The literal definition of the word Safari in Swahili is a journey or a trip. In the past, African safaris were big game hunting trips, but now, they are for pleasure where people get to observe and photograph wildlife, go on hikes, and see some sights. Safaris have become popular over the years, and there is no better place to do it than in the hub of wildlife; the Masai Mara Reserve.
The Masai Mara Reserve is an extraordinary wilderness destination located in south-western Kenya. It offers an ideal climate that makes it a great travel destination all year round. It is home to over 95 species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles, and 400 bird species. Here, there is an excellent chance of viewing the big five while enjoying several activities. If you time your trip just right, you may even get to view one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Where to Stay In the Mara
Accommodations in the Mara are in five zones northern, eastern, southern, western, and central with over 100 camps and lodges. My friend from Minneapolis Roofing Pros vacationed here and recommended that we go and visit. Staying at a bush camp or rustic lodge gives you a better experience as you can partake in night game drives, walking safaris, and village visits.
Safari and Tours
Picture something as majestic as a cheetah crouched in the long grass awaiting her prey or scans the vast plains atop a termite hill. This and more is what you will get during your stay at Masai Mara as you will get a deep-dive into the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. The first thing you should sign up for is the game drive through the reserve. This charming yet adventurous game drive reveals you to a large-scale perspective of flora and fauna. With a useful guide, you will get to see specific animal interactions, elusive species, nocturnal activities, and other noteworthy sites.
Walking safaris are equally important as they take you into the smallest habitats and life unnoticed from a vehicle. With a great guide, you can learn ancient folklore, tracking and navigation techniques, traditional uses of plants, and much more. Bushwalks along the riverine forest will bring you to a tour of East Africa’s feathered inhabitants.
Cultural village visits introduce you to one of the most iconic tribes of East Africa; the Maasai. Popularly known for their deep-red warrior clothing, they live by intriguing values and traditions which you will get to learn about and even experience. Finally, include a once in a lifetime hot air balloon trip that will have you drifting above the pristine plains. Here, the quiet but melodious calls of indigenous birds, rustling vegetation, low snorts and grunts of mammals, and even the distant roar of a lion will leave you in awe.
Masai Mara Migration
Finally, no trip to the Mara is complete without the Great Wildebeest Migration. If you plan your trip between July and November, you will get to experience one of the most thrilling and intriguing displays of wildfire behavior. Considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this majestic migration of 1.5 million wildebeests and hundreds of thousands of zebras, as well as elands and gazelles is a breathtaking sight that will complete the safari perfectly.…