Maasai Mara
The annual drama of the East African plains — 1.6 million wildebeest surging across the river at the edge of life and death.
Overview
Maasai Mara National Reserve is Africa's most famous wildlife destination, and the annual great migration through it is spectacular.
History
The Maasai Mara reserve was established in 1961 on part of the traditional grazing lands of the Maasai, who still herd cattle and share the plains with wildlife. Together with Tanzania's Serengeti National Park it forms one of the world's most important wildlife ecosystems. The great migration from July to October was named by National Geographic as one of the world's ten great natural wonders, and the sight of wildebeest crossing the Mara River under attack from crocodiles moves observers deeply.
Highlights
- •The dramatic river crossings of wildebeest on the Mara
- •Watching lion prides hunt and cubs play
- •A balloon flight over the endless plains
- •Visiting a traditional village with Maasai warriors as guides
- •Seeing all of the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo
Practical tips
- •July to October is the peak migration season
- •Book camps six months ahead
Practical information
- Best time
- July to October
- Tickets
- Reserve fee about USD 100 per day for adults; jeep safaris extra
- Opening hours
- Open all day; game drives usually at sunrise and sunset
- Local food
- Camp meals, grilled meat and ugali
- Getting around
- Reached from Nairobi by light aircraft or long-distance road; game drives use safari vehicles
- Visa
- An Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is required and can be arranged entirely online. Book safari itineraries and accommodation in advance.
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