Best Time to Visit

The Maasai Mara offers excellent wildlife viewing all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your priorities. The peak season is between July and October, which is the prime time to witness the Great Migration. During these months, over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra flood the reserve from the Serengeti, creating the famous and dramatic Mara River Crossings. While this is the most exciting period, it is also the busiest, with higher prices and more safari vehicles.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower costs, the Green Season from November to March is a great choice. The short rains bring lush, green landscapes, and the area is fantastic for bird watching as migratory species arrive. Notably, February is the calving season, when thousands of young animals are born, attracting a high concentration of predators and creating exciting natural drama. The least crowded time is during the heavy long rains of April and May, when prices are lowest, though some roads can be difficult to navigate.

Incredible Wildlife:

The Big Five and The Great Migration

The Mara ecosystem supports one of the highest densities of wildlife in the world, making every game drive an adventure. It is one of the best places in Africa to spot all members of The Big Five: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and Rhinoceros. Lions are particularly common and often easily viewed, while huge herds of elephants roam freely. Besides these icons, you will encounter the fastest land mammal, the Cheetah, as well as towering Maasai giraffes, hippos in the Mara River, and a staggering number of antelopes like topi and gazelles. For bird lovers, over 450 species, including the striking Lilac-breasted Roller, make the Mara a true paradise.

Must-Do Activities

A safari in the Maasai Mara offers a variety of ways to experience the magic of the African bush. The most common activity is the Game Drive, where you explore the plains in a 4×4 vehicle with an expert guide, typically during the cool hours of early morning and late afternoon for the best animal sightings.

For a truly unique perspective, a Hot Air Balloon Safari offers a breathtaking flight over the savannah at sunrise, concluding with a champagne breakfast in the bush upon landing.

To connect with the land’s human history, consider a respectful visit to a traditional Maasai Village (manyatta) to learn about their ancient culture, customs, and warrior traditions.

Finally, if you stay in one of the surrounding private conservancies, you can enjoy special activities not permitted in the main reserve, such as quiet Walking Safaris and exciting Night Game Drives to spot nocturnal creatures.