Masai Mara National Reserve
Kenya's crown jewel and the northern terminus of the Great Migration. The Masai Mara's golden savannahs host the highest density of big cats in Africa — and the most dramatic river crossings when two million wildebeest pour across the Mara River.
About Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara is East Africa's most iconic safari destination. Named after the Maasai people who have inhabited the area for centuries and the Mara River that bisects it, this reserve is a contiguous extension of the Serengeti ecosystem — forming one of the last great wildlife corridors on Earth.
The Mara is famous for its exceptional predator viewing. An estimated 850+ lions roam the reserve and surrounding conservancies, along with significant populations of leopard, cheetah, and hyena. The open terrain makes the Mara one of the best places in Africa to witness a hunt in real time.
The surrounding private conservancies (Olare Motorogi, Naboisho, Mara North) offer exclusive low-density safari experiences with night drives, walking safaris, and off-road driving — activities not permitted inside the national reserve. For the ultimate Mara experience, split your stay between the reserve and a conservancy.
Key Wildlife Species
Click a species to read our in-depth field guide
Best Time to Visit
Green months indicate peak safari season
Climate
Tropical highland. Warm days (22–28°C), cool nights (10–15°C). Dry seasons Jul–Oct and Jan–Feb. Long rains Apr–Jun.
Highlights
- Great Migration river crossings (Jul–Oct)
- Highest lion density in Africa
- Hot air balloon safaris over the Mara
- Maasai cultural experiences
- Private conservancy exclusive access
- Cheetah and wild dog sightings
Activities
- Guided game drives
- Hot air balloon flights
- Walking safaris (conservancies)
- Night drives (conservancies)
- Maasai village visits
- Bush dining
- Photography
Getting There
Fly from Nairobi Wilson Airport to one of several Mara airstrips (45 min). Road transfer from Nairobi takes 5–6 hours via the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Where to Stay
Insider Tip
Book a conservancy stay alongside your Mara reserve visit. Conservancies like Olare Motorogi limit vehicle numbers — so you might have a pride of lions completely to yourself. It's the difference between a great safari and an extraordinary one.
Safari Packages Including Masai
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Masai Safari
Let our experts craft a bespoke itinerary featuring Masai Mara National Reserve and the best experiences Kenya has to offer.