MAASAI MARA
Experience the iconic savannah landscapes and witness the Great Migration
About Maasai Mara
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa's most magnificent game reserves. Bordering Tanzania, the Mara is the northern extension of the Serengeti and forms a wildlife corridor between the two countries. It's named after the statuesque, red-cloaked Maasai people who live in the park and graze their animals there as they have done for centuries.
The Mara is known for its exceptional population of Big Cats, game, and the annual Great Migration, which involves over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras. The landscape is primarily open grassland with seasonal riverlets. In the south-east, clumps of the distinctive acacia tree mark the border with Tanzania.
The Mara River, which flows through the reserve, provides a valuable water source for the wildlife and is the site of the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration.
Key Facts
Location
Southwestern Kenya, bordering Tanzania's Serengeti National Park
Size
1,510 square kilometers (583 square miles)
Established
1961
Altitude
1,500-2,170 meters (4,900-7,120 feet) above sea level
Wildlife in Maasai Mara
Big Cats
The Mara has one of the highest densities of lions in the world. It's also home to significant populations of leopards and cheetahs, making it one of the best places in Africa for big cat sightings.
Great Migration
From July to October, the Mara hosts the northern leg of the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest, zebra, and Thomson's gazelle move into the area from the Serengeti in search of fresh pasture.
Other Wildlife
The reserve is home to the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, giraffes, and over 450 elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, giraffes, and over 450 species of birds. The diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of wildlife throughout the year.
When to Visit
July to October
Peak Season / Dry Season
Great Migration Season
The best time to visit for the Great Migration. Witness dramatic river crossings as millions of wildebeest and zebra move through the reserve. Weather is dry and pleasant with minimal rainfall, making game viewing excellent as animals gather around water sources.
November to December
Short Rains
Green Season
The short rains bring lush green landscapes and fewer tourists. This is a good time for bird watching as many migratory species arrive. Wildlife is still abundant, and many animals give birth during this period, offering opportunities to see newborns.
January to February
Dry Season
Hot and Dry
A short dry spell between the rains. The weather is hot and dry, making it a good time for game viewing as animals gather around water sources. The landscape is still relatively green from the short rains, providing good photographic opportunities.
March to June
Long Rains
Low Season
The wettest time of year, with heavy rainfall especially in April and May. Some camps close during this period, but those that remain open offer lower rates. The landscape is lush and beautiful, but wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals disperse and roads may become difficult to navigate.
Things to Do in Maasai Mara
Game Drives
Explore the vast plains of the Maasai Mara on morning and afternoon game drives in search of the Big Five and other wildlife. Experienced guides will help you spot and identify animals while sharing their knowledge of the ecosystem.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Experience the magic of floating silently above the plains at dawn, watching wildlife below and enjoying a bird's eye view of the landscape. The flight is followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.
Maasai Village Visits
Visit a traditional Maasai village to learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life. Interact with community members, see traditional dances, and purchase handmade crafts directly from the artisans.