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Maasai Mara Safari, Vacations & Wildlife Experiences

  • The Wildebeest migration is a very popular time for people looking to do a Kenyan safari.
  • The Maasai
  • Baby baboon poses for the camera
  • A leopard with a kill will be a highlight of your Maasai Mara safari.
  • Dramatic lighting
  • Warthog rush hour

Our Maasai Mara Tours 

Known simply as “The Mara” to locals, Maasai Mara National Reserve is a large reserve located in south-western Kenya. The area was named after the Maasai people who were the traditional inhabitants of the land to be discovered on a Kenya safari.

The reserve was established in 1948 as a wildlife sanctuary that covered 520 square kilometres/200 square miles. Today, the reserve covers an area of 1,510 square kilometres/583 square miles and is bordered by the Serengeti Park of Tanzania to the south, the Siria escarpment to the west and Maasai pastoral ranches to the north, east and west. Unlike other national parks in Kenya, Maasai Mara is not administered by the Kenya Wildlife Service but rather by local authorities and the Maasai people.

Maasai Mara Vacation Highlights

Maasai Mara is not the largest conservation area on a Kenya vacation but it is certainly the most famous. This is due to the annual Great Migration which is one of the most impressive natural events in the world. Each July approximately 1,300,000 wildebeest, 500,000 Thomson’s gazelles, 200,000 zebras, 97,000 topi and 18,000 elands migrate north from the Serengeti plains to the Maasai Mara in search of fresh pasture. These animals then return to the Serengeti in October.

Whether witnessing the Great Migration on a Kenyan safari or experiencing the traditional semi-nomadic pastoralist lifestyles of neighbouring Maasai tribes, the reserve is a must-see on any visit to Kenya. 

What is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is the name for the movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelle during the dry season on the East African savanna. The herds move around 2,000 kilometres/125,000 miles from the southern expanse of the Serengeti Plains and Ngorongoro Crater to the Maasai Mara National Reserve and back down to the southern Serengeti again in search of food and water. Many visitors come for the Wildebeest Migration and the best time to visit the Masai Mara for this famous spectacle is between July/early August and the end of November although due to varying rainfall patterns, the exact timing varies from year to year.

Witnessing the Great Migration is one of the greatest experiences a person can have on their African vacation. Everyone who has the chance to stand up in their jeep and gaze out on thousands of animals moving across the plains should take that opportunity. 

What types of tours are available to the Maasai Mara?

The Maasai Mara is included in many East African safaris combined with other game reserves in both Kenya and Tanzania. For specific packages, consider taking a fly-in safari from Nairobi and spending several days in the Maasai Mara, you can stay at a lodge or in a luxury tented camp. Some trips to the Maasai Mara can be extended across the border with Tanzania to include the Serengeti, giving a broader overview of East Africa’s most famous nature reserves.

When is the best time to visit Maasai Mara?

Kenya doesn’t have the traditional four seasons. Instead, the seasons are mostly divided into a wet and dry season with mini-wet and dry seasons happening in between, June to September is the dry season. Temperatures are warm and rain is infrequent. The low rains begin in late October followed by the mini-dry season, while the true wet season is April through May.

Kenya Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Kenya travel.

Learn about the history and culture of Kenya, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Kenya's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Kenya for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Kenya safaris today!

Extend Your Trip

After your African Safari, why not consider one of Goway's Europe tours or Egypt tours en route from Kenya or perhaps a stopover in Dubai on one of our United Arab Emirates tours

 

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FEATURED TRIP
  • Masai Mara is renown for abundant populations of The Big 5 alongside the migratory wildebeest
  • The grassy plains and rolling hills of the Mara support large herds of grazing mammals
  • On the floor of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru is among Kenya's finest national parks
  • "Amboseli" comes from a Masai word meaning "salty dust" and the sparse vegetation offers excellent wildlife viewing
  • In the shadow of Africa's highest peak, Aboseli is famed for it's big-tusked elephants
FEATURED TRIP

Wonders of Kenya: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli

MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Journey to Kenya's most picturesque regions. Get acquainted with bustling Nairobi before heading to the open plains of Masai Mara, the shimmery pink waters of Lake Nakuru, and the swamps of Amboseli, set in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy daily game drives to see the Big Five and other animals.

