/destinations/kenya/maasai-mara/
At a Glance
The Maasai Mara National Reserve sits in southwestern Kenya, contiguous with Tanzania's Serengeti across the border. It's smaller and more concentrated than the Serengeti, which is part of why wildlife viewing here feels so dense — and also why vehicle numbers at popular sightings can be higher during peak season.
Wildlife
The Mara holds strong resident populations of lion, cheetah, elephant, buffalo and hyena year-round, independent of the migration. Black rhino are present but scarce. Cheetah viewing on the open plains is a particular strength of the reserve.
The Migration & Mara River Crossings
From roughly July through October, migrating herds typically reach the Mara River, where crossings — the images most associated with the migration — may occur. Crossings cannot be scheduled or guaranteed; herds may gather at the bank for hours or days before committing, or not cross at a given point at all.
Reserve vs. Private Conservancies
The national reserve itself permits open access to licensed vehicles, which can mean crowding at major sightings. The surrounding private conservancies — leased from Maasai landowners — cap vehicle numbers, permit night drives and walking safaris, and generally deliver a considerably more exclusive experience. Where exclusivity matters to you, we prioritise conservancy camps.
Best Time to Visit
July to October for crossing season; the dry months generally offer the strongest overall game viewing. Green season brings lower rates and far fewer vehicles.
How to Get There
Short scheduled or charter flights from Nairobi's Wilson Airport, generally around 45 minutes, or a cross-border flight from the Serengeti on a combined Kenya-Tanzania itinerary.