Yes, November can be a surprisingly rewarding month for a Masai Mara safari, especially for travelers seeking a quieter, budget-friendly experience with exceptional birdwatching opportunities and diverse wildlife sightings.
According to our Safari Experience Score, November earns a solid 7 out of 10, reflecting its status as an underrated safari month that offers both advantages and challenges. While it’s not the prime season for the Great Migration or the dry season’s big-game concentrations, November’s lush landscapes, dramatic skies, and vibrant birdlife create a safari atmosphere that many seasoned travelers appreciate. If you’re open to the unpredictability of the short rains and eager to explore the Masai Mara without the peak-season crowds—or peak-season prices—November might just be the perfect time for you.
1. November Weather in Masai Mara: The Green Season Begins
November marks the onset of the short rainy season in the Masai Mara, characterized by brief, intense showers often followed by clear skies.
- Rainfall: The short rains are typically sporadic and localized, with showers mainly occurring in the late afternoons or evenings. Mornings often remain clear, providing excellent conditions for game drives.
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F), while mornings and evenings are comfortably cool, averaging 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F).
- Landscape: The rains rejuvenate the landscape, transforming the Mara into a lush, green paradise with dramatic cloud formations—a dream for photographers.
- Road Conditions: Some areas can become muddy and challenging to access, especially in black cotton soil regions. A 4×4 safari vehicle is essential.
Expert Tip: “While November brings rain, it’s rarely an all-day affair. We had clear, sunny mornings on most days, with the occasional afternoon drizzle adding to the scenery.”
2. Wildlife Viewing in November: Resident Game and Predator Action
Although the Great Migration herds have largely returned to the Serengeti by November, the Masai Mara remains teeming with wildlife.
- Resident Wildlife: The Mara’s resident populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, rhinos, and hippos are present year-round. These animals do not migrate, making November a reliable month for sightings.
- Predator Activity: With fewer safari vehicles around, predators tend to be more relaxed. Big cats, especially lions and cheetahs, remain highly active, taking advantage of the abundance of newborn prey during the impala and gazelle birthing season.
- Birdwatching Paradise: November is the start of the migratory bird season, making it one of the best months for birdwatching. Over 500 bird species, including European rollers, Amur falcons, and vibrant bee-eaters, can be spotted. The wetlands also attract a variety of waterfowl.
Forum Insight: “November exceeded my expectations. The birdlife was phenomenal, and we saw lions almost daily. The green backdrop made for stunning photos.”
3. Park Fees and Safari Costs: A Budget Traveler’s Dream
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Masai Mara in November is the significant drop in costs compared to the peak season (July–October).
- Park Entry Fees:
- Non-residents: $100 per day (half the $200 charged during peak season).
- Kenyan citizens: KES 1,500 per day (versus KES 3,000 in peak months).
- Accommodation Rates: Many camps and lodges offer off-peak discounts of up to 30–50%. Luxury camps become more affordable, and you’ll find excellent deals even at premium lodges.
- Fewer Crowds: November is part of the low tourist season, meaning you’ll enjoy more exclusive game drives with fewer vehicles at sightings—perfect for photographers and those seeking a more intimate safari experience.
Traveler Review: “November was great for our budget. We stayed in a high-end camp for a fraction of the usual price, and we often had wildlife sightings all to ourselves.”
4. Pros and Cons of Visiting Masai Mara in November
✅ Pros:
- Lower Safari Costs: Discounted park fees and accommodation rates make it budget-friendly.
- Incredible Birdwatching: Peak season for migratory birds with vibrant species.
- Lush Green Landscapes: Stunning scenery perfect for photography.
- Fewer Tourists: Enjoy peaceful game drives without the peak-season crowds.
- Active Predator Sightings: Big cats remain highly active with abundant prey.
⚠️ Cons:
- Unpredictable Weather: Occasional heavy rains can disrupt game drives.
- Muddy Roads: Some areas may be difficult to access without a 4×4 vehicle.
- No Great Migration Crossings: The dramatic river crossings are over by November.
5. How November Compares to Other Months
- Versus October (9/10): October offers better chances of catching the tail end of the Great Migration and drier conditions. November compensates with lush scenery and budget-friendly prices.
- Versus December (7/10): December is greener and drier towards the holidays, attracting more tourists. November offers a quieter experience with similar wildlife sightings.
- Versus April & May (5/10): Unlike the long rainy season in April and May, November’s rains are short and less disruptive, making it a better choice for game viewing.
- Versus July–September (10/10): While the migration spectacle is unmatched, November offers solitude, savings, and superb birding, appealing to those seeking a different kind of safari charm.
Final Verdict: Is November Worth It?
Absolutely—especially if you’re looking for a peaceful, affordable, and bird-rich safari experience. While it doesn’t offer the dramatic river crossings of peak migration season, November’s vibrant landscapes, active predators, and off-peak pricing make it a hidden gem for savvy travelers. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, photographer, or simply seeking an authentic safari without the crowds, November is a month that delivers. With a 7 out of 10 Safari Experience Score from MasaiMara.ke, November proves that sometimes the best safaris happen when you least expect them.