Best Time to Visit Masai Mara in Kenya for a Safari
Lodge location: Naboisho Conservancy
Now is the perfect time to embark on an adventure to the Masai Mara.
For many adventurers, the Great Migration is a decisive element when determining the best time to visit the Masai Mara. However, if you prefer to visit Kenya outside of the migration period, the Masai Mara still offers a wealth of attractions. Essentially, there’s never a wrong time to explore this premier wildlife destination, as it continually fascinates and enchants its visitors, especially during peak season.
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The Great Migration in the Masai Mara
The Great Migration is undeniably a significant attraction in the Masai Mara region. From July to October, the Mara becomes the stage for the awe-inspiring journey of 1.5 million wildebeest traveling from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara. During this period, the savannah is alive with wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores. It’s also renowned for the dramatic river crossings at the Mara and Talek Rivers. The drier conditions during these months lead to less vegetation, enhancing game viewing opportunities.
While exceptional wildlife viewing in safari vehicles is available year-round in the Masai Mara, many travelers schedule their trips to coincide with the Great Migration. The Masai Mara National Reserve and its popular areas can become quite crowded during this peak season. If you wish to avoid the hustle and bustle, consider visiting the Masai Mara at another time or staying in one of the more exclusive and less crowded Masai Mara conservancies. Discover all about the Great Migration.
Lion Season
After a bountiful rainy season with ample food and water, the Masai Mara experiences a surge in wildlife births. The plains come alive with young wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivore calves frolicking across the landscape, drawing the attention of big cats. This is the circle of life in action. The months from January to March are known as the ‘Lion Season.’ With the rains tapering off, the grasses thin out, making wildlife easier to spot. It’s an ideal time to observe individual lions or even a pride in action, as predator activity increases.
Green Season
March through May marks the arrival of the ‘heavy rains’ in the Masai Mara. These spring showers transform the dry African savannah into a vibrant landscape, painting it with shades of green, gold, and other hues. The dusty vast plains give way to swaying grasses, and the vast expanses become a nursery for young impalas, antelopes, and other herbivores. The new arrivals attract predators of all kinds, so be prepared for thrilling high-speed chases on the plains. The green season is also the best time for bird watching, with colorful flocks of migratory birds flocking to the blooming trees awakened by the rains. Additionally, this rainy season offers lower accommodation rates at safari lodges and tented camps. Since most visitors prefer the Masai Mara during the Great Migration, lodges and camps significantly reduce their prices during this period.
Best time to Visit Masai Mara – Annual Overview
January – February
These months are typically hot and dry. With water sources scarce, head to a waterhole for excellent wildlife viewing. Don’t forget to look up for the migrant birds; it’s also bird migration season.
March – April – May
This period is known for the ‘long rains,’ the wetter of the Masai Mara’s two rainy seasons. While it’s still hot, April is especially rainy. On the bright side, the rains rejuvenate local vegetation, turning the Masai Mara into a lush green paradise with lush vegetation.
June – July – August – September – October
Enjoy pleasant temperatures, warm and dry weather, and mostly clear blue skies. Perfect conditions for wildlife safaris, making it a popular time for safari travel to the Masai Mara.
November – December
The year’s final months usher in the ‘short rains,’ the less intrusive of the two rainy seasons. Expect overcast skies and afternoon rain showers. Temperatures remain high, though mornings can be chilly.
Dry Season versus Rainy Season
If you’re struggling to decide when to visit the Masai Mara, consider the pros and cons of visiting during the dry season or rainy season:
Dry Season – June through October
Pros
Less rain results in reduced vegetation, making wildlife easier to spot.
Wildlife congregates near waterholes and rivers during the dry season.
Enjoy lovely weather with less rain.
Fewer mosquitoes mean a reduced risk of malaria.
It’s the best time to witness the Great Migration.
Cons
The Great Migration attracts many visitors, leading to busier conditions, especially in the Masai Mara National Reserve’s popular safari areas.
Travel costs are higher during this period; rainy season prices are more favorable.
Cold evenings and very chilly early morning game drives.
Rainy Season – November through May
Pros
Lower rates compared to the ‘Great Migration months.’
More availability for your preferred accommodation.
The best time for birdwatching.
Less crowded.
The rains rejuvenate the plains and other areas, creating a green and blooming landscape, perfect for photography.
The rains clear the air of dust and provide a refreshing coolness.
Cons (especially during the long rainy season in April and May)
Rainy conditions can lead to poor road conditions.
Wet weather may dampen spirits and keep you huddled in your tent occasionally.
Some lodges and camps close for maintenance and staff breaks in April and May.
Rivers can flood their banks during April and May.
Read More About Masai Mara National Reserve
Send Your Enquiry for a Masai Mara Safari
We hope you’ve found all the information you need to decide that the Masai Mara is the perfect destination for your next travel adventure. Still have questions? Or perhaps you’d like more specific information about the different lodges? Please fill out the contact form, and we’ll get back to you soon. You can reach us through our e-mail at safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com or james@ajkenyasafaris.com. We are also available via WhatsApp or Phone at +254 748 258880.
