Safari Masai Mara National Reserve
From$974/person
ultra luxury
3-Day Maasai Mara Safari Ultra-luxury
3D / 2NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Safari comparison
Masai Mara National Reserve vs Samburu National Reserve
Two of East Africa's most sought-after safari destinations — but which is right for you? Here's how Masai Mara National Reserve and Samburu National Reserve compare on wildlife, season, climate and price.
At a glance
FeatureMasai Mara National ReserveSamburu National Reserve
Country
Kenya
Kenya
Region
South-west Kenya, Riftvalley
Northern Kenya
Best time to visit
The Masai Mara is a year-round safari destination, with each season offering a distinct experience. The most popular tim…
<p>Samburu <a href="/kenya/shimba-hills-national-reserve">National Reserve</a> is a year-round safari destination. The d…
Climate
The Masai Mara enjoys a mild, temperate climate throughout the year due to its altitude, with daytime temperatures typic…
<p>Samburu National Reserve experiences a warm semi-arid climate with sunny weather throughout most of the year. The res…
Terrain
Savannah Grasslands, Semi-Arid Scrubland, Riverine Forest, Dense Bushland, Mixed Terrain
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Area size
—
—
Elevation
—
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Safaris from
$974
$2,675
Available safaris
12 trips
2 trips
Wildlife species
9
1
Lodges & camps
2
4
Wildlife
Key species at each destination. Gold = found at both.
Masai Mara National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve
About Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara National Reserve in southwestern Kenya is a premier 1,510-square-kilometre wildlife sanctuary. Renowned for the annual Great Wildebeest Migration from July to October, it offers exceptional year-round Big Five viewing across open savannahs. The reserve is contiguous with Tanzania's Serengeti, forming a critical, biodiverse transboundary ecosystem.
- Big Five game viewing
- Great Migration
- Night game drives
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Predator sightings
- Family-friendly
About Samburu National Reserve
A true wilderness gem, Samburu offers unique wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes in Kenya's northern frontier.
- Predator sightings
- Birdwatching paradise
- Photography opportunities
Safaris in Masai Mara National Reserve
Safari
Safari Nairobi City
From$1,085/person
mid range
4-Day Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Safari
4D / 3NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Featured
Safari Masai Mara National Reserve
From$1,105/person
mid range
5-Day Midrange Kenya Safari
5D / 4NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Safaris in Samburu National Reserve
Featured
Safari Masai Mara National Reserve
From$2,675/person
mid range
10-Day Midrange Kenya Safari by Road
10D / 9NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Featured
Luxury Masai Mara National Reserve
From$6,113/person
luxury
10-Day Luxury Kenya Safari with Flights
10D / 9NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
The verdict
Both Masai Mara National Reserve and Samburu National Reserve are world-class. Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is known for its big five game viewing, while Samburu National Reserve in Kenya stands out for its predator sightings.
Can't decide? Many travellers visit both on one multi-destination itinerary — we'll craft the perfect safari that includes the best of each.
Frequently asked
Is Masai Mara National Reserve or Samburu National Reserve better for a safari?+
Both are excellent. Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is known for big five game viewing, while Samburu National Reserve in Kenya stands out for predator sightings. The right choice depends on your interests, season and budget — and many travellers combine both.
When is the best time to visit Masai Mara National Reserve?+
The Masai Mara is a year-round safari destination, with each season offering a distinct experience. The most popular time to visit is from July to October, during the Great Migration, when large herds of wildebeest and zebras move into the reserve from the Serengeti, attracting predators and creatin…
Can I combine Masai Mara National Reserve and Samburu National Reserve in one trip?+
Yes. Imara Africa Safaris can build a combined itinerary featuring both Masai Mara National Reserve and Samburu National Reserve, handling all transfers, lodges and logistics so you experience the best of each in a single seamless safari.