Masai Mara, Grassland and Savanna Birding

The Mara for birds, raptors at density and the species other guests miss.

Countries
Kenya
Duration
5 days · 4 nights
Best season
Year-round; November through April brings Palaearctic migrants
Group size
2–6 guests
All birding tours
Overview

What this journey is about.

The Mara is not just for mammals. Open grassland species, raptors at high density, and the riverine strips hold species that birders often miss because their guides are focused on the cats.

Our Mara birding itinerary changes the emphasis, we work the grassland edges at dawn, the riverine forest through the day, and the open plains for raptors and bustards.

Suitable for

Birders who want the Mara for its birds, or a combined itinerary

Highlights

What you can expect to see.

Raptor density on the open plains

Grassland species during the wet-season peak

Riverine forest species along the Mara River

Target species

Secretary Bird, Kori Bustard, Rosy-throated Longclaw, Schalow's Turaco, Magpie Shrike, Martial Eagle, Bateleur, Grey Crowned Crane.

Destinations

Where this itinerary goes.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve

Mara Conservancies

Mara Conservancies

Day by day

The itinerary, one day at a time.

Tap any day to open it. Every day stays flexible in the field, this is the plan, not a constraint.

  1. Drive west across the Rift, birding the escarpment and acacia country en route. Afternoon drive in the reserve for Secretary Bird, Kori Bustard and the first of the raptors.

What's included

Everything covered in the field.

Accommodation options and a full quotation follow your enquiry, they depend on your dates, party size, and preferred standard.

Professional Guide

A trained naturalist guide with you throughout, including species identification in the field.

Park & Reserve Fees

All national park, reserve, and conservancy entry fees for the parks on your itinerary.

4x4 Safari Transport

Private safari vehicle with pop-up roof, window seat guaranteed for every guest.

Meals in the Field

Full board while on safari, including picnic breakfasts and lunches on long game-drive days.

Airport Transfers

Arrival pick-up and departure drop-off at your agreed airport or railway station.

Photography Support

Vehicle positioning for light and angle, bean-bag support, and unhurried time at sightings.

Drinking Water

Bottled or filtered drinking water in the vehicle for the duration of the safari.

Flying-Doctor Cover

Emergency evacuation cover for the duration of your time in the field.

Not included
  • International flights and visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal items, laundry, and drinks
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and camp staff
  • Accommodation upgrades quoted separately

Accommodation options and a full quotation follow your enquiry, both depend on your dates and preferences.

Licensed East African operator. Emergency evacuation cover throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you enquire.

The questions guests most often ask about this kind of itinerary.

  • Yes. Every itinerary here is a starting point. Days can be added or removed, parks swapped, and the pace slowed down or tightened around what you most want to see.

Related journeys

Other birding expeditions.

Start Planning

Let's plan your East African safari.

Whether you're planning your first safari or returning in search of rare wildlife, we'll design an experience tailored entirely around your interests, travel style, and schedule.