5 Reasons Why We Love The Mara

Kenya has a world-renowned reputation for being home to some of the most amazing destinations in Africa. From the sandy beaches in Diani to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya. Kenya boasts an abundance of wildlife reserves and national parks however, nothing beats the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve as the perfect safari destination.

Here are five reasons why we love the Masai Mara: 

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1. Day Break In The Masai Mara

Game driving is the way to get around the Masai Mara National Reserve. Awake early with a steaming cup of coffee or tea and head out as the sun begins to rise over the endless plains. This is our favourite time of day and the best opportunity to witness animals in action. 

After watching the golden sunrise above the dotted mara plains, venture across bumpy, windy roads spotting wildlife and enjoying the rolling landscapes.

In the Masai Mara, breakfast is picnic style. Finding a bend in the river or a shady fig tree to set up a bush breakfast, enjoy a bite to eat while taking in the scenery. 

‍2. An Exceptional Wildlife Experience (The Big Five)

The Masai Mara is one of Africa's best places to see “The Big Five”: Elephants, Rhinos, Buffalos, Lions and Leopards. Often you will have ticked off at least three (lion, elephant, and buffalo) just on your drive from the airstrip to the camp. The rhino and the leopard are more elusive but if you’re lucky you’ll spot them during your stay.

Towers of giraffes, pods of hippos, dazzles of zebras, and clans of hyenas are in abundance, along with so much more.

 If you love bird watching, the Masai Mara is a great destination with over 400 species in the reserve.

3. The Great Wildebeest Migration

Kenya's Masai Mara plains come to life with the epic sights and sounds of the great wildebeest migration. The migration is one of the most iconic spectacles you will experience while on safari.

Annually, more than a million wildebeests, and thousands of zebras and antelopes migrate from the short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti through the Western Corridor and up into Kenya’s Masai Mara.

It is one of the last remaining mass terrestrial wildlife movements on the planet. It is also one of the main reasons why travellers from all over the world venture to Kenya and Tanzania – and trust us - it is worth it!

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4. Stunning Luxury Mobile Camping

With safari pioneers Ker and Downey you can stay in a luxury mobile camp based on the Sand River in the south of the Masai Mara. This untouched spot is the perfect location to see the wildebeest migration, it’s only a short drive from the Mara River, where the famous river crossings take place.

Our luxurious mobile camp is set on the banks of the river, sheltered by beautiful Kigalia Africana Trees, also known as sausage trees. 

The site is also home to the famous Sala’s Pride of lions. You can hear the pride, which has dominated this section of the Sand River for years, around the camp most evenings while enjoying the campfire.

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5. Flying  Over The Mara in a Hot Air Balloon

A hot air balloon ride gives you a bird's eye view of the wondrous Masai Mara sights and a whole new perspective on the vast landscapes. Whether floating above pods of hippos wallowing in the Mara River or over the countless herds of wildebeests on the plains, the ride is an unforgettable experience and one you should not miss.

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When Is the Best Time for you to Visit Masai Mara?

If you want to see the great wildebeest migration in Kenya, the best time to book for your Safari is between July and September. We recommend you book your safari as early as possible - at least six months to a year before your travel dates.

However, the Masai Mara is fabulous all year round, especially during off-season as there aren't as many tourists and you’ll benefit from an even more exclusive experience. The Masai Mara National Reserve is the perfect vacation destination for you and your loved ones to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Email us to create your bespoke luxury safari : hello@olosafaris.com