RegionMasai Mara
Where the Great Migration thunders and big cats reign supreme.
Few places capture the imagination quite like the Masai Mara, one of the crown jewels of Kenya’s national parks and often counted among the best African safaris. Stretching across the Great Rift Valley and sharing an unfenced border with Tanzania’s Serengeti, the reserve is world-famous for the Great Migration, when over a million wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains each year. A Masai Mara safari offers thrilling wildlife encounters at any time of year. The reserve is home to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, as well as cheetahs, giraffes, and hundreds of bird species. For many, the highlight is the abundance of big cats, making it a paradise for those seeking predator action or a photography safari. Activities range from classic game drives to the unforgettable experience of a dawn hot air balloon safari, drifting silently above the savannah. Accommodation options are superb, from intimate tented camps to indulgent Masai Mara luxury safari camps, perfect for a romantic honeymoon safari or adventurous family trip. Access is straightforward, whether by road on a Masai Mara safari from Nairobi or by fly-in safari direct to airstrips inside the reserve. Beyond wildlife, travellers can also connect with the traditions of the Maasai people, whose culture and guardianship of the land add depth to the experience.
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Best time to go to Masai Mara
The best time to visit the Masai Mara depends on what you’d like to see. For the famous Masai Mara wildebeest migration safaris, the peak months are July to October, when herds cross from the Serengeti and dramatic river crossings unfold. This period also offers the best predator action for travellers keen on big cat safaris or photography safaris. From December to March, the landscape is lush and dotted with newborn animals, providing quieter but equally rewarding game viewing. April and May bring the long rains, making roads muddy but creating beautiful green scenery with fewer visitors. November sees short rains, refreshing the plains without major disruption. For a mix of comfort, accessibility, and reliable wildlife encounters, the dry months from July to October remain the most popular, but the Mara rewards travellers year-round.
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Where to stay in Masai Mara
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I spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
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We had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
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I had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller