maasai mara national reserve

narok, kenya

Maasai Mara National Reserve, located in Kenya, is one of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations, known for its vast savannas, abundant wildlife, and the Great Migration. Covering 1,510 km², it hosts the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and over 450 bird species. The Great Migration, occurring July–October, sees over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River from the Serengeti, facing crocodiles and predators. Activities include game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural visits to Maasai villages. The best time to visit is June–October (dry season) for wildlife viewing. Entry fees are $100 per day for non-residents, and the reserve is accessible via Nairobi (5–6 hours by road or a 45-minute flight to Mara airstrips).