Land of the Maasai people and a biodiversity hotspot where the spectacle of the great migration unfolds and where you can see the big 5, even the big 9, the Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Kenya's most beautiful natural jewels. Activities, wildlife to see, accommodation, safari types, best season, pricing... Discover all the practical information to organize a safari in Masai Mara reserve.

Why choose Masai Mara for a safari in Kenya?

For its incredible biodiversity

Although small in size (1,510 km²), Masai Mara National Reserve offers rich biodiversity. This is precisely why it ranks among the most popular sites for a wildlife safari in Kenya. In total, it is home to 95 species of mammals and over 500 species of birds, including rare and endangered species. Given its size, you'll have excellent chances of seeing most of the animals.

As for landscapes, the reserve is characterized by expansive grasslands that transform into golden savannas with the seasons. You'll also find some riverine forests along the Mara and Talek rivers as well as rocky hills. The Maasai word "Mara" (meaning "spotted") actually refers to these dark spots scattered across the landscape.

To see the big 5 and even the big 9

Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the rare places where you can spot all members of the big 5 during a safari in Kenya. As a reminder, the big 5 consists of 5 iconic African animals:

• The lion,

• The leopard,

• The elephant,

• The buffalo,

• The black rhinoceros.

You'll also find what's known as the "Big Nine" - the big 5 animals plus other large mammals: the giraffe, zebra, cheetah, and hippopotamus.

To witness the great migration phenomenon

Masai Mara National Reserve has no fences. This is why it's often described as an extension of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. This configuration allows it to host one of the planet's most spectacular natural phenomena: the great migration.

Each year (between July and October), millions of wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and antelopes migrate to the Masai Mara plains in search of fresh pasture. Along their journey, they must contend with hungry predators, whether the Nile crocodiles during the Mara River crossing or the lions and other carnivores waiting eagerly in the plains.

To meet the Maasai people

Masai Mara National Reserve owes its name to the river that flows through it, but also to the people who have inhabited this land for centuries: the Maasai. A pastoral and semi-nomadic warrior population of East Africa, the Maasai represent the most emblematic tribal group across all of Africa.

During a safari, you can meet this people and discover their ancestral and traditional way of life. While it's possible to visit a Maasai village for an hour, we strongly recommend staying in a village for a genuine immersion. Explore our advice on meeting the Maasai in an ethical and responsible manner.

Did you know?

The vast savanna expanses of Masai Mara served as filming locations for many movies, including the classic film "Out of Africa." The park's landscapes and wildlife also inspired the creators of the iconic animated film: The Lion King. More recently, the stunning documentary "Big Cats" was filmed in the reserve.

What wildlife can you see in Masai Mara reserve?

As mentioned, Masai Mara National Reserve boasts an exceptional wildlife density. Among theanimals you can see in Masai Mara reserve, you'll find:

• Herbivores: rhinoceros, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, antelope and gazelle, eland, hippopotamus, warthog, buffalo...

• Predators: lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, jackals, servals, bat-eared foxes, mongooses...

• Reptiles: Nile crocodiles, monitors, snakes, lizards…

• Birds: ostriches, storks, African gray hornbills, European bee-eaters, crowned cranes, sacred ibis, secretary birds, numerous raptors (martial eagle, kingfisher, African vulture, sagittarius, African pygmy falcon...) and many more...

• Primates: baboons, green monkeys, black and white colobus...

What are the different ways to safari in Masai Mara?

There are various safari options in Masai Mara, including:

Jeep safari on "game drive"

Embarking on a Masai Mara safari by jeep on a game drive, accompanied by ranger guides and drivers, is the most popular option among travelers. And for good reason—it's the ideal way to explore the reserve in the best possible conditions.

Rangers know the terrain intimately and understand how to track animals to find them more easily. In other words, this is the option to prioritize if you want to learn as much as possible about nature and maximize your chances of seeing wildlife. You can choose between a private safari (more expensive) or a safari with other travelers (more economical).

Good to know:

In addition to jeep options, there's another alternative: Safari Tour minibuses. This vehicle type is less expensive than Safari Jeeps.

