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The Masai Mara is a national reserve in Kenya, about a 4-5 hour drive southwest of Nairobi, and encompasses a hilly region (that continues into the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania) that is home to probably the greatest population of wild animals in Africa. Several rivers criss-cross the Masai Mara (map), providing the animals with an abundant source of water and food. The lush vegetation along the banks of the rivers forms a stark contrast with the grassy plains where massive herds of wildebeest (gnus), buffalos and zebras roam. The region is also home to large populations of giraffes, lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, hyenas, crocodiles and various antelope species. The annual wildebeest trek (between the Serengeti and Masai Mara) takes place between the months of July and November – the times of the actual migration are difficult to predict. A fantastic way to view this mass migration is by means of a hot air balloon safari. Floating silently above the hundreds of thousands of animals, you’ll be witness to a true spectacle of nature, one that will never be forgotten.

This region is also home to the Masai, a fiercely proud tribe who are renowned for the vibrant colours of their traditional dress and their fascinating customs. It is an intriguing and worthwhile experience to visit a Masai village but expect steep entrance fees and souvenir-pushers. Take it in stride, be respectful but above all, take the time to truly appreciate the wondrous Masai culture and their (often torturous) history. Scroll down to view some of my photos of Masai Mara.

Photos of Masai Mara

baby elephant
baby elephant

Masaai Mara sky
Masai Mara sky over the expansive plains
lions
Lions in the grass
Masaai Mara sunset
Masai Mara sunset
buffalos
Buffalos
more lions
A male lion looking very regal.
Masaai tribe
The ladies of a Masai village
Masai men
…and the Masai men
 

Read the other editions of this African safari series: ‘Serengeti Magic‘, ‘The Splendor of Lake Nakuru‘ and ‘The Splendid Tarangire‘.

14 Responses

  • Great photos. I was there years ago and so want to go back to see it now as an adult. I still have a scar where I got bitten by a monkey to remind me of it!

  • I want so bad to visit Kenya. I will, i’m sure.
    Thanks for the sharing, i have learned and i’m more inspired for my future travel to kenya
    🙂

  • Hi Keith, beautifull pics… It’s been so long since I had the opportunity to travel through Africa 89/90 but I still remember the colors of the Masaai!

  • […] famous Maasai Mara National Reserve, or simply ‘the Mara’, will thrill you to such an extent that you might actually forget to take […]

  • Ooh again Kenya is now enjoying very big number of visitors coming to visit the Mara reserve. This time around in the month of August the biggest ever mass movement of wildebeest migration is coming you better book yourself a place before hotels get full.

  • […] the accompanying post: “The Majestic Masaai Mara“. See other Velvet […]

  • I remember my first trip to Africa as a 16 year old was to Masaai Mara. I was completely surprised by the massive amount of wildlife there! Of course I knew I would see animals, but I had never imagined anything like that. I can’t wait to go back one day!

    But before I return I have to check Kruger Park of my to-go-list.

  • Great article on the Masai Mara. Everyone should make a point of going to see the great wildebeest migration. It is quite spectacular.

  • Well Keith, the last time I was in The Masaai Mara was a couple of years ago when sitting in our lounge watching David Attenborough.I wish we could just pick up and go there.The photos are just beautiful and we like the article.Keep up the good work mate,you are bringing the world to our front doorstep.
    Cheers,
    Liz and Alf.

  • We didn’t make it to Kenya when we were in Africa. The civil unrest that was happening last year kept us away unfortunately. But I am so looking to going back and visiting the Masaai Mara. Beautiful Photos Keith! and as usual very useful information

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