Enjoy the best of both worlds- immersing yourself in a vast game reserve while savoring the exclusivity of a private safari.

A haven for safari enthusiasts, Mara North Conservancy boasts some of the richest wildlife densities in the Mara ecosystem, offering a safari experience that is both extraordinary and intimate. The controlled number of visitors ensures a secluded and serene adventure, making each moment in the wild feel personal. Whether you find yourself amid the Musiara Marshes, traversing Rhino Crest, marveling at Heaven Plain, or spotting predators in Leopard Gorge, every corner promises remarkable wildlife encounters. Its strategic location near the Maasai Mara National Reserve further amplifies the experience, granting effortless access to diverse landscapes and thrilling safari excursions.

The Evolution of Mara North Conservancy

In the 1980s and 1990s, the land that now forms the Mara North Conservancy faced mounting threats. Fences crisscrossed the terrain, disrupting vital wildlife corridors, while overgrazing by Maasai livestock led to severe land degradation. These challenges placed immense pressure on local landowners, jeopardizing both their environment and their way of life. In response, more than 800 Maasai landowners came together in 2009 to form the 320 km² Mara North Conservancy. Through a commitment to responsible tourism and wildlife conservation, they forged partnerships with eco-conscious lodges and safari operators, creating a model that supports both thriving wildlife and sustainable livelihoods for the Maasai community.

Landscape & Biodiversity

Mara North Conservancy’s landscapes perfectly embody the essence of an African wilderness, with vast golden savannahs punctuated by the iconic silhouettes of flat-topped acacia trees. Thanks to rigorous wildlife conservation initiatives—including habitat restoration and anti-poaching measures-the conservancy now boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in the entire Mara ecosystem. Beyond the famed Big Five, visitors can marvel at over 450 bird species, diverse antelope populations, and a spectacular variety of other creatures that bring the landscape to life.

To the east, rolling plains give way to wooded valleys and seasonal watercourses, known locally as ‘luggas,’ where riverine forests provide refuge for elephants, hippos, baboons, and giraffes. The western expanse features forested hills that descend into the Mara River, home to formidable crocodiles, with the Olooloo Escarpment forming a breathtaking natural backdrop.

From the secluded Leopard Gorge- a critical nursery for big cat populations- to the rugged Lemek Hills, a stronghold for rare African wild dogs, Mara North Conservancy’s diverse terrain makes it a premier safari destination. Between December and May, the land is transformed by the Loita Hills migration, a lesser-known yet awe-inspiring spectacle where thousands of wildebeest traverse the conservancy. This seasonal influx of prey attracts powerful predators like lions and buffalo, further enriching the untamed beauty of this protected wilderness. By prioritizing responsible tourism, THIS WORLD-CLASS Conservancy continues to safeguard its ecosystem, ensuring that both wildlife and the Maasai landowners benefit for generations to come.

The Great Migration in Mara North Conservancy

The dry season from July to October offers prime conditions for spotting Africa’s iconic big cats, especially as the Great Migration passes through Mara North Conservancy. During this dramatic spectacle, vast herds of wildebeest and zebras push northward from the Mara Triangle and the reserve, providing an unmissable opportunity to witness predator-prey interactions in action. While sections of the migration unfold within the conservancy, the most intense Mara River crossings occur further south in the Mara Triangle or Masai Mara National Reserve.

Accommodation in Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy maintains an intimate safari experience with just twelve tented camps, offering a secluded retreat in the heart of the wild. Among the standout member camps are Kicheche Mara Camp, Royal Mara Safari Lodge, Karen Blixen Camp, Offbeat Mara Camp, Mara Rianta Camp, Saruni Mara, Saruni Wild, and Ngare Serian. These boutique lodges and luxury tented camps uphold the conservancy’s strong commitment to sustainability, incorporating solar energy, eco-friendly practices, composting systems, and water conservation measures to minimize their ecological footprint. Beyond environmental efforts, each lodge plays a vital role in community support, contributing funds to educating local communities, healthcare, and women’s empowerment initiatives.

Safari activities at these lodges extend beyond traditional game drives. Guests can embark on off-road excursions, guided bush walks, night safaris, and alfresco dining experiences in the wilderness. With restricted vehicle numbers in the conservancy, game drives remain exclusive and uninterrupted.

Seasonality

Mara North Conservancy is a year-round destination, but the dry season from July to October offers optimal game viewing. As water sources dwindle, wildlife congregates around the remaining pools, making sightings frequent and rewarding. If you visit between November and June, during the green season, expect a lush landscape teeming with wildlife, though occasional rains may add an element of unpredictability. Given the limited availability of accommodations, securing your stay well in advance- particularly during the peak July–October months- is highly recommended. Be sure to take advantage of unique experiences like night game drives and guided bush walks for an immersive encounter with the conservancy’s untamed beauty.

Inquire About Your Mara North Safari

We trust that the information provided has convinced you that Mara North Conservancy is an ideal destination for your upcoming travel adventure. If you have any further questions or require more detailed information about the various lodges, please complete the contact form, and we will respond promptly!