Wildvoyager
Kenya Migration Season Experience Masai Mara Migration Period

Kenya Migration Season Experience

Overview

Welcome to the safari of a lifetime, and immerse yourself in the Kenya migration season experience. Let the wild beauty of Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara capture your heart as we venture into the heart of Kenya's wilderness. Nature awaits, and the magic of the Masai Mara migration period, a key highlight of our adventure, is an experience you'll cherish forever.

From the sprawling plains of the Masai Mara to the shimmering waters of Lake Nakuru, each destination holds its magic, promising you an adventure beyond your wildest dreams.

The Great Kenya Migration Season is one of the most extraordinary experiences one should not miss. This event occurs every year in the Masai Mara region of Kenya, in which an estimated 2.5 million animals cross the Mara River in search of food and water. A unique spectacle to witness with your own eyes, this natural phenomenon is often referred to as one of the new seven wonders of the world and is the last one of its kind. The Great Migration Kenya 2024 dates are expected to fall between July and October.

This trip is worthwhile for naturists, wildlife lovers, and photographers to see nature in all its glory. Within the time frame of the Great Migration Kenya, you can also see the hunting spree of the local predators, such as the big cats and the crocodiles, that wait for prey in the Mara River. The migration offers an exclusive opportunity to witness raw African wildlife in full bloom. Watching the migration is only possible by booking a Masai Mara migration safari.



Trip Highlights

  • Watch the big cats—lions, leopards, and cheetahs—lurking around in the game reserve, searching for and hunting prey.
  • Witness the Great Migration of Kenya at Masai Mara—the magnificent sight of the crossing of the Mara River by hordes of animals.
  • Apart from the big cats, it is the epicentre for zebras, spotted hyenas, giraffes, elephants, and other species of fauna, including 400 species of birds.
  • Enjoy a traditional welcome and food served at the natural habitat, which includes breakfast by the Mara River as well as a bush lunch.
  • Optionally, visit a Masai village to learn about the culture and traditions of the land.
  • Experience boating at Lake Naivasha, and see hippos and many birds, including pelicans, cormorants, and African fish eagles.
  • Go on a full-day safari at Lake Nakuru, to see a black rhino, white rhino, Rothschild giraffe and many birds
  • Optionally, have a hot air balloon adventure for a truly unforgettable experience.




ITINERARY - 6 Days

Day 1

Reaching Nairobi and traveling to Naivasha

After you arrive at the Nairobi International Airport, our representative will pick you up, and then you will go on a two-hour drive straight to Lake Naivasha. On reaching Lake Naivasha, you will take an afternoon boat safari. The area is best to sight endemic African birds, such as African eagles, pelicans, etc. Giraffes, hippos, zebras, buffaloes, and other animals are relatively common in the area.

After the enlightening encounter, you will proceed towards Lake Elementaita, which is just a one-hour drive away. Upon arrival, you will check into the hotel and enjoy a lazy evening. Later, you will go to sleep, ensuring a refreshing start for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

Stay: Sentrim Lodge, Elementaita

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

About Lake Naivasha

A freshwater lake fringed by thick Papyrus in Kenya is a perfect destination that will make you gawk at its beauty. Lake Naivasha is a world-class birding destination that draws the attention of the residents of Nairobi to spend the weekends here to enjoy the African boat safari. A great range of game is drawn to these shores by the waters of the lake. Giraffes wander among the acacia, and the Lake's large hippo population sleeps all day in the shallows. Experience a guided walking safari on Crescent Island to observe pelicans and cormorants along the shore. You might get to see buffalo, zebra, giraffe, waterbuck, gazelle, and many others.

Day 2

Safari at Lake Nakuru

Your second day will begin early with a trip to Lake Nakuru for the morning safari. With packed breakfasts and lunches, you will spend the whole day in the wild. The prosperous flora and fauna of the area, including flamingos, white rhinos, giraffes, lions, hippos, and other animals, will surely enchant you.

In the evening, you will return to the hotel, where you will have dinner and spend the night.

