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
Queen Elizabeth National Park vs Masai Mara National Reserve
Two of East Africa's most sought-after safari destinations — but which is right for you? Here's how Queen Elizabeth National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve compare on wildlife, season, climate and price.
At a glance
FeatureQueen Elizabeth National ParkMasai Mara National Reserve
Country
Uganda
Kenya
Region
—
South-west Kenya, Riftvalley
Best time to visit
<p>Queen Elizabeth National Park can be visited throughout the year. The best wildlife viewing occurs during the dry sea…
The Masai Mara is a year-round safari destination, with each season offering a distinct experience. The most popular tim…
Climate
<p>Queen Elizabeth National Park enjoys a warm tropical climate with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year.…
The Masai Mara enjoys a mild, temperate climate throughout the year due to its altitude, with daytime temperatures typic…
Terrain
—
Savannah Grasslands, Semi-Arid Scrubland, Riverine Forest, Dense Bushland, Mixed Terrain
Area size
—
—
Elevation
—
—
Safaris from
On request
$974
Available safaris
0 trips
12 trips
Wildlife species
17
9
Lodges & camps
2
2
Wildlife
Key species at each destination. Gold = found at both.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
About Queen Elizabeth National Park
Discover Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most popular safari destination and one of Africa's most biodiverse wildlife reserves. Located in western Uganda between Lake George and Lake Edward, the park is renowned for its famous tree-climbing lions, spectacular Kazinga Channel boat safaris, vast savannah plains, volcanic crater lakes, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can encounter elephants, buffaloes, hippos, leopards, chimpanzees, and over 600 bird species while exploring breathtaking landscapes that make Queen Elizabeth National Park a must-visit destination for unforgettable Uganda safari adventures.
Explore Queen Elizabeth National ParkAbout 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
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
The verdict
Both Queen Elizabeth National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve are world-class. Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is known for its exceptional wildlife, while Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya stands out for its big five game viewing.
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 Queen Elizabeth National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve better for a safari?+
Both are excellent. Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is known for exceptional wildlife, while Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya stands out for big five game viewing. The right choice depends on your interests, season and budget — and many travellers combine both.
When is the best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?+
<p>Queen Elizabeth National Park can be visited throughout the year. The best wildlife viewing occurs during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February when animals are easier to locate and road conditions are excellent. Birdwatchers may prefer the wetter months when migratory spec…
Can I combine Queen Elizabeth National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve in one trip?+
Yes. Imara Africa Safaris can build a combined itinerary featuring both Queen Elizabeth National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve, handling all transfers, lodges and logistics so you experience the best of each in a single seamless safari.