Weather in Masai Mara & Best Time to Travel

The Masai Mara National Reserve is located in south-western Kenya, on the northern section of the Great Rift Valley. Weather in Masai Mara varies throughout the year, ranging from hot and dry to milder temperatures with more rainfall.

It is a region that experiences a tropical climate and two rainy seasons from April to June (the long rains) and November to December (the short rains).Masai Mara also experiences a dry season from January to March.

The average temperature in Masai Mara is around 22°C (71°F). During the dry season, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) during the day and drop to 12°C (54°F) at night. During the rainy season, temperatures remain hot but may rise as high as 32°C (89°F) during the day.

The best time of year for a visit to Masai Mara depends on what you want out of your trip. For those looking to see the migration, then June – August is the ideal period as this marks the peak season with plenty of wildlife to explore. If you would like to avoid the crowds then April – May and September – October are great times for a visit.

Finally, if you’re looking for cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall then November – December might be more your style. No matter when you go, Masai Mara will provide an unforgettable experience!

How to Book Your Masai Mara Safari Tour

Reach us today at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com to book the best tour packages for Masai Mara. We are also available through phone and WhatsApp at +254-748-258-880.

Our Most Booked Masai Mara Safari Packages

Masai Mara Safari Deals/Offers/Tours	High Season 1st Nov 2023 – 15th Dec 2023	Festive Season: 16th Dec 2023 – 3rd Jan 2024
3 Days AA Lodges Offer	KES 46,784 Per Person	KES 60,280 Per Person
3 Days Miti Mingi Eco Camp Safari	KES 48,400 Per Person	KES 53,400 Per Person
3 Days Orng’atuny Mara King Camp Tour	KES 49,400 Per Person	KES 58,400 Per Person
3 Days Sentrim Masai Mara Offer	KES 50,800 Per Person	KES 63,000 Per Person
3 Days Zebra Plain Mara Deal	KES 53,500 Per Person	KES 71,100 Per Person
3 Days Mtito Safari Camp Offer	KES 55,100 Per Person	KES 62,650 Per Person
3 Days Basecamp Masai Mara Package	KES 55,950 Per Person	KES 64,520 Per Person
3 Days Mara Sopa Lodge Package Tour	KES 56,035 Per Person	KES 66,050 Per Person
3 Days Mara River Lodge Deal	KES 57,400 Per Person	KES 68,400 Per Person
3 Days Crocodile Camp Tour	KES 58,500 Per Person	KES 71,100 Per Person
3 Days Mara Maisha Camp Package	KES 59,800 Per Person	KES 77,400 Per Person
3 Days Mara Crossing Camp Tour	KES 79,400 Per Person	KES 96,400 Per Person

Things Included in the Maasai Mara National Reserve Packages

A private tour for 2 adults (contact us to get a quote for a quote tour)

Pickup and return to your resident in Nairobi

Use of a safari van – Upgrade to a land cruiser at KES 14000 Per Person

Professional safari guide

Masai Mara Park Fee

1-liter of bottled mineral drinking water per person per day

Afternoon game drive at Masai Mara on day 1

Full-day game drive at Masai Mara with picnic lunch on day 2

2-night accommodation at Masai Mara on full-board basis (Supplement of KES 3000 Per Person Per Night will apply on 24th & 25th Dec & 31st Dec & 1st Jan)

High season runs from 1st Nov 2023 to 15th Dec 2023, Festive Season runs from 16th Dec 2023 to 3rd Jan 2024

3 Days Masai Mara Aa Lodge Safari

Land Cruiser
From Kes 140700

Safari Van
From Kes 113,500

3 Day Masai Mara Angama Mara Safari

Land Cruiser
From Kes 398,500

Safari Van
From Kes

3 Day Masai Mara Apasio Safari

Land Cruiser
From Kes 52,500

Safari Van
From Kes 49,300

3 Day Masai Mara Ashnil Mara Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 115,940

Safari Van
From Kes 104,440

Tipilikwani Mara Camp Safari.

Land Cruiser
From Kes 129,600

Safari Van
From Kes 102,600

Base Camp Explorer Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 136,000

Safari Van
From Kes 109,000

Mara Ngeche Safari Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 173,600

Safari Van
From Kes 146,600

Keekorok Lodge Masai Mara

Land Cruiser
From Kes 202,240

Safari Van
From Kes

Mara Bush Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 168,700

Safari Van
From Kes 141,700

Mara Kimana Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 121,600

Safari Van
From Kes 121,600

Mara Maisha Luxury

Land Cruiser
From Kes 153,100

Safari Van
From Kes 126,100

Mara Alopa Tented Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 115,600

Safari Van
From Kes 88,600

Mara River Lodge

Land Cruiser
From Kes 108,600

Safari Van
From Kes 81,600

Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

Land Cruiser
From Kes 139,600

Safari Van
From Kes 112,600

Our Masai Mara Photos and Images

Rainfall, Temperature, Weather, and Climate in the Masai Mara

When it comes to the temperature, weather, and climate in Masai Mara, you’ll find that it varies throughout the year.

Rainfall in Masai Mara

There are two distinct rainy seasons in Masai Mara. The long rains occur from April to June, and the short rains occur from November to December. During the dry season (January-March), rainfall is minimal and temperatures are hot.

Masai Mara Weather

Masai Mara is known for experiencing different weather patterns throughout the year. Below is the outline of what to expect in each month.

December to February: During this period, Masai Mara experiences hot and dry weather with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). At night it can get as cold as 12°C (54°F).
March to May: This marks the beginning of the long rainy season in Masai Mara. Temperatures still remain hot during the day but can reach up to 32°C (89°F).
June to August: This is when Masai Mara experiences its peak season. Temperatures stay around 22°C (71°F) and there is plenty of wildlife to explore.
September to November: During this time, temperatures start cooling down and rainfall becomes more frequent.

