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The Great Migration

Watch magnificent wildebeest migrate

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The Big Five

Spot all of the big five roaming the plains

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Maasai People

The inhabitants of this beautiful land

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Mara River

The huge body of water central to life in the plains

The famous home of the Great Migration

Home to the Great Migration, where every year millions of wildebeest thunder across the plains in search of fresh pasture, Kenya‘s Maasai Mara is one of the most famous game reserves in the world.

At some point between July and October, the herds pour into the Maasai Mara from the dry plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The wildebeest must cross the Mara River on the border, marking the most treacherous point in the journey, with hungry crocodiles waiting patiently beneath the surface. The sound of millions of clattering hooves and the spray of the water as they crash through the river is an incredible sight and one of Africa’s premier wildlife experiences.

It must not be forgotten, however, that the Maasai Mara has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife year-round. The big five can all be ticked off your list on a visit here, and you’ll also get to see huge pods of hippos basking in the rivers, cheetahs racing across the savannah and giraffes ambling between the acacia trees.

The Maasai Mara is located in the south west of Kenya on the border with Tanzania, forming part of what is known as the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. The reserve is named after the Maasai people, who inhabit the area, and the Mara River which courses it way through the plains.

The distinctive red shawls of the Maasai tribe are a common sight while on safari here. Originally from what is now South Sudan, the Maasai have been grazing their cattle on these lands for hundreds of years and is still common practice for many. You’ll have the opportunity to learn all about their culture while in the Maasai Mari, adding another dimension to a trip in this incredible region.

Highlights

Visit during the period of the Great Migration to see millions of wildebeest run through the Maasai Mara, in search of fresh land

Tick off each of the Big Five: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo

Learn about the Maasai people and their culture

Seeing the Great Migration, one of natures most epic displays, is something I can't quite put into words. Pair this with the brilliant opportunity to see the Big Five, and it's clear to see why Maasai Mara is known as one of the best locations for spotting wildlife. It's a place that feels truly electric.

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Charlie Cottar

Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Maasai Mara

There are many incredible places to stay in Maasai Mara. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

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Safari expertise

Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.

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Unforgettable guides

We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.

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Responsible Travel

By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.

Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Maasai Mara tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Meet your Africa team

When to Visit Kenya

The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you’re after.

If you’re in search of the Great Wildebeest Migration, July to October is the best time to go. If you’re looking to spot some rare migratory birds, go between October and April. December to March is the warmest time to visit, and it’s a great time to go in search of the Big Five.

The Great Migration main icon

The Great Migration

July - October

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Rare Migratory Birds

October - April

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The Big Five

December - March

When is the Best Time to Visit Kenya?

When is the Best Time to Visit Kenya?

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Plan your trip to Maasai Mara

Whatever you want from your adventure in Maasai Mara, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Herd of zebra in the grasslands in the golden light, TanzaniaHot air balloon over Marrakech in the sunset light.

Plan with peace of mind

When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

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