The Maasai Mara, is the greatest gem of the several wildlife reserves of Kenya and it attracts the tourists all year round with its natural beauty and exotic flora and fauna. It is a large part of southwestern Kenya and is a sanctuary for wildlife in Kenya. It was built in 1961 as a migratory corridor for the annual Great Migration and a place for the animals to live. Furthermore, this Great Migration includes millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals that get to the Mara River on their quest for better grazing to the other side even not minding the crocodile-infested waters in their way.
The Maasai Mara, being a diverse ecosystem, occupies an area of roughly 1,500 square kilometers. The eco-system is composed of open savannahs, rolling hills, and thick forests, which are located along the Mara and Talek rivers. This varied backdrop shelters a whole range of wildlife, from the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), cheetahs, giraffes, to numerous bird species. The reserve is also a settlement of the Maasai who live in peace with the animals, leading a semi-nomadic existence in their traditional manner.
The first thing, a visitor to the Maasai Mara must understand is the best times to visit the area because it is only then that one can fully relish the array of available activities. The Maasai Mara is an excellent place for visitors to enjoy the interesting wildlife. The year is filled with different wonderful features and places to visit in the Mara. It is a place where the wonderful wildlife is combined with the unique Maasai culture. The best seasons to visit Maasai Mara are the following;
June to October: The Peak Safari Season
The high season of safaris in Masai Mara starts from the month of June and to the end of October. At this time, the best chance to watch wildlife exists. The reasons why this is the best time to visit are as follows:
- Dry Weather: The weather in the area is known to be dry and sunny, making it more appealing for travel. The low vegetation and the water sources become the gathering places for animals. This leads to the provision of excellent viewing opportunities.
- Great Migration: The Great Migration takes place during the months of July, August, September, and October. Millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River. Many predators such as lions and crocodiles are also attracted by this dramatic event. This phenomenon is a source of great excitement for the audacious tour guides.
- Clear Skies: Usually, the skies are hardly ever clouded and because of this, conditions for taking pictures are perfect. You can catch some of nature’s most beautiful moments such as sunrises, sunsets, and wildlife.
- Comfortable Conditions: The temperatures are mild and pleasant. During the day it is warm and in the evening, it is rather cool. As a result of the lack of rain, there are also few mosquitoes and other insects.
- Higher Animal Concentrations: The dry period is a time when the animals crowd around the remaining waterholes. Consequently, your chances of catching several species of wildlife in one spot are higher.
In addition to these benefits, the peak safari season also means:
- Better Accessibility: Roads and trails are in good condition. This makes travel within the reserve smoother and safer.
- Abundant Wildlife: You can expect to see a wide range of animals. This includes the Big Five, as well as cheetahs, hyenas, and various bird species.
The Masai Mara has many visitors at its busiest times, but it’s great. So much wildlife! And it is dry then, so we can see the Great Migration. I’m told to book early to get the best lodges and guides in June.
I like the Shamba the most from June till October. At this time, the ‘Great Migration’ occurs leading to the unfathomable number of overhead wildebeests while also guaranteeing the highest numbers of predators.
November to May: The Green Season
The Green Season in Masai Mara runs from November to May. It comprises both of the rain types; the short and the long rains. Among it being unpopular, it has some exclusive benefits for tourists. Here’s why you should consider this season:
- Lush Scenery: The rains change the land into a sweeping, lush, green paradise. Flowers burgeon, the view of the land is marvelous.
- Fewer Tourists: Green Season is the time with the least people. One can have a more personal and tranquil Safari experience.
- Better Rates: Hotels and camping sites often offer cheaper rates during this period. It’s a less expensive time to visit during this time.
- Bird Watching: A big number of birds migrate during this season. Bird lovers will be happy to live through this period as they will see many birds.
- Calving Season: From January to February, very many animals deliver. You may watch newborns trying their early steps. Predators used to being fed by the newborn also attend the scene that results in very exciting interactions.
In addition, the Green Season brings to us:
- Dramatic Skies: Rain, mingled with sunshine, makes skies more picturesque. Photographers can take amazing images with different lights.
- Active Wildlife: Animals are energetic all year round, and many living beings are well-fed because of enough food supplies they get. You will continue seeing a large quantity of wildlife including scavengers.
Notwithstanding these difficulties, the Green Season provides an off-season but equally enjoyable trip. The lively earth and unusual behaviors of the wildlife make the visit to the Masai Mara an attractive period. Masai Mara from November to May, also called the Green Season, is a magnificent time to visit. Its beautiful scenery, lesser number of tourists, and amazing wildlife activities make it a good alternative to the high season.
November to December: Short Rainy Season
November to December corresponds to the Short Rainy Season in Masai Mara, which brings several benefits to the tourists visibly with the rains in between:
- Lush Greenery: The rains lead to a sudden burst of greenery across the savannah, offering the example of observable rabiot style.
