The words “Masai Mara” arouse the senses and stimulate aspirations for bucket list items. A-list celebrities, royal families, adventurous explorers, wildlife photographers, and award-winning filmmakers have all visited and made Kenya’s huge, breathtaking, and game-rich country famous. Wanderlust travelers frequently include it on their wish lists, so if you haven’t seen it, this is the perfect moment.
What is the difference between Masai and Maasai?
Have you ever noticed that the word “Masai” may be spelled in two different ways? Is it the Maasai Mara National Reserve or the Masai Mara National Reserve for that matter? The Masai Mara is the right choice for intrepid travelers wishing to be well-informed when they reach the African continent. The intriguing Maa-speaking semi-nomadic people of East Africa are known as the “Maasai.” The Maasai are known for their warm hospitality, their unique beaded jewelry, their vibrant shukkas (traditional clothing), their fearless cohabitation with the Big Five, and their amazing ability to jump higher than even Michael Jordan.
However, the “Masai” is a well-known, expansive, and game-rich habitat that borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park without a fence. In addition to being the site of the Great Migration, the Mara (Maa meaning “spotted”) is a region of sweeping views, a wealth of wildlife, and unending grassy plains that are “dotted” with thorn bushes and Acacia trees.
Experience the Masai Mara on twice-daily game drives.
With an incredible concentration of animals throughout the year, the Mara is a true wildlife paradise that never lets visitors down. Experience the marvels of the Mara by going on twice-daily interpretive game drives with knowledgeable rangers. It seems appropriate to present our Top 10 Masai Mara bucket list activities when we’re talking about reestablishing the majestic Maasai’s connection to their ancient, most memorable homeland.
Explore the open Savanna on foot.
On a once-in-a-lifetime guided walking safari, rediscover your sense of adventure and tread in the footsteps of local ranchers and ancient explorers. Elevate your senses away from the safari vehicle’s hum. Take in the fresh air, listen to the crickets, gaze at the endless horizon, and feel the African soil beneath your feet.
Take to the Skies in a hot-air balloon.
Rise before sunrise and set out on a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon safari over the vast Mara plains. Enjoy a serene flight while taking in the breathtaking aerial view of all the creatures below, including, if you’re fortunate, the Great Migration. In the middle of the Mara, this incredible journey comes to a close with a delicious and memorable champagne breakfast.
Mingle with the Maasai on a community visit.
Without a real cultural experience that allows you to interact closely with the intriguing Maasai people, a trip to the Masai Mara would not be complete. They will show you their pastoral world and long-standing, cherished customs by inviting you into their modest mud and stick manyattas (homesteads).
Take to the saddle on a horseback safari.
This is a very special way to see the Mara, much like the ancient explorers did. It is an energizing way to explore the big area once more without the buzz of the safari truck. Imagine charging past giraffe travels, zebra dazzles, and, if the moment is right, the powerful herds of the Great Migration.
Witness the thundering hooves of the great migration.
An annual migration of two million wildebeests accompanied by zebras across the Serengeti/Mara ecosystem is known as the Great Migration, and it is unquestionably one of nature’s most stunning displays. Even though the massive herds of grunting gnus are visible all year round, the legendary and terrifying Mara River crossings (July to October) are a must-do for every wildlife fan.
Recreate your favorite scene from Out of Africa.
Recently, the legendary movie Out of Africa, which made the world fall in love with Kenya, celebrated its 30th anniversary. Enthusiastic moviegoers and lovers can follow Meryl Streep and Robert Redford’s paths and visit the precise settings of some of the film’s most well-known sequences.
Celebrate the sunset with Maasai warriors.
For the most memorable sunset views across the expansive Mara plains and, in the distance, the Serengeti, drive up into the Oloololo (aptly meaning “zig-zag”) cliff. Stand around a roaring fire, replete with a delectable feast and a full bar and bartender, while the sun slowly sets, and marvel at the Maasai warriors as they perform their traditional song and dance.
Photograph lions in `Big Cat Diary’ territory
The Masai Mara boasts one of the highest lion densities in the world. It should come as no surprise that the world-famous nature documentary. Big Cat Diary is filmed in the Masai Mara. Set out in search of the legendary marsh pride and the beloved, oh-so-photogenic.
Dust off your lens and perfect your photography skills
Drive one of our brand-new, fully customized photographic safari jeeps and be the talk of the Mara (check them out here). With 360° swivel chairs, air conditioning, a fully supplied personal bar, and unhindered views, they offer the perfect setting for photography, and the wildlife contributes as subjects.
