The Masai Mara is the northernmost part of the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, home to the Great Migration and the largest lion population in Kenya. This destination-level guide covers landscape, wildlife density, the Maasai community, and the private conservancies that surround the reserve.
Location, size, and rivers
The Masai Mara lies in Kenya along the border with Tanzania, contiguous with the Serengeti. The reserve is named after the Maasai people. It stretches across 580 square miles (1,510 km²) and forms the northernmost portion of the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem.
The Sand River, Talek River, and Mara River are the primary rivers draining the reserve. The park is divided into an inner portion (pristine wilderness) and an outer portion, which allows Maasai cattle to graze.
Wildlife density and variety
The Mara is renowned for its abundance and variety of large plains species and predators. Except for the mountain gorilla, all of Africa's Big 7 can be part of your wildlife sightings. The Mara is home to the largest lion population in Kenya.
Popular wildlife includes hippo, giraffe, waterbuck, reedbuck, roan antelope, warthog, eland, topi, gazelle, zebra, baboon, crocodile, various monkey species, and black rhino. Predators you can expect: lion, leopard, cheetah, jackal, hyena, and several mongoose species.
The Great Migration
The Mara hosts a 'gloriously beautiful, wildlife-rich savannah landscape' during the annual Great Migration — one of the natural wonders of the world. Most travellers target July-October hoping to experience the crossings of the Mara and Talek rivers.
Between the Loita Hills (east) and the Oloololo Escarpment (west), approximately 1,500 elephants, tens of thousands of antelope, big-maned lions, large numbers of cheetah and leopards, spotted hyenas, and jackals make the region a magnet for safaris of every kind.
Maasai culture and community conservancies
The Mara is a region where traditionally dressed Maasai still herd cattle and goats, a lifestyle that in some respects hasn't changed much since the community first arrived here 350 years ago. You can visit Maasai villages and cultural centres to learn about the culture and traditions.
The Greater Masai Mara comprises the national reserve and several privately owned community conservancies. Safari lodges lease land from the Maasai, giving families the chance to invest in education or development initiatives. Conservancies include Koiyaki, Lemek, Ol Chorro Oirowua, Olkinyei, Siana, Maji Moto, Naikara, Ol Derkesi, Kerinkani, Oloirien, and Kimintet.
Trip-design recommendations
Take to the skies for a bird's-eye view in a hot-air balloon, or embark on a thrilling jeep safari among lions, elephants, and other wildlife. For a less crowded experience, base yourself in a conservancy for off-road access, walking safaris, and night drives in addition to reserve-core game drives.
A minimum of 3 nights is recommended to experience the Mara; 4-5 nights is ideal for migration season travellers who want to protect time around crossing windows.
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