Masai Mara National Reserve is located in south west Kenya and is a vast scenic expanse of gently rolling African savannah plains measuring 1510 square kilometers in area and bordering the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the south. Masai Mara is a unique wildlife conservation haven famous for its spectacular natural diversity of wildlife and is the premier Kenya Safari location in East Africa, offering visitors numerous reasons to visit this animal paradise. Large numbers of Lions, Cheetah, Elephant, Rhino, African Buffalo, Wildebeest, Giraffe, Zebra and many more animals are found in the park in their natural habitat, unconfined and free to roam the vast Kenyan wilderness stretching for miles on end.
It is no surprise that tourists from the world over travel here to experience a Masai Mara Safari tour, more so as the reserve has been voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Regarding the origin of the name, the word ‘Masai’ comes from the Maasai tribe, nomadic inhabitants of the area and the word ‘Mara’ is their word for ‘spotted’, referring to the ubiquitous flat topped acacia trees, shrubs and bushes that dot the landscape across most of the reserve.
Masai Mara now also comprises a number of conservancies and group ranches bordering the main reserve and is home to some of the most diverse species of African wildlife and is also the site of the annual Wildebeest migration, simply known as the ‘Great Migration’. Masai Mara National Park is famous for this migration, during which large herds of a million plus wildebeest, zebra and other wild animals including the “Big Cats” migrate north into the Mara from Serengeti National Park. This migration typically takes place between July to mid September and involves the wildebeest making dangerous crossings through crocodile-infested rivers.
Things To Do In Masai Mara
There are numerous activities in Masai Mara which range from luxury experiences such as Hot Air Balloon flights over the plains where you can see wildlife down below, to less costly bush meals and nature walks or wildlife treks. Some of the most popular activities are brief visits to a traditional Maasai tribal village during which travelers get a fascinating glimpse into the unique way of life of these nomadic peoples. Tourists visiting Masai Mara may book these activities below in advance of their visit to Kenya. Photo credit Sutirda Budhiman – Unsplash Images
Game Drives
Included in virtually all safari packages, some may want to book specialized night game drives or full day photographer drives.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
A thrilling and romantic once in a lifetime experience, Balloon Safaris which take place at dawn are costly yet just so worth the price.
Maasai Village Visit
Experience a traditional Maasai manyatta village and get a glimpse into the unique way of life of this proud and famous nomadic tribe of East Africa.
Walking Safaris & Nature Hikes
Nature walks can be done in the main Mara reserve though longer treks and walking safaris only happen in conservancies outside the main reserve.
Horseback Safaris
Experience the charm of a romantic, close-to-nature experience, Horseback Safaris are only provided by limited operators in the larger Mara eco system.
Bush Meals & Sundowners
Lodges & Camps offer a variety of activities such as enjoying a sundowner at a scenic spot or having a romantic candlelit dinner in the wilds of Africa.