MASAI MARA

The Dramatic Interplay of River Crossings and Big Cats

HIGHLIGHTS

WHY VISIT

Best side to see Migration river crossings

Cheetah coalition stronghold

Successful conservancy conservation pioneer

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FAMOUS FOR

The major river crossings of the great wildebeest migration. From around mid-year, the first mega-herds of wildebeest reach the Mara River from the Serengeti in Tanzania. From the Kenyan side of the river, you will see them cross head-on, battling eroding river banks, patient crocodiles, irascible hippo and strong currents to make it into the Masai Mara National Reserve.

Some of the most intense predator action in Kenya. Because of significant numbers of grazers, the Mara is a stronghold for lion, hyena, jackal, wild dog and even an occasional leopard. The flat, open landscape is ideal territory for coalitions of cheetah that run down prey in thrilling chases.

Red-robed Maasai villagers herding their cattle in aged-old traditions. In certain areas, the Maa people still live in traditional manyattas (villages) and lease some of their land as conservancies for safari. Wildlife and humans have always co-existed and the Mara illustrates that modern conservation practices can incorporate – or even enhance – people’s way of life.

MEET ANGELA OUR KENYA EXPERT

Kenya lodged itself firmly in my heart after I spent nearly a month travelling through Amboseli, the Masai Mara, Samburu and onto Diani and Galu on the coast. Two stand-out experiences were seeing black rhinos in Lewa (their horns are incredibly long) and photographing Grevy’s zebra, of which only a handful are left. It was also a kick to see my first gerenuk, an antelope that can stand on its hind legs for minutes at a time to feed

WHEN TO VISIT

Dry season: May to October

By May, the rain has generally ceased although the grass remains high until about July and game can be trickier to see. By July, visitors are pouring into the Masai Mara in the hope of seeing wildebeest cross the Mara River. There is no way to predict when they will do so: they can remain on the water’s edge for days at a time and have even been known to turn back into Serengeti National Park. This unpredictability is what makes the crossings so exciting – you never know what will happen!

Dry season also means cooler weather and fewer bugs. As the wildebeest arrive, the predators are on high alert and you may be treated to high-octane sightings. Animals can be found not far from the remaining sources of water as the Kenyan winter wears on, making them easier to track down.

Green season: November to April

The ‘short rains’ usually occur in November. Thundershowers turn the brown savannah green, waterholes fill up and grazing is replenished to the relief of resident giraffe, zebra, buffalo, Thomson’s gazelle, kudu and other grazers. The first of the migratory birds arrive from the northern hemisphere and the wildebeest are generally leaving to cross back into the Serengeti.

There are resident wildebeest that don’t join the circular annual journey. Visitor numbers drop but that means photographers especially can often have sightings to themselves. The ‘long rains’ settle in for March and April. These tend to be localised deluges and skilful guides can often ‘drive around’ the downpours. Green season is a wonderful time to see baby ungulates and enjoy a landscape bursting with life.

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SAFARIS TO INSPIRE YOU

Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure in the diverse landscapes of the Greater Kruger. Whether you’re a honeymooning couple or a family seeking a thrilling bushveld getaway, this protected reserve guarantees an exceptional wildlife experience.

ACCOMMODATION TO INSPIRE YOU

All our suggestions for lodges, camps and hotels carefully merge design, service and quality for a memorable stay.

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

Exemplary accommodation that offers welcome touches that are a step up and provide an extra level of indulgence.

COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION

Very congenial surroundings with everything you need for an enjoyable safari grounded in tried-and-tested camps and lodges.

Rekero Camp

COMFORTABLE

Classic Meru tents dotted amid riverine forest on the Talek River give Rekero the laidback atmosphere of bygone safaris.

EXPERIENCE MASAI MARA

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EXPLORE MASAI MARA

OPTIONS TO EXTEND YOUR KENYA ITINERARY

Here are a few of our favourite options to add to your Kenya itinerary. These extensions are here for inspiration. We know that time is a precious commodity and we can tailor them to meet your requirements.

WHY BOOK WITH BIGGESTLEAF TRAVEL

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  • Our consultants specialise in different safari experiences
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EXPERIENCE KENYA

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