Stay: Sentrim Lodge, Elementaita

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

About Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is a gem teeming with abundant flora and fauna. Situated at the foothills of the Great Rift Valley and surrounded by alkaline swamps and bushy grasslands, it is renowned for its topographical and ecological diversity. The soda lake, which supports much of the wildlife in this national park, is a sight for sore eyes. Gawk and be amazed at the ubiquitous Flamingos flaunting their pink beauty around the lake. The lakeshore is also the perfect place to lay your eyes upon the majestic Rothschild Giraffe and the White Rhino. A Lake Nakuru safari brings you close to a variety of beautiful animals and birds. African sunbirds, Pelicans, Kingfishers, Lions, Hippos, and pythons are just some of the many flora and fauna that you will be able to see. Lake Nakuru National Park also has the highest population of Black rhinos in Kenya, allowing you to feast your eyes upon the sight of this greatly vulnerable species traversing across the picturesque landscape.

Day 3

Drive to Maasai Mara

You will leave the camp at 8:30 a.m. for the Maasai Mara Game Reserve After enjoying a hearty breakfast. After a five-hour trip, you will arrive at the Maasai Mara around 1:30 p.m. Once there, you will settle into the camp and have lunch. By 3.30 pm, you will proceed for the afternoon game drive.

You will return by 7. Once at the camp, you will enjoy a relaxed evening with a sumptuous meal.

Stay: Sentrim Camp, Masai Mara

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

About Masai Mara

Located in the Great Rift Valley in the southwest part of Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve is the flagship wildlife park of Kenya. Known as the mother of all wildlife parks, Masai Mara is an ideal place for you to see the African big five, namely elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo, in all their glory! Being a mecca of wildlife, you will also get to spot other animals like wildebeest, gazelle, zebra, antelope, giraffe, ostrich, hyena, cheetah, and many more. Dominated by grassland savannah, pockets of riparian forest, rocky hills, and acacia woodland intersperse the plains of the National Reserve. It is world-famous for the annual wildebeest migration, in which 2.5 million wildebeest, gazelles, and zebras follow the rains searching for new grass. This Mecca of wildlife is also known for ‘Big Cat Diaries,' the popular series on BBC. With around 500+ bird species, the Masai Mara National Reserve is a great place to spot bird species like the Kori Bustard, Rufous-bellied Heron, Sooty Chat, and many more. A Masai Mara safari will give you a chance to experience breathtaking safaris and incredible wildlife sightings!

Days 4-5

Safaris at Masai Mara

On these days, we embark on full-day game drives, accompanied by a packed breakfast and lunch.

The Maasai Mara is the jewel of the African wilderness and a captivating haven for them. This iconic game reserve boasts vast grasslands teeming with awe-inspiring wildlife. You can see the African big five, wildebeest, monkeys, hyenas, wildebeest, etc.

You will leave for the morning game drive at dawn. Get stunning views of the green savannas with wildlife lurking in the morning. The mornings are the best time for big cat activity, and after that, as the day builds up, we head to the river to look for migration crossing activity. Have your packed lunch by the river. In the evening, we will again look for big cat activity and head back to the camp.

By evening, you will return to the camp and enjoy a charming evening while hearing some Maasai tales. You will then eat dinner and get some sleep so that you can get up and be ready for your journey the next day.

Stay: Sentrim Camp, Masai Mara

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

About great migration

The major highlight of the trip is the Great Migration of Kenya, which finally arrives on the third day. Migration takes place throughout the year through various parts of East Africa, and it is a result of the cattle's search for food and water. The Great Migration of Kenya is the last surviving massive mass terrestrial migration in the world, with hordes of over 1.5 million wildebeests, over 200,000 gazelles, and 350,000 zebras arriving at Masai Mara in search of food and water. You have three full days to indulge as a spectator of the largest mass terrestrial movement of hordes of animals in the world. You will be enthralled to watch a large number of zebras and wildebeests make a huge migration across the Mara River. By roaring, snorting, and bucking, they continuously pave their way west to Kenya and then back.

