The Masai Mara is where most people picture a Kenyan safari: open grassland, scattered acacia, and from around July to October the wildebeest and zebra of the great migration moving in from Tanzania. River crossings are the famous moment, and Dexter plans your days to give you a real chance of seeing one without spending them in a line of vehicles.
The Mara is just as rewarding outside migration season. Lion, leopard and cheetah are resident, and the private conservancies along the reserve’s northern edge limit vehicle numbers and allow walks and night drives. Whether to stay inside the reserve or in a conservancy depends on the month and what matters most to you, and it’s one of the first things Dexter will talk through.
Resident species you can expect most months, alongside anything seasonal.
The herds are in the reserve and river crossings are possible. Peak demand, so plan early.
Short rains, then warm dry weather. Resident predators, young animals and far fewer vehicles.
The wettest months. Some camps close; those that stay open are quiet and good value.
7 days Two of Kenya's great wildernesses in one unhurried week: the wild north of Samburu, then the big-cat country of the Masai Mara. Three nights in each, light aircraft between them, and Dexter at the wheel.
9 days The great migration from both sides of the border: the Masai Mara with Dexter, then the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater with his trusted Tanzanian partner. One trip, one point of contact, two countries.
Tell David when you're thinking of travelling and how many of you there are — he'll reply personally, usually within a day.
It's in Nairobi Dexter replies usually within a day
