Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya? If you're planning to go to Maasai Mara National Reserve, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Maasai Mara National Reserve
  2. Important essentials for Maasai Mara National Reserve
  3. Activities for Maasai Mara National Reserve
  4. Maasai Mara National Reserve in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Maasai Mara National Reserve in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Maasai Mara National Reserve in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Maasai Mara National Reserve in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Maasai Mara National Reserve in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Maasai Mara National Reserve in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Maasai Mara National Reserve in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Maasai Mara National Reserve in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Maasai Mara National Reserve in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Maasai Mara National Reserve in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Maasai Mara National Reserve in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Maasai Mara National Reserve in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Based on the climate and weather in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Maasai Mara National Reserve, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya by month

January

If you are traveling to Maasai Mara National Reserve in January, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

February

February in Maasai Mara National Reserve is warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you are traveling to Maasai Mara National Reserve in March, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

April

If you are traveling to Maasai Mara National Reserve in April, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

May

May in Maasai Mara National Reserve is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June here is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

July here is warm. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

August

August is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

September is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

Traveling to Maasai Mara National Reserve in October, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

November

Traveling to Maasai Mara National Reserve in November, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

December

December here is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maasai Mara National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

If you're in search of an adventurous and unforgettable safari experience, look no further than the Maasai Mara National Reserve! The reserve, located in Kenya's southwestern corner, is renowned for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. We've put together a list of the top tourist attractions to add to your Maasai Mara itinerary.

1. The Great Wildebeest Migration:

The wildebeest migration is probably the most famous tourist attraction in Maasai Mara National Reserve, and for a good reason. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeests make their way across the Serengeti plains and the Mara River in search of fresh grazing lands. Witnessing the migration is like watching nature's greatest spectacle. It is also an opportunity to spot predators like lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles that often follow the herds.

2. Mara Serena Safari Lodge:

Planning a luxurious or adventurous stay in Maasai Mara? Then, Mara Serena Safari Lodge is the perfect place to unwind or experience the wilderness. The lodge is located on a hill overlooking the Mara River, and it offers serene views of the vast Mara plains. The facility also features a pool, a restaurant, and a bar where visitors relax and chat as they recount their day's adventures.

3. Maasai Mara Balloon Safaris:

For a unique safari experience, book a hot air balloon ride over Maasai Mara. The balloon trip takes off at dawn, giving you a bird's eye view of the national reserve as the sun rises. You'll glide over herds of wildebeests and zebras below, while enjoying a champagne breakfast on landing.

4. The Maasai Culture:

The Maasai people have lived in harmony with the wildlife of Maasai Mara for centuries. Visiting the Maasai villages offers tourists an opportunity to learn about the Maasai culture, customs, and traditions. You can enjoy dance performances, watch the men jump to prove their strength and gain acceptance to community leadership or procure souvenirs while stimulating the local economy.

5. Mara River:

The Mara River is the primary source of water for wildlife in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It is also home to an astounding number of Nile crocodiles and hippos. The river is a popular spot for game viewing, and the annual wildebeest migration creates an outstanding spectacle, sometimes causing crocodiles to swim with their prey.

6. Olare Motorogi Conservancy:

Within the Masai Mara, the Olare Motorogi Conservancy is a tranquil paradise if you fancy some peace and serenity. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife that roam on a 35,000-acre land. Activities within the conservancy include game drives, bush picnics, night drives or sundowners, and community-led cultural visits. Besides, a night at one of the lodges within the conservancy combines comfort, luxury, and adventure for a memorable stay.

In conclusion, Maasai Mara National Reserve is an essential destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The reserve is a permanent attraction that never disappoints. With awe-inspiring landscapes, the famous wildebeest migration, hot air balloon rides, cultural visits, and up-close animal encounters, Maasai Mara is a place like no other. Book your trip today and indulge in a memorable safari experience.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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