Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara is Kenya’s most famous safari destination – and for good reason! This is one of the best places to see wildlife in Africa. Thanks to the expanse of grassy plains here, many herbivores can be found, which in turn supports an impressive number of predators.

One of the most incredible natural events in the calendar occurs in the Masai Mara: the Great Migration. This spectacle sees millions of wildebeests traverse the plains of the reserve, resulting in dramatic river crossings and predator interactions.

Must-Visit Areas in the Masai Mara National Reserve

See an incredible display of wildlife in a specific triangle in the region and experience one of the highlights of a Great Migration safari:

Mara River: Gateway to the Great Migration

The Mara River is a lifeline for the reserve’s wildlife; therefore, it’s a fantastic place to go while on safari to see a variety of animals.

During the Great Migration, dramatic river crossings take place here. You can watch great herds of wildebeests and zebras braving the crocodile-infested waters to get to the other side and carry on with their journey.

Mara Triangle: Start and End of the Migration

The Mara Triangle is where the herds of the Great Migration enter and exit the reserve from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, making it a perfect location to witness this incredible wildlife display.

This area of the reserve is known for its high concentrations of wildlife and fewer tourists, so it’s ideal for people who don’t want to be a part of the massive crowds that often accompany the Great Migration.

When’s the Best Time to Visit the Masai Mara National Reserve?

To witness the Great Migration, plan your Kenya safari between July and October for the best sightings.

December to February is the ideal time of the year to see newborn animals and prime predator action. The Mara is famous for its high density of predators, particularly lions, cheetahs, and leopards, offering thrilling predator-prey interactions.

Wildlife Found in the Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara is a Big Five safari destination, so you’ll see lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.

If you want to see big cats, this is the ideal reserve for you, as all three main species can be spotted. Hyenas are also common sights. Birders will be impressed by the over 500 species of birds found here, with 57 raptor species and six vulture species present.

How to Get to the Masai Mara National Reserve

The reserve is around a four- to five-hour road transfer from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. There are various airstrips in the Mara that you can fly into.