The best time to visit the Masai Mara is from late June to early October - you'll catch the wildebeest migration in full flow. Midsummer can get busy though, so come at the beginning or end of that period for full on wildlife without crazy crowds. March to May are wet with scattered wildlife, but you can find some cheaper deals if you're not bothered about the migration. The great plains, Maasai villages and Big Five are reward enough in themselves
The month-by-month guide to the Great Migration in Masai Mara:
July
The beginning of the Great Migration, visitors will see thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River into Masai Mara from Tanzania. This also makes it a great time to view birds of prey and big cats such as lions and leopards!
August
By this time, travellers should expect to see the Great Migration slowing down; now, the animals will be happily grazing on the plains of the Masai Mara. This means further opportunity to view wildebeest, zebras, lions, leopards, and more.
September
With the dry season in full swing, expect to see larger crowds and higher temperatures in September. Visibility of all wildlife present for the Great Migration (wildebeest, zebras, big cats, and more) is still excellent, however, so this month remains a popular time to visit.
October
The last month of the dry season, October sees the migrating animals begin to make their way back to Tanzania. Visiting the south-eastern part of the reserve offers the best views of these incredible animals in October.
November
The "short rains" usually begin in mid-November, so travellers should expect the occasional wet day. However, there are ample opportunities for birdwatching at this time, and some baby animals can also be seen! For more information about when to see the animals in the Great Migration, please see our migration map.
December - June
At this time, the animals who take part in the Great Migration have returned to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. While many animals remain in Masai Mara, the taller grasses make them more difficult to see.
How many animals migrate?
Nearly 2 million animals make the journey.
What animals migrate?
Mostly wildebeest, zebras, and Thompson's Gazelles.
What drives the Great Migration?
Seasonal rains, and a search for green fresh grass.
How do they know where to go?
The sun and Earth's magnetic field acts as a compass, and the animals instinctively know where to go.
How many perish on the way?
About 250,000 animals don't complete the journey.
The months of June to October see the least rainfall in Masai Mara, as this is the dry season. Masai Mara experiences two rainy seasons, the "long rains" and the "short rains." The long rains take place from March to May, and the short rains occur from October to December. While travellers visiting during the rainy seasons will have fewer crowds around them, they should be prepared for muddy conditions.
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