Maasai Mara
Experience the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras in this world-famous game reserve
Overview
Maasai Mara, located in Kenya, is a remarkable African destination known for its stunning wildlife and captivating landscapes. This vast reserve is a home for various animals and offers an authentic experience of African culture with the Maasai people. Experiencing the endless savannahs, dotted with acacia trees, creating a perfect backdrop for unforgettable safari adventures. Beyond the incredible wildlife, Maasai Mara is a place where you can connect with the Maasai community, adding a unique touch to your journey.
Things to Do
Wildlife Safaris: Go on exciting game drives to see the famous Big Five and many other animals in their natural habitat.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar above Maasai Mara in a hot air balloon at sunrise for a breathtaking view of the landscapes and wildlife.
Maasai Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Maasai traditions through visits to cultural villages, traditional dances, and interacting with the locals.
Nature Walks: Explore the smaller wonders of the reserve on guided nature walks, getting up close to the plants, animals, and birds.
Photography Safaris: Capture the beauty of Maasai Mara with guided photography safaris, led by experienced guides.
What to See
Great Migration: Witness the incredible annual migration of wildebeest and zebras, a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Big Five and More: Spot majestic lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and a variety of other animals.
Balloon Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Maasai Mara from a hot air balloon, offering a unique perspective.
Best Time to Visit
Visit during the dry season from July to October for optimal wildlife viewing, especially during the Great Migration. However, Maasai Mara has something special to offer throughout the year.
Getting there
By Road: The most common way to reach Maasai Mara is by road. You can take a scenic road trip from Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. The journey provides an opportunity to enjoy changing landscapes and the beauty of the Kenyan countryside. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the specific entry point to the reserve.
By Air: For a quicker and more convenient option, you can take a domestic flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to one of the airstrips in Maasai Mara. The nearest airstrip is Keekorok, but there are several others, such as Mara Serena, Kichwa Tembo, and Olkiombo. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the landscape and wildlife before landing in the heart of the reserve. Flight durations are relatively short, providing a comfortable and efficient way to reach Maasai Mara.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Sentrim Mara Camp
Situated near Maasai Mara, Sentrim Mara Camp offers mid-range accommodations. Known for its comfortable tented camps, the camp provides a strategic base for guests to explore the wildlife-rich Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Mara Sopa Lodge
Located in the heart of Maasai Mara, Mara Sopa Lodge is a mid-range option offering comfortable accommodations. The lodge provides a convenient stay with proximity to the reserve, making it an ideal choice for wildlife enthusiasts.
Ol Moran Tented Camp
ear Maasai Mara, Ol Moran Tented Camp is a mid-range accommodation known for its tented safari experience. Guests can enjoy a cozy stay and strategic access to the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Maasai Mara.
Luxury Accommodation:
Mara Serena Safari Lodge
For a luxurious experience in Maasai Mara, Mara Serena Safari Lodge is a premium choice. Renowned for its upscale amenities and strategic location, the lodge offers a high-end retreat for guests seeking luxury and exceptional wildlife experiences.
Angama Mara
Strategically positioned in the Maasai Mara, Angama Mara is a luxury option offering lavish accommodations and stunning views. The lodge caters to guests desiring a luxurious stay while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Maasai Mara.
Governors’ Il Moran Camp
Another luxury option in Maasai Mara is Governors’ Il Moran Camp. This upscale camp provides modern amenities, exclusive accommodations, and a strategic location for guests looking for a luxurious retreat amid the wild beauty of Maasai Mara.
Other Attractions in Kenya
Tsavo East
Mount Kenya
Lake Nakuru National Park
Saiwa Swamp National Park
Tsavo West
Sibiloi National Park
Hells Gate National Park
Meru National Park
Nairobi National Park
Mount Longonot National Park
Aberdare National Park
Amboseli National Park
Ruma National Park
Ndere Island National Park
Samburu National Reserve
General Knowledge Base
General Information about Maasai Mara, Kenya.
The name “Maasai Mara” is derived from the Maasai people, who are indigenous to the region, and the Mara River that flows through the reserve.
Yes, Maasai Mara is contiguous with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, forming a part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
The Great Migration involves the movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other ungulates between Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing. It is one of the most spectacular wildlife events globally.
Maasai Mara covers an area of approximately 1,510 square kilometers (583 square miles) of savannah, forests, and the Mara River.
Maasai Mara is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, and numerous bird species.
Yes, hot air balloon safaris are a popular and unique way to experience the vast landscapes and wildlife of Maasai Mara from above.
