Skip to main content

Mara North Conservancy

A pioneering community conservancy bordering the Masai Mara — exclusive game viewing, night drives, walking safaris, and genuine Maasai cultural engagement.

Sub-destination

Type

Jun-Oct

Best Time

About Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy is one of the most successful community conservancy models in Kenya — a 74,000-acre private conservation area owned by over 800 Maasai landowners who have leased their land for wildlife conservation in exchange for regular income. This pioneering approach has created a wildlife corridor that benefits both the Maasai community and the broader Mara ecosystem.

With strict vehicle limits (no more than 5 vehicles per sighting) and activities forbidden in the national reserve — including night drives, bush walks, and off-road driving — the conservancy offers an exclusive and immersive safari experience that represents the best of modern African conservation.

Ready to Visit Mara North Conservancy?

Let our experts plan your perfect safari itinerary

Personalized itineraryExpert local guidesBest price guarantee24/7 support on safari
Expert VerifiedWritten from Arusha, TanzaniaUpdated Jun 2026
Read Full Guide
Highlights

Why Visit Mara North Conservancy

The top experiences that make Mara North Conservancy worth the journey.

1Exclusive game drives — strict vehicle limits
2Night drives and walking safaris permitted
3Genuine Maasai community engagement
4No day-trippers — overnight guests only
Essential Info

Plan Your Visit to Mara North Conservancy

Everything you need to know before booking your Mara North Conservancy safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.

When to Go

Best Time to Visit Mara North Conservancy

The conservancy offers year-round game viewing with lower visitor density than the main Masai Mara reserve.

July to October is the migration season when millions of wildebeest and zebra cross through. January to February is calving season on the southern plains. The green season (March to May) brings rain, fresh vegetation, and lower rates — predators remain active year-round.

Budget

What It Costs

Conservancy camps are mid-range to luxury: $400-1,200/person/night all-inclusive. This includes conservancy fees, game drives, walks, and meals. No budget camping is available within the conservancy. Day visits from the Masai Mara Reserve cost $80/person conservancy fee.

Logistics

Getting There

Fly into the Mara North Airstrip from Nairobi Wilson Airport (1 hour) — multiple daily flights. Your camp arranges the airstrip transfer. By road from Nairobi: 5-6 hours via Narok and the Sekenani gate, then through the Masai Mara Reserve to the conservancy. 4x4 essential.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Mara North Conservancy

What is the best time to visit Mara North Conservancy?

The conservancy offers year-round game viewing with lower visitor density than the main Masai Mara reserve. **July to October** is the migration season when millions of wildebeest and zebra cross through. **January to February** is calving season on the southern plains. The **green season (March to May)** brings rain, fresh vegetation, and lower rates — predators remain active year-round.

How do I get to Mara North Conservancy?

Fly into the Mara North Airstrip from Nairobi Wilson Airport (1 hour) — multiple daily flights. Your camp arranges the airstrip transfer. By road from Nairobi: 5-6 hours via Narok and the Sekenani gate, then through the Masai Mara Reserve to the conservancy. 4x4 essential.

What wildlife can I see in Mara North Conservancy?

Mara North Conservancy is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Exclusive game drives — strict vehicle limits, Night drives and walking safaris permitted, Genuine Maasai community engagement, No day-trippers — overnight guests only. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Mara North Conservancy.

How much does a Mara North Conservancy safari cost?

Conservancy camps are mid-range to luxury: $400-1,200/person/night all-inclusive. This includes conservancy fees, game drives, walks, and meals. No budget camping is available within the conservancy. Day visits from the Masai Mara Reserve cost $80/person conservancy fee.

Let's Plan

Ready to Explore Mara North Conservancy?

Our safari experts will help you create the perfect itinerary tailored to your preferences and budget.