Jeep safari on "self-drive"

The "self-drive" option involves renting a vehicle to safari in Masai Mara independently. This can be an interesting option for those seeking maximum freedom and wanting to explore the reserve at their own pace, provided you respect safety regulations and guidelines.

Here too, we recommend opting for a 4x4 rental with driver and ranger. Not only will this save you from driving on rough tracks, but you'll also benefit from their expertise in tracking animals more easily.

Note: During a self-drive safari, you must follow certain guidelines to ensure your safety and that of the animals:

• Vehicles must respect the speed limit (50km/h maximum);

• Off-road driving is prohibited, as is exiting the vehicle outside designated areas (viewpoints, picnic areas...);

• Never block a river crossing during the great migration and avoid driving through herds of animals (instead, slow down to let them disperse naturally);

• Always maintain a safe distance from animals (25 m minimum);

• Minimize disturbance to animals (no big gestures, no noise...) and never feed them;

• Don't collect anything from the reserve (feathers, stones, bones...) and leave no litter during your visit.

Walking safari with rangers

Want to experience something more authentic at the heart of nature? Why not opt for a walking safari? While it's prohibited to walk freely within Masai Mara National Reserve, walking excursions are possible near certain lodges and camps, or in private reserves bordering Masai Mara.

This offers the chance to observe animals more naturally (without a vehicle) and truly soak in the atmosphere. You'll be accompanied by rangers who will teach you how to track animals in the savanna by analyzing their footprints. You can listen to bird songs and the cries of baboons instead of the sound of vehicle engines... As you can imagine, this is the perfect option for a suspended moment and genuine connection with nature.

Good to know:

Masai Mara walking safaris typically last 45 minutes to 1 hour around camps and lodges, and around 2 to 3 hours when in private reserves surrounding the main reserve. They usually occur early morning or late afternoon.

Horseback safari

Here's another option to discover Masai Mara's wild expanse without a vehicle: horseback safari. Horseback safaris allow visitors to become part of the landscape and experience a tremendous sense of freedom.

Again, this type of safari doesn't occur inside the main reserve but takes place in private reserves and game ranches in surrounding areas like the Olerai reserve. Horseback safaris last approximately 2 hours, and you can choose between two options: an early morning expedition at 7am that ends with breakfast in the bush, or an afternoon expedition at 3pm that ends with an aperitif in the plains.

Note:

Masai Mara walking safaris typically last 45 minutes to 1 hour around camps and lodges, and around 2 to 3 hours when in private reserves surrounding the main reserve. They usually occur early morning or late afternoon.

Night safari

Are you an adventurous spirit seeking an unusual experience? Then a night safari in Masai Mara is for you! You'll have the opportunity to observe nocturnal animals rarely seen during the day. We're talking about leopards, bat-eared foxes, silver-backed jackals, striped hyenas, banded mongooses, caracals, and many others.

Once again, this type of safari takes place in reserves surrounding the main Masai Mara reserve, such as Mara North Conservancy, Mara Naboisho, Siana, Trans Mara, and Olare Motorogi. Night safaris are mandatory with a guide and driver and last around 2 hours. Departures occur at 7pm or 9pm.

Good to know:

The 4x4 Land Cruiser and Land Rover vehicles used for night safaris are perfectly equipped for this type of expedition. They're fitted with lights with red filters that respect the animals.

Aerial safari with hot air balloon flight

What if you gained altitude to see Masai Mara National Reserve from above? By choosing ahot air balloon flight over Masai Mara, you'll experience magic you won't soon forget.

Head to Little Governors Camp, the departure point, where you can board a basket and gently take flight over the wild expanse. Departure occurs at sunrise, allowing you to see nature dressed in its finest colors before turning your attention to the animals. The hot air balloon flight lasts approximately 1 hour and concludes with breakfast in the bush.

The aerial safari appeals equally to families with children and newlyweds seeking a romantic experience above the savanna. It's also a favorite among photographers who can capture the sunrise and bush animals from a unique perspective!

Where to stay during a safari in Masai Mara reserve?