Masai Mara Climate

The climate in Masai Mara remains tropical year round. It experiences two rainy seasons from April to June (the long rains) and November to December (the short rains).

During this time, temperatures stay hot but rainfall can be more frequent. Masai Mara also experiences a dry season from January to March with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) during the day and dropping to 12°C (54°F) at night.

Masai Mara Temperature

Masai Mara Seasons - Dry and Wet Seasons

Masai Mara experiences distinct seasons throughout the year, each with their own unique weather patterns. Below are the two seasons that are dictated by the rain.

Dry Season in the Masai Mara

The dry season in Masai Mara runs from January to March. During this time, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) during the day and drop to 12°C (54°F) at night. This is a great time for visitors wanting cooler temperatures and fewer crowds as there isn’t much wildlife around yet.

Rainy Season in the Masai Mara

The rainy season in Masai Mara runs from April to June (the long rains) and November to December (the short rains). During this time, temperatures remain hot but may reach up to 32°C (89°F) during the day. This is a great time for visitors wanting to explore the wildebeest migration as well as other wildlife that is present during the rainy season.

Best Time to Visit Masai Mara - Best Time for Masai Mara Safari

The best time to visit Masai Mara depends on what you want out of your trip. For those looking to see the migration, then June – August is the ideal period as this marks the peak season with plenty of wildlife to explore. If you would like to avoid the crowds then April – May and September – October are great times for a visit.

If you’re looking for cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall then November – December might be more your style. The wettest month in Masai Mara is April, with an average rainfall of 9 mm. No matter when you go, Masai Mara will provide an unforgettable experience!

What to Pack During Your Masai Mara National Reserve Safari

When planning an African safari to the Masai Mara National Reserve, it is important to pack for the weather. The Masai Mara experiences a moderate climate year round and temperatures range from 17°C (62°F) in July and August to 25°C (77°F) in December and January. It can get quite chilly at night, so it is important to bring a warm layer, like a wool sweater or jacket.

Below is a list of items you’ll need to pack for your Masai Mara safari:

Lightweight and breathable clothes – The temperatures can vary greatly, so make sure to pack clothes that you can layer according to the weather.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses – Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses and a high SPF sunscreen.
Hat – A wide brimmed hat is ideal to protect your face and neck from the sun while out on game drives.
Insect repellents – Mosquito and insect bites can be common in Masai Mara, so make sure to have adequate repellants.
Walking shoes – Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as you may need them for some of the hikes available at Masai Mara.
Binoculars – Bring a pair of binoculars so that you can get an up close view of the wildlife.
Camera – Pack a quality camera so that you can capture all the amazing views and moments during your safari.
Flashlight – A flashlight can also come in handy for those night game drives when you want to spot some nocturnal animals.
Warm cloth and jacket – This will come in handy for the early morning game drives in the Masai Mara when temperatures can get chilly.
Water Bottle – Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle as it will be important to stay hydrated while out on game drives.

FAQs About Weather Masai Mara

The next section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Masai Mara weather.

1. Which is the best month to visit Masai Mara?

The best month to visit Masai Mara depends on what you are looking for in your safari. For those wanting to see the wildebeest migration then June- August is the ideal period. For those who want to avoid crowds, April – May and September – October are good times to visit as there will be fewer people around.

2. What is the climate like in Masai Mara?

The climate in Masai Mara is tropical and experiences two rainy seasons from April to June (the long rains) and November to December (the short rains). During the dry season, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) during the day and drop to 12°C (54°F) at night. During the rainy season, temperatures remain hot but may reach up to 32°C (89°F) during the day.

3. How cold does it get in the Masai Mara?

Masai Mara experiences temperatures of around 22°C (71°F). During the dry season, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) during the day and drop to 12°C (54°F) at night. During the rainy season, temperatures remain hot but may rise as high as 32°C (89°F) during the day.

4. Does it rain in Masai Mara?

Yes, it does rain in Masai Mara. The rainy season runs from April to June (the long rains) and November to December (the short rains). During this time, temperatures remain hot but may reach up to 32°C (89°F) during the day. This is a great time for visitors wanting to explore the wildebeest migration as well as other wildlife that is present during the rainy season.

5. How many mm of rain are expected in Kenya in October and in November?

In October, Masai Mara typically receives around 19 mm of rain and in November it receives as much as 27 mm. The wettest month in Masai Mara is usually April, with a higher probability of getting the rains in the afternoon. The temperature usually decreases with the increase in the rain.

6. What is the chance of spotting wildlife in both the dry and wet season?

The chance of spotting wildlife in the Masai Mara is always high, regardless of the season. The dry season (June – October) is a great time to visit the reserve as there are plenty of grazing animals and predators to observe. During the wet season, many areas of the reserve flood which can bring with it unique opportunities to see wildlife that you may not have seen during the dry season. This makes the wet season a great time for wildlife spotting!

7. Is Maasai Mara located at the Equator?

No, the Masai Mara is not located at the Equator. The Masai Mara is located in Southern Kenya, close to the equator but not directly on it. It is about 1° south of it. Its altitude makes it cooler, you would think that the climate is hot around the regions between the dry spell of January to February.

8. What precautions should be taken when visiting Masai Mara?

When traveling to the Masai Mara, there are a few precautionary steps that you should take. Make sure to be aware of the wildlife and take necessary safety precautions. It is recommended to always stay with a guide in order to ensure your safari experience is safe and enjoyable.

9. Where is Masai Mara located?

Masai Mara is located in Southwestern Kenya, between Lake Victoria to the West and Nairobi to the East. It borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to the south. The Masai Mara National Reserve covers an area of approximately 1,510 square kilometers (580 sq mi).