Kruger (South Africa) and Masai Mara (Kenya) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Kruger | Masai Mara | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | South Africa | Kenya |
| Type | National park | Reserve |
| Approx. area | 19,485 km² | 1,510 km² |
| Best time | July to September | June to October |
| Suggested stay | 3–5 days | 3–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMI) | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Kruger | Masai Mara |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Kruger if
- you are travelling in March to May and September
- you hope to see white rhino, African wild dogs and kudu
Choose Masai Mara if
- you are travelling in October and December to February
- you want hot-air balloon flights, horseback safaris and cultural visits
- you hope to see gazelles and ostriches
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Kruger or Masai Mara?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Kruger is stronger in March to May and September. Masai Mara is stronger in October and December to February.
When is the best time for each?
Kruger: July to September. Masai Mara: June to October.
Sources: SANParks - Kruger National Park · Britannica - Kruger National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Skukuza · 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.