August is the ultimate month to visit Masai Mara, offering spectacular wildlife sightings, peak Great Migration action, and excellent safari weather. If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing thousands of wildebeest thundering across crocodile-infested rivers while lions and cheetahs stalk their prey, then August is the perfect time to go.
In this expert guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Why August is the best month to visit Masai Mara
✅ What wildlife you can expect to see
✅ Weather conditions and packing tips
✅ Best safari lodges for an August trip
✅ Insider tips for avoiding crowds and getting the best safari experience
1. Why Visit Masai Mara in August?
August is the peak of the Great Migration—one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth. This is when over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles move from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya’s Masai Mara, in search of fresh grazing lands.
Key Reasons to Visit in August:
✔ The Great Migration at its Peak – River crossings at the Mara River offer breathtaking drama.
✔ Abundant Predator Sightings – Lions, cheetahs, and leopards are highly active, hunting the migrating herds.
✔ Mild & Dry Weather – Ideal safari conditions with sunny days and cool mornings.
✔ Perfect Photography Conditions – Golden grasslands, clear blue skies, and high wildlife density.
✔ Thriving Birdlife – Resident and migratory bird species add to the diversity.
📌 Personal Note: On my August safari in Masai Mara, I witnessed a wildebeest calf being born and, within minutes, it was running with the herd—a true testament to nature’s resilience!
2. Wildlife Sightings in August
August is one of the best months for seeing the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) along with the Great Migration herds.
1. The Great Migration (Wildebeest, Zebras, Gazelles)
- Over 1.5 million wildebeest flood the Mara’s golden plains.
- River crossings at the Mara River & Talek River are a highlight.
- Dramatic predator-prey interactions—expect thrilling chases!
2. Big Cats (Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs)
- Masai Mara has one of the highest lion densities in Africa (~850 lions).
- Cheetahs are highly active, hunting in open plains.
- Leopards are often spotted along the Mara River or in forested areas.
3. Elephants & Other Large Mammals
- Large elephant herds roam freely across the savannah.
- Buffalos, giraffes, and hippos are commonly seen near rivers.
4. Crocodiles & Hippos at the Mara River
- Massive Nile crocodiles lurk in the river, ambushing migrating wildebeest.
- Pods of hippos can be seen wallowing in the shallows.
📌 Pro Tip: To maximize your wildlife sightings, start your game drives early in the morning (6 AM) when animals are most active.
3. Weather Conditions in August
| Weather Factor | Masai Mara in August |
|---|---|
| Temperature (Daytime) | 20°C – 27°C (68°F – 81°F) |
| Temperature (Nighttime) | 10°C – 15°C (50°F – 59°F) |
| Rainfall | Very low |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Sunshine Hours | 10-12 hours per day |
August is part of the dry season, making it an excellent time for game drives. With minimal rain and cooler temperatures, you won’t have to deal with muddy roads or heavy humidity.
📌 Packing Tips for August:
✔ Light clothing for daytime (shorts, T-shirts, safari shirts).
✔ Warm layers for mornings & nights (fleece jacket, scarf, gloves).
✔ Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
✔ Comfortable walking shoes for bush walks.
4. Best Safari Lodges & Camps for an August Visit
Since August is peak safari season, it’s best to book your accommodation 6-12 months in advance.
| Lodge / Camp | Why Stay Here? | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Angama Mara | Luxury lodge with breathtaking Mara River views | $$$$ |
| Governors’ Camp | Prime location near the Mara River crossings | $$$ |
| Mara Serena Safari Lodge | Perfect for Big Five sightings | $$$ |
| Sanctuary Olonana | Exclusive lodge with private game drives | $$$$ |
| Entim Camp | Located right near the Great Migration crossings | $$$ |
| Rekero Camp | Classic tented safari experience | $$$ |
| Mara Bush Camp | Affordable but with excellent wildlife access | $$ |
📌 Pro Tip: Private conservancies like Mara North and Olare Motorogi offer less crowded game drives compared to the main reserve.
5. Best Places in Masai Mara to Visit in August
While the entire Masai Mara is incredible in August, some locations offer exceptional wildlife viewing.
1. The Mara River – Best for River Crossings
- Witness wildebeest crossing the river while crocodiles lurk beneath.
- Large hippo pods are commonly found here.
2. Olare Motorogi Conservancy – Best for Predator Sightings
- Home to some of the largest lion prides in Masai Mara.
- Fewer tourists, allowing a more intimate safari experience.
3. Naboisho Conservancy – Best for Walking Safaris
- Experience a guided walking safari with Maasai warriors.
- Great for spotting leopards and smaller nocturnal animals.
4. Musiara Marsh – Best for Big Cats
- The famous Marsh Pride of lions lives here.
- Featured in the BBC documentary Big Cat Diary.
📌 Pro Tip: To increase your chances of seeing a river crossing, ask your guide to monitor herd movements using radio updates from other rangers.
6. Insider Tips for Visiting Masai Mara in August
1️⃣ Book Early – August is peak season, and lodges sell out fast. Secure your safari at least 6-12 months in advance.
2️⃣ Start Game Drives Early – Wildlife is most active in the early morning (6 AM – 9 AM), so head out before sunrise.
3️⃣ Pack for Cool Mornings – It can be chilly on sunrise safaris, so bring a light jacket and scarf.
4️⃣ Use an Experienced Safari Guide – Guides who track animal movements can help position you at the right place for a river crossing.
5️⃣ Consider a Hot Air Balloon Safari – August is one of the best months for a hot air balloon safari over Masai Mara. The clear skies and vast herds below make it an unforgettable experience.
📌 Personal Note: The hot air balloon safari at sunrise was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. Seeing thousands of wildebeest below while floating silently in the sky is something I will never forget.
Final Verdict: Is August the Best Time to Visit Masai Mara?
✅ Best for Great Migration river crossings
✅ Excellent predator sightings (lions, cheetahs, leopards)
✅ Ideal safari weather with little rain
✅ High wildlife density = action-packed game drives
✅ Spectacular landscapes and photography conditions
If you want the ultimate Masai Mara safari experience, August is the BEST month to visit. From the thrilling river crossings to the high predator activity, it’s an adventure you will never forget.