The showstopper of the Kenyan safari is the river-crossing scene. You can have the rare sight of hippopotami and crocodiles enjoying the river, as well as the cycle of the devour. As the wildebeests cross the Mara River, they need to overcome great odds, such as the big cats looking for prey and the crocodiles that lay motionless, ready to make an unexpected leap to catch one of the migrating animals for the day’s meal. The big cats welcome the migration into the meadow as it provides them with a surplus of prey to feed upon. Watching the animals travel in the Great Migration of Kenya is an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

The possible Great Migration of Kenya 2024 dates will be approximately from July to October. You will also get to explore the Maasai Manyatta experience, enjoying the traditional dances and folklore of the villages. Another attraction that awaits is a bird's-eye view of the majestic Masai Mara plains from a hot air balloon. And one of these days, you will get the chance to enjoy your breakfast by the Mara River and have a sumptuous bush lunch.

At last, it is the final day and final lap of the journey through the Masai Mara Safari. Post-breakfast, we will drive back to Nairobi City. After reaching the city, relax in the hotel and indulge in some delicious local cuisine. You can be proud that you could witness this new wonder of the world, especially the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Great Migration of Kenya. Just like a beautiful sunrise in Savannah, the memories of this trip will be beautifully etched in your mind.

Day 6

Return to Nairobi

After your final game drive of the tour in the morning, you will come back to have breakfast and say farewell to the camp staff. You will then leave for the Nairobi International Airport and fly back with a bag full of memories of the numerous magical flora and fauna you witnessed during the tour.



More Details

Masai Mara Migration Period

The Masai Mara Migration is one of the most popular periods and attractions that takes place every year in the Mara region. This wonderful event usually takes place between July and October, attracting travellers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. Although Masai Mara offers exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the year, many travellers plan their journey at the time of the Great Migration. The migration involves the movement of vast herds of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores across the Mara River, showcasing the raw beauty of the African wilderness.

Best Time to Witness Migration

For many travellers, the Great Migration is a crucial factor when deciding the timing of their visit to the Masai Mara. To fully have the Kenya migration season experience and witness the Masai Mara migration period at its peak, plan your visit between late July and early October. During this period, the herds navigate through the savannah, crossing rivers and facing natural obstacles in their quest for greener pastures. The abundance of wildlife and the dramatic river crossings make this time particularly captivating.

Migration Routes in Masai Mara

The herds typically follow a clockwise pattern, moving from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya. Witness the dramatic and challenging Masai Mara River Crossing, a pivotal moment during the Migration Period. Observe the herds facing challenging obstacles and predators as they navigate the risky waters, showcasing the resilience of nature. Serengeti Plains is a vast landscape of golden grass, stretching endlessly. This iconic landscape is the theatre of the Great Migration, where wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles create a natural spectacle. Predators lurk in the grass, making every moment a thrilling chapter in the circle of life. Your Kenya migration safari unfolds against this breathtaking backdrop, promising memorable encounters with wildlife and nature’s drama.

Other Wildlife During Masai Mara Migration Period

The Masai Mara migration period isn't just a spectacle of wildebeests and zebras; it's a vibrant tapestry of African wildlife. Majestic elephants gracefully traverse the savannah; giraffes add elegance to the landscape; and Cape buffaloes contribute a robust presence. The Mara River hosts hippos and crocodiles, creating a dramatic aquatic scene. Birdlife fills the skies, and predators like lions and cheetahs complete the ecosystem. Each moment of the Kenya migration season unfolds with a diverse cast of wildlife, making your masai mara experience like no other.

Safari Tips for Migration Season

To make the most of your Kenya migration season experience in the Masai Mara, consider these safari tips:
Pack Smart: Opt for lightweight, neutral-colored clothing for comfort and camouflage during your Kenya Migration Safari.

Patience is Key: The migration's movements can be unpredictable. Stay patient during game drives to witness the awe-inspiring Kenya Migration Season and experience a spectacle like never before.

Choose Wisely: Select a safari vehicle with a knowledgeable guide. Their expertise will enhance your understanding of the Masai Mara migration period and the unique behaviours of the wildlife.

Expert Guidance: Have more questions or need personalised advice? Reach out to our experts at Wild Voyager. We're dedicated to ensuring your journey is not only thrilling but also tailored to your curiosity and passion for Kenya's incredible wildlife.

