Experience the Spectacle of the Great Migration in Masai Mara!
Imagine standing on the edge of the Mara River, watching in awe as thousands of wildebeests and zebras plunge into the water, braving strong currents and lurking crocodiles in their desperate bid for survival. Witness this world-renowned wildlife drama unfold on our exclusive Masai Mara Great Migration Safari Package – a carefully curated adventure that brings you up close to nature’s most thrilling event.
Overview
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights (Optional 4th & 5th Day Extension)
- Starting Point: Nairobi
- Accommodation:
- Budget Option: Kambu Mara Camp (Affordable, chef-prepared meals)
- Mid-Range Option: Mara Serena Lodge / Basecamp Explorer
- Luxury Option: Angama Mara / Mahali Mzuri
- Transport:
- Day 1: Option to transfer from Nairobi using either Toyota Noah or Land Cruiser Closed-body vehicle. 2WD Toyota Noah is the budget option and 4WD Land Cruiser for all packages above mid-range.
- Day 2 & 3: 4WD Land Cruiser (pop-up roof, modified for game drives) for a full-day safari focused on Great Migration crossings.
- Day 4 & 5 (if extended): Deeper exploration of the Mara Triangle & Conservancies using a custom 4WD Land Cruiser.
Key Activities:
✔ Full-day game drives focused on migration crossings at the Mara River.
✔ Real-time tracking of migration herds with a professional Migration Expert Guide.
✔ Visit key crossing points along the Mara River.
✔ Optional hot air balloon safari for an aerial view of the migration.
✔ Optional Maasai village visit for cultural insights.
✔ Sunrise & sunset game drives to witness predator activity.
✔ Campfire experiences & stargazing in the African wilderness.
Crossing Points Covered:
- Paradise Crossing (Mara River #1) – One of the busiest and most dramatic crossings.
- Lookout Crossing (Mara River #2) – Known for its steep banks and predator activity.
- Cul de Sac Crossing (Mara River #3) – A high-risk point with deep waters and strong currents.
- Kichwa Tembo Crossing – A less chaotic yet strategic migration passage.
- Rekero Crossing – A narrow, slippery crossing where large groups get bottlenecked.
- Musiara Swamp Route & Crossing – A vital migration path near prime lion territories.
Optional Extended Exploration (Day 4 & 5):
✔ Mara Triangle’s Hidden Crossings – Lesser-known spots where smaller herds attempt crossings.
✔ Conservancy Exploration – Wildlife tracking in Mara North and Olare Motorogi Conservancies.
✔ Predator Tracking Safaris – Focus on lion prides, leopards, and cheetah movements near crossing points.
✔ Crocodile & Hippo Viewing – Observe massive Nile crocodiles and hippos along the Mara River bends.
Safari Highlights:
✅ Witness the Great Migration river crossings (seasonal timing applies).
✅ Unlimited game drives in a 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof.
✅ Professional Migration Herd Tracker Guide for real-time updates.
✅ Stay at handpicked budget, mid-range, or luxury lodges/camps.
✅ Experience the Big Five and over 450 bird species.
✅ Optional hot air balloon safari for an aerial view of the migration.
✅ Cultural visit to a Maasai village (optional add-on).
Why We Designed This Great Migration Safari Package
Most wildlife safaris in Masai Mara offer exceptional game drives across the vast reserve, successfully spotting lions, elephants, and even cheetahs. However, witnessing the Great Migration river crossings is an entirely different challenge—it requires expertise in tracking, precise timing, and an in-depth understanding of herd movement patterns. Unlike general safaris where wildlife is scattered across the plains, migration herds move unpredictably, often hesitating at riverbanks for hours before making the dangerous plunge. Crossings are never guaranteed, and without meticulous planning, guests can spend days in the Mara without ever witnessing one.
That’s why we designed this special Great Migration package with real-time tracking, coordinated scouting, and expert navigation, ensuring you have the best possible chance of seeing the crossings firsthand. Our lead guide, Alan Simintei, a migration tracking specialist, has spent years developing his own custom routes to target key crossing points at the right time—whether it’s early in the season when herds attempt Sand River crossings, or at the peak migration period when thousands of wildebeest brave the waters at Paradise, Lookout, and Cul de Sac crossings on the Mara River.
