have done for hundreds of years.

We’ll arrive at the park and take a break to refresh and enjoy lunch before setting off for our first game drive.

Heading over the great savannahs of the park, you’ll witness its vast stretches of grasslands, home to the greatest concentration of wildlife in the region.

Over the course of your 4-day safari, your driver/guide will share his extensive knowledge of the park and its animals. If you have any requests, please let him know and he’ll be happy to oblige.

As evening floats in you’ll head to your safari lodge or tented camp to relax and enjoy dinner.

Full Day in Masai Mara National Reserve

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This will be a day of unlimited game drives, starting early so we can catch the wildlife as it steps into the morning light. This is a quiet, cool, and peaceful time to watch the animals’ first stirrings.

The Masa Mara is famous for its diversity and numbers of big cats, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and other large game.

During the season of the Great Migration (July – October) prepare to witness the largest display of herding animals on the planet. You’ll see thousands of wildebeests crossing into the park over the Mara River in an endless flow.

The river is also home to hippos and crocodiles, adding to the splendor and variety of wildlife filling the scene here.

We offer an optional visit to the local Maasai village, should you want to enjoy another aspect of this exceptional reserve. You’ll get to meet the people and learn about their culture, firsthand. Your guide will be happy to arrange the visit for a small fee.

We’ll spend our second evening at your accommodation of choice.

Perhaps the best aspect of this 4-day safari is time – you will have time to take as many game drives as you desire. You may want to revisit a favorite location in the park, perhaps a lookout point or special spot down at the river.

But you’ll also have time to relax. If you so choose, enjoy the facilities of your safari lodge or tented camp. Or go for a guided walk. It’s your safari so you get to choose how you will spend your day. Just let your driver/guide know your wishes and he’ll be happy to help.

You can also start this day with an extraordinary optional event – an early morning hot air balloon safari over the park. There’s no experience quite like seeing the sunrise over the Mara, its light illuminating the hills and herding wildlife below. Your driver/guide can make all the arrangements.

Masai Mara National Park - Nairobi

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

It’s our last day on safari so let’s get up for an early game drive and add to our list of sightings.

Besides the big game, don’t forget the park hosts an astonishing array of smaller wildlife like hyena, jackal, fox, topi, eland, and plenty more.

We’ll enjoy breakfast at our accommodation and then jump into the 4 x 4 for a final game drive through the park.

Heading back to Nairobi, there will be time to enjoy the vistas along the route, and we’ll stop for lunch to soak up the scenery.

We should be back in town toward the late afternoon and will bring you to your hotel or the site of your choosing.

We’ve just experienced four days of game drives over the storied savannah of the Masai Mara with its cornucopia of wildlife. We hope we helped create vivid memories for you. For everyone at Africa Kenya Safaris , it has been our honor to make your holiday happen. We thank you for the privilege.

Tour Highlights

• 4 action-filled days of wildlife sighting
• Unlimited game drives in your own comfortable Safari pop-up top vehicle
• The Big 5 – elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo & leopard… plus zebra, cheetah and much more
• Experience the Masai Mara, home to an ancient culture
• Your choice of accommodations – from budget to luxury – stay in lodges or tented camps
• Optional Masai village – Please arrange with your driver/guide – $20 per person
• Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride – please ask us about this unique opportunity – $460 per person
• Private dedicated English or other language speaking driver/guide

Accommodations

Mara Serena Safari Lodge Mara Engai Lodge Tipilikwani Mara Camp Matira Camp Wilderness Camp Keekorok Lodge Ashnil Mara Camp ** Mara Eden Safari Camp ** Sarova Mara Game Camp ** Ilkeliani Camp ** Mara River Camp **

Zebra Plains Mara Camp Osero Camp Enkorok Mara Camp Mara Sopa Lodge Emayian Luxury Camp ** Olengoti Eco Safari Camp ** Basecamp Masai Mara ** Losokwan Luxury Camp **

Mara Chui Camp, Orng’atuny Mara King Camp, Elangata Olerai Camp Jambo Mara Safari Lodge *

Accommodations with a * attract a supplement. Your tour consultant shall advice on the supplement value.

