masai mara national reserve

Maasai Mara National Reserve, also commonly known as The Mara is one of Africa’s Greatest Wildlife Reserves and also home to Africa’s most famous tribe The Maasai People who are believed to have migrated to area from the Nile Basin.  The Reserve derives its name Mara from the Maasai language meaning “spotted” due to its short plains and rolling hills crossed by Talek and Mara Rivers. The Masai Mara is by far the most popular destination for Kenya Safaris because of the famous wildebeest migration safari and the sheer abundance of many species of wild animals.

Covering 580 Kilometres, The Great Mara Triangle is located in Narok, southwestern Kenya adjacent to Serengeti National Park north of Tanzania a driving distance of 5-6 hrs or 1hr by flight from Nairobi. From Tanzania, you can access Isibania border

The Greater Mara shares its Ecosystem with Serengeti National Park and covers areas known as the Mara Triangle, Maasai Mara National Reserve and a handful of conservancies including Ol Derkesi, Olkinyei, Oloirien, Siana, Lemek, Ol Chorro, North Mara, Maji Moto, Naikara. The plains are famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration, where predators make their way in search of prey. These include Lion, African Leopard, Cheetahs and Hyenas. Giraffe, Elephant, Crocodile, Hippo and Buffaloe sightings are part of this amazing experience.

Each year, between June and October, a dust cloud covers the Sand River by herds of Wildebeest making their way across the Look- out hill downstream to the Mara River. While on safari many visitors would love to concentrate on the wildebeest migration but a game drive from the lodge to enroute to the Sand River is something you should never miss out.  Most visible animals would be Herds of Giraffe, Gazelles, Elands, Buffalo, Elephant and Hippo bathing in their pools. Big cats like Lion, Leopard and Cheetahs await in anticipation for wildebeest to cross the Mara River

The Maasai Mara is all year -round destination and is host to some of the highest concentration of big game. On daily game drives, accompanied by our naturalist guides, you will uncover some of the wonders of the Maaasai Mara. It features prominently on wanderlust travellers’ list, Condenest Traveller, National Geographic expeditions and listed among The Wonders of the World and The Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

Nature walks happen during sunrise or sunset and start from the door steps of your camp. This a very special moment to meet dedicated Maasai naturalist guides sharing knowledge of a place they call home. This activity can tailored to your preference in terms of your area of interest and walking pace. While on the walk, you will be part of the landscape and stay on the lookout for Wildlife, Birdlife and learn about African flora. Please wear comfortable walking shoes!

The Mara belongs to the Maasai People. No visit is complete to Kenya especially in the Greater Mara Triangle without visiting their humble Manyattas(homesteads). Our resident Maasai naturalist guides will give you an insight on how they have lived in harmony with wildlife.

Although this excursion ends with hot bush breakfast and ballooners certificate, flying over the Mara Plains on hot air balloon safaris is out of the ordinary experience. You will enjoy while having excellent views of wildlife sometimes flying on tree top height giving you great photographic opportunities and if luck comes calling, you will experience the wildebeest great migration too. Upon request, we can also organise scenic helicopter flights flying over the Mara and Talek Rivers.

Philanthropy is one of the primary highlights of our safaris. Visiting a local school that is supported by your host we encourage to carry useful items like pens or books and not lollies. If you have a donation for the school, you can always liaise with your guide to advice you on the most beneficial approach by arranging a meeting with the directors of charity headmaster of a school.

Our team will be at your disposal if you would like to book a camp/lodge during your safari to Maasai Mara. We are happy to suggest exclusive camp and lodges that incorporate activities supporting conservation and local communities in Maasai Mara.  Angama Mara Camp, Sanctuary Olonana Luxury Lodge, &Beyond Bateleurs Camp, Kichwa Tembo Camp, Mara Kempinski, Mara Engai, Cottars 1920, Little Governors Camp, Mara Serena Safari Lodge and Sarova Mara Camp