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Maasai Mara national reserve
Set in the heart of southwestern Kenya, the Maasai Mara National Reserve spans approximately 1,510 km² of rolling grasslands, open plains, and rich riverine landscapes. Renowned as one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, the Mara offers extraordinary opportunities to witness wildlife in its natural habitat.
Between July and October, the reserve takes centre stage during the Great Migration, as vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River in one of the world’s most remarkable natural spectacles. Throughout the year, the Mara is home to an exceptional diversity of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, black rhinos, elephants, and more than 500 species of birds, from soaring raptors to the vibrant lilac-breasted roller.
Beyond the reserve, a network of community and private conservancies including Naboisho, Olare Motorogi, and Ol Kinyei extends the Mara ecosystem while supporting wildlife conservation and local communities. These protected areas provide a more exclusive and tranquil safari experience, with opportunities to explore the wilderness away from the busier areas of the reserve.
Framed by the Mara and Talek rivers, the landscape unfolds into distinctive regions, each offering its own character and wildlife encounters. From the abundant game of Musiara to the serene expanses of the Mara Triangle, the Maasai Mara promises an authentic safari experience shaped by nature, wildlife, and the timeless rhythm of the African wilderness.
Highlights
- Witness the breathtaking Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra
- Home to the Big Five, including resident black rhinos
- Over 500 bird species in diverse birding habitats
- Exclusive wildlife experiences in community-run conservancies
- The Mara Triangle (scenic, less crowded, with abundant predators)
- Iconic landscapes dotted with acacias, escarpments and river corridors
Iconic activities
Game Drives
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Birdwatching
Walking Safaris
Cultural Experience
Photography Safaris
Safari Stays
From elegant safari lodges to secluded camps surrounded by wilderness, the Mara offers remarkable places to stay. Discover a selection of our favourite retreats.
The views at Angama Mara stretch for miles. Perched upon the Oloololo Escarpment 1,000ft above the plains of the Mara below, the name of the lodge was inspired by the Swahili word for ‘suspended in mid-air’ and no matter where in the lodge you are, you are guaranteed the best seat in the house.
Overlooking the Talek River and the Masai Mara National Reserve, this Lodge located on community land, features 21 luxurious tented suites (including a 2-tent family suite), all with their own private outdoor Jacuzzi tub and deck, ensuring an immersive encounter with nature.
Ishara’s 10 luxury tents comprise 7 River Suites, 2 Family Suites and 1 Villa Suite, each serene, secluded and thoughtfully placed on the brink of the wild.
Mara Bushtops has been designed to blend into its surroundings, minimizing our visual and environmental impact, whilst providing every comfort to our guests. 12 spacious and fabulously appointed luxury tents (think of a 5-star hotel room, under canvas) can be found by following private paths from a shared space, to secluded havens of privacy and calm.
The Soroi Private Wing offers the desired exclusivity for guests who are looking for maximum privacy, with 8 tents overlooking the river and 4 tents facing the forest! All 12 luxury tents ( 2 are family tents ) are designed with great attention to detail.
Governors’ Camp is Africa’s first permanent luxury tented camp, remaining in its original site since 1972. It occupies the best wildlife viewing location in the Reserve, nestled in the riverine forest along the winding banks of the Mara River, its waters teeming with bird-life, hippos and crocodiles.