Masai Mara (Kenya) and Pilanesberg (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Masai Mara | Pilanesberg | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Kenya | South Africa |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 1,510 km² | 550 km² |
| Best time | June to October | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 3–4 days | 1–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Masai Mara | Pilanesberg |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| May | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Masai Mara if
- you are travelling in October to February
- you want horseback safaris and cultural visits
- you hope to see gazelles and ostriches
Choose Pilanesberg if
- you are travelling in April to May and September
- you hope to see white rhino, African wild dogs and kudu
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Masai Mara or Pilanesberg?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Masai Mara is stronger in October to February. Pilanesberg is stronger in April to May and September.
When is the best time for each?
Masai Mara: June to October. Pilanesberg: July to September.
Sources: Magical Kenya (Kenya Tourism Board) - Maasai Mara · Mara Conservancy - Mara Triangle · Climates to Travel - Masai Mara · Weather Spark - Narok · North West Parks Board · Pilanesberg National Park - travel information · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Pretoria, Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.