The Greatest Wildlife Spectacle on Earth
Masai Mara National Reserve
Home to the legendary Great Migration, the Masai Mara is Africa's most iconic wildlife reserve with year-round Big Five sightings.
KenyaJuly to October for migration; year-round for Big Five4 safaris17+ species
About Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya's most celebrated wildlife destination. Spanning 1,510 square kilometres of open savanna, rolling hills, and acacia-dotted plains, it forms the northern extension of the Serengeti ecosystem.
Every year between July and October, over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle pour across the Mara River in one of nature's most dramatic spectacles. But the Mara is spectacular year-round, boasting one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including all members of the Big Five.
The surrounding Maasai conservancies offer exclusive, low-impact safari experiences with walking safaris, night drives, and cultural encounters that aren't possible inside the national reserve.
Highlights
What makes Masai Mara National Reserve special?
01
Great Migration River Crossings
Witness thousands of wildebeest braving crocodile-infested waters in one of nature's most dramatic events.
02
Big Five Game Drives
Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — the Mara has one of the highest densities of big cats in Africa.
03
Hot Air Balloon Safari
Float over the savanna at dawn for a bird's-eye view of the migration herds and acacia woodlands.
04
Maasai Cultural Visits
Visit a traditional Maasai village to learn about their ancient pastoral way of life.
Wildlife
Animals in Masai Mara National Reserve
African Lion
Panthera leo
Vulnerable
African Elephant
Loxodonta africana
Endangered
African Buffalo
Syncerus caffer
Near Threatened
Leopard
Panthera pardus
Vulnerable
Black Rhinoceros
Diceros bicornis
Critically Endangered
Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatus
Vulnerable
Spotted Hyena
Crocuta crocuta
Least Concern
Olive Baboon
Papio anubis
Least ConcernWhat is the best month to visit Masai Mara National Reserve?
Recommended: July to October for migration; year-round for Big Five
Choose a month to learn more
DRY SEASONSHOULDER SEASONRAINY SEASON
Masai Mara National Reserve in January
Dry Season
The short dry season brings clear skies and excellent game viewing. Vegetation thins out, concentrating wildlife around remaining water sources. This is one of the best months for photography with golden-hour light across the savanna.
Photos
Masai Mara National Reserve Gallery
Safari Experiences
Safaris in Masai Mara National Reserve
Starting From$1,200Per person
wildlife safariBudget Kenya Safari
Enjoy an affordable Kenya safari from Nairobi with Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru, smart-value lodges, and unforgettable wildlife sightings.
5 days
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Starting From$2,972Per person
wildlife safariThe Great Migration 2027 Safari.
Track millions of wildebeest across the Serengeti-Mara on an 8-day luxury safari with river crossings, Big Five sightings, and tented camps.
8 days
View Details 
Starting From$7,500Per person
photographyEast Africa Photography Safari
A 12-day photographic journey across Kenya and Tanzania with professional wildlife photographers and custom vehicles.
12 days
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Starting From$5,500Per person
luxuryLuxury Masai Mara Fly-In
Take the journey of a lifetime with Samton Safaris' luxury Masai Mara Fly-In. Experience sustainable, tailor-made luxury amidst Kenya's spectacular wildlife. Book an unforgettable adventure today.
4 days
View Details Where to Stay
Accommodations in Masai Mara National Reserve
Camp$$$Zebra River Camp
Zebra plains River camp is located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve near Talek, the camp is a luxury tented camp that provides convenient access to some of the Maasai Mara’s renowned game-viewing areas, making it a practical base for an authentic Kenya safari.
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Camp$$Mara Maisha Camp
Mara Maisha Camp offers luxury tented accommodations in the Masai Mara, featuring Deluxe and Club Rooms with stunning views. Enjoy game drives, cultural visits, and exceptional service in an intimate setting.
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Lodge$$Mara Sopa Lodge
Mara Sopa Lodge offers comfortable safari accommodation in the Masai Mara with panoramic views, easy access to game drives, a pool, and great service. Perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
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Lodge$$Sarova Mara Game Camp
Sarova Mara Game Camp offers luxury tented safari accommodation in the Masai Mara, with private decks, pool, restaurant, and activities like game drives, wellness, and cultural experiences.
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Camp$$Zebra plains Mara Camp
Zebra Plains Mara Camp offers a selection of luxury tents that combine comfort with the raw beauty of the Masai Mara. Each tent is spacious and elegantly furnished, with a blend of African-inspired décor and modern amenities. The camp’s tented accommodations include:
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Camp$$Ashnil Mara Camp
Ashnil Mara Camp offers luxury tented accommodation overlooking the Mara River in the Masai Mara, with private decks, excellent dining, pool, and easy access to game drives and wildlife viewing.
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Lodge$$$Angama Mara
Angama Mara is a luxury safari lodge in the Maasai Mara with glass‑fronted tented suites, dramatic escarpment views, personalised safari experiences, and exceptional service.
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Camp$$$mara bushtops camp
Experience unparalleled luxury at Mara Bushtops Camp. Ultra-luxury tents, breathtaking conservancy views, private decks and awards-winning spa set the scene for an unforgettable Kenyan safari.
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Common Questions
FAQs — Masai Mara National Reserve
The migration typically reaches the Mara between late July and October, with river crossings peaking in August and September. However, the Mara offers excellent game viewing year-round.
The national reserve is government-managed and can be busier. The private conservancies surrounding it offer exclusive experiences including walking safaris, night drives, and off-road driving with fewer vehicles.
You can fly (45-minute scenic flight) or drive (5-6 hours via the Great Rift Valley). We recommend flying for a seamless experience.
Verified Reviews
Traveller Reviews
See what our guests say about their East Africa safari experience