Masai Mara Safari

The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s flagship game park, and forms part of one the largest natural ecosystems in East Africa, extending over the Kenyan border into Tanzania, where it meets the Serengeti National Park. The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the illustrious Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino).  

The biggest drawcard for visitors on safari in Masai Mara is the Great Wildebeest Migration, in which almost 2 million wildebeest, gazelle and zebra migrate from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara. Most people choose to book a Masai Mara safari during June and July, when the migration arrives at the infamous Mara River for the deadly crossings. As crocodiles snap up wildebeest, zebra and gazelle, photographers delight in capturing the incredible moments on camera.  

However, the Great Migration is not the only attraction. The Masai Mara National Reserve is known for its truly spectacular game viewing all year round. Lion, elephant, cheetah and leopard are all seen regularly in the wide-open savannah plains and hilly landscapes of the game reserve. Kenya is also a top-class bird watching destination, and the Masai Mara is no exception.  

A safari in the Masai Mara provides opportunity for authentic cultural experiences. Also known as ‘The Mara’ by locals, the national reserve was named in honor of the ancestral Maasai people who still live traditional lifestyles in the area. A visit to one of the local villages is a real highlight. You’ll get to experience their unique way of life, and perhaps even witness the competitive jumping dance of the warriors!  

Best Time to Visit the Masai Mara:

A Masai Mara safari offers year-round game viewing, during both the dry and green season. If you are keen to witness the wildebeest crossing of the Mara River, then you’ll need to be in the reserve in June – July. But be warned! This is high season in the Mara, and you’ll want to book your Great Migration  package far in advance to ensure your spot. Consider combining your safari with a trip to Amboseli National Park for exceptional views of Mount Kilimanjaro, with Lake Nakuru National Park in the Great Rift Valley region, or with Laikipia in northern Kenya.