Akagera (Rwanda) and Masai Mara (Kenya) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Akagera | Masai Mara | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Rwanda | Kenya |
| Type | National park | Reserve |
| Approx. area | 1,122 km² | 1,510 km² |
| Best time | July to August | June to October |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 3–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Kigali International Airport (KGL) | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Akagera | Masai Mara |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Akagera if
- you are travelling in May
- you want boat safaris
- you hope to see white rhino
Choose Masai Mara if
- you are travelling in April and September to November
- you want hot-air balloon flights, walking safaris, horseback safaris and cultural visits
- you hope to see cheetahs, wildebeest, gazelles and ostriches
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Akagera or Masai Mara?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Akagera is stronger in May. Masai Mara is stronger in April and September to November.
When is the best time for each?
Akagera: July to August. Masai Mara: June to October.
Sources: Visit Rwanda (RDB) - Akagera National Park · SafariBookings - Akagera climate · Climates to Travel - Rwanda (Kigali normals) · Magical Kenya (Kenya Tourism Board) - Maasai Mara · Mara Conservancy - Mara Triangle · Climates to Travel - Masai Mara · Weather Spark - Narok
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.