MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

 

This is one of the most famous Kenya safari parks in the world and the most visited park in Kenya.  Standing at an altitude of 5,000 Ft , 275 Kms from Nairobi down the Great Rift Valley with magnificent views in the distance is Masai Mara Game Reserve. The Reserve itself offers the famous 'Out of Africa' breathtaking views and covers an area of 1,510 Sq. Km.

 

Famous also for the Out of Africa film which was mostly filmed here, this  Reserve holds an extraordinary density of animals including "the Big Five" (lions, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros). You will be amazed by the populations and species of plains game.

 

Also an extension of Serengeti, it is home to  the  'National Geographic'  nature movies recorded each year as the impressive feature of  annual migration of wildebeests, zebras and gazelles from the plains of Serengeti. They cross the Tanzanian border and rivers to reach the Mara's grasslands from late June, tracked by predators among them lions, leopard,s cheetahs, and hyenas, numerous circling vultures as their journey unfolds.

Their dramatic river crossings are a reality for tourists visiting in early July-August.

Though the migration is world famous, Masai Mara has excellent game viewing all year round and is abundant.  Game includes elephant, black rhino, buffalo, plains zebra, hartebeest and big cats. The rivers are home to hippos and crocodiles. Its share of the 'Ornithological paradese' stands at an astounding 452 species including a couple of vulture species.

 

Established in 1974, the  Reserve has Accommodations ranging from  safari lodges and luxury tented camps. and budget camping site. Other activities that can be included in Kenya safaris are game walks ,night games, Hot-air balloon flights (recommended especially during the migrations).  Some Safari operators do set up private camps for small groups seeking exclusive and traditional safaris out of the Reserve.

 

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