When is the best time for a trip to Masai Mara?

Kenya’s premier wildlife region never fails to astound and impress avid travellers. One extraordinary wilderness travel destination in south-western Kenya is Masai Mara National Reserve. It offers an ideal climate and exceptional year-round game viewing opportunities. The Great Migration is undoubtedly one of the most well-liked tourist attractions in the Masai Mara area. Although the Masai Mara is a great place to visit all year round to see wildlife, many visitors schedule their vacation to coincide with the Great Migration. So take the help of a safari operator to select the best time to visit Masai Mara. They will let you know some of the excellent safari activities to do, while staying in the best safari lodges in Kenya. They not only unfold the best time to visit Mara reserve but facilitates watching the best of Kenya.

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Dry season – June through October

The Mara offers the best safari game watching because there is more wildlife visibility and less tracking time. Most people agree that the lengthy cool-dry season from July to October is the most incredible time of year to visit Masai Mara! But it is the most expensive option before you. Since there will be less greenery during this time, it will be simpler to see wildlife. Around 1.5 million wildebeests make the dramatic annual migration from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara region from June to October. The savannah is teeming with herbivores at this time of year as they cross the crocodile-infested Mara River in search of food and water, including wildebeest, zebras, elands, gazelles, and other herbivores. During the dry season, wildlife is more concentrated. They typically congregate close to rivers and water sources. Additionally, it is the time of year when the Mara and Talek Rivers intersect spectacularly. This time of year, is drier than others and good for wildlife observation. The clear blue skies, mild weather, and pleasant temperature make this a popular time to visit the Masai Mara. 

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Lion season- December through March

Particularly in December, Kenya is an excellent place to visit because the rain is about to stop or in transitory situation. You can view baby animals and migratory bird species during this time. The Masai Mara birth boom starts after a plentiful wet season, & abundant food & water. The large cats appear when the plains are teeming with life, and young wildebeest, zebra, and other herbivore calves can scurry around the grazing areas. It’s part of life’s cycle. The “Lion season” runs from January to March. Since the rains have stopped, there are fewer grasses, and it is simpler to see wildlife. It is the time of year ideal for spotting lone lions the pride of lions in the wild. 

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Green season- March through May

The heavy rains in the Masai Mara start to arrive in March through May. It is also advised to travel during the rainy seasons when fewer people and beautiful emerald plants can be seen. The spring showers, give life to the dry African grassland. It will embellish the environment with vibrant hues of fresh green, gold, and other colours. While the sandy savannah gives way to swaying grasses, the vast plains act as a maternity ward for new born impalas, antelopes, and other species. Be prepared to witness a few high-speed chases on the plains this time of year as the new arrivals draw predators of all kinds and shapes. The ideal time of year to observe birds is during the green season. Thousands of colourful flocks of migratory birds invade the savannah and converge on the newly awoken, blooming trees. Safari lodges and tented camps considerably reduce their rates during this time of year because most tourists opt to travel there during the Great Migration. 

Drunken Elephant Mara is a renowned camp near Masai Mara Sekenani gate  that offers global travellers exclusive safari lodges and safari opportunities. They have vast experience & accommodation in the safari industry and recommend the best time to visit Masai Mara! For more information please contact them at +254 738 450 106 or +254 711 192 476 today!