In a nutshell
- Masai Mara: the most lions and big cats, the migration from July to October, a landscape of open plains. Farther from Nairobi (240-270 km, 5 to 6 hours by road) and more crowded in season.
- Amboseli: large herds of elephants with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop (clearest view early in the morning), a smaller park near the Tanzanian border, that can be visited on a shorter stay.
The animals
The Masai Mara is the better choice for lions, cheetahs, leopards, and for the migration. At Amboseli, elephants are the star, with buffalo, giraffes, zebras and many birds around the swamps. Rhinos are rare in both parks.
The landscapes
The Mara offers endless plains, acacias and the Mara River. Amboseli mixes dusty plains, swamps and the silhouette of Kilimanjaro: the best "elephants and mountain" photo in the country.
Distance and length
From Nairobi, the Mara takes 5 to 6 hours by road or about 45 minutes by air; allow at least 3 days (see a 3-day safari in Kenya). Amboseli is a little closer to Nairobi by road (ask your agency for the exact time); the park can be visited in 1 to 3 days (details in a safari to Amboseli from Nairobi).
Season
The Mara peaks from July to October with the migration (see the best time for a safari). Amboseli can be visited all year, with the best chances of seeing Kilimanjaro in the dry seasons and early in the morning, before clouds form.
Budget
Mara fees rise from July to December: 2026 sources quote US$100 a day for a non-resident adult from January to June and US$200 from July to December, to be confirmed (Masai Mara National Reserve). For Amboseli, see the page on Amboseli park. A 3-day road safari to the Mara is quoted between US$750 and US$1,800 per person depending on the level (a safari to the Masai Mara from Nairobi).
Which to choose
| You want | Choose |
|---|---|
| The migration and the big cats | Masai Mara |
| Elephants and Kilimanjaro | Amboseli |
| A short stay | Amboseli |
| A trip of 4 days or more | Masai Mara, or both |
Both together
With 6 days or more, combine them: Amboseli, then back to Nairobi, then a flight to the Mara. See also safari and beach in Kenya to finish on the coast.
