Best Time to Visit Masai Mara National Reserve – Month-by-Month Safari Guide by Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris
The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world. Located in southwestern Kenya, the Mara offers abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the Great Wildebeest Migration—a once-in-a-lifetime natural spectacle. But when is the best time to visit the Masai Mara?
At Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris, we break down the Masai Mara travel seasons so you can plan your adventure at the perfect time, whether you’re coming for the Big Five, a luxury safari, or a romantic honeymoon in the wild.
Quick Overview – Masai Mara Safari Seasons
Best Time (Peak Season): July to October – Great Migration & dry weather
Good Time: December to March – Calving season, great wildlife, fewer crowds
Low Season: April to May & November – Rainy, fewer tourists, lush scenery

July to October – Best Time to Visit Masai Mara (Great Migration Season)
This is the most popular and thrilling time to visit the Mara. Millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross over from Tanzania’s Serengeti, braving crocodile-infested rivers and stalking predators.
Highlights:
River crossings at the Mara and Talek rivers
Incredible predator activity (lions, leopards, cheetahs)
Warm days, cool nights, clear skies
✅ Ideal for: First-time safari travelers, wildlife photographers, families, honeymooners
📅 Book early—July and August are peak months with limited availability.
December to March – Great Wildlife, Calving Season & Fewer Crowds
While the migration is in Tanzania, the Masai Mara remains full of resident wildlife. This is the short dry season, offering excellent wildlife viewing with fewer tourists.
Highlights:
Predator sightings (especially cheetahs and lions)
Baby animals being born—especially antelope and zebra
Warm and sunny weather
✅ Great for: Photographers, families, luxury travelers seeking privacy
April to May – Low Season (Green Season)
These are the long rainy months. Some roads become muddy and tricky to navigate, and a few camps close. But this is also Masai Mara’s most affordable time.
Highlights:
Lush, green landscapes
Migratory birds and dramatic skies
Lowest lodge rates and fewer vehicles in the park
✅ Recommended for: Budget travelers, birdwatchers, and seasoned safari-goers
November – Short Rains & Shoulder Season
Short rains arrive in November, usually in the late afternoon. Wildlife is still active, and crowds are minimal, making it a good shoulder season option.
Highlights:
Green scenery and newborn animals
Fewer tourists
Good deals on camps and lodges
✅ Good for: Return visitors, solo travelers, off-peak adventurers

Masai Mara Safari: Month-by-Month Guide
Month | Weather | Safari Highlights |
---|---|---|
January | Warm & dry | Predator sightings, fewer crowds |
February | Hot & dry | Calving season, active big cats |
March | Start of rains | Green landscapes, fewer tourists |
April | Long rains | Budget safaris, lush scenery |
May | Rainy | Quiet, green season benefits |
June | Dry season begins | Wildlife starts gathering |
July | Dry, cool | Wildebeest migration begins |
August | Peak safari season | River crossings, dramatic scenes |
September | Warm & dry | Excellent game viewing |
October | End of dry season | Fewer crowds, rich wildlife |
November | Short rains | Affordable, scenic, fewer vehicles |
December | Warm & festive | Baby animals, clear mornings |
Travel Tips for Visiting Masai Mara
Book early for July–October to secure top lodges and balloon safaris
Combine with Lake Nakuru, Naivasha, or Amboseli for diverse experiences
Pack neutral-colored clothing, waterproof shoes, and binoculars
Ask us about fly-in safaris for a quick luxury escape

Plan Your Masai Mara Safari with Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris
Whether you’re chasing the wildebeest migration, exploring the Mara’s remote conservancies, or looking to tick off the Big Five, we’ll help you pick the perfect time to visit Masai Mara and design a personalized safari experience just for you.
Contact Us Today
📞 Tel/Whatsapp: (+254) 105773933
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.novaafrika.com
📍 Let’s take you to the wild – the Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris way.