Masai Mara National Reserve in the Greater Masai Mara - Kenya

Four landscapes in one

Nestled in southwestern Kenya, the Masai Mara Reserve is one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife havens. Covering 1,510 square kilometers (580 square miles), it seamlessly connects with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, creating an unrivaled safari destination. This legendary reserve unfolds across four distinct landscapes- the arid, shrub-strewn terrain of the east, the towering Siria Escarpment to the west, the verdant riverine forests flanking the Mara River, and the vast golden plains dotted with acacia trees. For a deeper dive into the Greater Maasai Mara ecosystem, including the renowned Mara Triangle and Mara North Conservancy, explore our detailed Masai Mara map.

Discover the Masai Mara highlights that make this reserve a must-visit destination. For a truly unique experience, consider embarking on a hot air balloon safari, offering breathtaking aerial views of the sweeping plains and abundant wildlife below.

Accessibility to Maasai Mara Game Reserve

Nestled in Narok County, Kenya, the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve lies about 270 kilometers from the vibrant capital, Nairobi. If you prefer speed and convenience, a scenic flight will whisk you there in just 40–45 minutes. For those craving adventure, a six to seven-hour road trip offers a journey through Kenya’s diverse landscapes—though it’s wise to avoid the rugged Lemek and Aitong Town roads. Whether by air or land, every route leads to an unforgettable safari experience in one of East Africa’s most spectacular wildlife havens. For more travel details, explore our Getting to Masai Mara guide.

Accommodation in Masai Mara National Park

Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Maasai Mara Reserve without sacrificing luxury. Nestled within the heart of the reserve and its neighboring conservancies, world-class lodges and tented camps—like Angama Mara, Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Mara Plains Camp, Sand River, and Bateleur Camp—offer an exquisite blend of comfort and adventure. Whether you choose an elegant, tented camp or a lavish safari lodge, expect warm hospitality, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking views. Many accommodations also provide customized safari experiences, ensuring your journey through the Masai Mara unfolds exactly as you envision it.

Something for Everyone

Divided by the meandering Talek and Mara rivers, the Masai Mara National Reserve unfolds across three distinct regions, each offering a unique safari experience. The westernmost expanse, the Mara Triangle, serves as a crucial passage for wildlife migrating between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. In contrast, the easternmost section, known as the Sekenani Sector, bustles with activity yet lacks the untamed visual drama found in other parts of the reserve.

Musiara Sector

Nestled between the Talek and Mara rivers, the Musiara Sector is a wildlife-rich haven teeming with birdlife and a thriving ecosystem. Once a seasonal grazing ground for the Maasai and their livestock, this swampy paradise now offers refuge to herds of buffaloes and other animals drawn to its cooling mud baths. It is also home to the legendary ‘Marsh Pride’—a formidable lion dynasty of 25-30 members that rose to fame through the BBC’s Big Cat Diary. The Musiara Sector is a prime spot to witness the heart-stopping wildebeest crossings at the Mara River, a defining spectacle of the Great Migration.

Sekenani Sector

For those arriving in the Masai Mara by road from Nairobi, the Sekenani Sector often serves as the primary gateway into the reserve. While convenient, it lacks the raw, untouched landscapes that define the wilder regions of the Mara. This area is dotted with large safari lodges and budget-friendly tented camps, catering to a steady influx of tourists. However, unchecked development and constant traffic from minibus tours have somewhat eroded its pristine charm. While it provides easy access to the reserve, we recommend exploring deeper into the Mara for a more authentic and immersive safari experience, where conservation remains a top priority.