ALL SAFARI PRICES ARE LISTED BY SEASON, NUMBER OF PERSONS, AND COMFORT TIER

Please check out our prices for these private safaris – you’ll see they are the most reasonable anywhere for each tour. There are no hidden fees, plus you’ll travel in safari-style in a 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep.

Prices are in USD per person for a double/twin en-suite room.

V iew our tour prices for the 3 Safari Seasons, High, Peak or Low

High Season   (3rd Jan-31st Mar) & (16th Oct-22nd Dec)

Peak Season   (1st Jul-15th Oct.) & (23rd Dec-2nd Jan) Xmas Supplement to apply on 24th -26th Dec & 31st Dec-1st Jan

Low Season   (1st Apr – 30th June Excluding Easter Weekend)

*Easter Supplement:  USD 35, 45 & 80 for Economy, Comfort & Luxury respectively (Rate is Per Person Per Night). *Christmas / New Year Supplement on Dec 25 th , 26 th , 31 st  and Jan 1 st :  USD 35, 45 & 80 for Economy, Comfort & Luxury respectively (Rate is Per Person Per Night).

Child Rates: * Children below 3 years: Free * Children 3-11 years: 75% of Adult rate. * Children 12 years and above are treated as adults

NOTE: Masai Mara Reserve & Conservancies

• Visitors staying in safari lodges and tented camps within the Mara Triangle, Mara Conservancy and Masai Mara Game Reserve shall pay an extra USD 100 per person per day From 1st July – 31st December.

Your Tour Includes

• Nairobi airport hotel pick up/ drop off transfers
• Transport in a customized 4×4 pop up top Land Cruiser jeep
• Services of a experienced English/other language speaking safari tour guide/driver
• Stay in economy, comfort or luxury lodge/tented camps (your choice)
• Private game viewing drives in a 4×4 pop up top land Cruiser jeep
• Park entrance fees
• All meals on safari
• Bottled drinking water in safari vehicle
• The flying doctors medical, emergency and rescue cover
• Pick up/drop off at Nairobi airport, Nairobi hotel or residence
• Government taxes and local levies

Lots of Ways To Stay

Safari Lodge or Tented Camp? Economy, Comfort, or Luxury?

We offer lots of ways to settle into your safari evening. Some people like the familiar four walls of a traditional lodge. Others go for the outdoors feel of a tented camp. Either way, both lodge or tented camp come in economy, comfort, and lux editions. Choose the accommodation style that suits your needs. And then, which level of service works for you.

Our clients

Driving technology for leading brands, our accreditations and booking security.

Africa Kenya Safaris Ltd is licensed under the Kenya Tourism Regulatory Authority ( TRA ) . It is Bonded member No. AS/720 of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators ( KATO ) , Ecotourism Kenya , East African Wildlife Society, and the African Travel and Tourism Association ( ATTA )

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Nature Romp Safaris

3-Day Budget Group Tour Exploring Masai Mara Jungle

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$438 to $682 pp (USD)

Your request will be sent directly to the operator

If preferred, you can contact the operator directly

This popular 3 day Masai Mara Camping Safari departs daily from our offices in Nairobi. It is a 3-day budget camping safari to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. This 3 day, 2 night Masai Mara Budget Safari departs daily and all year round for both group and private tours.

Tour Features

Budget tour.

This budget tour uses tented camps.

Shared tour

On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 7 people per vehicle.

Can start any day

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Cannot be customized

The contents of this tour cannot be changed.

Suitable for single travelers

Single travelers can join this group tour.

Suitable for all ages

This tour is suitable for children of all ages.

Activities & Transportation

Accommodation & meals.

• Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
• Day Accommodation Meals

• 3 End of tour (No accommodation) – Breakfast & Lunch Included Breakfast & Lunch Included

Interested in This Tour?

