Masai Mara National Park Details

Masai Mara National Park

Masai Mara National Park, located in southwestern Kenya, is one of Africa's premier wildlife reserves. Spanning 1,510 square kilometers, it is an extension of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, forming part of the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. The park is famed for its exceptional population of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the annual Great Migration, where over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse its plains. Rich in Maasai culture, visitors can engage with the Maasai people and learn about their traditions. The Mara River, with its dramatic crossings, and the vast savannah landscapes make it a top destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

History

Masai Mara National Park, established in 1961 as a wildlife sanctuary, initially covered only 520 square kilometers of the current area. Named after the Maasai people, who have inhabited the region for centuries, and the Mara River, the park was expanded in 1974 to its present size of 1,510 square kilometers to protect its unique biodiversity. The park is renowned for the Great Migration, a natural phenomenon involving over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. Throughout its history, the park has faced challenges such as poaching and human-wildlife conflict, but it remains a crucial conservation area and a world-renowned safari destination.

What To See

• Game Drives Hot Air Balloon Safaris Great Migration Viewing Bird Watching Visit Maasai Villages Photography Safaris Guided Nature Walks Mara River Crossings Bush Dinners and Picnics Wildlife Photography Workshops