Maasai Mara

Kenya, Africa

The Maasai Mara is renowned for its stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife experiences, including the Great Migration of wildebeest. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for safari enthusiasts, offering thrilling game drives, vibrant Maasai culture, and breathtaking sunsets over savannah. With its diverse ecosystem, the Maasai Mara promises encounters with the Big Five, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Kisumu

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Maasai Mara

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wildlife Safari

Experience incredible wildlife in their natural habitat.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soar over the savannah at sunrise.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cultural Village Visit

Engage with Maasai culture and traditions.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Migration Viewing

Witness the great migration of wildebeest.

Booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Photography Tour

Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife moments.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Nature Walks

Explore the reserve on foot with a guide.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Bird Watching

Spot diverse bird species in the reserve.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mara River

See hippos and crocodiles in action.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Kenyan Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swahili

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ugali Nyama Choma Na Kachumbari

Maize porridge with grilled meat and salsa (National dish)

Pilau

Spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables

Githeri

VE

Mixed beans and maize stew, hearty and nutritious

Sukuma Wiki

VE

Sautéed collard greens, often served as a side

Mutura

Grilled sausage made from meat and spices

Phrases to learn

English

Swahili

Hello

Habari

(Hah-bah-ree)

Yes/No

Ndiyo / Hapana

(Ndee-yo / Ha-pah-nah)

Thank you

Asante

(Ah-sahn-teh)

Excuse me

Samahani

(Sah-mah-hah-nee)

How much?

Bei gani?

(Bay-yee gah-nee)