Request a Quote

• We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ( Learn why )
• Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
• If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly

Best price guarantee

• This tour is offered by Nature Romp Safaris , not SafariBookings.
• This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
• The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
• If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
• What is included in this tour

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Maasai Mara & beyond: 5 must-see safari parks in Kenya

As a key stop on the Great Migration, the Maasai Mara is one of Africa's biggest draws. But go beyond and you can find quieter parks for budget-friendly ways to spot big cats and more.

Few visitors to Kenya can resist the siren call of its top wildlife-watching area, the Maasai Mara. Its sweeping grasslands ­— blonde and close-cropped in the dry season, green and earthy after rain — stretch for hundreds of miles. Famous for big cats and the drama of the Great Migration, this is the kind of place where a budding interest in all things safari can develop into an addiction.

During the Great Migration, which visits Kenya between July and September, vast herds of wildebeest and zebras hover nervously on the riverbanks, waiting to cross. Their fear is well-placed: crocodiles lurk in the water, ready to snap. For visitors, witnessing such scenes can be life-changing. But with wildlife in residence all year, the Mara is compelling off-season, too. And, as a bonus, once the milling migrants have finally dispersed, prices tend to plummet.

Partly council-managed, partly community-owned, the Mara is several parks in one. While some camps charge a fortune for an all-inclusive, fly-in experience in a private conservancy, affordable alternatives also exist. If you can stretch to a group tour or a rented 4x4 vehicle, with or without a driver, head west to the delightful and relatively crowd-free Mara Triangle. Here, it’s possible to pitch a tent at a public campsite and let the wilderness work its magic.

The villages of Sekenani or Talek also make good-value bases. Located just outside the main reserve, they’re cheap to reach by matatu (public minibus) or shared taxi from Narok, which is on bus routes from the capital Nairobi. The low-cost camps and guesthouses in these villages organise group drives into the reserve. While many of them deliver an excellent experience, there’s an elephant in the room: the Narok side of the Mara is on the brink of overtourism, with some drivers speeding, jostling on the river banks and bending the official rules about crowding predators. The Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association is a good place to find a trustworthy guide who will avoid this practice.

Alternatives beyond the Mara

In Kenya’s state-run parks, close-to-nature accommodation comes cheap and shares the same territory as the high-end lodges.

1. Nairo bi Best for: a quick warm-up

No other African capital is as blessed with wilderness as Nairobi; its eponymous national park lies on its doorstep and is also an ecological education and research hub, with an exemplary record in protecting rhinos. You can see giraffes, hyenas and even lions here. The Kenya Wildlife Service has no accommodation in the park, but it’s easy to plan day trips from the many low-cost hotels — either in central Nairobi or out of town.How to do it: Park entry is US$43 (£35) per day. Swara Acacia has half-board doubles from US$94 (£75).

2. Tsavo West Best for: lions

Tsavo West National Park is half way between Nairobi and Mombasa in Kenya’s deep south, and elephants, leopards and rhinos can be found here. But it’s the lions that everyone wants to see — descendants of maneless males that once terrorised a group of construction workers.How to do it: Park entry is US$52 (£42) per day. Kenya Wildlife Service campsites cost US$20 (£16) per person. Bandas (self-catering cottages) from US$50 (£40) per person.

3. Amboseli Best for: elephants

Mount Kilimanjaro looms above the acacia-dotted grasslands of Amboseli, a national park south of Nairobi. Since 1972 the park has been home to the Amboseli Elephant Research Project — the world’s longest-running study of elephant behaviour in the wild. How to do it: Park entry is US$70 (£55) per day. Kenya Wildlife Service campsites cost US$30 (£24) per person. Bandas cost from US$90 (£71) per person.

