Overview
Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the popular reserves in East Africa. Wildlife viewing is excellent in this fascinating destination. It is famous for its Wildebeest Migration, which is one of the wonders of the world. Masai Mara hotels are readily available for travelers. With the best Masai Mara safari packages, you can have an amazing safari experience in the reserve.
Wildlife
Masai Mara National Reserve is a perfect destination for wildlife viewing. It is home to the Big Nine. These include lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, hippos, zebras, cheetahs, rhinos, and giraffes. Other common animals in the reserve are hyenas, wild dogs, and wildebeests.
The reserve is also a great spot for viewing birds. It has recorded over 500 species of birds. The most common species are the Sooty chat, Secretary bird, heron, and Kori bustard. Migrant birds are present between November and April. This is the best time to enjoy bird watching in the reserve.
The Great Migration
The wildebeest migration is one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. Over 1.5 million wildebeests migrate from Tanzania to Kenya for fresh grass. Other animals such as gazelles and zebras accompany wildebeest during the migration. A population of over 2.5 animals crosses the Mara River from Serengeti to the reserve. This migration often occurs between July and October. Hundreds of thousands of tourists travel to Kenya to witness this migration. It is nothing short of amazing. Witnessing the migration is one of the best tourist activities in Africa and across the world.
Scenery
Masai Mara National Reserve has fascinating scenery. Grassland savannah dominates this great destination. Rocky hills, riparian forests, and acacia woodland also beautify the plains in the reserve.
Local community
The reserve shares borders with the Maasai people. These are among the indigenous people in the country. Travelers love to interact with the Maasais. This is because of their unique clothing, dietary behaviors, and music and dances.
Climate
The climate in the region does not change much. The reserve lies between 1,480 and 2,280 meters above sea level. Because of this altitude, the climate is slightly wetter and colder. Daytime is hotter than nighttime. The region experiences two seasons.
The dry season is between June and September. While it can rain, it is mostly sunny. Afternoon temperatures are about 25°C. Early mornings and evenings are around 12°C. The wet season is between November and May. Afternoon showers are common. Short rains are recorded between November and December. Afternoon temperatures are around 27°C. Rain reduces between January and February. Long rains are recorded between March and May. Average temperatures are around 13°C.
FAQs About Masai Mara National Reserve
- Where is Masai Mara National Reserve?
Masai Mara National Reserve is located in Narok County in Kenya. It is one of the largest game reserves in East Africa. It is about 270 km northwest of Nairobi. This is the largest capital city and tourism hub in Kenya. Its latitude is -1.521942 ° S. The longitude is 35.336838 ° E.
- What is the best time to visit Masai Mara National Reserve?
You can visit the reserve all year round because of its ideal climate. The dry season is usually sunny and dry. Wild animals gather around waterholes and rivers. This makes it easier to spot them. It is the best time to visit the reserve (June to October). During the wet season, the reserve is green with lots of flowers. It is the perfect time for photography. Animals are plenty and game drives can be fun.
- When is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is also known as Wildebeest Migration. Over 2.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes migrate from Serengeti in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya. This fascinating experience usually occurs between July and October.
- What activities should I expect to do in Masai Mara National Reserve?
Tourists enjoy many activities in the reserve. Game drives are the most common activity. Other common activities include guided nature walks, Maasai walks, bush dinners, and hot air balloons.