A crucial part of witnessing a migration crossing is real-time coordination with expert scouts stationed at different river points. Our guides utilize UHF radios to communicate directly with fellow trackers, safari rangers, and spotters positioned at crossing zones. When a herd gathers at a riverbank, hesitation can last anywhere from minutes to several hours, and our team stays ahead by constantly monitoring movements, ensuring you’re positioned at the right place when the moment arrives.
What we’ve found with getting guests to truly experience an exciting crossing is that it’s not just about rushing to the river—it’s about reading herd behavior, understanding pressure points, and knowing which crossings are active based on water levels and predator presence. Wildebeests are incredibly cautious animals, and sometimes a single lion on the opposite bank can delay a crossing for hours. Our expertise in tracking predator movement and anticipating herd decisions gives you the best chance of being in the right place at the right time.
We designed this package with patience, precision, and strategic scouting at its core. Unlike generic safaris that offer “Great Migration” in name but rely on luck to witness crossings, our approach is based on real-time migration intelligence, expert guide instincts, and efficient communication. If you’re looking for the most immersive, expertly led migration safari that maximizes your chance of seeing an actual river crossing, this is it.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Masai Mara (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)
- Day 1: Arrival & Introduction to the Great Migration
- Depart from Nairobi in the morning and drive through the scenic Great Rift Valley.
- Arrive in Masai Mara National Reserve by early afternoon and check in at your lodge or camp.
- After lunch, embark on a game drive in the Talek River region, where herds are often seen gathering before making their daring river crossings.
- Spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, and hyenas as the golden hour sets in.
- Return to the camp for dinner and a safari briefing on the next day’s migration tracking.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive – Great Migration Experience
- Start the drive towards Mara River Crossing Point #1, also known as Paradise Crossing, located near the Serena side of the Mara River. This area is one of the most active crossing sites, where herds gather in hesitation before taking the leap. Large Nile crocodiles and opportunistic big cats like lions and leopards are often spotted waiting near the crossing zone.
- After observing Paradise Crossing, drive along the Main Crossing Route, a well-known path that follows the river’s bends and leads toward the second major crossing point.
- Arrive at Mara River Crossing Point #2, commonly known as Lookout Crossing, near the Lookout Hill region. This crossing is often chaotic, as the herds face steep embankments and strong currents. Watch as exhausted wildebeests scramble up the banks while predators lurk nearby.
- Break for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the migration paths, allowing for incredible panoramic photography opportunities.
- In the afternoon, head west along the Oloololo Escarpment Route, which leads to the Mara Triangle side of the river. Arrive at Mara River Crossing Point #3, known as Cul de Sac Crossing, where herds frequently hesitate due to deep waters and strong currents. This location is surrounded by dense acacia woodlands, creating an excellent hunting ground for predators.
- Spend the late afternoon following straggling herds, tracking their movement patterns along the riverbanks, and spotting large concentrations of hippos and crocodiles in the river.
- As the sun sets, return to camp for dinner, a fireside migration discussion, and preparation for the next day’s adventure.
Day 3: Sunrise Game Drive at Mara River – Extended Exploration or Departure
Option 1: Return to Nairobi
- Begin with an early morning game drive along the Mara River, focusing on final migration movements at Paradise Crossing and Lookout Crossing.
- Witness the morning predator activity, as lions and hyenas take advantage of weakened stragglers.
- Return to camp for breakfast before checking out.
- Depart for Nairobi via the Narok route, with an en-route stop for lunch. Arrive in the city by late afternoon.
Option 2: Full-Day Extended Game Drive – More Crossings & Deeper Exploration
- After an early breakfast, set out for an entire day of tracking herds at Mara River’s deeper crossing points.
- Revisit Cul de Sac Crossing, as morning crossings often occur here when fresh herds arrive from the Serengeti.
- Drive along the Musiara Swamp Route, leading towards Rekero Crossing, a lesser-known but highly dramatic crossing point where wildebeests must navigate slippery banks.
- Spend the midday hours exploring Mara North Conservancy, where smaller migration groups break away from the main herds, offering excellent predator tracking opportunities.
- Enjoy a second picnic lunch at a shaded spot along the riverbanks, while observing the chaos of the migration.
- In the late afternoon, return to the Mara Triangle region for a final stop at Kichwa Tembo Crossing, a scenic location where herds take one last attempt at crossing before heading into the vast plains.
