Contact UsThe 9 Best Attractions in Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is unarguably among the most famous wildlife reserves on the planet. This is a massive park found in the southwestern region of this nation and is famous for the stunning geographical features and a colorful population of animals. What makes people flock here is not only the enormous plains and the unique wildlife, but the ability to plunge into the African wilderness. The Mara as it is commonly known is in the broader Mara-Serengeti ecosystem that cuts across the border of Kenya and Tanzania, making it one of the most important corridors for wildebeest, zebras and gazelles migration.
This is one of the major attractions that lure tourists to Masai Mara especially the Crossing of the Mara River by millions of wildebeests and zebras in what has become the most dramatic event in the natural world. This reserve also provides an opportunity to observe the Maasai people, whose territory has been the reserve’s territory for centuries. Whether this is your first time at a wildlife park, you are a professional wildlife photographer, or a tourist who wants to have a taste of the African wild, Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya has it all.
There are many more facets to this story than the great animal and bird migrations and the grandiose animals and birds that inhabit this land. Be it game drives, hot air balloon, every opportunity in Masai Mara is an opportunity to embrace nature in its natural best. Here are the nine top attractions to visit in this beautiful reserve and what kind of experience each of them is going to offer.
Here are the 9 Best Attractions in Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
1. The Great Migration
Probably one of the most popular natural wonders of the world located in the Masai Mara National Reserve, the Great Migration is a natural spectacle where more than two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles move through the plains of the Mara. Sighting the migration especially the cross over of river is one of the experiences in a life time. This is best seen from July to October when the herds migrate from the Serengeti into the Mara.
2. Mara River
The Mara River is the main water source in the reserve, and it supplies the animals that live in the park with water. It’s also the site of one of the most dramatic moments in the Great Migration: the river crossings. Crocodiles and other predatory animals are also found in the river and crossing these rivers is thus a very exciting yet dangerous affair for these herds.
3. Big Five Safari
This park is among the best parks to visit when you want to capture a glimpse of the Big five which include the lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceros. The reserve offers a perfect spot for the safari as the reserve is stocked with these animals. Even when you are just driving around in a game drive vehicle or when you are sleeping in a luxury camp, this is one of the delights of coming to the Maasai Mara.
4. Maasai Culture and Villages
Maasai people are the inhabitants of the area for many years and the culture of this nation is the main component of the attraction of the Masai Mara. There is a possibility to attend the Maasai villages, to familiarize oneself with their culture, customs, and lifestyle.
5. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
To get a bird’s eye view of the Mara especially in the morning, try a hot air balloon ride. You will be able to enjoy the plains and the fauna from a bird’s eye view as you float high above the ground. The flight, which is quite uneventful, is followed by a champagne breakfast on landing, and as such it is considered a must do for those visiting the area in desire of some luxury.
6. Game Drives and Night Safaris
This park has some of the most spectacular and diverse game drives in the whole world. In the day, you can take a game drive over the wide Savannah in search of the big five and other animals such as giraffes, cheetahs and hippos among others. To have a different experience, night safaris give you an opportunity to see the Maras night life where lions, leopards and hyenas are hunting.
7. River Crossing Points
The Mara River of course is famous for the river crossings during the migration period or the great migration. But it is also a wonderful destination to visit all year. It is possible to walk through the river channels and get acquainted with the meaning of the crossings and the outstanding methods of the migrating herds’ survival.
8. Olololo Escarpment
This region, Olololo Escarpment, provides vantage views of the Mara particularly for photographers. This part of the terrain gives stunning views of the plains below, good for watching the sunset in the reserve. The escarpment also has wildlife such as giraffes and buffaloes.
9. The Mara Conservancies
Besides the main reserve, the Mara Conservancies are private Conservancies that allow for exclusive wildlife experience. These conservancies offer a close to natural experience of wildlife and are perfect for game drives than the central conservancy.
Conclusion:
Therefore, it can be said that the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is a treasure trove for tourists interested in wildlife and adventure. From following the Great Migration, coming face-to-face with the Big Five or getting to know the Maasai people, this reserve has it all. The number of sights, ranging from hot air balloon safaris to the quiet crossing of the river, means that time spent here is unforgettable. This is the abode of wild animals and stunning landscape that makes it among the best safari holidays destinations.
For those willing to pay a visit it is important to do prior planning in other to capture the essence of the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Whether you are booking your Kenya Visa, or planning all the details of your safari, it will be beneficial to get everything set up so that you do not miss a thing. Endowed with the wildest wildlife, stunning geographical features, and cultural tourism attractions, Masai Mara should be on the list of destination for any traveler intending to experience the wild moment of Africa.
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