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Maasai Mara National Park

  • East Africa Odyssey Super Special

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Embark on an extraordinary journey through some of East Africa's most popular national parks on this Goway exclusive small group safari. Get ready to witness breathtaking vistas and incredible wildlife as you explore Kenya and Tanzania and witness nature at its finest.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,699
    Trip Type:
    Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Jambo Kenya Safari

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL-GROUP: Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s majestic landscapes and wildlife havens. This small-group safari features first-class tented camp accommodations and daily wildlife viewing that will help you spot elephants at Amboseli, hippos on Lake Naivasha, and the iconic Great Migration in the Masai Mara.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,129
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Soul Safari: Nairobi, Mt Kenya & Masai Mara

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Stay at world class properties, visiting both Aberdare and Mount Kenya National Parks, Sweetwaters Wildlife Sanctuary and Masai Mara, without compromising luxury on your African safari.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,142
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Kenya Sky Safari by Elewana: Amboseli, Loisaba & Masai Mara

    DELUXE | SMALL GROUP: Spend time at three luxury lodges situated in three of Kenya’s outstanding game parks, Amboseli, Loisaba Conservancy and the Masai Mara Reserve. At each lodge, enjoy day and night game safaris as well as walking safaris. Fly by small aircraft directly from Nairobi and between lodges.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 11,370
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Kenya In Style: Nairobi, Samburu & Masai Mara

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience luxury accommodations, and unrivalled game viewing on this luxury safari. Make your way from Nairobi to Samburu and Masai Mara where you'll head out on your daily game drives in the magnificent African landscape in search of wildlife.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 9,743
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • East Africa Odyssey: Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Experience the iconic National Parks of East Africa with this classic African safari. Visit famous Masai Mara, Serengeti and the Ngorongoro national parks, uncovering unique wildlife, and cultural opportunities.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 11,135
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Wonders of Kenya: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Journey to Kenya's most picturesque regions. Get acquainted with bustling Nairobi before heading to the open plains of Masai Mara, the shimmery pink waters of Lake Nakuru, and the swamps of Amboseli, set in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy daily game drives to see the Big Five and other animals.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,222
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Campfire Adventures in Kenya: Nairobi and Masai Mara

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Experience an African safari under the stars on this comfortable and highly flexible luxury camping adventure in Kenya. Stay at Alex Walker’s Serian Original Camp and enjoy the best of the Masai Mara with a multitude of activity options on hand, including your private safari guide.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,034
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Kenya Family Safari: Lake Naivasha, Samburu, Masai Mara & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This African safari journey through the National Parks of Kenya offers children and adults the ultimate wildlife experience. Stay at some of Kenya's best known game parks and take part in activities the whole family can enjoy.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,993
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Ultimate Africa: Masai Mara, Livingstone, Cape Town & More

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: South Africa or Kenya for your African adventure? With this unique itinerary, there’s no need to choose. Enjoy the culture and wildlife of the Masai Mara before flying on to Victoria Falls to see the breathtaking Falls before heading to Cape Town.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,101
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Tuskers of Kenya: Tsavo West & Masai Mara

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Get a taste of nature’s bounty on this journey across Southern Kenya. Staying in luxury safari camps, you’ll head on game drives in two of Kenya’s famous game reserves, Tsavo West and the Masai Mara. Spot big tuskers crossing in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro, meet with local Masai villagers, and track the Big Five.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,044
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Kenya Explorer Safari: Ol Pejeta, Soysambu & Masai Mara

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Explore the wilds of Kenya on this journey to several conservancies in the country. Heading from Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Masai Mara National Reserve, you’ll stay in luxury safari camps as you enjoy game drives into the bush to see flamingos, lions, and the wonders of the Great Migration.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,668
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Kenya Odyssey Super Special

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Explore some of the best safari game parks in Africa and stay in beautiful luxury safari camps each night. From Nairobi, connect to Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara to head on game drives to search for the Big Five, visit Masai villages, and learn about animal conservation.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,149
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • East Africa Sanctuary: Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Masai Mara & More

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience unparalleled game viewing on this luxury safari across East Africa. Stay in exquisite safari accommodations as you head to Tarangire, Ngorongoro, the Serengeti, and the Masai Mara, among the world’s most famous game parks, and explore the stunning wilderness on daily game drives to see lions, elephants, and zebras.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 13,594
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania See Trip Details

  • Kenya Odyssey: Samburu, Lake Elmenteita, Masai Mara & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Kenya is often described as the African continent in microcosm. You will see some of the best parks in Africa from Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara, home of the “Big Five” and the Masai people.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,719
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Karibu Kenya: Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: From the flamingos of Lake Nakaru to the majestic Masai Mara where ‘the real Africa’ lives on, Kenya is an unforgettable short safari break.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,462
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Sultans to Safari

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Dubai and Kenya for the perfect combination of city and safari. Spend 3 nights in Dubai, just enough time to explore this futuristic city and enjoy a desert safari. Then connect to Kenya for 4 nights in the Masai Mara, with daily game drives in search of the Big Five.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,327
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    United Arab Emirates See Trip Details

  • Kenya in Depth

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Bring your safari dreams to life on this journey through some of the best safari parks in Africa. Travel throughout Kenya and head on game drives in Samburu, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Tsavo West, and Amboseli to spot elephants, leopards, rhinos, and other beloved animals.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,715
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Signature Masai Mara and Serengeti

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover two of East Africa’s greatest game parks on this premiere safari. Starting in Nairobi, you’ll fly into Masai Mara for several full days of game drives while staying in 5-star accommodations. Then connect into Tanzania and the Serengeti to stay in a luxury game lodge and head on game drives in the company of your own private guide.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 15,104
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details
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