Masai Mara: the pride of Kenya and the number one tourist destination in Africa
Known simply as Mara, meaning “Spotted”, a reference to the jagged landscape, the Masai Mara is the number one tourist destination in Africa. Managed by local authorities, the Masai Mara National Reserve is located 270 kilometers from Nairobi, about a 4-5 hour drive. Whereas if you’re going to be taking charter flights, the park is 45 minutes from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. Masai Mara is also a part of the Serengeti Plains and is also best known for the wildebeest migration and also being home to the Big Five.
The first site of this natural mirror land is exciting with herds of elephants feeding in the tree-rich grasslands with a rare sight of the grumpy black rhino. It is known to house almost the largest amount of wildlife in Africa next to the Serengeti National Park. The wildlife in this reserve can be divided into mammals, reptiles and birds. Mammals are further divided into primates, carnivores, and ungulates (hoofed animals). Primates include monkeys, bush critters, and baboons. Even and odd-toed ungulates include; Rhinos, zebras, buffalo, giraffes, hippos, warthogs and many antelopes. Carnivores in the reserve include; genets, hyenas, leopards, jackals, lions, cheetahs and the endangered wild dogs. This is the best place in Kenya to see the most sought after animals, the Big Five (buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino). However, the name is changing from five to nine to include animals like the giraffe, zebra, cheetah, and hippos.
The reserve is full of animals throughout the year, except for July, August and September, when the Mara is overcrowded with migratory wildebeest and zebras on the move. During the same period, you can even see some rare and less frequent species, such as the roan antelope in the southwestern sector, a beautiful creature that is rare throughout the country, the eared fox and Topi are not found anywhere else in the country besides of the Tsavo National Park. . The amalgamation of scenic landscapes, mild climate and wildlife makes Mara Africa the premier inland tourist destination.
The most recommended and worthwhile activity in this park is the hot air balloon safari which gives you the aerial view of the animals and you can see the royal migration which is picturesque and amazing. The hot air balloon includes heavy breakfast and champagne afterwards accompanied by a certificate. A truly rewarding adventure.