The Masai Mara National Reserve is an African gem that is famous for its stunning wilderness and incredible wildlife. Masai Mara is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kenya. Which is the Best month to visit Masai Mara? If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Masai Mara is, there is no wrong time to go. However, certain months may be more desirable than others depending on your interests. For an ultimate Kenya wildlife experience, the best time to visit Masai Mara is during the long dry seasons that coincide with the annual Great Wildebeest migration.
Kenya experiences two dry seasons which are between July to October, which is the longer dry season, and December to March. Which is the Best month to visit Masai Mara? July to October is considered the Best month to visit Masai Mara in Kenya. These months usually coincide with the arrival of massive herds of mammal grazers (wildebeest and their entourage) through the southern part of the reserve from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. So if you are interested in witnessing the wildebeest migration this is the best time for this natural spectacular event.
Approximately 2 million wildebeests and hundreds of thousands of Zebras, elands, and gazelles cross the Mara River to enter the Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya. This natural spectacle is a joy to witness during your Kenya safari tour/Kenya safari/Kenya Wildlife Safari. If you are wondering what month is great migration in Masai Mara? The wildebeests start arriving by late June through August. If you’re planning a tour to see wildebeest in Kenya and want to witness the dramatic event of the River crossing, we can help you customize your itinerary. During the crossing, the crocodile-infested Mara River claims the lives of the worn-out, and the weak are taken by the crocodiles. As a result, when the wildebeest arrive at the river banks, they are vulnerable to hungry predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs that are all waiting to take their share of the migrating animals.
Masai Mara National Reserve experiences distinct variations in temperature between day and night throughout the year. During the day, the temperatures range from around 22 to 30 degrees Celsius (72 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) on average. However, in the hotter months such as July, August, September, January, and February, the temperatures can go as high as 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). The warm and comfortable daytime temperatures make it good for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
At night, temperatures drop significantly, especially during the cooler months. It can get chilly with temperatures ranging from around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). We recommend you to carry warm clothing during these.
The weather in the Masai Mara is influenced by several factors, including altitude, seasonality, and regional weather patterns, and can vary from year to year. The fluctuation in temperatures between day and night makes for a diverse experience, with pleasant warmth during the day for wildlife viewing and comfortable cooler nights for resting and enjoying the ambiance of the African wilderness.
January – February
Masai Mara experiences hot and dry weather during January and February, making it a good time for wildlife viewing in the reserve. During the dry month, there is less foliage making spotting wildlife easier, and animals tend to concentrate around waterholes since water is scarce. These months are part of the short dry season in Masai Mara and considered to be one of the best times to visit. These months also offer excellent birdwatching opportunities as many migrant species can be seen in the Reserve.
March – April – May
This period is a long rainy season in Masai Mara National Reserve. The weather remains considerably hot up to March, but towards the end of the month, it starts to rain more heavily and frequently. In April, it is usually rainy all through. For those interested in wildlife, this might not be the best time to visit Masai Mara as it presents several challenges, such as slippery routes and much greener foliage, which makes sightseeing more difficult.
These months are the best time to visit Kenya in general. If you are planning your Kenya Safari, you should consider visiting between June to October. During these months, the temperatures are pleasant, there is warm and dry weather, and mostly clear blue skies above. Perfect weather for wildlife safaris in Kenya and Kenya safari tours in general. This is therefore the popular time for safari travel to the Masai Mara.
November – December
These last two months of the year ring in the ‘short rains’ or less intrusive of the two rainy seasons. Not most popular for wildlife safaris in Kenya however safaris are possible during this time of the year. You should however expect overcast, cloudy skies and rain showers in the afternoons. During November and December, the temperatures usually remain high, although the mornings can be chilly at times.
The wet season is considered the low season for tourism in Kenya. With fewer visitors, you can have a more intimate and less crowded wildlife viewing experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Safari lodges and tour operators often offer discounted rates during the wet season due to lower demand. This can be an advantage if you are looking for a more budget-friendly safari option.
Plan your Kenya safari tour with Acacia Safaris Limited and experience the most thrilling adventure in Africa. We also offer extended tours to Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. We offer a range of experiences in Kenya including Wildlife safaris, Hot air balloon rides, and Beach holidays among others.