The Mara is undoubtedly the great migration of wildebeest
which move north from the Serengeti in July and August in search of lush
grass. They return south in September before the rains.
Watching millions of these animals move
together in mass is truly a humbling experience for human visitors.
Other animals are commonly spotted in the park including the big cats, lions, cheetahs, and leopards. |
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Lions are often found in large prides
and it's not uncommon to see them hunting. Elephant, buffalo, zebra, and
hippo roam in large herds while the impala, and Coke's hartebeest are
also abundant.
The official designation of the Masai Mara is as a park reserve, national parks set aside the entire area for
wildlife and the natural environment with no allowances for pastoral
grazing or human activities. The Masai Mara region is the traditional land of the Masai
people who often find themselves in competition with the wildlife and
tourists for scarce resources.
When the game reserve was established in
the early 1960s, much the their native land was put off limits and
pressure for land became intense. Constant conflict with land
authorities led to settlement programs which have met with only limited
success.
As a nomadic, pastoral oriented people, Masai traditions
scorn the concept of agriculture and land ownership. The tension
continues as traditional ways clash with the modern living.
Accommodations vary greatly in the Masai Mara reserve and include all
levels of convenience from basic tented camps to luxury lodges. Most of
the lodges and camps organize game drives in the early morning and late
afternoon when the wildlife is most active.
Like all wild areas in
Kenya, the Mara can be deceptively dangerous. It is advised that
tourists not travel off the beaten path alone.
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