Maasai Mara Game Reserve
Maasai Mara Game Reserve is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in Narok County, Kenya. It’s contiguous with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the south.
The reserve spans approximately 1,510 square kilometers . Maasai Mara Game Reserve is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the famous Big Five; Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Buffalo,Rhinos that include both black and white ones.
In addition to the Big Five, you can also find; Cheetahs, Giraffes, Hippopotamuses, Zebras and Wildebeests especially during the Great Migration.
The reserve is also home to over 450 bird species, including vultures, marabou storks, and ostriches. One of the most spectacular events in Maasai Mara is the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Mara River in search of greener pastures between July and October.
Activities
Game Drives
The reserve offers both morning and afternoon game drives.These are the most common way to explore the reserve. You’ll be driven around in a safari vehicle, guided by experienced rangers who will help you spot wildlife.
For a different experience, some lodges offer night drives where you can see nocturnal animals like hyenas, leopards, and owls.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
This is a unique and a stunning way to see the Maasai Mara from above. You’ll float over the plains at dawn, enjoying breathtaking views of the landscape and wildlife below.
A hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara typically costs around $450 to $515 per person.
This price usually includes the flight, a champagne bush breakfast after landing, and a game drive back to your lodge or camp. Many couples find hot air balloon safaris to be a romantic adventure.
Walking Safaris
You’ll be accompanied by experienced guides, often Maasai warriors or trained rangers, who will lead you through the bush. They will share their knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and Maasai culture.
Walking safaris allow you to see wildlife up close in their natural habitat. You might encounter animals like elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and even predators like lions and leopards.
Being on foot allows you to engage all your senses , you can hear the sounds of the bush, smell the wild herbs, and feel the texture of the bark on trees.
Guides often share information about medicinal plants, animal tracks, and the ecology of the area. It’s a great way to learn about the environment and the intricate relationships between different species.
The cost of a walking safari can vary, typically ranging from $50 to $150 per person depending on the duration and operator. Some lodges include walking safaris as part of their safari packages.
Maasai Village Visits
Visit a traditional Maasai village to see how the Maasai people live. You can learn about their customs, traditions, and daily activities. Often, these visits include demonstrations of bead work, traditional dances, and music.
Bird Watching
With over 450 bird species, the Maasai Mara is a paradise for birdwatchers. You can spot everything from vultures and eagles to ostriches and weavers.
Bush Meals and Sun downers
Enjoy a meal prepared by your lodge in a scenic spot within the reserve. Relax with a drink at sunset, often accompanied by a beautiful view of the African landscape.
Photography Safaris
Photographic safaris are typically led by guides with a deep understanding of animal behavior, lighting conditions, and the best locations for photography. Safari vehicles are often customized for photographers, featuring open sides, elevated seats, and mounts for camera equipment.
Unlike standard game drives, photographic safaris may have flexible schedules to take advantage of the best light at dawn and dusk, known as the golden hours. These safaris usually cater to small groups to ensure each photographer has ample space and opportunities to capture their shots without obstruction.
Horseback Safaris
The horses used for these safaris are well-trained thoroughbreds and thoroughbred-crossbreeds, accustomed to being around big game. They are fit, surefooted, and capable of handling varied terrain.
These typically start at dawn, allowing you to witness the beauty of the Maasai Mara as the sun rises. You might enjoy a bush breakfast out on the plains, surrounded by wildlife. These rides often end with a sundowner, a relaxing moment to enjoy a drink as the sun sets over the savannah.
For the more adventurous, there are longer rides that can last up to 7 hours, covering significant distances and offering a full day of exploration. Experienced guides accompany the rides, ensuring your safety and providing insights into the wildlife and environment.
The great migration
The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular natural events in Maasai Mara Game Reserve, often referred to as the “Greatest Show on Earth.” The Great Migration involves over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with 300,000 zebras and 200,000 gazelles, moving in a continuous loop through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in Tanzania and Kenya. This annual migration is driven by the search for fresh grazing pasture and water.
The migration begins in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the southern Serengeti around late November to December. Wildebeest give birth to their calves from January to March.
As the dry season approaches around May, the herds start moving west and then north, crossing the Grumeti River in Tanzania.
The most dramatic part of the migration is the crossing of the Mara River in Kenya, usually between July and September. This crossing is fraught with danger as wildebeest must navigate crocodile-infested waters and steep riverbanks.
After crossing the Mara River, the herds enjoy the lush grasslands of the Maasai Mara Game Reserve until around October. As the short rains begin in November, the herds start moving back towards the Serengeti, completing the cycle.
The migration is a feast for predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and crocodiles. Thousands of animals are taken by predators during the journey.
The crossings of the Grumeti and Mara Rivers are particularly dramatic, with many wildebeest falling prey to crocodiles and struggling to navigate the treacherous waters.
Best Time to Visit Maasai Mara Game Reserve
The best time to witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve is from July to October, when the herds are in the area. However, the exact timing can vary due to environmental factors and weather conditions.
July to October: The Great Migration
This is the peak season to witness the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, cross the Mara River. The river crossings are dramatic and attract numerous predators.
Generally dry, making it easier to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources.
December to February: Dry Season
Excellent for game viewing as the vegetation is sparse and animals are more visible. This period is also great for bird watching as many migratory birds are present. Hot and dry, ideal for safaris with minimal rain interruptions.
March to June: Low Season (Long Rains)
Although it’s the rainy season, this time offers fewer tourists, resulting in a more exclusive experience. The landscape is lush and green, and wildlife is still abundant.
Expect heavy rains, which can make some areas inaccessible. However, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, and accommodation rates are lower.
November: Shoulder Season (Short Rains)
The short rains of November bring a slight drop in visitor numbers, but the wildlife viewing remains excellent. The rains rejuvenate the plains, creating vibrant landscapes.
Short, sporadic rain showers, making it a good time for photography with less dust and greener scenery.
Each season has its own charm, but if witnessing the Great Migration is on your bucket list, then July to October is undoubtedly the best time to visit. However, for those seeking fewer crowds and lush landscapes, the shoulder and low seasons can offer a unique and rewarding experience.
Conservation and Tourism
The Great Migration is a major draw for tourists from around the world, contributing significantly to conservation efforts and the local economy. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving these incredible ecosystems and the wildlife that depends on them. In order to have the best experience with them, book your adventure with us at info@beyondsightsafaris.com
