Maasai Mara National Reserve
Maasai Mara (Masai Mara) is situated in south-west Kenya and is one of Africa’s Greatest Wildlife Reserves.
Together with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania it forms Africa’s most diverse, incredible and most spectacular eco-systems and possibly the world’s top safari big game viewing eco-system. Maasai Mara National Reserve stretches 1,510 sq km (580 sq miles) and raises 1,500-2,170 meters above sea level. Add the conservancies and the area is at least twice the size. It hosts over 95 species of mammals and over 570 recorded species of birds.
There are several exciting activities one can enjoy in Masai Mara. The most thrilling of these has to be the Hot Air Balloon safari, taken at the break of dawn and ending with a leisurely 'Champagne Bush Breakfast'. This is a truly unique adventure activity and the Mara provides the perfect backdrop for the amazing balloon excursion. The flight lasts for about an hour as you glide gracefully over the African savannah watching the magnificent wildlife below. The pilots are highly experienced and the activity boasts of an exceptional safety record. Another popular experience is visiting a traditional tribal Maasai village which allows visitors a fascinating insight into the unique way of life of the famous Maasai, a nomadic warrior tribe found in Kenya and parts of East Africa. There are also nature walks, bush meals and sundowners as some of the other popular things to do in Masai Mara as a tourist visiting this reserve.
The reserve has a magnificent collection of wildlife and it is quite possible to spot not just the 'Big Five' as often mentioned widely, but also infact the 'Big Nine', to include the Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Girrafe, Zebra, Cheetah and Hippo. It is quote possible that due to the nature and richness of flora and fauna in the national park, one can see all of the above animals not just in a single 2-3 hour game drive, but also with a little more luck, within an hour of your drive in the reserve. The section above lists photos and brief information on some of the amazing wildlife and animals that you will find in Masai Mara including a list of Birds commonly seen here. The game reserve is quite the animal kingdom and likely the very best place to see an amazing eco system of African wildlife in the wilderness. Click on the link above to open the list of animals in Masai Mara. Here you will find information on the many species of mammals and birds naturally habitating in Maasai Mara Game Reserve free and unconfined even across the border into Serengeti National Park, spread over thousands of square miles. The Masai Mara National Reserve official website can be accessed from the Ministry of Tourism, Kenya Government or Narok County Government.
This is The World Cup of Wildlife, and together with the Serengeti National Park there is no better place in the world to see what the Maasai Mara and Serengeti National Park provide.
Wildebeest Migration: Make sure you have your safari booked planned out that includes the Maasai Mara. The wildebeest migration is nothing short of amazing. It is one of the things you have to add to your bucket list. Best time to be in Kenya for it is JULY - OCTOBER although Kenya is a great year round destination.
Accommodation: There is a wide selection of places to stay around the Maasai Mara and the conservancies. The conservancies surrounding the Maasai Mara have restricted number of vehicles allowing a more private game viewing of wildlife. We recommend staying 3 or 4 nights and add in a couple of other destinations too to your safari.
There are plenty of places to stay in Nairobi City and have a look at other destinations in Kenya like the Tsavo National Parks, Amboseli National Park, Diani Beach and Shompole Conservancy.
Safaris: Have a look at the extensive list of safaris for you to choose from. We recommend enquiring on 2 or 3 safaris and wait to hear from them.