Mara North Conservancy

A Premier Wildlife Haven in the Maasai Mara

Mara North Conservancy

All About Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy is a private and exclusive wildlife conservation area located in the northern region of Kenya’s Maasai Mara ecosystem. Covering approximately 320 squared kilometers, this community owned conservancy is home to an abundance of wildlife, including big cats, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. The conservancy is managed in partnership with local Maasai landowners and top tier safari camps, ensuring sustainable tourism while protecting wildlife and local communities.

With strict visitor limits, the low tourist density allows for intimate and uncrowded safari experiences. Off road driving, guided bush walks, and night game drives, activities not permitted in the Maasai Mara National Reserve are allowed here, making it a unique destination for an authentic and immersive safari.

The Great Migration in Mara North Conservancy

Between July and October, Mara North Conservancy becomes one of the best places to witness the Great Migration as massive herds of wildebeests and zebras move through the region. Unlike the crowded Maasai Mara Reserve, Mara North offers a more private experience, with fewer vehicles and closer encounters with the action.

Predators are highly active during this time, with lion prides, cheetahs, and hyenas strategically waiting for migrating prey. The conservancy’s vast open plains provide an excellent setting for thrilling wildlife sightings, including dramatic hunts and river crossings along the Mara River.

Why Visit Mara North Conservancy?

Exclusive & Low Density Tourism: Fewer camps mean a more private safari experience compared to the Maasai Mara Reserve.

Off-Road Driving & Night Safaris: Enjoy closer wildlife encounters and night game drives, which are not allowed in the main reserve.

Abundant Wildlife Year Round: While the Great Migration is a highlight, the conservancy hosts incredible wildlife all year.

Community & Conservation Focused: Visiting supports local Maasai communities and sustainable tourism efforts.

Mara North Conservancy
Mara North Conservancy

The best time to Visit Mara North Conservancy

When is the Best Time to Visit Mara North Conservancy?

The best time to visit Mara North Conservancy depends on what you want to experience:

Peak Season (July to October): The Great Migration brings thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles into the conservancy, followed by predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards. This is the busiest time, but Mara North Conservancy remains uncrowded compared to the Maasai Mara Reserve.

High Season (December to March): Wildlife remains abundant, and calving season takes place, attracting predators. The weather is warm and dry, making it a great time for safaris.

Low Season (April – May, November): The green season transforms the landscape into a lush paradise. It’s the best time for birdwatching and photography, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates. However, some lodges may close due to heavy rains.

Mara North Conservancy
Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy Weather and Climate

Weather and Climate in Mara North Conservancy

The climate in Mara North Conservancy is categorized into three main seasons: Dry Season (June to October), Short Rains (November & December), and Long Rains (March to May).

Dry Season (June to October)

Days are warm and sunny, while nights can be cool and chilly. Sparse vegetation makes it easier to spot wildlife, and animals gather around water sources.

Month Temperature (°C) Rainfall (mm)
June 13 – 26 30 – 70
July 12 – 25 10 – 40
August 12 – 26 10 – 50
September 13 – 27 20 – 60
October 14 – 28 50 – 100

Short Rains (November & December)

Light rainfall turns the landscape lush and vibrant, attracting migratory birds. Wildlife remains active, and fewer tourists mean uncrowded safaris.

Month Temperature (°C) Rainfall (mm)
November 14 – 27 80 – 150
December 14 – 28 60 – 100

Long Rains (March to May)

Heavy rains lead to lush vegetation, making it more challenging to spot wildlife. Some lodges may close due to muddy roads, but low rates make it a budget friendly period.

Month Temperature (°C) Rainfall (mm)
March 15 – 28 80 – 120
April 15 – 27 100 – 200
May 14 – 26 90 – 180

Transition Period (January & February)

This is a warm and dry period between the rainy seasons. Great time for calving season, attracting big cats hunting for easy prey.

Month Temperature (°C) Rainfall (mm)
January 14 – 28 50 – 80
February 14 – 29 40 – 70
Mara North Conservancy
Mara North Conservancy

How to Get to Mara North Conservancy

Ways to Travel to Mara North Conservancy

By Air

The easiest way to reach Mara North Conservancy is by flying to Mara North Airstrip, which has daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport operated by airlines such as Safarilink, AirKenya, and Fly ALS.

By Road

A drive from Nairobi to Mara North Conservancy takes about 5 to 6 hours. A 4×4 vehicle is required, especially during the rainy season when roads become muddy.

Mara North Conservancy
Mara North Conservancy

Google Map of Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy Map Showing its location

The below Mara North Conservancy Map shows the exact location. Expand it to see more details, surrounds, and directions of where you could be coming from, to help you access it easier and better.

Mara North Conservancy Fees Entrance

Park Fee Entrance to Mara North Conservancy

Below are the entrance fees for Kenyan citizens, residents, and non-residents visiting Mara North Conservancy:

Category Kenyans (KSH) Residents (KSH) Non-Residents (USD)
Adults (per day) 2,000 2,000 100
Children (under 12) 1,000 1,000 50
Camping Fees (per night) 3,000 3,000 150

Through Your Safari Camp/Lodge:

  • Since Mara North Conservancy is only accessible to guests staying at its partner camps and lodges, park fees are included in the accommodation rates.

Online Payment:

  • Some lodges allow guests to pre-pay conservancy fees online before arrival.

Tour Operator Arrangements:

  • If booking a safari through a tour company, they will handle all payments for park fees.

Follow us on Socials

Get Real Time updates on our Socials

Book a Wildebeest Safari

Get in touch with us directly and our experts will be ready to help you with the planning

Stay Up To Date

Join our mailing list to get Wildebeest Migration updates