4. Meru Best for scenery

If you’re keen to get away from the crowds, try Meru. It’s one of the country’s most under-rated national parks, around a five-hour drive northeast of Nairobi. Cooled by gushing streams, it’s a stronghold for hippos and other animals endemic to East Africa such as long-necked gerenuk antelopes.How to do it: Park entry is US$52 (£42) per day. Kenya Wildlife Service campsites cost US$20 (£16) per person. Bandas cost from US$80 (£64) per person.

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The best safari holidays in Kenya

By Geordie Greig

The good news is that the lion you hear grunting outside your tent on the plains of Kenya ’s Maasai Mara means there are plenty of animals to see. Even better, as long as you stay inside your tent at night you are completely safe.

Welcome to the wonders and worries of life on safari in this animal idyll in East Africa. Where to go? What to wear? Will I be safe? All key questions for a safari in Kenya, one of the most beautiful and thrilling places to see animals in the wild.

Nothing beats a heart-stopping moment of seeing a lioness feed her six cubs or a leopard snooze in the top branches of an acacia tree. You get shockingly close to elephants and their young crossing a river and witness thousands of wildebeest stampede a river in the Great Migration. The Maasai Mara, Kenya’s best-known savannah, is safari heaven: a vast tribal area with conservation areas and public parks that mean wonderful wildlife is guaranteed. But a safari in Kenya can also be somewhat intimidating for the first time traveller.

Essential is a good camp guide who can be like having your own private David Attenborough, recognising fork-tailed drongos and showing you why a hippo has four toe marks in the sand while a rhino has three. They zip you in jeeps from your camp across plains, over rivers and under dramatic ridges with proper anthropological knowledge and charm.

Also key to any trip is advance planning. First, get jabbed a month in advance – Yellow Fever is mandatory, a number of other vaccines are advised by the NHS , and malaria pills are essential (start a day in advance and for 10 days after). Tourist visas can be obtained online in advance.

Below, we cover everything the would-be safari explorer needs to know when planning a trip to Kenya. Take these key tips so as to avoid having to make an SOS call to your travel agent.

What do I need for a safari in Kenya?

Layers are key – you can always take items off. Hot as Africa can be, early morning game drives can be cold. Avoid bright colours and stick to basic T-shirts or shirts (preferably khaki or grey) and light trousers. Tough trainers are fine. Bring a jersey and warm(ish) jacket that zips or buttons up. Tan leather bomber jackets – easily found second-hand on eBay – are perfect.

You are likely to be flying to your camp in a small plane with less than 15kg of soft luggage. So be ruthless – three shirts are plenty as most camps do overnight laundry, for example. The key essentials are as follows: sunglasses , sun protection, and a hat. Less is more.

Kenya conveniently uses UK three-pin plugs for charging phones and laptops. A torch, Kindle, camera and binoculars are the only hardware needed. Don’t forget to bring dollars in small notes to tip – there are no ATMs in the wild.

Which safari is best in Kenya?

The area around Nairobi has attractive conservation areas, the most popular being Nairobi National Park, Lakes Nakuru and Naivasha as well as the Aberdare Mountains. The biggest name is the Maasai Mara National Reserve, home to some of Africa's best year-round game viewing as well as the annual Wildebeest Migration.

By Trish Lorenz

By Steve King

By Monica Mendal

By Marti Buckley

The further north you travel, the drier and hillier the landscape becomes. But there are still superb safari options here, including Samburu National Park, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Laikipia. The more arid conditions suit species like gerenuk, the Somali ostrich and Grevy's zebra. Lewa is also the best place to see rhinos. On a clear day, Mounts Kenya and Meru are visible. This is the best place to see snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Kili actually lies in Tanzania, but Kenya's Amboseli National Park is so close to the border that it has incredible vantage points.

This part of Kenya is wetter and the terrain more varied: Amboseli, for example, is a beautiful mix of open savannah, wetlands, woodlands and hills, ideal for a wide variety of species, from bat-eared foxes to elephants. Nearby are the Chyulu Hills and Tsavo East and West National Parks.

