The Greater Masai Mara ecosystem is renowned as one of the most visited safari destinations globally. It is in fact credited with the popularization of the safari concept. To visit this ecosystem is to take a trip back into time and enjoy a glimpse of wildlife freely roaming the land oblivious to the existence of humans. Let’s take a deep dive into some of its highlights:
Masai Mara National Reserve
For the ultimate savannah wilderness excursion, look no further than the Masai Mara National Reserve. Everything about this world-famous destination provides an unforgettable visual feast. From the picturesque African grasslands and iconic escarpments to the breathtaking riverine forest scenery and spectacular vistas – it’s an experience unlike any other. The variety of wildlife here is simply mind-boggling. It is home to the legendary big five (lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino and leopard) as well as hippo, giraffe, zebra and cheetah. The reserve is one of few places in the world where you’re almost always guaranteed to get sightings of four among the big five (the black rhino is a little elusive). Other wildlife species here include the black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox, eland, Thomson’s gazelle, reedbuck, elephant, topi antelope and the spotted hyena. There are also close to 600 recorded bird species, both endemic and non-endemic, making it a great destination for birding. Raptors account for a huge chunk of these, with nearly 60 different species. Other rare birds present here include the roaming secretary bird, the white-tipped crest, Pel’s fishing owl and the red-winged Schalow’s turaco.
Mara River
In addition to the stunning kaleidoscope of landscapes, animals and birds, the reserve is also home to the Mara River. This is where millions of wildebeest as well as zebras and antelopes embark on the exhilarating Great Migration every year. The grandeur of this iconic migration has earned it a spot on the “Seven Wonders of the Natural World.” More than 1.5 million wildebeest risk their lives to cross the crocodile-infested waters of the Mara River in search for greener pastures. Other than the infamous giant Nile crocodile, plenty of other predators including lions, hyenas, leopard, cheetah and wild dog lie in wait along the migration loop. While thousands of the migrant grazers lose their lives along the way, thousands of others are born to balance the wheels of the never-ending circle of life. Notably, the Mara River does not hold the monopoly over the crossings; the nearby Talek and Sand rivers also offer incredible views of the stunning phenomenon for smaller break-away herds.
Mara Triangle
Commonly referred to as the wildlife sweet spot of the Masai Mara National Reserve, the Mara Triangle holds the highest concentration of lions and cheetahs among other wildlife species. It derives that name from its location between the Mara River, Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and the Oloololo escarpment. Courtesy of these surroundings, it is also renowned for spectacular scenery set in an open grassland dotted by Balanites (wilderness trees). In addition to the open savannah, there are marshes, volcanic features, streams, rivers, forests and plenty of other diversified habitats. Together, these contribute to the dense concentration of animal and bird species. The Mara Triangle also happens to be both the entry and exit point of the herds of grazers that define the Great Migration. For an aerial view of this marvel of nature, consider flying over the area in a hot air balloon as you bathe in the golden light of the setting sun.
Mara Conservancies
To the north of the reserve are the highly famed wildlife conservancies of the Mara that include Ol Kinyei, Naboisho, Olare Orok, Nashulai and Mara North conservancies. Among the key highlights of this area is the exclusivity and relative privacy thanks to strict habitation guidelines. (The number of people who can spend the night at the conservancy is limited so as to minimize human impact and conserve wildlife). These are some of the few places left on earth where you get to experience wildlife and nature in a pure and untouched setting. Some of the top activities here include bush meals, bush walks, night game drives and plenty of cultural interaction with the local Maa community.
For the bird watching enthusiasts in the house, the Ol Kinyei Conservancy is your best bet. If however what you’re looking for is solitude out in the wild, the Olderkesi prides itself as being the most remote and exclusive conservancy. For a taste of the lesser-known wildebeest migration, try out Loita Hills at the Mara North conservancy. Here too, you get a peek at the big cat maternity ward at Leopard Gorge and the endangered African wild dog species at Lemek Hills.
Mara Swamps
Your tour of the Masai Mara is far from complete until you visit its fascinating swamps. It is a great place to watch buffalos and hippos taking lazy mud baths and to spot various aquatic bird species. Musiara Swamp is one of the largest marshes, situated between the Mara and Talek rivers. The area is iconic as it teems with life; wild birds and countless other animal species call it home. It is also home to the renowned group of close to 30 lions known as the “Marsh Pride” in BBC’s ‘Big Cat Diaries.’ The lush, green Olpunyata Swamp is another top pick, especially for ardent birdwatchers. It has a stunning variety of bird species as well as elephants, zebras and cheetahs among others.
Maasai Village Tour
Get a firsthand opportunity for an authentic cultural immersion experience with a tour of the Maasai village manyattas. This unique experience places you right in the heart of the semi-nomadic life of the Maa people who populate this area. It takes you on a trip back into time with a people whose lifestyle remains for the most part traditional. Meet the Maasai morans as you take a peek into the beautiful craftsmanship, vibrant attire and lively dance moves of this iconic tribal group through the interactive tour.
Eluai Plain
For an unobstructed view of nature at its best, complete your tour with a visit to Eluai Plain. As the name suggests, the area constitutes miles upon miles of rolling plains. Like most of the rest of the savannah grassland, it is dotted by whimsical, flat-topped acacias. The sprawling plains offer plenty of room for wildlife to roam freely, making it a haven for nature and wildlife lovers alike. From here, you get to enjoy a spectacular view of Oloololo escarpment on the western side. It’s one of the best spots for the most breathtaking sunsets in the Mara.
