Masai Mara National Park, Kenya

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The Mara is the northern extension of the Serengeti Plains. Watered by the Mara River and its tributary the Talek, the park here comprises 1510 km² of open grassland tucked away in the southwest corner of the country. Concentrations of wildlife are highest on the western edge of the reserve, around the spectacular Esoit Oloololo (Siria) Escarpment; however, driving here can be tricky after the rains, and the eastern side sees the greatest numbers of tourists, as Oloolaimutiek and Talek gates are easily accessible from Nairobi. This park is the most visited park in Kenya.

Wherever you go in the Mara, you will see an astonishing amount of wildlife. Of the big cats lions are found in large prides everywhere. Elephants, buffaloes, zebras and hippos also exist in large numbers.

Of the antelopes, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles are found in huge numbers, while impalas, topis, hartebeests and of course wildebeests are also profuse. Other common animals include Maasai giraffes, baboons, warthogs, bat-eared foxes, grey jackals and matriarchal clans of spotted hyenas. About 37 black rhinos live in the park but are rarely seen.

The ultimate attraction here is without doubt the annual wilderbeest migration in July and August, when literally millions of these ungainly beasts move north from the Serengeti in search of lusher grass before turning south again around October. It’s a staggering experience to be in the reserve at these times.

Photos of Masai Mara National Park

Lioness drinking from the river

(photo by pickledimages)

Safari in Masai Mara

(photo by Mara Timbo Camp)

Balloon Safari in Masai Mara National Park

(photo by Mara Timbo Camp)

Tours and Safaris to Masai Mara National Park

Below are some of the safari holidays we offer which include a visit to Masai Mara National Park. To find out more about each tour, just click one of the links below. We can also arrange custom tours and safaris which go to Masai Mara National Park so feel free to e-mail us or visit our custom tours page.