What is found in the Maasai Mara National Reserve? Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the largest game reserves in Kenya. Maasai Mara is located in South West Kenya, which in turn is a part of East Africa. A major part of Kenya is carved almost vertically by the Great Rift Valley and the Mara Reserve is actually situated within the vast valley formations. Maasai Mara Natural Reserve covers 1,510 square kilometers (580 square miles) and borders the Serengeti National Park to its south. The Maasai Mara is one of the Greater Mara ecosystems that encompasses areas such as the Maasai Mara National Reserve itself, the Mara Triangle, several Maasai group ranches, and Maasai Mara conservancies.

The Mara Game Reserve is a wildlife conservation area and wilderness area in Africa, housing a large population of wildlife such as lions, leopards, African elephants, cape buffalo, and black rhinoceros. Other popular species like zebra, giraffe, hyena, cheetah, wildebeest, eland, and Thomson’s gazelle, make it one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa as well as the Ten Wonders of The World.

Here are some of the features found in the Maasai Mara National Reserve;

Exciting Great Migration

The Great Migration is one of nature’s most incredible sights and happens in the Maasai Mara from July to October. During this period, more than 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra, and Thompson’s Gazelles make a dangerous journey across the Mara River from the Serengeti, searching for fresh grass. As they travel, they face many challenges, like hungry predators and the dangerous Mara River filled with crocodiles, where many animals drown or get caught. Those who cross successfully still have to deal with Africa’s top predators waiting on the other side. The sheer number of animals involved is so massive that it can even be seen from space. Visitors flock to the area to see this amazing spectacle, experience the calving season, and observe the intense struggles between predator and prey. There are many ways to take in the sights from hot air balloon rides to guided safaris offering chances for incredible close encounters with wildlife. The Great Migration isn’t just about the large numbers of animals; it also showcases the complex balance of life in the African savannah. For anyone lucky enough to visit during this time, witnessing this natural drama is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, making Maasai Mara a top choice for wildlife lovers.

Impressive wildlife

Besides the great migration of millions of wildebeest and hundreds of zebras and gazelles, Maasai Mara National Reserve is home to an impressive amount of wildlife. The reserve houses Big Five iconic African animals such as lions, African leopards, African bush elephants, African buffaloes,and black and white rhinos – are found all year round. Interestingly, the Maasai Mara is the only protected area in Kenya with an indigenous black rhino population unaffected by translocations. Other animals species you may also encounter within this remarkable reserve include African wild dogs, hippos, spotted hyenas, African wolves, impalas, coke’s hartebeests, Maasai giraffes, elands, roan antelopes, black-backed jackal, African striped weasels, caracals, servals, honey badgers’ aardwolves, side-striped jackal, bat-eared foxes, striped polecats, African civets, genets, several mongoose species and African clawless otters among others.

Indigenous Maasai people

The Maasai tribesmen are among the most fascinating groups in Africa, known for their vibrant clothing and impressive height. They reside in both Kenya and Tanzania, having migrated to Kenya only about 200 years ago from Sudan. The Maasai hold a strong belief that all cattle originally belonged to their ancestors, and they have historically retrieved their lost cattle through what is known as cattle rustling. Dressed in their colorful attire, many Maasais have embraced tourism, with many of the guides in the reserve coming from their communities. Visitors can engage with local Maasai groups to learn about their traditional lifestyles and beliefs. These interactions might include guided tours of Maasai villages, where guests can enjoy lively dances, traditional songs, and storytelling that showcase their rich culture. The Maasai are also well-known for their beautiful crafts, especially beadwork and jewelry, which make perfect souvenirs. Some visitors even get the chance to participate in workshops to learn about traditional Maasai farming and herding techniques. Engaging with the Maasai enhances the travel experience while also supporting local communities and tourism efforts. Through these cultural exchanges, guests gain a fuller understanding of life in Maasai Mara beyond the stunning wildlife, enriching their adventures in this extraordinary area.

What is found in the Maasai Mara National Reserve?
Maasai People

Mara River

The Mara River, which flows from the Kenyan highlands into Lake Victoria, is crucial for the Maasai Mara National Reserve, providing essential water for the area’s diverse wildlife. This famous river is central to one of the most thrilling events in nature the Great Migration. During their crossing, many wildebeest and zebras bravely navigate the challenging waters, creating intense moments that draw wildlife enthusiasts from all over the globe. In addition to the migration, the Mara River is home to hippos and crocodiles, adding extra excitement as they hunt for food. Scenic spots along the river let visitors relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings, where lush riverbanks meet the dry savanna. Guided boat trips offer a unique view of this wildlife-rich area, allowing tourists to observe animals in their natural habitats.

Triangle of the Maasai Mara

The Maasai Mara Triangle is a special area within the Maasai Mara National Reserve, recognized for its unspoiled beauty and rich variety of wildlife. Bordered by the Mara River, this triangular space features rolling savannas and acacia forests, creating a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing. It’s less crowded than other parts of the reserve, providing a more personal experience. This area is home to many species, including the Big Five such as lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant, and rhinoceros among other herbivores and birds. The triangle is particularly known for having a high number of predators, making it an excellent spot for observing exciting hunts and interactions in the wild. Guests can enjoy night drives in this area, offering unique sightings of nocturnal animals. Various luxurious lodges and tented camps are situated within the triangle, providing comfort and easy access to wildlife. Guided safari tours are common, allowing visitors to discover this hidden gem and explore its secluded spots.

Colorful bird species

Maasai Mara National Reserve is a birders haven hosting over 500 species of birds including more than 60 raptors. Maasai Mara Natural Reserve also hosts a variety of migratory bird species annually between October and February and during the months of June to July birders can be able to see weaver birds and bishops as they come for breeding.  Birding in the reserve can be done in open savannah, river banks, rocky sides and great rift valley escarpments. Some of the bird species spotted here include African Finfoot, Grey Crowned Crane, Black-bellied Bustard, Grey Go-away-bird, White-bellied Go-away-bird, Ross’s Turaco, Marabou, Yellow-billed Stork, African Openbill, Great White Pelican, Hamerkop, Shoebill, Black-crowned Night Heron, White-backed Night Heron, Cattle Egret, Intermediate Egret, Goliath Heron, African Spoonbill, African Sacred Ibis, Long-tailed Cormorant, Spotted Thick-knee, Spur-winged Lapwing, African Jacana, Common Sandpiper, Black-rumped Buttonquail, African Skimmer, Osprey and Secretary-bird among others.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Hot air balloon safaris provide a unique way to take in the stunning scenery of the Maasai Mara, offering an unforgettable experience that goes beyond traditional wildlife viewing. As the sun rises over the vast African plains, tourists ascend in colorful balloons, quietly floating above the savanna filled with wildlife and acacia trees. From this height, you can see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and elephants moving across the landscape below. The thrill of gliding over such beautiful surroundings, often accompanied by the sounds of nature, is both exciting and calming. After the balloon ride, participants usually enjoy a delightful champagne breakfast in the wilderness, adding a special touch to this amazing adventure. This experience not only creates incredible photo opportunities but also allows visitors to appreciate the majesty of the Maasai Mara from a new perspective. This activity is particularly popular during the Great Migration, making it a must-do for many travelers.

Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about What is found in the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Focus East Africa Tours who offer the best tour packages while on your Kenya wildlife safari.

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