You'll find numerous accommodation options, from the most economical to the most luxurious, in the heart of Masai Mara reserve. Here are thedifferent types of accommodations you can find during your safari :

Public campsites

Offering basic facilities with relatively minimal equipment, campsites are the most economical accommodation option during a Masai Mara safari. It's ideal for adventurers, backpackers, and budget-conscious travelers.

Tented camps

Made up of spacious, protected, and ultra-comfortable tents (quality bedding and private bathrooms), tented camps are typically set along rivers where animals gather. This makes them ideal for experiencing the closest connection with nature. In short, they represent the perfect compromise between the authentic camping experience and lodge comfort.

Lodges

Lodges feature solid structures (rooms, bungalows...) set within expansive enclosed tropical gardens. Most offer all-inclusive plans. You'll also typically find a swimming pool, bar, restaurant, and sometimes a spa and boutique. It's the most comfortable and luxurious accommodation solution for a safari.

Our favorite accommodations in Masai Mara reserve:

• Masai Mara Sopa Lodge for travelers seeking comfort and prestigious experience,

• Olmoran Tented Camp and Talek Bush Camp for travelers seeking authenticity and adventure closest to the animals.

What is the best time to safari in Masai Mara?

The Kenya climate allows you to visit Masai Mara National Reserve year-round.

Although the reserve hosts abundant wildlife year-round, it's easier to observe animals during dry seasons: December to March and July to September. Why? Because the grass is drier and shorter, making animals easier to spot, and water sources are more limited.

But if there's oneideal season for a safari in Masai Mara, it's the great migration period. This phenomenon occurs annually between July and October.

Here are the key stages of Kenya's great migration to help you choose the right time:

• July: herbivores leave Serengeti park in Tanzania heading to Masai Mara. It's still a bit early to observe them.

• August: the fateful moment of the Mara River crossing where countless hungry crocodiles await. Beware for the sensitive-hearted!

• September: herds of wildebeest, zebras, and antelope arrive on Masai Mara plains seeking food and water. This is when you can see carnivores (lions, cheetahs...) hunting herbivores.

• October/November: animals depart in reverse, cross the Mara River again to return to Serengeti park in Tanzania.

How long should you plan for a Masai Mara safari?

To make the most of your safari and increase your chances of wildlife observation, we recommend staying at least two days in Masai Mara National Reserve. Add one or two extra days if you want to pursue optional activities (hot air balloon flight, horseback safari, night safari...) and if you want to fully enjoy your accommodation's facilities.

Note that travel to reach the reserve can be lengthy and should be factored into your itinerary.

How to reach Masai Mara National Reserve?

Like most of Kenya's national parks and nature reserves, access to Masai Mara isn't always straightforward. To reach Masai Mara reserve, you have two options:

Reach Masai Mara by plane

There are nearly a dozen landing strips located in the reserve and surrounding areas. The journey is made aboard a propeller aircraft. Expect around 45 minutes of flight from Nairobi or 2 hours from Mombasa. It's the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Masai Mara, but also the most expensive (expect around $200).

Reach Masai Mara by car

You can reach one of the reserve's entrances by car (or rather a 4x4 given road conditions) from the city of Nairobi. Expect between 5 and 6.5 hours of driving depending on the entrance you need to reach to get closer to your accommodation. It's the most economical option, but also the longest. While the journey can sometimes be rough, it allows you to enjoy magnificent landscapes.

How much does entry to Masai Mara reserve cost?

Entry to Masai Mara National Reserve costs:

• 100 USD per non-resident adult per day from January 1, 2024 to June 30, 2024.

• 200 USD per non-resident adult per day as of July 1, 2024.

• 50 USD per day per child (aged 9 to 17 years at entry time) 

• Free for children 8 years and younger.

For more information on additional fees (vehicle fees, ranger fees, camping fees...) visit www.masaimara.travel  

What are the opening hours?

Masai Mara National Reserve is open daily from 6 am to 6:30 pm. Only visitors with accommodation reservations can enter at night, provided they remain confined to their lodgings until the next morning.