The Masai Mara National park and surrounding conservancies is a unique game-studded area with a rich and constant wildlife presence all year. And a masai mara safari gives you the opportunity to see the great wildebeest migration.
From July to October, 1.4 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebra and 300,000 gazelles surge north from the Serengeti plains in search of seasonal grasses and permanent water. And the Mara River is a great obstacle. Here the currents can be strong and the banks steep. But the gigantic Nile crocodiles are their biggest adversary. The view of the vast herds sweeping across the grass is punctuated by individual struggles with the predators. This is what makes the Masai Mara migration all the more dramatic. See our Insiders Guide to the Migration below.
Masai Mara Safari Trips
The scenery alone would make a Masai Mara safari worthwhile. Rolling savanna grasslands scattered with dark acacias, rocky outcrops. Resident game includes topi, gazelle, impala, elephant, buffalo, rhino and of course leopard, lion and cheetah. Whilst hippo & crocodiles are at home in its meandering rivers. We offer plenty of sample safaris, both only to the Mara. But usually combining with several other safari destinations within Kenya.
Choosing between the (many) Masai Mara Lodges & Camps
It’s true that the Mara can be very busy in peak season. If you want to try to see the spectacle of the Masai Mara wildebeest migration crossing the rivers, don’t expect to be alone! But there are areas within the park which are more secluded than others.
Some Masai Mara camps stake their reputation on their location being close to the Mara River. Thus you won’t have to drive long distances during the migration time.
Alternatively many Masai Mara lodges are located in private concessions adjacent to the National Park. These concessions are leased from the traditional Maasai people. Here you can avoid the crowds. And learn about the way of life of one of Africa’s most charismatic people. These private concessions also offer guided bush walks and night drives which are not possible in the Mara. Plus of course they operate full day excursions into the park. So you get the best of both worlds…
Your ideal safari camp will depend on your interests, the time of year and your budget. Smaller tented camps are invariably more expensive than the larger traditionally-built lodges. Discuss your preferences with us so we can help you make the right choice.
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