Masai Mara National Reserve

About Masai Mara National Reserve

Probably the most famous wildlife reserve in Africa, the Masai Mara National Reserve is synonymous with a diverse abundance of wildlife scattered across rolling grasslands punctuated with flat-topped acacias and rocky outcrops. From August to October, the reserve hosts the Great Wildebeest Migration. The predominant habitats are grasslands and acacia woodlands bisected by seasonal streams. There are occasional rocky outcrops surrounded by dense thickets. The two main rivers that bisect the reserve are known as the Mara and Talek, along which there are stands of riparian forest. All visitors to the reserve must follow the instructions of park officials and abide by the rules and regulations, including: Rise over the plains in the still morning air and survey the wildlife from above This seasonal spectacular, millions of animals on the move, is dubbed The Greatest Show on Earth Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalos are among the most sought-after species on game drives Visit a traditional village with a local Maasai guide to learn more about this colorful culture Well over 500 species of birds have been recorded in the area - paradise for bird enthusiasts A glimpse into the nocturnal lives of wild animals can be had when staying at private camps in the area Choose between full and half-day excursions in search of African wildlife, led by experienced local guides Learn more about the cultural heritage and history of the local people on a guided tour of villages, community projects and festivals. Your guide will choose a scenic location where a lavish picnic can be enjoyed out in the African savannah. Birds of all shapes and sizes can be found in the various habitats of the reserve, with nearly 500 species recorded. An early morning adventure where the lucky few drift over the teeming wildlife of the Masai Mara. Get even closer to nature - and learn so much more - in the company of an experienced guide as you walk amongst the wildlife. Throughout the year, the Masai Mara promises excellent game viewing, with all members of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) present. A notable highlight is the wildebeest migration (from July to October) when over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and other antelope arrive to graze. Giraffes, warthogs, hippos and more are also present. Predator sightings are among the best in Africa. Large family groups of lions and spotted hyenas are the dominant predators, in constant competition for food. The flat terrain lends itself to the high-speed hunting technique of cheetahs. Versatile hunters, leopards can be found both around the rocky outcrops, dense thickets and open grasslands.