The Masai Mara Game Reserve
The Masai Mara Game Reserve is often called simply “The Mara” – a Masai word meaning “mottled” – a reference to its patchy landscape. The Reserve covers 1,510 sq km (580 sq miles) and raises 1,500-2,170 meters above sea level. The terrain of
the reserve is primarily grassland and riverine forest with clumps of distinctive acacia trees. It is about 270
km from the capital city Nairobi and takes about 5-6 hours by road or 40-45 minutes by flight.
The wildlife of the Masai Mara is world-renowned, with the so-called “Big Five”- buffalo, elephant, leopard,
lion and rhinoceros – evident throughout the year. The “Big Nine” – including cheetah, zebra, giraffe and
hippo – extends this experience.
The Masai Mara also plays host to the „Annual Migration‟ but whatever the time of year the resident
wildlife will surely enthrall and entertain all who visit this wondrous reserve.
Finally let us not forget the colorful inhabitants of this exceptional landscape. The Masai are a proud seminomadic cattle-rearing people with a fascinating culture, divided into a number of sub-tribes some of
which share the Mara region. The Masai are an ever-present reminder of the history and cultural heritage
of this sublime and enigmatic landscape, and will surely leave a lasting impression for all.