- Return to camp for dinner and an optional night game drive, offering a chance to see nocturnal predators like leopards and hyenas hunting near the river.
Day 4: Exclusive Game Drive at Mara Triangle & Kichwa Tembo Crossing
- Wake up early for a morning game drive in the Mara Triangle, the western part of Masai Mara known for its dramatic landscapes and high predator density.
- Focus on Kichwa Tembo Crossing, a migration hotspot where herds attempt to cross despite the steep riverbanks.
- Continue towards Crocodile Jaw Crossing, an area notorious for massive Nile crocodiles waiting to ambush their prey.
- Enjoy lunch at Oloololo Escarpment, offering panoramic views of the Mara plains.
- In the afternoon, explore the Mara River bends near Serena Crossing, a key point where wildlife congestion leads to chaotic stampedes.
- Return to camp for dinner and an optional night game drive to track nocturnal predators.
Day 5: Lesser-Known Crossings & Final Safari Moments
- Visit Olakira Crossing, a hidden gem where smaller herds break away from the main migration route.
- Track large lion prides along the riverbanks, often found near these crossings.
- Move towards Rekero Crossing, another thrilling migration route known for sudden mass crossings triggered by the presence of predators.
- Picnic breakfast in the wild, followed by a final exploration of the Sand River region to capture last-minute sightings.
- Return to the lodge for an early lunch before departing for Nairobi.
Tour Pricing
| Package Type | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option | Luxury Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per Person (2-3 pax) | $750 | $1,050 | $1,750 |
| Per Person (4-6 pax) | $600 | $900 | $1,600 |
| Solo Traveler | $1,200 | $1,500 | $2,200 |
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included:
✔ Transport in a 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof.
✔ Accommodation based on your chosen package.
✔ Meals as per the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
✔ Unlimited game drives guided by a Migration Tracker Expert.
✔ Park entrance fees to Masai Mara National Reserve.
✔ Bottled water during safari.
✔ Government taxes and levies.
Excluded:
✖ International/domestic flights.
✖ Visa fees and personal travel insurance.
✖ Optional activities (hot air balloon safari, Maasai village visit).
✖ Drinks, tips, and personal expenses.
Where to Stay:
For the best migration experience, stay near Mara River crossings to maximize sightings. Entim Mara Camp and Mara Serena Safari Lodge offer prime locations for Paradise and Cul de Sac Crossings, while Angama Mara and Mahali Mzuri provide exclusive luxury stays near Oloololo Escarpment and Mara Triangle. Budget travelers can opt for Kambu Mara Camp (Sekenani Gate) or Oldarpoi Mara Camp, both with good access to crossing hotspots. For big cat action, Governor’s Camp near Musiara Swamp is ideal. Staying inside the reserve or at a bordering conservancy ensures quick access to key crossings, making your migration safari unforgettable.
Your specific great migratio safari package will be quoted depending on the accommodation option you choose:
| Crossing Point | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option | Luxury Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Crossing (#1) | Kambu Mara Camp (Affordable, near Sekenani Gate) | Mara Serena Safari Lodge (Overlooks Mara River) | Angama Mara (Exclusive, panoramic views) |
| Lookout Crossing (#2) | Crocodile Camp (Basic Tented Camp) | Mara Bush Camp (Near Lookout Hill) | Sand River Camp (Secluded luxury near crossings) |
| Cul de Sac Crossing (#3) | Oldarpoi Mara Camp (Community-run budget camp) | Entim Mara Camp (Prime location on Mara River) | Mahali Mzuri (Sir Richard Branson’s ultra-luxury camp) |
| Kichwa Tembo Crossing | Talek Bush Camp (Budget camp near Talek River) | Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp (Scenic & wildlife-rich area) | Bateleur Camp (High-end tented safari experience) |
| Rekero Crossing | Aruba Mara Camp (Affordable safari tents) | Rekero Camp (Authentic migration-viewing camp) | Sala’s Camp (Luxury tented camp near the Sand River) |
| Musiara Swamp Crossing | Rhino Tourist Camp (Basic budget accommodation) | Governor’s Camp (Premium migration-front lodge) | Il Moran Camp (Intimate, high-end Governor’s collection) |
Key Notes:
- Paradise Crossing & Lookout Crossing are among the busiest migration crossings, so mid-range and luxury camps near these spots get fully booked months in advance.
