Best for
Big game, first safari, photography
Best time
Jun – Oct and Jan – Mar (prime Jul – Oct)
Location
South-west Kenya, 260 km from Nairobi
Landscape
Open plains, riverine forest, rolling savannah
The Maasai Mara is one of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations, famed for the Great Migration, exceptional big cat sightings and breathtaking landscapes. As part of the greater Mara–Serengeti ecosystem, it offers unrivalled safari experiences in the heart of Kenya.
From the thunder of hooves during the Great Migration to intimate encounters with Africa's most iconic wildlife, the Mara delivers moments that stay with you. It is raw, beautiful and deeply connected to Maasai culture and conservation.
July to October brings thousands of wildebeest and zebra, river crossings and thrilling predator action.
High densities of lion, leopard and cheetah in one of Africa's best game-viewing areas.
Stunning landscapes paired with authentic Maasai culture and warm local hospitality.
On the ground
The heart of the reserve and prime migration area, with prolific wildlife and open grasslands.
Year-round wildlife viewing with scenic plains, woodland and excellent predator sightings.
South-eastern Mara along the Talek River, known for great wildlife and luxury lodges.
Famous migration crossing points where the drama unfolds with crocodiles and big cats.
Game drives
Expert-led drives in open 4x4 vehicles.
Hot-air balloon safari
Sunrise flights over the Mara plains.
Bush breakfasts
Breakfast in the wild, memories for life.
Maasai cultural visits
Learn from the Maasai and support local communities.
Photography
Endless opportunities for incredible shots.
Sundowners
Drinks on the plains as the sun goes down.
Wildlife you can expect
Lion — Large prides and excellent sightings year-round.
Leopard — Elusive and the most adaptable of the big cats.
Elephant — Herds roam the Mara's plains and riverine areas.
Cheetah — High densities and fast-paced daytime action.
Hippo & crocodile — Common along the rivers and waterways.
Birdlife — Over 450 species, from raptors to waterbirds.
Where to stay
A few of the properties we book here. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match the camp to the journey.
“In the Mara, we choose the area before we choose the camp. Staying inside the reserve or Mara Triangle gives very direct access to the classic wildlife areas, while the private conservancies usually offer fewer vehicles, walking, night drives and a more flexible safari rhythm. For some clients, the most expensive lodge is not necessarily the best choice — the right location, good guiding and the amount of traffic around a sighting matter more.”
Our View
Out2Safari Safari Expert
Cool mornings, warm days. Best time for the migration, river crossings and game drives.
Scattered rain, fewer crowds and excellent photography.
Lush landscapes, calving season and fantastic birdwatching.
Heavier rain, fewer travellers and great value on safari.
Tell us what excites you
Our safari designers will build a tailor-made journey around it — the right camp, the right season and the right pace.
