Maasai Mara National Reserve

If the layman thinks about African safaris, what he really has in mind is the Maasai Mara. Pictures of large open grasslands, the dramatic wildebeest migration and the abundant big cats are have shaped the common conception of what a safari is like.

The Maasai Mara is the Kenyan continuation of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. This wild life area host one of the greatest spectacles on this planet – the great migration. Up to 2 million wildebeest, along with some zebra and Thompson’s gazelle follow the annual rain patterns. This movement of mind-blowing proportions attracts predators of all sorts. Big cats like lion and cheetah follow the thunder of the ungulates’ thunder. The drama peaks when the wildebeest pile up at the river banks, anxious to cross the croc-infested water.

The Maasai Mara is not only a great destination to witness this impressive and harsh display of nature’s working. The game viewing holds up to its reputation as one of Africa’s very best safari destinations. The density of big cats is among the highest on the continent and attractions such as walking or balloon safaris continue to be a major draw card for Kenya’s tourism.

Facts

Size: 1 510 km²

Province: Rift Valley

Animals: Lion, leopard, buffalo, black rhino, elephant, cheetah, hippo, wildebeest, giraffe, hyena

Special Features: Wildebeest Migration, Big 5, balloon safaris

Access: 7 hour drive or a short flight from Nairobi