Plan Your Trip: Masai Mara Safari Packages, Great Migration, Safari Lodges, and When to Go

The Masai Mara National Reserve is the most popular safari destination in Kenya, thanks to its large diversity of beautiful scenery. Meandering rivers, towering escarpments, and rolling grasslands provide the perfect habitat for an abundance of game, including the Big 5: lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and black rhino.

Game viewing here is spectacular at any time of year, but the big attraction is the Great Migration. From approximately June to November, thousands upon thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and more cross into the Masai Mara chasing the seasonal rains. Luxurious mobile camps change location throughout the year to follow the Great Migration and find the best position for wildlife viewing. There are also countless permanent, tented-style safari camps in the Mara, which may have 4 solid walls and a tented roof, or a permanent structure with canvas walls.

We recommend staying at a safari lodge in a private concession adjoining the Mara. This way, you can access dramatic Great Migration river crossings (where you’re likely to see several other vehicles since the national park is open to everyone). But you can also leave the crowds behind to explore more exclusive wilderness areas.

Outside of the Great Migration months, the Masai Mara National Reserve still boasts an exceptional safari experience, with grazers and predators found in large numbers on the open plains. Authentic cultural interactions with local Maasai tribe members are also on offer at nearly every safari lodge in the area.

Learn about more must-see places in Kenya here. Choose one of our Masai Mara safari packages or contact our Kenya safari experts to start planning your handcrafted trip to the Masai Mara and beyond!