The Maasai Mara National Reserve (often spelled Masai Mara) is Kenya’s most famous safari destination, renowned for its vast savannas, abundant wildlife, and the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration. Covering 1,510 sq. km, the Mara is home to the Big Five and more than 90 mammal species, offering some of the best year-round game viewing in Africa.
Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River from Tanzania’s Serengeti in one of nature’s greatest spectacles. With Ahambi Tours, you’ll enjoy tailor-made safaris featuring thrilling game drives, cultural encounters, and handpicked accommodations — from budget camps to luxury lodges.
Where is Maasai Mara?
The Mara is located in southwestern Kenya, about 270 km (167 miles) from Nairobi.
- By Road: 5–6 hours’ drive via Narok, Sekenani, or Talek Gates.
- By Air: 45-minute flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to airstrips such as Keekorok, Ol Kiombo, Musiara, and Mara North.
Its prime location makes it easy to combine with Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Samburu, Ol Pejeta, or cross-border adventures into the Serengeti.
Why Visit Maasai Mara?
- Unmatched Wildlife – Highest density of lions in the world, leopards and cheetahs thrive here.
- Great Wildebeest Migration – July to October: Mara River crossings and predator action.
- Scenic Landscapes – Golden plains dotted with acacia trees and dramatic sunsets.
- Cultural Encounters – Visit Maasai villages for authentic cultural experiences.
- Year-Round Safaris – Resident wildlife ensures great viewing any month of the year.
Maasai Mara Migration Calendar
- July – October: Peak season; wildebeest crossings at the Mara River.
- November – December: Short rains, green landscapes, excellent for photography.
- January – February: Predator action during calving season.
- March – June: Fewer tourists, lush greenery, and rewarding resident wildlife sightings.
Best Time to Visit Maasai Mara
- July–October → Best for the Great Migration and dramatic river crossings.
- January–March → Clear skies, predator activity, ideal for photography.
- November–June → Quieter, greener, and excellent for resident wildlife and birdwatching.
The Mara is a year-round safari destination — the key is choosing the season that best matches your interests.
Wildlife in Maasai Mara
The Maasai Mara is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five:
- Lions – The reserve has one of the highest lion densities in the world.
- Leopards – Frequently seen in trees or stalking prey along riverbanks.
- Elephants – Large herds roam the plains, especially near rivers.
- Buffalo – Common in the grasslands and often seen in large herds.
- Rhinoceros – Both black and white rhinos can be spotted, though sightings are rarer.
In addition to the Big Five, the Mara hosts diverse wildlife:
- Big Cats: Lions, leopards, cheetahs.
- Other Predators: Hyenas, jackals, African wild dogs.
- River Wildlife: Hippos and Nile crocodiles thrive in the Mara River.
- Birdlife: Over 470 species, including crowned cranes, secretary birds, ostriches, vultures, and raptors.
The Mara is especially famous for predator-prey interactions during the Great Migration, making it a photographer’s dream.
Activities in Maasai Mara
- Game Drives – Morning, afternoon, or full-day safaris with expert guides.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris – Sunrise flights over the plains with champagne breakfast.
- Walking Safaris – Offered in conservancies for a closer look at flora and fauna.
- Cultural Visits – Meet Maasai families and explore traditional dances and crafts.
- Photography Safaris – Tailored itineraries for capturing predators, migration, and landscapes.
Maasai Mara Safari Packages & Costs
The cost of a Maasai Mara safari depends on several factors, including:
- Class of Accommodation – Budget camps, mid-range lodges, or luxury tented camps.
- Number of Days – Longer safaris cost more but allow deeper exploration.
- Number of People – Group safaris reduce the per-person cost compared to private tours.
- Season of Travel –
- January to June (low season) → Lower park fees & lodge rates.
- July to December (high season) → Peak prices during the Great Migration.
- Mode of Transport – Road safaris are more affordable; flying safaris save time but cost more.
- Extra Activities – Hot air balloon safaris, cultural visits, or private guides add to the cost.
On average, a 4-day Maasai Mara safari for 2 people costs between $2,800 and $4,000 per person depending on season, lodge class, and transport choice.
Sample 4-Day Maasai Mara Safari Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive or fly from Nairobi → Afternoon game drive.
- Day 2: Full-day safari with picnic lunch in the reserve.
- Day 3: Morning & afternoon game drives, optional hot air balloon ride.
- Day 4: Morning Maasai village visit → Return to Nairobi.
Conservancies Around Maasai Mara
Private conservancies such as Mara North, Olare Motorogi, and Naboisho provide:
- Exclusive game drives with fewer vehicles.
