Maasai Mara National Reserve

From July to October, more than 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebra surge across the Mara River from the Serengeti — pursued by the world's most filmed lion prides and crocodile ambushes that have been waiting all year.

Outside migration season the Mara remains the most reliable Big Five reserve in East Africa. Resident lion prides hold territory year-round; the Marsh Pride, Topi Plains Pride and the Mara Triangle's coalitions are individually known to guides.

Stay in a private conservancy (Mara North, Olare Motorogi, Naboisho) for off-road game viewing, night drives and walking — none of which are permitted in the public reserve.