Masai Mara National Reserve

Gosheni Destination

Masai Mara National Reserve

Probably the most famous wildlife reserve in Africa, the Masai Mara National Reserve is synonymous with a diverse abundance of wildlife scattered across rolling grasslands punctuated with flat-topped acacias and rocky outcrops. From August to October, the reserve hosts the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Location & Habitats

The reserve is located in southwestern Kenya and borders the adjacent Serengeti National Park in neighboring Tanzania. Covering 1510 sq km (580 sq miles), it sits between 1500-2170 meters above sea level.

The predominant habitats are grasslands and acacia woodlands bisected by seasonal streams. There are occasional rocky outcrops surrounded by dense thickets. The two main rivers that bisect the reserve are known as the Mara and Talek, along which there are stands of riparian forest.

Conservation History

The reserve was declared in 1961 and was named for the Maasai people who inhabit the area and the Mara River that runs through the park. It is co-managed by the Mara Conservancy and the Narok County Government. It forms part of the Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem and co-hosts the largest mammal migration on earth. Notable conservation successes include the re-establishment of a significant population of black rhinos after near-extinction and numerous predator studies.

Tourism

Unquestionably Kenya’s most visited wildlife destination, it attracts over 200 000 visitors per year. Accommodation is abundant both in and adjacent to the park, catering to various budgets and preferences. Within the park, the majority of visitors join guided activities, such as game drives and nature walks. The highest volume of visitors occurs between June and October, although the reserve remains open year-round.

Regulations

All visitors to the reserve must follow the instructions of park officials and abide by the rules and regulations, including:

Offroad driving is only permitted for Big 5 sightings
Do not harm, harass or feed wildlife
No littering
No excessive noise
Night game drives are not permitted
Only leave the vehicle at designated points
Do not exceed the speed limit of 50 kph

Access

Masai Mara National Park lies about 270 km (168 mi) west of Nairobi, with the drive to the nearest gate (Sekenani) taking 4-5 hours. Scheduled flights are available from various airports around the country to airstrips within the reserve.

Highlights Within Masai Mara National Park

Hot-air balloon flight

Rise over the plains in the still morning air and survey the wildlife from above

Great migration & river crossings

This seasonal spectacular – millions of animals on the move – is dubbed The Greatest Show on Earth

Big 5

Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalos are among the most sought-after species on game drives

Highlights in the Vicinity of Masai Mara National Reserve

Maasai Village Tour

Visit a traditional village with a local Maasai guide to learn more about this colorful culture

Bird Watching

Well over 500 species of birds have been recorded in the area - paradise for bird enthusiasts

Night game drive

A glimpse into the nocturnal lives of wild animals can be had when staying at private camps in the area

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Places Worth Visiting

Within the Masai Mara National Reserve

Mara, Talek and Sand Rivers

Particularly during the Great Migration, these rivers set the stage for high drama as huge herds run the gauntlet of strong currents and hungry predators.

The Mara Triangle

Privately managed, this area offers a more exclusive safari experience. All members of the Big 5 are frequently seen in this scenic area.

Musiara Swamp

With lush vegetation and year-round water, this area is a natural magnet for birds and wildlife.

The Olooloo/Siria Escarpment

Forming the reserve’s western boundary, this elevated area offers the most dramatic views of the plains and wildlife below.

Near the Masai Mara National Reserve

Maasai Village Tour

As key stakeholders in the management of the reserve, a visit to a traditional Maasai village creates a better understanding of both their culture and their role in local conservation efforts.

Loita Hills

Just east of the reserve, this tranquil area is popular for both hiking and cultural experiences.

Nguruman Escarpment

Rich with cultural and biological diversity, the area boasts forests, waterfalls and hot springs with abundant birdlife.

Activities

Game Drives

Choose between full and half-day excursions in search of African wildlife, led by experienced local guides

Cultural Encounters

Learn more about the cultural heritage and history of the local people on a guided tour of villages, community projects and festivals.

Picnic

Your guide will choose a scenic location where a lavish picnic can be enjoyed out in the African savannah.

Bird-watching

Birds of all shapes and sizes can be found in the various habitats of the reserve, with nearly 500 species recorded.

Hot Air Balloon Trip

An early morning adventure where the lucky few drift over the teeming wildlife of the Masai Mara.

Nature Walks

Get even closer to nature - and learn so much more - in the company of an experienced guide as you walk amongst the wildlife.

Wildlife

Throughout the year, the Masai Mara promises excellent game viewing, with all members of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) present. A notable highlight is the wildebeest migration (from July to October) when over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and other antelope arrive to graze. Giraffes, warthogs, hippos and more are also present.

Predator sightings are among the best in Africa. Large family groups of lions and spotted hyenas are the dominant predators, in constant competition for food. The flat terrain lends itself to the high-speed hunting technique of cheetahs. Versatile hunters, leopards can be found both around the rocky outcrops, dense thickets and open grasslands.

Over 470 species of birds have been recorded, of which 47 are raptors (birds of prey), making this a significant bird-watching hotspot.

Landscape

For the most part, the landscape consists of gently rolling plains and acacia woodlands. The word ‘Mara’ means spotted, and this refers to the occasional shrubs and trees that punctuate the grasslands. Large granite outcrops stand out against the horizon, often surrounded by dense bush. There are a few permanent rivers and numerous seasonal streams bisecting the reserve, with the occasional lush swamp. Nearby escarpments provide a classic African backdrop.

Weather and Climate

At a relatively high altitude, the climate in Masai Mara National Reserve can be cooler than expected close to the equator. Daytime temperatures are generally pleasant in the mid to high twenties centigrade (mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit), cooling significantly overnight.

Best Time To Go
Dry Season
Wet Season
Shoulder Season

Best Time To Go

The best time to go is from July to October.
This coincides with the typical Great Migration period, and consequently, you can expect a higher volume of visitors and higher prices.

Dry Season

During the Dry Season (June-October), it is warm in the day, cooling overnight

Wet Season

During the Wet Season (November-May), it is cloudy conditions with afternoon showers are the norm and cool overnight.

Shoulder Season

There is a slight dip in visitor numbers over the wet season but most camps remain open to visitors and animal sightings are good.

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