- Walking safaris and night drives (not allowed inside the main reserve).
- Luxury tented camps offering privacy and personalized service.
Conservation Efforts
The Maasai Mara collaborates with local Maasai communities and conservancies to support:
- Anti-poaching patrols.
- Sustainable grazing & eco-tourism.
- Community projects that benefit local families.
By visiting, you directly contribute to wildlife and community conservation.
The Mara Compared with Other National Parks in Kenya
Kenya offers a wide range of safari experiences. Here’s how the Maasai Mara compares with other top destinations:
| Park / Reserve | Location | Main Highlights | Best For | How It Compares to Maasai Mara |
| Maasai Mara | Southwestern Kenya | Great Wildebeest Migration, Big Five, high predator density | Migration safaris, big cats, cultural visits | Kenya’s most famous safari; best for first-time visitors and dramatic encounters |
| Amboseli National Park | Southern Kenya (near Mt. Kilimanjaro) | Elephant herds, Kilimanjaro views | Elephant lovers, photographers | Smaller than the Mara; ideal to combine for elephants + big cats |
| Lake Nakuru National Park | Central Rift Valley | Flamingos, rhinos, birdlife | Birdwatching, short safaris | Complements Mara with rhinos & birding variety |
| Samburu National Reserve | Northern Kenya | “Samburu Special Five” – oryx, gerenuk, Somali ostrich, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe | Unique wildlife, cultural encounters | Less crowded and rugged; great contrast to Mara’s plains |
| Tsavo East & West | Southeastern Kenya | Vast wilderness, red elephants, lava landscapes, Mzima Springs | Off-the-beaten-path safaris | Larger and wilder; lower predator density, perfect for extended safaris |
| Ol Pejeta Conservancy | Central Kenya (Laikipia) | Largest black rhino sanctuary, chimpanzee center, Big Five | Conservation & families | More intimate; balances Mara’s migration focus with strong conservation |
Suggested Safari Combinations
- Best for First-Timers: Maasai Mara + Amboseli → Big cats & elephants with Kilimanjaro backdrop.
- Best for Bird Lovers: Maasai Mara + Lake Nakuru → Flamingos, rhinos, birdlife.
- Best for Adventure Seekers: Maasai Mara + Samburu + Tsavo → Unique species & rugged wilderness.
- Best for Conservation Enthusiasts: Maasai Mara + Ol Pejeta → Rhino sanctuary & chimpanzees.
- Extended Safari (13 Days): Samburu – Ol Pejeta – Lake Nakuru – Maasai Mara.
- Ultimate Safari (17 Days): Samburu – Ol Pejeta – Aberdare – Lake Nakuru – Maasai Mara – Lake Naivasha.
Safari Combination Comparison
| Safari Option | Duration | Parks Covered | Highlights | Best For |
| Classic Intro Safari | 6–7 Days | Mara + Amboseli | Big cats, elephants, Kilimanjaro | First-time visitors |
| Birding Safari | 5–7 Days | Mara + Lake Nakuru | Flamingos, rhinos, 450+ birds | Birdwatchers & photographers |
| Adventure Safari | 9–10 Days | Mara + Samburu + Tsavo | Unique wildlife, rugged landscapes | Adventure seekers |
| Conservation Safari | 7–8 Days | Mara + Ol Pejeta | Rhino & chimpanzee sanctuary | Conservation-focused travelers |
| Extended Circuit | 13 Days | Samburu – Ol Pejeta – Lake Nakuru – Mara | Rhinos, flamingos, migration | Explorers seeking variety |
| Ultimate Safari | 17 Days | Samburu – Ol Pejeta – Aberdare – Lake Nakuru – Mara – Naivasha | Northern species, Rift Valley lakes, forests, migration | Travelers seeking full Kenya immersion |
FAQs about Mara
Q: Which is better – Masai Mara or Serengeti?
Serengeti is vast and great for calving; Mara is compact, predator-rich, and famous for river crossings.
Q: What’s the best time for the Great Migration?
July–October for Mara River crossings.
Q: Can I do a family safari in Maasai Mara?
Yes — many lodges are family-friendly, though walking safaris have age limits.
Q: What vehicles are used for game drives?
Ahambi Tours provides custom safari jeeps with open roofs for the best photography and comfort.
Book Your Maasai Mara Safari with Ahambi Tours
At Ahambi Tours, we create safari packages for every traveler — from budget camping trips to luxury tented safaris. Whether it’s a 3-day escape or a 17-day grand circuit, our expert guides and custom itineraries guarantee a safari you’ll never forget.
📩 Contact us today to plan your Maasai Mara safari.