Photography Opportunities

Capture the beauty of the Masai Mara during the migration period. You will have many opportunities to capture close-ups of the wildlife, emphasising their expressions and interactions. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer magical lighting for memorable shots. Check out our blog, for in-depth details about safari shooting tips in Africa.

Conservation Efforts in Masai Mara

Conservation plays an important role in protecting the fragile balance of the Masai Mara ecosystem, and the Masai Mara Conservancy stands out as a success story in wildlife preservation. Today, a collaborative effort involving the Masai people, county councils, and preservation organisations is underway to ensure that not only can the lands endure, but the local wildlife can thrive. Actively engaged, local authorities and organisations work tirelessly to safeguard wildlife habitats, combat poaching, and advocate for sustainable tourism practises.

Accommodations for Migration Season

Many lodges and tented camps within the Masai Mara offer accommodations tailored to the migration period. Choose accommodations that provide panoramic views of the migration routes or are strategically located near significant points of interest. Experience the sounds of the wilderness while enjoying the comfort of meticulously furnished lodgings. Whether you prefer budget-friendly or luxury options, we offer a diverse range to ensure your accommodation experience is seamless. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the best time to visit the Masai Mara for the migration?

The best time to visit Masai Mara for the migration period is from June to October because of the long, dry season, and you are more likely to see the river crossings during this time.

What wildlife can I expect during the Kenyan migration season?

The Masai Mara migration showcases herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles facing off against predators like lions, cheetahs, and over 3000 crocodiles in the Mara River. Elephants and giraffes add majestic flair, while the skies come alive with colourful birds. It's a thrilling, diverse spectacle of African wildlife in action.

What happens during the Masai Mara migration period?

The Kenya Migration Season is an amazing experience that one should not miss. The Masai Mara migration period witnesses massive herds of wildebeest and zebras navigating the savannah, crossing rivers, and facing challenges in search of better grazing areas. Predators like cheetahs accompany their journey, which creates a dynamic spectacle with dramatic river crossings as the highlight of the migration.

So begin your journey and get Kenya migration season experience and delve into the captivating world of the Masai Mara migration period, where the rhythms of nature unfold in a mesmerising dance of life.

DESTINATION STANDARD HOTEL/CAMP NO OF NIGHTS MEALS
ELEMENTAITA SENTRIM LODGE 02 All meals
MASAI MARA SENTRIM CAMP 03 All meals

Sentrim Elementaita provides an exquisite gateway on the shores of Lake Elementaita and has serene surroundings. Sentrim Elementaita has lodges that vary from standard cottages to deluxe cottages and family cottages. Each room is spacious and has an en-suite bathroom complete with modern amenities.

Tripadvisor - https://bit.ly/3n7PXd0

Sentrim Mara Camp is located in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, 3 km from Sekenani gate. The entire camp is spread out over 100 acres of tranquil surroundings. The main guest area consists of the Reception, Lounge, Restaurant, Bar, Fire Place, Pool Bar, beauty spa and Swimming Pool. The lodge has a total of 64 en-suite standard, superior tents as well as family houses (Concrete). All rooms are equipped with Private hot shower, In-room safe deposit box, solar power and coffee making facilities.

Tripadvisor-https://bit.ly/3PHG0il




Cost & Terms

DEPARTURE MONTH/YEAR TOUR START DATE TOUR END DATE PER PERSON ON TWIN/DOUBLE SINGLE OCCUPANCY
JUL 2024 Saturday, July 13, 2024 Thursday, July 18, 2024 $1726 $3017
JUL 2024 Saturday, July 27, 2024 Thursday, Aug 01, 2024 $1726 $3017
AUG 2024 Saturday, Aug 17, 2024 Thursday, Aug 22, 2024 $1726 $3017
SEP 2024 Saturday, Sep 07, 2024 Thursday, Sep 12 2024 $1726 $3017

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE COST

  • Full board (all meals) accommodation at Masai Mara and Lake Elementaita.
  • Game drives in private 4X4 Land-cruisers at Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru.
  • Top Naturalist for the game drive.
  • Daily Park Permits at Masai Mara, lake Nakuru (1 visit)
  • Private boat ride at Lake Naivasha.
  • Private airport transfers in Nairobi, Nairobi local transport.
  • A litre of drinking water per person per day.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE COST

