Map of Kenya › Maasai Mara
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Kenya’s most famous reserve. Maasai Mara covers 1,510 square kilometres of open plains, acacia woodland, and rolling hills. The annual wildebeest migration passes through every July to October, and year-round wildlife is abundant. Whether you’re timing your visit for the migration or seeking a quieter season with equally good game viewing, the Mara delivers.
Navigate the Mara
The reserve spans Narok County. The Mara Triangle (managed by Mara Conservancy) sits along the western boundary. Private conservancies to the north – Mara North, Naboisho, and Olare Orok – offer exclusive experiences. There are five main gates plus a network of airstrips for quick access.
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Getting There
Sekenani Gate, the main entrance, sits 270 kilometres from Nairobi. The drive takes 5 to 6 hours via Mai Mahiu and Narok. Talek, Musiara, Oloololo, and Sand River gates provide alternative entry points depending on your route. Flying is faster. Wilson Airport in Nairobi connects to five airstrips inside the reserve and nearby. A light aircraft takes about 45 minutes.
What to Expect
The Mara suits different travel styles. From July to October, the migration brings massive herds and river crossings. This season is intense and crowded. June and November offer solid game viewing with fewer visitors. December through May is greener, wildlife spreads out, and accommodation costs drop. Elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and antelope are present year-round. The reserve’s ecosystem supports predator-prey dynamics you’ll witness directly.
Seasons at a Glance
| Season | What to Expect | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Jul-Oct | Migration peak, river crossings, high visitor volume | Witnessing the great crossing |
| Nov-Jun | Steady wildlife, green scenery, lower prices | Flexibility and budget |
| Jun, Nov | Shoulder months with balance of activity and quiet | Those seeking both |
Maasai Mara Questions
Which gate is best?
Sekenani is the most common entry if you’re driving from Nairobi. Talek works well from the south. Flying to an airstrip inside the reserve saves time and puts you right into the action.
When does the migration peak?
The wildebeest herd typically enters the Mara in July and exits by early November. The most dramatic river crossings happen in August and September.
How many days should I stay?
Three to four days gives you solid game viewing. Longer stays let you explore different sections of the reserve and settle into the pace. We design packages with this in mind.
Do I need a guide?
A guide is mandatory in all Kenyan national reserves. Our guides know the reserve intimately. They’ll help you find wildlife and stay within conservation rules.
Ready to see the Mara?
Plain Safaris designs straightforward trips to the reserve. Fixed pricing. No hidden fees. Longer stays in fewer places.
Browse PackagesPark and reserve boundaries © OpenStreetMap contributors, licensed under ODbL. Basemap © OpenFreeMap, © OpenMapTiles, data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Satellite imagery © Esri. Terrain tiles by Mapzen and AWS Open Data.