Masai Mara National Reserve: An Overview
Location
The Masai Mara National Reserve, sometimes known as Maasai Mara, is located on Kenya’s western border with Tanzania.
Size
Masai Mara National Reserve is approximately 580 square miles.
History
Established in 1961, the Masai Mara was a much smaller reserve of 200 square miles. The reserve massively expanded over the years and was given National Reserve status in the 1970s with a section of the land returned to the local Maasai community, creating cohabitation between humans and wildlife. The reserve’s location and vast quantity of wildlife makes it one of the most popular game reserves in Kenya today.
Entrance Fees & Permits
The cost to enter the Masai Mara National Reserve is $ 100 per adult (January-June) and $200 per adult (July-December) Children (9-17 years) $50 per child per day and children (0-8) Free.Rates are per 12 hours day.
Hours of Operation
The four currently open gates of the Masai Mara National Reserve are open daily between 6am and 6pm.
History
Established in 1961, the Masai Mara was a much smaller reserve of 200 square miles. The reserve massively expanded over the years and was given National Reserve status in the 1970s with a section of the land returned to the local Maasai community, creating cohabitation between humans and wildlife. The reserve’s location and vast quantity of wildlife makes it one of the most popular game reserves in Kenya today.
Entrance Fees & Permits
The cost to enter the Masai Mara National Reserve is $ 100 per adult (January-June) and $200 per adult (July-December) Children (9-17 years) $50 per child per day and children (0-8) Free.Rates are per 12 hours day.
Hours of Operation
The four currently open gates of the Masai Mara National Reserve are open daily between 6am and 6pm.History
The reserve was established in 1961, initially encompassing 200 square miles. Over the years, it expanded significantly and attained National Reserve status in the 1970s. Part of the land was returned to the local Maasai community, fostering a unique cohabitation between humans and wildlife. Today, its rich wildlife and strategic location make it one of Kenya's most popular game reserves.
Entrance Fees & Permits
Entry fees for the Masai Mara are $100 per adult from January to June and $200 from July to December. Children aged 9-17 are charged $50 per day, while those 8 and under enter for free. Rates are based on a 12-hour day.
Hours of Operation
The reserve’s four main gates—Talek, Sekenani, Musiara, and Oloololo—are open daily from 6 am to 6 pm.
Access
-By Road: The reserve is 260 miles from Nairobi, with a drive time of approximately six hours via the A104.
- By Air: A flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Masai Mara takes about 54 minutes.
Weather & Climate
The reserve enjoys year-round sunshine with two distinct rainy seasons: short rains in November and December, and long rains from April to early May. Winter (June to August) is dry and cooler, with temperatures averaging around 75°F, rising to about 80°F in summer.
Avoiding Crowds
For a less crowded experience, visit in the fall (May and early June) or spring (September and October). Game viewing remains excellent during these periods. Bird enthusiasts should consider January and February, post-short rains and pre-long rains.
Value for Money
The Masai Mara offers a range of accommodation options, from large, family-friendly lodges to intimate luxury tented camps, ensuring value for money for all types of visitors.