Masai Mara (Kenya) and Ol Pejeta (Kenya) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Masai Mara | Ol Pejeta | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Kenya | Kenya |
| Type | Reserve | Private conservancy |
| Approx. area | 1,510 km² | 360 km² |
| Best time | June to October | June to October and December to March |
| Suggested stay | 3–4 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | Low risk: check with a doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Masai Mara | Ol Pejeta |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| September | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Masai Mara if
- you are travelling in July to August and October to November
- you want hot-air balloon flights, horseback safaris and cultural visits
- you hope to see wildebeest, crocodiles and ostriches
Choose Ol Pejeta if
- you are travelling in March
- you hope to see white rhino and chimpanzees
As both are in the same country, many travellers combine them in one trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Masai Mara or Ol Pejeta?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Masai Mara is stronger in July to August and October to November. Ol Pejeta is stronger in March.
When is the best time for each?
Masai Mara: June to October. Ol Pejeta: June to October and December to March.
Sources: Magical Kenya (Kenya Tourism Board) - Maasai Mara · Mara Conservancy - Mara Triangle · Climates to Travel - Masai Mara · Weather Spark - Narok · Ol Pejeta Conservancy · Ol Pejeta Conservancy - Wildlife and habitats · Climates to Travel - Nyeri (nearest station)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.