Visit the Masai Mara Nature Reserve in Kenya

Travel to the Masai Mara reserve in Kenya with VisitAfrica.com and get close with nature and its raw beauty. Masai Mara is a well-known huge large park reserve in Kenya, and one of the most famous national reserves in the whole continent of Africa. It covers an area of over 1,500 kilometers squared and offers visitors a chance to witness some incredible wildlife from close proximity. It is named after the Masai people who used to inhibit the area and the great Mara River that flows through Tanzania and Kenya. Due to its geographical positioning, the reserve can be seen as continuation of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

There is no shortage of national parks and reserves in Africa, but even so, few match Masai Mara's reputation. The main reason for this is the mammals, birds and reptiles that all seem to be flourishing within the boundaries of this unique reserve and around the crocodile filed river. Tourists from all over the world are amazed by the numerous lions and cheetahs that lurk in the high grass and the endless herds of wildebeests, gazelles and zebras that migrate through the area.

Nature lovers will find much to admire in Masai Mara. Jackals, leopards, baboons, rhinos, giraffe, elephants or hippos - all of these and many others can be seen in their natural habitats. If you are lucky enough to reach the area around July or October, you can witness the breathtaking Great Migration, when millions of gazelles, wildebeests and zebras set out in search of food and water. This is one of the most amazing documented wildlife phenomenons. The vast amount of living creatures all followed by the eager, hungry predators seeking to hunt them is an extraordinary sight. Children and adults alike will find this view exciting, educational and quite exhilarating.

Don't let the animal's seemingly calmness and picturesque surrounding fool you. The park is full of wild animals that feed and hunt naturally. Moving around the park by foot is completely forbidden, and a four-wheeler is probably the best choice of vehicle. Adventure-seekers can enjoy a hot-balloon ride over the area, which offers a great bird view of the landscape.

The Masai Mara area is well fitted for visitors. There are many guesthouses (Mara Serena, Keekorok and Mara Sopa to name just a few) and many available camps.

While all areas of the park are accessible for individual tourists, it's highly recommended to take a guide with you for at least part of the time. It's quite easy to find one through your guesthouse or campsite, and this will guarantee you have a skilled driver as well as hear fascinating explanations of the different animals and plants. Even more than that, the local guides are usually best at locating the more rare creatures, spotting them and allowing you to see them without frightening them away.

For more information about the animals living in the reserve and other useful tips regarding lodging and prices, visit the masai-mara.com