Boutique Hotels: Future Trends & The Airbnb Competition
Masai Mara and Serengeti
Beyond the Great Migration
June 13th 2025 | 4 minute Read
Located in East Africa, Masai Mara and Serengeti are legendary national reserves known for the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of the world’s wonders and truly an incredible wildlife spectacle. These connected ecosystems offer a great mix of wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and cultural depth year-round. From elusive big cats to sweeping savannahs and luxury lodges, this is where untamed wilderness meets refined adventure. Beyond the migration, you get to discover the magic that makes this region unforgettable.
Two Parks, One Epic Experience
Just like a blended family, think of the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem as a seamless whole that defies borders. Vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and eland migrate year-round in search of greener pastures. These pastures, however, don’t always prove to be greener, as predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, and crocodiles lie in wait, turning the journey into a game of survival. This journey, covering over 500 km, is recognized as the largest overland mammal migration in the world. This spectacle is an absolute must for every wildlife enthusiasts bucket list.
Best time to witness this spectacle
January – March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti. Over 500,000 calves are born in weeks, attracting predators in a dramatic survival contest.
April – June: Herds move northwest through the central Serengeti and Grumeti area. This is an excellent time for fewer tourists and immersive game drives.
July – October: The migration reaches the Mara River. Here, dramatic crossings and predator action unfold daily in both the Serengeti and Masai Mara.
November – December: Herds begin their southward return to the Serengeti, often passing through central and eastern regions in groups.
Top Safari Experiences
From luxurious lodges to immersive outdoor adventures, both Serengeti and Masai Mara deliver exceptional safari activities:
Game Drives
With gently rolling hills and wide-open plains, this is an absolute African safari experience. Enjoy thrilling morning and afternoon drives or opt for full-day safaris with picnic lunches in the wild. Spot the famous “Big Five” and more in a natural theatre of predator-prey drama.
Hot-Air Balloon Safaris
Awake before dawn and embark on an eye-opening hot air balloon safari high above the mighty plains. It doesn’t end there, in most cases, this experience concludes with an unforgettable, hearty champagne breakfast in the bush to soak it all in.
Walking Safaris
Want to feel more connected to nature? Reconnect and follow in the footsteps of ancient explorers and local herdsmen on a guided walking safari that is both adventurous and informative. You get to listen to the crickets, breathe the fresh air, view the limitless horizon and appreciate the African soil on the soles of your shoes.
Maasai Cultural Visits
With grace and generosity, engage in a culturally immersive experience with the famed Maasai people. They welcome guests into their world and offer a rare, authentic look at everyday life, traditional ceremonies, and customs passed down through generations.
Where to Stay
What about when the sun goes down? From luxurious lodges to family-oriented tented camps and anything in between, there’s no shortage of accommodation options. Here are a few to consider:
Angama Safari Camp (Mara): A tented camp right in the path of the migration.
Elewana Sand River Camp (Mara): Newly revamped with riverfront suites.
&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas: Move with the herds for front-row viewing.
Best Times to Travel
The best time to visit really depends on what you want to see and experience. From June to October, you’ll catch the peak migration sightings, dry weather, and those thrilling river crossings, but keep in mind, this is also the busiest time, so booking early is key. November and December bring fewer tourists and the return migration, plus lush green landscapes. Between January and March, the southern Serengeti hosts calving season, offering incredible predator action. April and May mark the green season with fewer visitors, great rates, and a bird watcher’s paradise. Want to dive deeper into the best time to travel? Check out our full guide here.
Travel Tips
Visiting these wildlife havens takes some planning, secure visas, book park tickets, and choose the best airports. For a richer experience, plan your safari across both parks and book early to catch the peak migration. Pack smart with neutral layers, sun protection, insect repellent, and binoculars to transform your wildlife viewing. Stay healthy with malaria medications and vaccinations. It’s also a good idea to carry some cash for tipping, just in case.
