Discover the Maasai Mara: Must-Visit Locations for an Unforgettable Safari Experience
When exploring the Maasai Mara, there are several must-visit locations that offer incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes. Here are some of the top destinations within the Maasai Mara that you should consider visiting:
1. Mara River: The Mara River is not only a scenic wonder but also a crucial part of the Great Migration. Witness the dramatic river crossings as thousands of wildebeest and zebras brave the crocodile-infested waters during their annual migration.
2. Talek River: Similar to the Mara River, the Talek River is another hotspot for wildlife sightings, particularly during the migration season. Keep an eye out for predators such as lions and crocodiles, as they often gather near the riverbanks.
At Drunken Elephant Mara
Stay and do this at the camp
20 rooms under canvas in natural forest, about two kilometres from Sekenani Gate.
Experience
Game drives
Morning, afternoon and full-day drives into the Maasai Mara in search of the big five.
View
Experience
Guided nature walks
The bush at walking pace: tracks, plants and birdlife, with a guide.
View
Stay · Sleeps 2
Double Tent
An elevated canvas tent for two, with its own verandah and en-suite bathroom.
View
Safari · 3 nights / 4 days
Maasai Mara — 3 Nights
Two full days in the Mara by road from Nairobi, with a visit to a nearby Maasai village.
View
3. Olare Orok Conservancy: This private conservancy is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife, including predators like lions and leopards. Take advantage of the exclusive game drives and walking safaris offered in this area.
4. Ol Kinyei Conservancy: Known for its untouched landscapes and diverse wildlife, Ol Kinyei Conservancy offers a unique and immersive safari experience. Enjoy game drives, guided walks, and even night drives in this beautiful conservancy.
5. Maasai Mara National Reserve: The heart of the Maasai Mara, the national reserve spans over 1,500 square kilometers and is home to a vast array of wildlife. Explore the open plains and grasslands, keeping an eye out for the “Big Five” animals – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos.
6. Mara Triangle: This section of the Maasai Mara is known for its stunning scenery, especially the viewpoint at Oloololo Escarpment. The Mara Triangle also offers exceptional game viewing opportunities, including the annual wildebeest migration.
7. Musiara Swamp: Located in the northern part of the Maasai Mara, the Musiara Swamp is a haven for wildlife, particularly during the dry season. Keep an eye out for elephants, giraffes, hippos, and various bird species in this wetland habitat.
Each of these locations offers unique sights and experiences, contributing to the overall magic and awe of the Maasai Mara. Remember to respect the wildlife and follow the guidance of experienced guides for a memorable and responsible safari journey.
Questions guests ask
Is the camp inside the Maasai Mara National Reserve?
No — the camp sits in its own pocket of forest just outside the reserve, about two kilometres from Sekenani Gate. That means quiet nights in the bush, and guided walks and Maasai village visits that the reserve itself does not allow.
When is the best time to visit the Masai Mara?
July to October is peak season, when the Great Migration’s wildebeest and zebra are generally in the Mara — with the chance of river crossings at its highest in August and September, though the Mara follows no script and no sighting can be promised. January to March is dry with good predator viewing and fewer vehicles; April and May bring the long rains — green, quiet and better value. Resident wildlife is here all year.
Can I do a hot-air balloon safari or ride a horse?
Yes. Balloons lift off at dawn and drift over the plains for about an hour, ending with a bush breakfast — flights are run by licensed operators and booked as an extra. Guided nature walks and horse rides for suitable riders happen outside the reserve, where walking and riding are allowed.