The Masai Mara is a vast and the most renowned wildlife reserve in Kenya. It is home to the African Big Five and the Great Migration of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals. It's considered one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders and one of the world's top attractions for nature lovers.
The Masai Mara offers a unique wildlife viewing experience and boasts the highest concentration of wild animals globally. Known as the "Home of the Big Cats," it has the highest concentration of lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the world. Several lion prides have resided in the Masai Mara National Reserve for decades. Additionally, it is home to over 570 recorded species of birds.
Covering 1,510 square kilometres, the Masai Mara National Reserve is managed by Narok County Council as part of the Greater Mara Ecosystem, which includes private and community lands. Within the reserve, the Mara Triangle along the Mara River, covering about one-third of the reserve, offers the best wildlife sightings, especially during the Great Migration. Known as the 'kingdom of lions,' the Masai Mara showcases their dominance over its grasslands. Renowned for its excellent maintenance, the Masai Mara attracts travellers globally.
Visitors can enjoy the Masai Mara safari experience through self-drives, open 4x4 game drives, night drives, walking safaris, and hot air balloon rides for Great Migration views. They can also visit local villages for Maasai cultural experiences. Accommodation options vary from camps to lodges and private conservancies, providing plenty of choices for every traveller.
Entry Fees to Masai Mara National Reserve:
Park Entry Fee: Adult: Non-residents (staying inside the park) - $70
Non-residents (staying outside the park) - $80
Resident – KSH 1200
Citizen – KSH 1000
Child: Non-residents (staying inside the park) - $40
Non-residents (staying outside the park) - $45
Resident – KSH 500
Citizen – KSH 300
Vehicle Fee:Less than 6 seats - KSH 400
6 to 12 seats - KSH 1000
13 to 24 seats - KSH 3000
25 to 44 seats - KSH 4000
45 seats and above - KSH 5000
Special Activity Charges:Game Drive Ranger: Above 6 hours – KSH 3000, Below 6 hours – KSH 1500
Horse Riding (without rider) – KSH 1500
Entrance Gates to Masai Mara National Reserve:
- Sekenani Gate: Located in the Sekenani area, it gives access to the eastern side of the reserve and is closest to Narok town, about 155 km away.
- Talek Gate: Near the Talek River, it allows entry to the central part of Masai Mara. Conveniently close to Talek town, it's a good option for travelers nearby.
- Oloololo Gate: Situated by the Oloololo Escarpment, it opens up the western side of the reserve for exploration.
- Musiara Gate: Found near Musiara Swamp, it provides entry from the northwestern side, ideal for exploring the wildlife-rich region.
- Sand River Gate: Positioned near the Sand River, it's the gateway to the southeastern part of the reserve.
- Ololaimutia Gate: Located in the northeastern area near Ololaimutia River, it serves as an entry point to the eastern region and is close to Talek town.
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