- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
The Maasai Mara National Reserve, often simply called “The Mara,” stands as Kenya’s premier wildlife and nature conservancy. This expansive savanna, in conjunction with adjacent conservancies, forms a sanctuary renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes.
Situated at approximately 1,600 meters above sea level, the Maasai Mara features rolling savanna woodlands interspersed with numerous drainage channels and is bisected by the life-sustaining Mara River. The reserve’s open plains are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, hyenas, and the famed big cats—lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
A highlight of the Maasai Mara is the annual Great Migration, a remarkable natural event occurring from July to October. During this period, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, traverse from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park into the Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing. This perilous journey involves crossing predator-rich plains and navigating the crocodile-infested Mara River, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve offers visitors an unforgettable safari experience, showcasing the essence of Africa’s wildlife heritage. Whether witnessing the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration or observing the diverse resident species, the Mara provides a captivating glimpse into the natural world.
July to October- The Annual wildebeest migration peak.
Are you keen to see at least a wonder of the world in your lifetime? Masai Mara is the perfect place to accomplish your lifetime dream. Every year, over one million wildebeest travel from the Serengeti into this reserve by crossing the Mara River. The theater galore is the meeting of these herbivores with the many predators along the migration path and the crossing over the Mara river. The Mara river Nile crocodiles and other predators are constantly hunting for the wildebeest and other herbivores as their prey.
Make sure that you arrive early at the correct time like a few weeks before or book early to reserve your place before the migration is scheduled to begin to make sure you don’t miss it.You can spend your time enjoying the rest of the wildlife that frequent the park,
A visit to the Masai Mara is not just about wildlife—it’s also an opportunity to experience the fascinating culture of the Masai people, one of Africa’s most iconic and resilient tribes.
A Culture That Stands the Test of Time
The Masai people have preserved their ancient customs and traditions for centuries, remaining largely unchanged despite pre- and post-colonial influences. Living in semi-nomadic villages, they uphold their heritage while adapting to modern influences, including the growing safari tourism industry.
Inside a Maasai Village
✔ Traditional Homesteads – Villages are encircled by thorny bush enclosures to protect against predators like lions and hyenas.
✔ Cattle at the Core – The Maasai are pastoralists, and cattle ownership is central to their identity, economy, and daily life.
✔ Distinctive Dress & Customs – Known for their brightly coloured shúkàs (robes), intricate beadwork, and warrior traditions, the Maasai are a vibrant and proud people.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
✔ Meet the Maasai – Engage with Maasai guides and camp staff, many of whom have become expert safari guides and conservationists.
✔ Village Visits – Step inside a Maasai village for a firsthand look at their traditional lifestyle, family structures, and customs.
✔ Learn from the Locals – Discover their ancestral knowledge of wildlife, survival skills, and storytelling traditions.
A Journey Beyond the Safari
Exploring the Maasai way of life adds a deeper layer of meaning to your Masai Mara adventure. Whether you’re watching warriors perform their famous jumping dance or listening to their stories around a campfire, your cultural encounters in the Mara will be just as unforgettable as the wildlife.
You have a good chance to stay in a conservancy, which in this case is a very specific type of land and wildlife conservation area.
Landowners enter into contracts with safari operators in return for monetary compensation and other assistance, such as education and healthcare programmes for livestock and grazing management.
We highly recommend staying in a neighbouring private conservancy during high season when the reserve gets crowded.
Masai Mara National Reserve offers an exceptional safari experience year-round, thanks to its diverse landscapes, temperate climate, and rich resident wildlife. From the vast open plains and dry savanna to the dense woodlands, every corner of the Mara is teeming with life, making it one of Africa’s most sought-after safari destinations.
What to Expect on a Masai Mara Safari
✔ Big Five Sightings – Spot Africa’s most iconic wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo in their natural habitat.
✔ Incredible Predator Action – Witness big cats on the hunt, playful cubs, and dramatic wildlife encounters up close.
✔ Diverse Wildlife – Encounter cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and hippos, alongside a thriving bird population.
✔ Immersive Game Drives – Explore the Mara’s woodlands and open plains with expert guides, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience.
✔ A Sensory Experience – Wake up to the roar of lions, the thunder of wildebeest hooves, or the snorts of hippos, all while breathing in the fresh, untamed air of the African wilderness.
✔ Luxury & Authentic Stays – Stay in world-class safari lodges and tented camps, blending traditional African charm with modern comfort.
Hot Air Balloon Safari in the Masai Mara: A Breathtaking Adventure
Experience the magic of the Masai Mara from above with an unforgettable hot air balloon safari. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure offers a bird’s-eye view of Africa’s iconic wildlife and landscapes, making it the ultimate way to witness the Great Migration and the vast, untamed beauty of the Mara.
Why Choose a Hot Air Balloon Safari?
✔ Panoramic Views – Soar over the rolling savannas of the Masai Mara and the Serengeti, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and more from above.
✔ Sunrise Magic – Watch the golden hues of the sunrise spread across the endless plains, casting a breathtaking glow over the wilderness.
✔ Wildlife Encounters – Get a unique aerial perspective of Africa’s most famous wildlife as they roam freely below.
✔ Champagne Bush Breakfast – After landing, indulge in a luxurious breakfast in the bush, complete with champagne, making it an experience to remember.
✔ Perfect for Special Occasions – A hot air balloon safari is an ideal romantic experience for honeymoons, anniversaries, or any special celebration.