Way down on the south-eastern coast is some of Kenya's best beaches . Hit Diani and nearby Galu for top beach lodges and water sports like kitesurfing. Head to Funzi Island for snorkelling and diving. I was asked for a bit of Indiana Jones with a side of luxury for my honeymoon . Kenya is exactly that.

Where to stay on safari in Kenya

The many different camps vary from maharajah-grand to plain and unadorned. These are two of our favourites.

Great Plains Mara Expedition Camp

The sound outside our tent was a zebra’s yappy bark. Amid a grove of 7,000 trees, this could pass as the inspiration for Out of Africa. Just a 50-minute hop in a small plane from Nairobi, comfort and wilderness magically combine here – a camp that is truly in the wild, with just six tents in the Maasai Mara. They are a throwback to Edwardian glamour. Campaign desks with leather-covered chairs, cotton sheets, an en-suite bathroom with copper fans and brass showers, and WiFi, all under canvas – it’s all more country house than camping discomfort. Hot water 24-hours a day is solar powered. Vegetables are grown on-site and prepared by an exceptional chef who whips up fruit roulade, fennel and garlic soup and mint-scented lamb kofta. At this camp, the Big Five (except rhinos) are likely to be seen on game drives in open-sided Land Cruisers with a free-loan long-lens digital camera. Great game-viewing takes place with guides by balloon, foot or jeep. This is a camp that majors on authenticity and charm.

Mara Plains Camp

Not far from our tent, a leopard sat on the fork of a desert date tree. There is a Moroccan feel to this camp on wooden stilts and roped walkways in the Maasai Mara. It is a tented temple to camping comfort: a copper bath, leather luggage trunks as tables, a king-sized bedroom and a vast room for children. The early morning game drive from Mara Plains Camp includes a hot water bottle to ease the early morning chill. All is as eco as possible with solar power and not an inch of plastic. Your own metal water flask ice is -filled every day. The spa room opens onto acacia dotted plains. The game drive guides know their stuff, down to the gestation period of a warthog. This is nature in tooth and claw on your doorstep. A leopard scuttles away from a Topi antelope it has caught, as 16 hyenas snarl and fight for a bite. A dazzle of 1,000 zebras dots the veld. The camp’s reception area for its six tents is lit by candles and lanterns. Guards with torches escort you to your tent and cheerily warn that the noises heard in the night are likely to be hippos or a lion – so enjoy the sounds, but stay inside.

When is the best time to go on a safari in Kenya?

Avoid the rainy season in April and May. The high season runs from June to October when the massive wildebeest and zebra herds are on the move in their hundreds of thousands from about August to November.

5 DAYS MASAI MARA SAFARI IN KENYA

Ideal for those who value a slow pace of travel and really want to relish the full experience of a destination, our 5 days Masai Mara safari offers an exclusive experience of touring this premier wildlife reserve in East Africa with accommodation in exceptional luxury Tented Camps at prime spots in Masai Mara National Reserve, ideal for 2023 and 2024 wildebeest migration season.

A typical Safari Itinerary is listed below. Note that prices vary depending on the month or season of travel, with July to October being peak season while April to mid June is low season.

4 nights Masai Mara

Day 01: Start of your luxury Safari from Nairobi

Your Driver-Guide reports to your hotel for Start of the safari, with a 8am departure for a picturesque drive descending the Great Rift Valley and onwards to Masai Mara, Kenya's famous game reserve. ( Drive time 5.5 hours). You will be in your own private and exclusive 4x4 Landcruiser Safari vehicle. You will stop briefly enroute at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint to enjoy the stunning views of the largest Valley in the world, said to be visible from outer space. Arrive at your camp in Masai Mara for a leisurely lunch. Your afternoon game drive starts at 3.30pm, allowing spotting of the amazing wildlife in the reserve ranging from the Big Cats such as Lion, Leopard & Cheetah to Rhino, Elephant and Wildebeest. Our Driver-Guide will try his best to show you not just the ''Big Five'' animals but the ''Big Nine'' as well. Return to your tented camp by 6.30pm. Dinner and overnight at Mara Sarova Game Camp.

