Masai Mara (Kenya) and Ruaha (Tanzania) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Masai Mara | Ruaha | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Kenya | Tanzania |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 1,510 km² | 20,226 km² |
| Best time | June to October | August to October |
| Suggested stay | 3–4 days | 3–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) | Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) |
| Big Five | Present | Not all five |
| 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 | Masai Mara | Ruaha |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| 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 | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Masai Mara if
- you are travelling in July and December to March
- you want hot-air balloon flights, night drives, horseback safaris and cultural visits
- you hope to see black rhino, wildebeest and ostriches
Choose Ruaha if
- you are travelling in May, September and November
- you hope to see African wild dogs, kudu and sable antelope
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Masai Mara or Ruaha?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Masai Mara is stronger in July and December to March. Ruaha is stronger in May, September and November.
When is the best time for each?
Masai Mara: June to October. Ruaha: August to October.
Sources: Magical Kenya (Kenya Tourism Board) - Maasai Mara · Mara Conservancy - Mara Triangle · Climates to Travel - Masai Mara · Weather Spark - Narok · TANAPA - Ruaha National Park · SafariBookings - Ruaha climate · Climates to Travel - Tanzania (Iringa normals)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.