- Lower Rates: Room prices are generally lower during small periods of rain. You can get the chance to stay in luxury lodges and camps at less exorbitant prices.
- Active Wildlife: The park that is now full of life piques the curiosity of most wildlife species. The animals are awake and you can see them cruising, eating or even socializing in their natural surroundings.
- Bird Watching: Migratory birds come here as well during this music making it one of the most diverse bird reserves. There is a lot more to look out for and take pictures of which bird lovers will find interesting.
Also the short rainy season provides:
- Comfortable Temperatures: The rains not only bring down temperatures but they also make it more comfortable for the daytime activities and game drives.
- Unique Experiences: Understanding the view of the scenery changing and wildlife that are exercising the adaptation to the rain give us unique safari experiences.
While the short rainy season entails its positive issues, people should be as yet warned of:
- Rain Showers: Therefore, rain showers are not uncommon in the wet season and can hinder outdoor activities. Get rain gear in case of rain is projected.
- Muddy territories: One of the roads within the park might become muddy and face difficulties while the land is heavily rained on.
November through December in Masai Mara during the short rainy season provides a less crowded safari experiencein the context of greener lands and active wildlife.
April to May: Long Rainy Season
The Long Rainy Season in Masai Mara is the time from April to May. It has a lot of benefits but it is raining a lot.
- Lush Vegetation: The dry landscape turns into a lush, green meadow when the rain comes. It is a marvelous view to behold not only for nature lovers, but for lenses as well.
- Less Crowded: Masai Mara is very quiet in April and early May and very few tourists come here. You will be able to access the national park and other activities directly as you are in solitude and peacefulness.
- Affordable Rates: Hotel and car rent price online prices plummet during the rainiest long season. The best luxury lodges and camps offer discounts for their services.
- Bird Watching: The rain attracts a large number of migratory birds. Bird lovers will have a feast of different species to observe and photograph.
In addition, the long rainy season can also bring about the following:
- Meet with Animals: Many baby animals are born during this time, and it is a great opportunity to see baby animals playing around. Even though predators are also more active, the green vegetation makes them more visible.
- Captivating Landscapes: Bad weather satellites and dramatic clouds give the best concept for photography.
This period has its wins and weaknesses, however, one should not forget these points:
- Burst Water: Often and heavy rain is present which can have serious effect on your game drives and other activities. Carrying waterproof gadgets is a necessity.
- Can get Muddy: Wallowing in floods, some roads are impassable and muddy. The travel to certain parts of the park might be prohibited.
In conclusion, the months of April and May are usually dry, with preferred days to go to Masai Mara, but with the possibility of rains.
Year-Round Highlights
Masai Mara offers activities that run all year long that make it a charming place for bird lovers, a safari destination:
- Big Five: Lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos can be spotted all the time.
- Predator Action: Boneru dogs, the wildest creator of Kenya safaris, are hunted by Watt Mumbai cheetah queens, using driving line tactics and keeping a death distance for the victims; a new safaris chapter.
- Birdlife: The reserve has got over 450 bird species, which is a paradise for bird watching.
- Cultural Experiences: Get in touch with Maori people and find more about their culture and way of life.
The whole year is a source of different supply for Masai Mara including:
- Scenic Landscapes: Feel impressed by the views of the plain fields, the savannahs with acacia trees and the rivers with their bends.
- Photography Opportunities: Taking pictures of the scenes that characterize the rivers and that of sunsets, which are beyond the horizon, is a good way to tell a new story every time the Manning decides.
- Balanced Climate: Stay in a steady environment when temperatures are mild the year-round that gives entry into open-air activities.
You get other benefits when you visit outside of high season:
- Lower Crowds: Spend your vacation on a more quiet and pleasant beach away from the noise of so many tourists.
- Unique Wildlife Behaviors: The animals’ activities also differ from season to season. Many animals give births in summer, where after they start their migratory routes.
Even when someone is planning to visit Masai Mara, they can make their own decision based on their preferences and interests. However, the park is one of its kind in that it showers you with unforgettable experiences and one of its lives with natural miracles each and every year.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Choose JustAfrican Safaris for your Masai Mara trip. We focus on arranging unique safaris. Our experienced guides will share their in-depth knowledge about Mara River migration and wildlife. Your tour with us will be both educational and thrilling.
Our services are flexible and tailored to suit your preferences. You can look forward to small-group adventures and private wildlife sightings.
Responsible tourism is important to us. We operate eco-friendly safaris and support local communities.
Booking with JustAfrican Safaris means that you will enjoy exclusive accommodation options. Your comfort is our main concern.
Make your trip to the Masai Mara memorable by experiencing Kenya’s natural beauty and warm hospitality through JustAfrican Safaris. We will make your safari a dream come true.
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