Kenya's most iconic reserve — endless golden plains, dramatic river crossings and the densest predator population in Africa. The Mara delivers the safari you've pictured in your head.
- Great Migration river crossings (July–October)
- Resident Big 5 year-round
- Hot air balloon safaris at dawn
- Maasai cultural village visits
Best time to visit
July to October for the migration and river crossings. January to February is calving season with excellent predator action and far fewer vehicles.
Getting there
45-minute scheduled flight from Nairobi Wilson to one of the Mara airstrips, or a scenic 5–6 hour drive through the Rift Valley.
What you'll see
Wildlife you can reasonably expect on a typical Maasai Mara game drive.
- Lion (very high density, including the famous Marsh Pride)
- Leopard along the Talek and Mara rivers
- Cheetah on the open plains
- Elephant, buffalo, hippo and crocodile
- 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra in season
Experiences here
Dawn balloon safari
Lift off before sunrise, drift over the herds, finish with a bush champagne breakfast.
Bush breakfasts & sundowners
Set up on a kopje or riverbank with a chef and a view.
Maasai village visit
Spend time with a local manyatta — invited, not staged.
Walking safari (conservancies)
On foot with an armed Maasai guide in the surrounding conservancies.
FAQ
Maasai Mara — common questions
- How many days should I spend in the Mara?
- Three nights is the sweet spot — enough for two full game-drive days plus a half-day for a balloon or cultural experience.
- Conservancy or reserve?
- The conservancies (Mara North, Naboisho, Olare Motorogi) have stricter vehicle limits and allow walking and night drives. We usually recommend a mix.
- Will I see a river crossing?
- Crossings are wild and unpredictable, but in peak season (Aug–Sep) we position you for the best chance — sometimes waiting hours at a crossing point.
Plan your Maasai Mara safari
Tell us your dates and we'll send back a handcrafted itinerary, usually within 24 hours.
