While the Maasai Mara is globally renowned for the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration, fewer know the quiet magic of the green season – a time of abundance, renewal, and stunning natural beauty. At Sentinel Mara Camp, nestled in the heart of this wilderness, we invite you to discover the Mara in one of its most enchanting and underrated moments.
What Is the Green Season?
Running from March to May, the green season in the Maasai Mara is characterised by regular rainfall that transforms the savannah into a lush, emerald paradise. The rains breathe life into the land, creating a vivid contrast to the dry season and ushering in a host of natural wonders.
While it’s considered the “low season” for tourism, those in the know understand that this is a high season for wildlife, photography, and immersive experiences, without the crowds.
Wildlife in the Green Season: A Time of New Life and Activity
The green season is one of the most dynamic periods for wildlife behaviour in the Maasai Mara. The abundance of water and vegetation sets off a chain reaction across the ecosystem:
1. Newborns Everywhere
This is calving season for many species, including:
- Wildebeest calves dotting the plains
- Gazelle and impala fawns hiding in tall grasses
- The elephant and giraffe’s young playfully explore their new world
With new life comes increased predator activity. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are particularly active, taking advantage of the more vulnerable young.
2. Birdwatching at Its Best
The green season brings a migration of a different kind – birds. Over 450 species can be seen in the Mara, and this is peak season for:
- Migratory birds from Europe and Asia
- Breeding plumage on resident birds
- Incredible raptor sightings and courtship displays
It’s a dream come true for birders and nature photographers.
3. Stunning Landscapes and Dramatic Skies
With lush grasslands, wildflowers in bloom, and moody, cloud-draped skies, the green season delivers some of the most photogenic scenes of the year. Rainfall often comes in short, heavy bursts followed by brilliant sunshine – perfect for dramatic safari shots.
The Sentinel Mara Camp Advantage
During this quieter time of year, Sentinel Mara Camp offers an even more intimate and soulful safari experience. As a classic eco-luxury camp located on a private stretch of the Mara River, Sentinel is perfectly positioned to immerse guests in the rhythms of the wild.
What to expect at Sentinel during the green season:
- Exclusive game drives with fewer vehicles in the reserve
- Peaceful riverfront views where hippos, elephants, and birdlife thrive
- Personalised attention from our expert guides and camp team
- Lower rates without compromising the quality of your stay
For photographers, nature lovers, and safari purists, this is one of the best times to visit the Maasai Mara.
Sustainable Travel in the Green Season
Travelling during the green season not only offers a more relaxed and rewarding safari, but it also supports more sustainable and community-conscious tourism. Visiting outside peak times helps:
- Spread economic benefits across the year
- Reduce seasonal pressure on wildlife and the environment
- Offer more consistent employment for local guides and staff
At Sentinel Mara Camp, we are committed to low-impact tourism and meaningful local partnerships all year round.
Book Your Green Season Safari Today
Don’t let the rains deter you – let them invite you into a vibrant, living wilderness that few get to truly experience. The green season in the Maasai Mara is a hidden gem, and Sentinel Mara Camp is your gateway to its beauty, serenity, and wild surprises.
Contact us now to book your green season safari and experience the Maasai Mara like never before – alive, thriving, and truly unforgettable.
