Wildlife Reserve · Southwestern Kenya
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Kenya's best-known reserve and the northern stage of the annual wildebeest migration — run by county government rather than the national wildlife service, unlike Kenya's national parks.
How to get there
By road from Nairobi, roughly five to six hours, or by scheduled light aircraft (around 45 minutes).
What to find
The Great Migration's river crossings (July-October), dense big-cat populations, and classic open savanna.
Overview
The Maasai Mara National Reserve covers about 1,510 km² of rolling grassland in southwestern Kenya. It's the northern continuation of Tanzania's Serengeti, and one of the world's great wildlife destinations. It's managed by Narok County, with the western Mara Triangle run by the Mara Conservancy.
The Mara is famous for big cats and for the Great Migration. From roughly July to October, huge herds of wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara River in dramatic river crossings. Private conservancies around the reserve, such as Olare Motorogi and Naboisho, offer quieter game viewing, walking safaris and night drives.
Highlights
- The Great Migration and the Mara River crossings (roughly July to October)
- Some of Africa's best lion, leopard and cheetah viewing
- Hot-air balloon safaris at sunrise
- Conservancies with walking safaris and night drives
- Maasai culture and community-owned conservancies
Things to do
Game drives
Full-day drives, with a picnic lunch, are ideal in migration season.
Balloon safari
A dawn flight followed by a bush breakfast.
Conservancy activities
Walking safaris and night drives, which aren't allowed in the main reserve.
Maasai visits
Community-led cultural visits.
Best time to visit
July to October for the migration. January to March is quieter, with green season calving in the south of the ecosystem. Wildlife is excellent all year.
Getting there
About 5 to 6 hours by road from Nairobi, or around 45 to 60 minutes by scheduled light aircraft to the Mara's airstrips.
Where to stay
Everything from mid-range tented camps to exclusive conservancy lodges. Where you stay has a big effect on the experience.
Maasai Mara
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Kenya →
Good to know
- River crossings need patience, as herds can wait hours to cross.
- Staying in a conservancy means fewer vehicles at sightings.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.
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