Masai Mara

Masai Mara

The Masai Mara National Reserve, often referred to simply as "The Mara," is a premier wildlife destination in southwestern Kenya. Renowned for its rich biodiversity and the annual Great Migration, the reserve offers visitors an unparalleled safari experience.

Overview and Size

Covering approximately 1,510 square kilometres (580 square miles), the Masai Mara is part of the larger Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. The reserve's name honors the Maasai people, the area's ancestral inhabitants. "Mara" means "spotted" in the Maasai language, describing the landscape dotted with acacia trees and shrubs.

Getting There

By Air

The fastest way to reach the Masai Mara from Nairobi is by air. Flights from Wilson Airport to various airstrips within the reserve take about 1 hour. Multiple daily flights are available, offering convenience and stunning aerial views of the Kenyan landscape .

By Road

Traveling by road from Nairobi to the Masai Mara covers approximately 225 kilometres (140 miles), depending on the chosen entry gate. The journey typically takes 5 to 6 hours, with the route passing through the town of Narok before reaching the reserve.

Wildlife Encounters

The Masai Mara is famed for its abundant wildlife, including the "Big Five": lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. Additionally, visitors may encounter cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and over 500 bird species .

A highlight is the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, traverse the Mara River from Tanzania's Serengeti into Kenya, facing predators and challenging river crossings.

Activities

Land-Based

• Game Drives: Morning and evening safaris offer opportunities to observe wildlife during peak activity periods.

• Walking Safaris: Guided walks provide an intimate experience with the flora and fauna.

• Cultural Visits: Engage with the Maasai community to learn about their traditions and lifestyle.

Air-Based

• Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Experience the Mara from above during sunrise, followed by a bush breakfast upon landing.

Water-Based

While the Mara River is not navigable for recreational activities, it serves as a vital water source, attracting diverse wildlife, especially during the migration season.

Accommodation Options

The Masai Mara offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences:

• Luxury Lodges: Properties like Mara Serena Safari Lodge and JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge provide upscale amenities and prime locations for wildlife viewing.

• Tented Camps: For a more immersive experience, tented camps such as Governors' Camp offer comfort amidst the wilderness.

• Budget Options: Affordable camps and lodges are available for travellers seeking cost-effective stays without compromising the safari experience.

Seasonal Guide

January – March

• Weather: Dry season with warm temperatures.

• Wildlife: Excellent for game viewing as animals gather around water sources.

• Crowds: Moderate tourist presence.

April – May

• Weather: Long rains; the wettest period.

• Wildlife: Lush landscapes; some roads may be challenging.

• Crowds: Low tourist numbers; potential for discounted rates.

June – October

• Weather: Dry season; pleasant temperatures.

• Wildlife: Peak migration season; river crossings are a spectacle.

• Crowds: High tourist activity; early bookings recommended.

November – December

• Weather: Short rains; green scenery returns.

• Wildlife: Good game viewing; migratory birds arrive.

• Crowds: Increasing towards the festive season.

Visiting the Masai Mara offers an unforgettable adventure, blending thrilling wildlife encounters with rich cultural experiences. Whether witnessing the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration or enjoying a serene balloon ride over the plains, the reserve caters to diverse interests year-round.