Masai Mara Game Reserve
Size: ca. 1,510 square kilometres
Founded: in 1961
Distance from Nairobi: ca. 250 kilometres
Highlights:
The Masai Mara is one of the most well-known parks in Kenya and a symbol of safari adventure in East Africa. The seemingly endless savannahs are home to proud elephant herds, elegant giraffes and hungry predators. Lurking in the Mara River you will find crocodiles and hippos and flying through the acacia trees some of the rarest species of birds. During the annual and world-renowned animal migration, called the Great Migration, you will find millions of wildebeests and zebras following the rain through the Masai Mara in search of food and water. Enjoy the sunrise as you drift over the savannah on a balloon safari…
Description:
The Masai Mara is one of the most famous nature reserves in the world and without a doubt the highlight of any safari in Kenya. Famous for its annual migration, called the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate from the southern Serengeti in Tanzania to the plains of the Masai Mara. The animals follow the rainfalls on a continuous search for greener pastures.
Predators closely follow the herds, lurking in the shadows, quietly waiting… Amongst them you will find lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas. With a little bit of luck, you might even experience the thrill of the hunt. An experience not easily forgotten.
The animal migration reaches its climax between the end of July and the beginning of September, when the wildebeest cross the Mara River. The river is a dangerous and often deadly obstacle for the wildebeest as beneath the murky waters hungry crocodiles wait patiently for them to cross – a unique and spectacular sight to see.
However, a safari in the Masai Mara is a worthwhile experience any time of the year as many animals, including the Big Five, remain in the park year-round. Bird lovers are also kept in awe by the more than 400 bird species to be found in the area. Looking for a bird’s eye view of the park? Why not take a balloon safari at sunrise and be impressed by the seemingly endless savannah?
There are many private protected areas that surround the Masai Mara, which are mostly managed by the local Masai people. Since animals do not adhere to border control, you will find many of the wild animals in the adjacent areas. Here you will also find numerous accommodation possibilities – ranging from public campsites to very exclusive lodges – ensuring that every traveller of every budget can fulfil their safari dreams!