MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

Park Overview

Location The Masai Mara National Reserve, also known as the Maasai Mara, lies in southwestern Kenya, bordering the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. This world-famous safari destination is part of the greater Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, offering unmatched wildlife experiences and breathtaking savannah landscapes. Size Covering an area of about 580 square miles (1,510 square kilometers), the Masai Mara is one of Kenya’s largest and most iconic wildlife reserves. History First established in 1961, the Masai Mara Reserve initially covered only 200 square miles. Over the years, the protected area expanded and was officially designated a National Reserve in the 1970s. Part of the land was later returned to the local Maasai community, fostering a unique coexistence between wildlife conservation and traditional pastoral lifestyles. Today, the Masai Mara stands as one of Kenya’s most visited safari destinations, celebrated for its rich biodiversity and the world-famous Great Migration. Entrance Fees & Permits Entrance fees for the Masai Mara National Reserve vary by season: Adults (January–June): USD 100 per person, per day Adults (July–December): USD 200 per person, per day Children (9–17 years): USD 50 per child, per day Children (0–8 years): Free admission Note: Rates apply per 12-hour day and may vary slightly depending on park management updates. Hours of Operation The reserve’s main entry points are open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives through the park’s four active gates.

The Great Wildebeest Migration>

One of the biggest attractions in the Masai Mara National Reserve is the chance to witness the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration — one of nature’s most spectacular events. Each year, around July, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park into the Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing. This dramatic journey, often referred to as the “World Cup of Wildlife,” is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that draws travelers and photographers from across the globe. Beyond the migration, the Masai Mara is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, making it one of the best safari destinations in Africa. Visitors can spot the legendary Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — as well as numerous species of antelope, giraffes, and birds. During the peak safari season (July–September), the reserve comes alive with action, offering thrilling game drives and unforgettable encounters with wildlife. The Terrain The Masai Mara landscape is characterized by vast, rolling savannah grasslands dotted with iconic acacia trees, creating postcard-perfect views of the African wilderness. The Siria Escarpment, part of the Great Rift Valley, forms the reserve’s dramatic western boundary, while the Talek, Mara, and Sand Rivers flow through the park, sustaining both the land and its rich ecosystem. These water sources attract large numbers of animals, especially during the dry season, ensuring year-round wildlife viewing opportunities.