Frequently Asked Questions About Maasai Mara National Reserve
Frequently Asked Questions About Maasai Mara National Reserve : This article has a list of commonly asked questions by travelers regarding their safaris to Maasai Mara, answers to these questions have been provided below.
Where is Masai Mara National Reserve?
Masai Mara national reserve is found in Narok County in Kenya, a country in the East African region, the reserve covers approximately 1,500 square kilometers in size and bounds the Serengeti national park to the south.
Masai Mara national reserve is globally renowned for its exceptional wildlife and the Great Migration.
What is the best time to visit Masai Mara?
Masai Mara national reserve is regards as a year round Kenya safari destination as it offers ideal climate with abundant resident wildlife for excellent game viewing.
However, the best wildlife viewing months in Masai Mara national reserve and Kenya as well is during the dry season from late June to October, this is also when the spectacular wildebeest migration occurs.
What is the Great Migration (Wildebeest Migration)?
The Great Migration also known as the great wildebeest migration is a mass movement of over a million wildebeests plus ten thousands of zebras, elands and gazelles. As the wildebeests cross the Mara River and during their journey into Masai Mara from Serengeti national park, they attract predators / big cats such as lions, leopards, cheetahs and African wild dogs.
The Great Migration is a continuous year-long clockwise movement encompassing Serengeti national park in Tanzania and Masai Mara national reserve in Kenya, the migration is influenced by a number of factors including weather, pasture and mating – birthing cycles.
Do I need a Visa to enter Kenya?
Yes, every traveler is required to travel to Kenya except citizens from countries who are exempted. Travelers also need a passport with 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages to enter the country. One can apply for a Kenya visa electronically on https://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html
Travelers are required to obtain their E-Visa before departure.
Is it safe to visit Masai Mara?
Masai Mara national reserve is quite safe to visit for a safari, Kenya itself is one of the safest countries in East and Central Africa which is why many global UN bodies, regional Embassies and international companies have chosen Nairobi as their headquarters for the African region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maasai Mara National Reserve
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Kenyan national parks and reserve including Masai Mara national reserve are professionally managed with adequate security, the security is bolstered by the fact the wilderness areas are situated away from urban areas and are naturally safe and secure.
In terms of Animals, incidents of wildlife attacks on visitors to the reserve are very rare. Camps and lodges in Masai Mara have night guards who patrol the property and keep the vicinity safe.
During the day, your safari driver-guides would typically guide you on how to approach he wildlife in the safest way either on your game drive or your walking safari.
Why is Masai Mara important?
Masai Mara national reserve is one of the most famous and important wildlife conservation and wilderness areas in Africa, the reserve is world-renowned for its exceptional population of lions, African leopard, cheetah and African bush elephant.
Masai Mara national reserve also hosts The Great Migration which is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and as one of the ten Wonders of the World.
How much is it to enter the Masai Mara?
Travelers to Masai Mara national reserve must pay entry fees, currently $80 per adults and $ 45 per child for 24 hours. For residents it is KES 1200 per adult and KES 300 per child or student for 24 hours.
Can a child come on a Safari?
Yes, children of all ages are allowed to enter Masai Mara National reserve and enjoy a Kenya safari
Is there mobile network coverage at Masai Mara?
Yes, both Safaricom and Airtel mobile service providers have a wide coverage at the Mara, some lodges and camps have complimentary Wi-Fi and computers for guest’s use. Although there are some areas in the reserve where there is no mobile coverage.
Is Malaria an issue in Masai Mara?
Due to the high elevation of Masai Mara national reserve, Malaria is very rare since mosquitoes do not live at these elevations, however, although Malaria is sparse in this region, it does exist, Frequently Asked Questions About Maasai Mara National Reserve
How many days do you need in Masai Mara?
The ideal minimum number of days for a Masai Mara safari is 3 days, 2 nights, this will give you enough time to explore and view the entire variety of wildlife and sceneries in the reserve.
What activities can I expect to do?
Some of the best amazing safari activities to do in Masai Mara national reserve include Safari Game Drives, Hot Air Balloon Safaris, Masai Village Tours, Nature & Bush Walk, Picnics in the wild as well as Bush meals and sundowners.
How many Hotels are there in Masai Mara?
There is a variety of accommodations in Masai Mara national reserve categorized as lodges and camps and they range from luxury, midrange to budget. There are over 150 camos and lodges located in Masai Mara national reserve and the various conservancies neighboring the reserve. Some accommodation facilities are also located near the park.
Which are the best Hotels, Camps or Lodges in Masai Mara?
There are several luxury tented camps and lodges which are rated internationally and have won global award winners, some of these include Olare Mara Kempinski Camp, Olarro Camp, Cottars Camp, Mahali Mzuri Camp by Richard Branson, Mara Bushtops, Little Governors, Porini camp, Elewana, Mara Serena Lodge, Fairmont Mara Safari Club, Angama Camp