Peak season is the most rewarding and the busiest time to fly to the Mara. Plan ahead to secure seats on the dates and airstrip you need.
The iconic savanna, home to the Great Migration and Africa’s Big Five.
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Lush riverine forest near Sekenani Gate, rich in elephants and leopards.
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Historic lodge area with year-round wildlife near the Tanzanian border.
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Classic safari camp known for hot-air balloon rides and river crossings.
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Luxurious lodge perched on the Mara’s edge, inspired by "Out of Africa."
View FlightsThe main peak season runs from July to October, when the Great Migration herds are usually in the Mara. Kenyan school holidays, Christmas, New Year and Easter are also busy. In these periods lodges fill up and peak season flights to Maasai Mara can sell out months in advance, especially early-morning departures and weekend return flights.
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 6–12 months before | Shortlist camps, ask which airstrip each one uses |
| On lodge confirmation | Book outbound and return flights together |
| 4–8 weeks before | Re-check baggage, transfers and any schedule changes |
| Travel week | Confirm check-in time and your lodge pickup |
Busy flights are often full on weight as well as seats. Pack within the 15 kg checked plus 3 kg hand-baggage allowance, in a soft bag. If you carry camera gear, tell reservations in advance; excess baggage depends on the aircraft's spare payload and the captain's decision. See the baggage policy.
Coming for the herds? Read our guide to Maasai Mara migration flights, or compare airstrips in the Maasai Mara airstrip guide.
As soon as your accommodation is confirmed. For July to October and holiday dates, booking several months ahead gives you the best choice of flights.
Demand is highest in peak season, so the lowest fares sell first. Booking early gives you the widest choice of fares.
Ask reservations about other departures or nearby dates, an alternative airstrip approved by your lodge, or a private charter for your group.
They overlap. The migration is usually in the Mara between July and October, which drives peak demand, but holiday periods outside those months are also busy.