- Rekero & Kichwa Tembo Crossings offer fewer crowds but high predator density, making them ideal for extended stays.
- Musiara Swamp & Cul de Sac Crossings are excellent for predator action, especially lions, leopards, and crocs hunting migrating herds.
Book Your Masai Mara Great Migration Safari Today!
This is your chance to witness the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle up close! Secure your spot today by contacting us for availability, custom requests, and detailed pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Masai Mara Great Migration Safari
1. When is the best time to see the Great Migration in Masai Mara?
The best time to witness the Great Migration in Masai Mara is between July and October, when over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross from the Serengeti into Masai Mara. The peak river crossings, particularly at Paradise Crossing, Lookout Crossing, and Cul de Sac Crossing, typically occur in August and September but can vary depending on rainfall patterns.
2. How long does a Great Migration Safari take?
A 3-day safari is the minimum recommended duration, allowing you to experience multiple game drives near the Mara River crossings. However, for a more immersive experience, a 4-day or 5-day itinerary is highly recommended, as it allows time to explore less crowded areas of the Mara Triangle and conservancies where predators closely follow the herds.
3. Is it guaranteed that I will see a river crossing?
While we maximize your chances by tracking migration patterns in real-time, witnessing a river crossing is never 100% guaranteed since wildebeests may hesitate for hours before making the plunge. However, visiting multiple crossing points (Paradise, Lookout, Cul de Sac, and Rekero) significantly increases your odds of witnessing this dramatic event.
4. What is the best way to track the migration while on safari?
Our safari includes a Migration Tracker Guide who stays updated with real-time movement reports from rangers, fellow guides, and local conservancy networks. We also use radio communication between safari drivers to ensure you’re in the best possible location at the right time.
5. What types of safari vehicles are used for the Great Migration safari?
We use 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs, modified for off-road driving and wildlife viewing. Unlike safari vans, these vehicles can handle the rugged Mara terrain and reach remote crossing points without difficulty.
6. Are game drives limited to specific times during the migration?
No! Unlike some national parks that have restricted game drive hours, Masai Mara allows full-day game drives, which means we can spend as much time as needed at crossing points, waiting for the herds to move. Morning and afternoon drives offer different wildlife experiences, including predator interactions.
7. What kind of predators can I expect to see near the crossings?
The riverbanks are hunting grounds for large Nile crocodiles, while the surrounding plains host lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards. The Musiara Marsh area is known for its lion population, and leopards are often spotted along the riverine forests near crossings like Rekero and Kichwa Tembo.
8. Can I do a hot air balloon safari during the Great Migration?
Yes! Hot air balloon safaris offer a breathtaking aerial view of the migration and river crossings at sunrise. They take off from areas near Talek River and Mara River, providing an unforgettable perspective of thousands of animals moving across the plains.
9. How do I choose the best accommodation for a migration safari?
Accommodation depends on budget and proximity to migration hotspots:
- Budget Option: Kambu Mara Camp (Close to Sekenani Gate, great for affordable safaris).
- Mid-Range Option: Mara Serena Lodge (Overlooks the Mara River).
- Luxury Option: Angama Mara (Panoramic views over the Mara Triangle, perfect for exclusivity).
10. Is the Great Migration the same every year?
No, migration patterns are influenced by rainfall, grass availability, and river water levels, so no two migrations are identical. The exact timing and intensity of crossings vary each year, which is why we track movements daily during peak season.
11. Can I visit both Masai Mara and Serengeti for the migration?
Yes, but it requires a multi-country itinerary since the Serengeti is in Tanzania. The best option is a Kenya-Tanzania combined safari, where you follow the migration from the Serengeti (June-July) into Masai Mara (August-October). Flights between the two parks are available.
12. What should I pack for a Great Migration Safari?
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a good pair of binoculars, a zoom camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and warm layers for early morning game drives, as the Mara can be chilly at dawn.
13. Is the Masai Mara Great Migration Safari suitable for families?
Yes! While kids under 5 may find long game drives challenging, many camps offer family-friendly accommodations and shorter, private game drives. Some lodges also provide educational programs for young safari-goers.
14. How do I book a Masai Mara Great Migration Safari?
You can book in advance by contacting us for availability, custom requests, and pricing. Migration safaris sell out fast, especially during August and September, so early booking is highly recommended!
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience – Book now!