Top private conservancies in the Maasai Mara
Why travellers who've already done the main reserve keep coming back to the conservancies that border it — and how to pick between them.
Maasai Mara Safari · Kenya safari packages · Kenya safari holidays
Bordering the Maasai Mara National Reserve, private conservancies offer community-owned land leased to select safari camps. These areas limit bed numbers and vehicle access, ensuring a more tranquil, tailored experience than the busier reserve.
Below, we explore the benefits and key differences between the most prominent conservancies.
Comparing the main conservancies
| Conservancy | Known for | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|
| Mara North | Scenery and river access | Guests chasing crossings and cats |
| Olare Motorogi | High predator density, low vehicle numbers | Serious wildlife watchers and photographers |
| Naboisho | Large lion prides, strong walking tradition | Active travellers wanting walks plus game drives |
Highlights
- The Private Advantage
- Mara North Conservancy
- Olare Motorogi Conservancy
- Naboisho Conservancy
- Strategic Planning
01
The Private Advantage
Conservancy agreements permit unique activities typically prohibited within the main national reserve, significantly enhancing your daily bush itinerary.
- Spotlight-led night game drives
- Guided walking safaris with local trackers
- Regulated off-road driving for close sightings
- Al fresco bush meals and sundowners
02
Mara North Conservancy
This expansive, scenically diverse block sits near the Mara River. It is ideal for guests seeking quick access to Great Migration crossing points and resident big cats.
03
Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Known for low density and high luxury, this area boasts an impressive concentration of lions and leopards relative to its size, providing exceptional predator viewing.
04
Naboisho Conservancy
Home to massive lion prides and varied terrain, Naboisho is widely considered the premier location for immersive walking safaris led by expert community guides.
05
Strategic Planning
Many travellers now split their stay: enjoying conservancy exclusivity for night drives and walks, while purchasing day permits to enter the reserve for river crossings.
Dos
- Wear neutral colours — khaki, olive, sand
- Pack layers for cold early game drives
- Stay seated and keep voices low near animals
- Follow your guide's instructions at all times
- Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen
Don'ts
- Don't wear bright colours, white or camouflage
- Don't feed or call to animals
- Don't leave the vehicle unless your guide says so
- Don't use drones — they need special permits
- Don't bring plastic bags (banned in Kenya and Tanzania)
What's usually included
- Accommodation in your chosen level
- Meals as listed in your itinerary
- Game drives with a professional guide
- Park and conservancy entry fees
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Published fees to plan around
Sources checked 7 October 2026 · US dollars · fees only, not full safari prices
| Fee | Published amount | Who and when |
|---|---|---|
| Maasai Mara reserve · July–December | US$200 | Non-resident adult entry; published seasonal tariff, not a camp rate. Entry and exit rules affect the number of chargeable visits.Narok County published fee schedule |
| Maasai Mara reserve · January–June | US$100 | Non-resident adult entry; the low-season rate in the same published schedule. Reconfirm for your travel year.Narok County published fee schedule |
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
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Frequently asked questions
Can conservancy guests visit the main reserve?
Yes, via day trips. These usually require a separate park entry fee paid at the gate.
Are conservancies more expensive?
Often yes, as fees directly support local landowners. However, rates typically bundle activities that are extra elsewhere.
Is wildlife similar across all areas?
Big cat sightings are excellent throughout; choose based on landscape preference and specific activity permits.
