Nestled in the heart of Kenya’s Narok County, the Maasai Mara National Reserve stands as a testament to the wild beauty of Africa. Named in honor of the Maasai people, the indigenous custodians of the land, and the Mara River, which threads through the reserve, this sanctuary is a mosaic of rolling grasslands, meandering rivers, and towering escarpments.
Spanning approximately 1,510 square kilometers, the Maasai Mara is a continuation of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and forms a key part of the greater Mara ecosystem. The reserve’s altitude varies from 1,500 to 2,170 meters above sea level, creating a landscape that supports an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna.
The Maasai Mara is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering sightings of the iconic “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros. It is also home to over 450 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The reserve’s rich tapestry of habitats provides a backdrop for the drama of life and survival that unfolds daily in this natural theater.
One of the most spectacular phenomena witnessed here is the annual Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the savannah and the perilous Mara River in search of greener pastures. This mass movement, occurring between July and October, is one of the most breathtaking wildlife spectacles on the planet.
The Maasai Mara is not only about wildlife; it is also a cultural treasure. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with the Maasai community, learning about their traditions, customs, and the harmonious coexistence they maintain with the land and its creatures.
For those seeking an immersive experience, the reserve offers a variety of activities. Guided game drives bring the savannah’s stories to life, while walking safaris offer a more intimate connection with the land. For a bird’s-eye view, hot air balloon safaris provide a serene and majestic perspective of the Mara’s grandeur at sunrise.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is more than a destination; it is an encounter with the essence of the wild, a place where nature’s complexity and beauty are on full display, reminding us of the intricate web of life that connects us all.
Visiting the Maasai Mara is a journey into the heart of nature, a chance to witness the circle of life in its purest form. It is a must-visit for anyone who seeks to understand the pulse of the wild and the soul of Kenya.
Maasai Mara National Reserve entrance Fee
The entrance fees for the Maasai Mara National Reserve vary based on different factors. Here are the fine details:
Non-Resident Adults
From January 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024: USD 100 per day. From July 1, 2024, onwards: USD 200 per day.
For Children (9 to 17 years)
USD 50 per day from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. Children up to 8 years old enter for free.
Timing Update (Effective from July 1, 2023)
- Tickets are valid for 12 hours (from 6 am to 6 pm).
- Guests staying outside the reserve pay a daily entry fee.
- Departure by road should be before 10 am to avoid additional fees.
- Departure by air should be before 10 am to avoid an extra day’s fee.
Payment Methods
Cash in US Dollars or Kenya Shillings is accepted at entry gates.
For the Mara Triangle – Mara Conservancy area, only cashless payment (Visa/Mastercard or Mpesa Mobile Money) is accepted.
Citizens and residents of Kenya get cheaper rates by showing identification and proof of residence.
