Going on a Masai Mara safari in Kenya is a bucket-list item for many travel and wildlife enthusiasts and rightfully so. The Masai Mara’s sprawling landscape and abundant wildlife make it an incredible destination for an African wildlife safari.
It is also here that the ‘world cup of wildlife’ – the annual wildebeest migration takes place. Every year, millions of wildebeests, accompanied by thousands of zebras and gazelles make the treacherous migration across the Mara River in search of greener pastures. The crossing is a sight to behold and is considered one of the greatest shows on earth!
But even without this event, a trip to the Masai Mara is an unforgettable adventure and for this possibly once-in-a-lifetime experience, planning your travels effectively is paramount. Here are a few tips to help you plan and maximize your Masai Mara Safari.
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Determining the best time to go on a Masai Mara safari
When visiting the Masai Mara, it is important to consider the time of the year you would like to go. Though the National Reserve can be visited all year-round, some months present more favourable conditions. Generally, the dry seasons from December to March and June to October are considered the best time to visit.
From December to February, the calving season for wildebeests and zebras begin and by mid-July to August, the herd makes their way down to the Mara River to begin their annual migration to the Serengeti Plains.
Also, during the dry seasons, more animals congregate at watering holes and sightings are easier due to sparse vegetation. In the rainy season, the vegetation becomes denser making sightings more difficult – but not impossible. The rainy season (i.e., low season) is also favourable for budget travellers as the rates for tours and lodges are lower than the peak travel months, with fewer tourists in the park.
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Masai Mara safari tour: Choosing the right company to travel with
It is also important to travel with the right company and guides. Having a guide who knows the terrain well and who is knowledgeable about wildlife species can help to maximize your Masai Mara Safari. Experienced guides can follow tracks and patterns left behind by animals to ensure excellent sightings. They also have great interpersonal relationships with other guides, communicating over the radio to notify each other of notable sightings within the park.
At Bush Barbeque, we have a wealth of experience that comes with years of curating trips to the Masai Mara. Our guides are well trained and versed in the terrain, ensuring that our guests have optimal care and satisfaction throughout their safari.
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Masai Mara safari lodges: Choosing the right accommodation
Oftentimes, a Masai Mara safari experience is a combination of the game drives within the park, your transportation and accommodation options. Therefore, choosing the right lodge or camp can add to the experience and help maximize your trip. Bush Barbeque works with reputable lodges across different budgets and travel styles to guarantee a great experience for guests.
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Including some add-on activities to your safari
Apart from game drives within the National Reserve, visitors have the option of including a few extra activities to maximize their trip. These could include stops to take in the view of the rift valley, hot air balloon rides across the Masai Mara plains and visiting a Masai village.
