Overview
Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous and important wildlife conservation and safari destinations in Africa. Known for its exceptional population of lions and annual wildebeest migration, it offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural experience with the Maasai people.
Maasai Mara is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino), and is a key location for the annual wildebeest migration. It's also a significant cultural site for the Maasai people.
Location
Address
Coordinates: -1.514632153, 35.16937877
Neighborhood: Maasai Mara
Coordinates
-1.514632, 35.169379
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June to October
Best Time of Day
Early morning and late afternoon
Optimal wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm with occasional rains
- • Lush green landscapes
- • Birdwatching
summer
Dry and warm
- • Wildebeest migration
- • Abundant wildlife
autumn
Cooler and dry
- • Continued excellent wildlife viewing
- • Cooler temperatures
winter
Dry and warm
- • Fewer crowds
- • Birdwatching
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather
- Dress appropriately for safari conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate
- • Malaria risk, consult a doctor for vaccinations and prophylaxis
Medical facilities: Basic medical facilities available, major hospitals in Narok and Nairobi
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash in USD or KES, Credit cards
Currency
Kenyan Shillings (KES)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual and comfortable, Neutral-colored clothing for safaris, comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes or hiking boots, Bright colors that may disturb wildlife
Booking Tips
- • At least 3 months in advance for peak season
- • Official website or reputable travel agency
- • Varies by tour operator, typically 30-60 days in advance
- • Private tours or early morning departures
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Maasai Mara Safari Guide
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Wildlife tracking, Tour booking, Audio guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Lodges and camps, Visitor centers
Charging Stations: Lodges and camps
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Distance: 220 km
Travel Time: 4-5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 220 km from Nairobi
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich wildlife and cultural heritage
Historical Significance: Home to the Maasai people for centuries, important for wildlife conservation
Insider Tips
- Early morning safaris offer the best wildlife viewing
- Local guides often have the best knowledge of animal locations
- Supporting local communities and conservation efforts is encouraged
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Maasai dishes
- • Visit a Maasai village for cultural experiences
- • Ask for a local guide with deep knowledge of the area
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Swahili, Maasai
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for dramatic landscapes
Result: Great shot of the savanna with the Mara in the background
Mara River
Best Time: During the migration (July-September)
Tips: Wide angle for the herd and river
Result: Iconic shots of wildebeest crossing the river
Maasai villages
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
Tips: Portrait mode for cultural shots
Result: Authentic photos of Maasai culture
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Loita Hills
Distance: 50 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires vehicle
Type: Wildlife Conservation
Narok Museum
Distance: 100 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires vehicle
Type: Museum
Lake Nakuru National Park
Distance: 250 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires vehicle
Type: National Park
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a multi-day safari for the best experience"
- "Visit during the migration season"
- "Stay in a lodge within the park for early morning game drives"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
905
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$80 per day