Why Masai Mara Is Special
The Mara forms the northern edge of the wider Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, an unfenced border shared with Tanzania that lets wildlife move freely across both countries. Three things make it Kenya’s most visited reserve.
The lion population. With as many as 25 to 30 lions per 100 square kilometres in prime areas, and an estimated 850 to 900 lions across the reserve and surrounding conservancies, the Mara has some of the densest lion populations anywhere on earth.
The Great Migration. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, alongside zebra and gazelle, travel roughly 2,500 kilometres between the Serengeti and the Mara, culminating in dramatic crossings of the crocodile filled Mara River, typically between July and October.
Private conservancies. Areas like Mara North, Olare Motorogi and Naboisho border the main reserve, offering lower vehicle density and a more exclusive experience for travellers who want to go beyond the reserve itself.
Maasai culture. The reserve takes its name from the Maasai people, whose traditions, including the jumping dance and bright red shuka cloaks, remain a living part of the region.
Wildlife You’ll See on a Masai Mara Safari
- Lions, the highest density in Africa, easily spotted resting on rocks or under acacia trees thanks to closely grazed grass
- Elephants, large herds crossing open grassland, especially striking at sunset near the river
- Leopards, present but secretive, best spotted along riverine forest
- Cheetahs, the Mara’s open plains and long sightlines make it one of Africa’s best places to watch them hunt
- Buffalo, moving in herds of hundreds across the savanna
- Rhino, present but notoriously difficult to spot
- Wildebeest, zebra and gazelle, in vast numbers, especially during the Great Migration
- Over 500 bird species, including lilac breasted rollers and secretary birds
The Landscape
The Mara is wide open grassland dotted with acacia trees, cut through by the Mara and Talek Rivers where the most dramatic migration crossings take place.
How to Get to Masai Mara National Reserve
By road from Nairobi. About 5 to 6 hours, with Great Rift Valley views along the way.
By air. Scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport take roughly 45 minutes to an hour, we can book this for you.
Best Time to Visit Masai Mara for the Migration
July to October. The Great Migration and river crossings, the busiest and most sought after time to visit, September and October generally offer the best crossing viewing.
January to February. Dry, good general wildlife viewing, calving season for wildebeest in the southern Serengeti draws predators too.
March to May. The long rains, green scenery, fewer visitors, though some roads can get muddy.
November to December. Short rains, green landscape, smaller crowds.