Yes, Maasai communities inhabit the areas surrounding Maasai Mara, and their traditional lifestyle and culture add to the richness of the region.
Yes, Maasai Mara is a protected reserve, and efforts are made to conserve its diverse ecosystems and wildlife populations.
Things to Do
- Safari Tours: Explore the stunning wildlife and natural beauty of the area on a guided safari tour. See majestic lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and many more in their natural habitats.
- Cultural Tours: Learn about the fascinating history and culture of the local people with a guided cultural tour. Visit traditional villages and meet the friendly locals to get a glimpse of their way of life.
- Quad Biking: Take an adventurous quad biking tour across the vast and otherworldly salt pans. Experience the thrill of speeding across the flat, expansive terrain and enjoy the stunning views.
- Stargazing: The clear skies above the Central Kalahari Game Reserve make it an ideal location for stargazing. Marvel at the beauty of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies under the African night sky.
- Birdwatching: The reserve is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a prime location for birdwatching enthusiasts. Spot rare and unique bird species while enjoying the scenic views.
- Hot Air Ballooning: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the reserve from above with a hot air balloon ride. Get a bird’s eye view of the grassy plains, sand dunes, and salt pans, and marvel at the stunning landscape from the sky.
- Nature Walks: Take a leisurely nature walk and explore the unique flora and fauna of the area. Spot rare plant species like the acacia tree and baobab, and see smaller animals like meerkats and mongooses up close.
What to See
- Wildlife: The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and many more. Take a guided safari or game drive to witness these majestic animals in their natural habitat
- Landscapes: The landscape of the reserve is dominated by grassy plains, sand dunes, and salt pans, creating a unique and otherworldly environment that is truly breathtaking. Explore the diverse landscapes of the reserve and marvel at the stunning views.
- Baobab Trees: The ancient baobab trees are one of the most iconic features of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. These majestic trees can live for thousands of years and are an important part of the local ecosystem.
- Acacia Trees: The reserve is also home to a variety of unique acacia tree species, which have adapted to the harsh desert conditions. These trees are a vital source of food and shelter for the wildlife in the reserve.
- Birdwatching: The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of bird species to spot, including the ostrich and the Kori bustard, the heaviest flying bird in the world. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the diversity of bird life in the reserve.
- Salt Pans: The vast salt pans of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve are a must-see destination. These expansive and otherworldly landscapes are like nothing else on earth, and offer a unique and unforgettable experience. – Pangolins: The reserve is also home to the elusive and rare pangolin. These shy animals are rarely seen, but if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of one of these fascinating creatures.
- Night Skies: The clear and unpolluted night skies above the Central Kalahari Game Reserve are a sight to behold. Stargaze and marvel at the beauty of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies under the African night sky.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve depends on your interests and preferences. The dry season, from May to October, is the most popular time to visit, as the temperatures are cooler and the wildlife is more concentrated around the waterholes. This is also the best time for birdwatching, as many species are in breeding plumage and the migrant species are present. The wet season, from November to April, is less popular but still offers a unique and beautiful experience. The landscape is transformed into a lush green oasis, and the wildlife disperses throughout the reserve. This is also the calving season for many species, so you may have the chance to witness newborn animals.
Getting there
By Air: The easiest and most convenient way to get to Central Kalahari Game Reserve is by air. There are several airlines that fly into the nearby Maun International Airport, which is about 400km away from the reserve. From Maun, you can take a charter flight to the reserve, which takes about an hour.
By Road: Alternatively, you can also get to Central Kalahari Game Reserve by road. The reserve is accessible via two main gates – Xade Gate and Matswere Gate. Both gates can be accessed by 4×4 vehicles, and the roads leading to the gates are mostly dirt and gravel. It is recommended that you have a high clearance vehicle if you plan to drive to the reserve.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
- Tau Game Lodge: Tau Game Lodge offers comfortable mid-range accommodation near the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The lodge features spacious chalets with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving a variety of dishes, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and cultural experiences.
- Deception Valley Lodge: Deception Valley Lodge offers mid-range accommodation in a private concession bordering the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The lodge features tented rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving delicious meals, and a viewing deck overlooking a waterhole. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and cultural interactions with the local San people.
Luxury Accommodation:
- Kalahari Plains Camp: Kalahari Plains Camp offers exclusive luxury accommodation in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The camp features stylish tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining tent serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and stargazing.
- Haina Kalahari Lodge: Haina Kalahari Lodge offers luxurious accommodation near the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The lodge features spacious chalets with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and cultural experiences.