  • Travel cost to Nairobi and Visa @ 70 USD per adult.
  • Masai Mara to Nairobi flight @ 220 USD Per person.
  • Balloon Safari @450 USD per adult.
  • Sundowner @45 USD Per adult.
  • Maasai village visit @30 USD per adult.
  • Any expenses of personal nature.
  • Tips and Gratuity.
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary inclusions.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

  • Our billing is in USD and payment currency is USD.
  • You can pay online by credit/debit card by clicking "Book now" and selecting Online payment.
  • You can transfer to our US bank after clicking "Book now" and selecting Bank transfer.


THE FINE PRINT

  • A minimum of 4 people are needed to operate the group.
  • All meals included are at the camps/hotels/lodges unless otherwise stated. The meals included in the camps/hotels/lodges cannot be substituted with meals from outside in case such meals are missed for any reason. There will be no compensation for missed meals.
  • On the last day, exit from Masai Mara is at 10 a.m. If the group decides to extend, they can do so, but one day of extra park fees is applicable.
  • There will be 4X4 private Landcruisers for safaris; travel between destinations may be in a Landcruiser or SUV, either of which will not be air-conditioned.
  • Park permits are subject to change as per revisions by government authorities. In such case, we shall notify you, and a differential shall be payable.
  • The Park permits for Masai Mara National Reserve are valid in the main reserve only. There will be additional fees applicable if you wish to visit Mara Triangle or any private conservancy.
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination is mandatory for travel to these countries. Some countries, like India, also make the oral polio vaccine mandatory.
  • The local flights within Africa have a strict baggage allowance of 15 kg. Anything beyond the permissible free luggage allowance will be charged as per the fee advised by the airline.
  • Guests are advised not to keep valuables in the vehicle while sightseeing. The Company shall not be responsible for the loss of valuables from the vehicle.
  • It is important to maintain strict adherence to national park entry and exit timings, which are usually sunrise to sunset but vary from park to park. Our guides and drivers are trained to adhere to the same. In case we are not able to adhere to any such timings due to delays at your end, like flight delays, shopping delays, or any other delay, you may be denied entry into the park after the official hours and will not be able to reach your place of accommodation if that is inside the park. In such an instance, you shall be liable to book accommodation outside the park at your own expense.
  • Also, any delay caused in exiting national parks beyond the agreed time slots in this itinerary may attract additional park fees, which will be payable by the guest. In this proposal, the park fees are built in as per the itinerary, and usually in Kenya, park fees are payable in slots of 24 hours, so if we spend extra time over the 24-hour slots as per this itinerary, that is additionally payable on the spot. Similarly, in Tanzania, park fees are per entry per day, so additional park exits/entries beyond this agreed itinerary shall attract extra costs for the additional park fees.
  • African conditions are extremely tough on vehicles. While we meticulously maintain our vehicles at our workshops, you should not expect Africa to be your traditional touring experience. While it's certainly our aim to avoid them, it's important that you set off on your trip knowing that the occasional breakdown can happen and is best treated as part of the African adventure. Due to wet weather, there may be times when we have to take an alternative route, which will mean longer travel times.
  • The indicated driving time between destinations is an estimate and may vary due to prevailing road conditions, weather, and traffic density.
  • Confirmation of Hotels and other services is subject to availability until payment is made. Once we receive the booking amount, we will notify you once hotels are booked.
  • Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical, or other. In these circumstances, we will make the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
  • All bank charges, Swift charges, wire transfer charges, intermediary bank charges, payment gateway charges, etc. have to be borne by the payee/guest. We shall not be liable to bear any such charges at our end and shall only consider the net money reaching our bank account after the deduction of such charges as our receipt. In case the total receipts are less than the total tour invoices raised by us (whether due to short payments or due to deductions for charges mentioned in clause 9 above), it will be considered a short payment.
  • All the above are your tour-specific terms and some general terms. For detailed general terms and conditions refer to https://www.wildvoyager.com/terms-conditions/. By booking with us, you explicitly agree to these terms.




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