Maasai Mara

The Maasai Mara needs no introduction. Big skies, big cats and the biggest migration on Earth. Whether you are here for the drama, the landscapes or the sheer volume of wildlife, the Mara delivers every time.

Overview

The Maasai Mara is the stuff of safari legend. Think golden savannahs, acacia-dotted plains and more wildlife than you thought possible. This is where the great migration plays out in full force and lion prides lounge in the morning light, totally unfazed by the drama around them. Will has spent countless days in the Mara while working at Governors’. Watching cheetah stalk through grasslands, elephants wade through rivers and hot air balloons drift silently at dawn. There is an energy to this place, a wild heartbeat that quickens as soon as you land. But it is not just about the big names. The Mara rewards patience. Sit still for long enough and you will notice the small stories too—a jackal carrying dinner to its den, a secretary bird stalking through tall grass, the call of a fish eagle overhead. And then there are the Mara sunrises. Hazy, golden, wide open. It is impossible not to feel something shift in you here but knowing the where and when is more important than any other reserve in Africa.

Best Time to Visit

July to October is peak time for the Great Migration, when vast herds of wildebeest and zebra cross into the Mara in search of greener grass. River crossings are dramatic and predator action is intense but the tourist numbers can be intimidating and even ruin safari experiences. If your sole reason to visit Kenya is for the migration Will can get you (mostly) away from the crowds, but if you are not governed by this it is not the optimal time to visit.

January to March offers clear skies and excellent resident game, especially for big cats. April to May brings rain and fewer visitors, but also lush landscapes and great photographic conditions for those in search of big storm clouds.

Come November and December, the short rains arrive and with them, a fresh wave of greenery and baby animals. Whatever time you choose, the Mara never disappoints.

Jan

Excellent

Feb

Excellent

Mar

Excellent

Apr

Mixed

May

Mixed

Jun

Mixed

Jul

Mixed

Aug

Mixed

Sep

Excellent

Oct

Excellent

Nov

Excellent

Dec

Excellent

Known For

The Great Migration - While the bulk of this year round phenomenon occurs in Tanzania, for a wild three month segment the herds head to the Maasai Mara and its famous river crossing points. With steep banks and crocodiles lying in wait, its carnage to watch, and not for the faint hearted.

Big Cats Galore - The Mara is not huge but the volume of predators is high. Expect lions a plenty, cheetah on termite mounds and leopards in trees.

Superb Game Viewing - The Mara is on many an itinerary, be it a first or fifteenth safari. The game viewing here is off the charts whether you're looking for the big hitters or little critters.

See all Properties in Maasai Mara

Will's Favourite

Kicheche Valley Camp

Tucked into a quiet corner of Naboisho, Kicheche Valley blends exceptional wildlife, warm hospitality and some of the finest guiding in Kenya. Small, stylish and effortlessly wild.

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Will's Favourite

Encounter Mara

A classic tented camp set in the heart of Naboisho Conservancy, Encounter Mara offers front row wildlife, beautifully simple design and serious guiding. Expect big skies, quiet mornings and wildlife on your doorstep. A proper safari experience in one of Kenya’s most rewarding regions.

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Will's Favourite

Kicheche Mara Camp

Nestled in a secluded valley within the Mara North Conservancy, Kicheche Mara offers an authentic safari experience with exceptional wildlife encounters and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

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Will's Favourite

Naboisho Camp

Perfectly placed in one of Kenya’s most rewarding conservancies, Naboisho Camp offers front row wildlife and flawless hosting. Warm, stylish and packed with purpose, it is a standout in the Mara ecosystem.

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Will's Favourite

Serian 'The Original'

Serian ‘The Original’ offers a serene retreat in the private Mara North Conservancy. With exclusive access to unspoiled wilderness, this intimate camp provides authentic safari experiences amidst abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

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Wildlife

Big Cats

Big cats include species such as lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars. These animals are known for their strength, agility, and hunting prowess. Each species has adapted to its environment, with unique behaviors and characteristics. For instance, tigers are solitary hunters, while lions are social animals that live in prides. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these magnificent creatures from habitat loss and poaching.

The Great Migration

Animal migration is often driven by the search for food, breeding grounds, or favorable climates. Species such as wildebeests, birds, and monarch butterflies undertake incredible journeys each year. The Great Migration in Africa, where millions of wildebeests and zebras travel across the Serengeti, is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet. Understanding migration patterns is crucial for conservation efforts and protecting migratory routes.

The Big Five

The Big Five includes the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. These animals are not only significant for their size but also for their importance in the ecosystem. The term was originally coined by big-game hunters to refer to the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot. Today, the Big Five are a major draw for wildlife tourism, symbolizing the rich biodiversity of the African continent.

Gallery

Discover the stunning vistas and rich wildlife showcased in our gallery. Each photograph narrates a tale of exploration and the raw beauty of the safari.

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Ideal Pairing

“I find it difficult to create any Kenyan itinerary without a trip to Borana Conservancy. It’s my favourite of perhaps all those in Kenya and once you’ve been satiated by the array of wildlife in the Maasai Mara why not get up to Borana for a more active safari, e-biking, horse riding, walking and even a dip in a waterfall.”

Experience Maasai Mara today

Begin your safari today. Will replies to all enquiries within 24 hours and tailors each itinerary according to your specific interests

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