Day 02: Start the day with an early morning game drive in Masai Mara

You will be taken on two gamedrives today, one in the morning from 6.15am to 9am, before breakfast and the other in the late afternoon after lunch from 3.30pm to 6.30pm. Early mornings and late afternoons are considered the best time to spot animals at their most active. As your safari is private, your gamedrive timings are flexible, convenient if travelling with children or if on a honeymoon when you perhaps want to lie in longer on some of the days. You may also choose to have a full day game drive [ one for the whole day] with a packed picnic lunch at no extra cost. Return in the evening for dinner and overnight at the camp. Dinner and overnight at Mara Sarova Game Camp.

Day 03: Enjoy Full day in Masai Mara

Today you have an early rise for your estimated 6.15am Safari game drive during which you will see more of the Mara’s great wildlife. After a relaxed breakfast, proceed for a transfer to Governors Camp, nestled in the riverine forest along the winding banks of the Mara River, its waters teeming with bird-life, hippo and crocodile. Arrive at the camp late morning, for check in after which you enjoy a sumptuous lunch. Your afternoon game drive starts at 3.30pm, allowing you to explore further lying parts of the park. You then return back to your Camp by 5pm in time for Tea or Coffee. Dinner and overnight at Governors Camp.

Day 04: Enjoy a Maasai Village Visit and Nature Walk

You may choose to have a morning and afternoon game drive or even head out to the reserve for a long day game excursion with a packed picnic lunch. Optional activities such as the Maasai Village Visit and Nature Walk below are at additional cost. During the day you may also choose to be taken to a traditional Maasai tribe village on the outskirts of the reserve. The village visit which lasts an hour will give you a glimpse into the fascinating way of life of the Maasai, a nomadic warrior tribe of Kenya. During the course of the day, if you choose to book a nature walk, subject to availability, you would enjoy an hour long walk with the resident guide based at the camp. The walk allows you to closely observe and learn about the local flora and fauna within the vicinity of the property. { this walk will not be conducted into the main reserve so as to ensure your protection from wild animals}. Enjoy your afternoon safari gamedrive in the reserve during which you hopefully get to spot any of your favourite animals which you may have missed seeing so far during the trip. Return in the evening for dinner and overnight at the camp. Dinner and overnight at Governors Camp.

Day 05: Return to Nairobi

After a relaxed breakfast and Check out by 8:30am. Proceed with return road transfer back to Nairobi with a brief morning game drive en-route. You are expected to exit the park by 10am. ( Optional one way flight back to Nairobi available at additional cost). Arrive Nairobi by early afternoon [ typically by 3pm]. Drop off at your hotel, or free onward transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

Rates are per person sharing in US Dollars.

Rates depend on number of people travelling together in one vehicle hence 2 [two people] , 4 and 6 persons.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's included.

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary on Full board* basis in the camp.
• Exclusive transport in a 4x4 Landcruiser Jeep Safari vehicle. [ Option of free 4x4 open sided vehicle for game drives while staying at Governors Camp - noting that these camp vehicles usually carry other persons as well so it'll not be private and give the game drives as per set schedule ] .
• 07 Private Safari gamedrives for the tour
• Services of a certified Professional, English-speaking Driver~Guide including all his expenses & allowances
• Fuel, driver and car park fees, driver's allowance
• All Park Entry Fees for clients, driver~guide and vehicle
• Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirit and beers, teas and coffees at Governors Camp.
• Limited laundry at Governors Camp.
• 24 hour Back Up support if required.

What's not included

• International flight tickets and Visa costs.
• Tips, drinks, laundry, calls, personal insurances and all such costs of a personal nature.
• Credit Card Surcharge of 5 to 7% will apply or Bank Transfer Fees of USD 50.

Contact us using the form below to book the tour or for any questions We reply immediately

Add an Experience

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