A tour in Kenya is frankly incomplete without a safari to the Masai Mara National Game Reserve. It is located on the South-Western part of Kenya and it’s an extension of the Serengeti National Game reserve. The big five which includes the Lion, Buffalo, Rhino, Elephant and the Leopard can be seen in this extensive game reserve which covers an approximate area of 1,510 square kilometers. Also found in great numbers are Cheetahs, Hyenas, Warthogs, Giraffes, Elands among many other animals which can easily be spotted while you tour this magnificent game reserve.
The annual Great Wildebeest migration takes place between July and October in this region. It has been declared the seventh wonder of the world and it is one of the main reasons why many tourists tour in Kenya each year. The Mara River covers an area of about 13,504 square kilometers and is fed by Orare Orok River, Keju Ronkai River and the Talek River. More than 1.3 million wildebeest migrate from the Serengeti plains into Kenya while looking for greener pastures. For them to reach the Mara plains which has plenty of freshly sprout grass, the Wildebeest together with the Zebra have no option but to plunge into the Mara River to face a flotilla of hungry crocodiles. The battle for survival as witnessed here is comparable to none and has been described by some as one of the most awe-inspiring sights on earth.
The reason why the Masai Mara is well renowned is because it has a vast ecosystem with a rich fauna which gives value for a most memorable destination safari in Kenya. For a bird watching experience, a tour in Kenya and specifically to the Mara will definitely be a fulfilling experience. 450 different recorded bird species and 57 different prey birds are found in this region alone. The rainy season is between April-May and also in November, the coldest months being June and July while the hottest months are December and January.
Accommodation facilities in Masai Mara are plentiful and range from luxurious 5 star lodges to Spartan tented camps. Hot air balloon excursions are available in the Game Reserve.
Distance from Nairobi: 275 kms. Time 51/2 hours
