Masai Mara: Binoculars at the Ready
Home to the largest game reserve in the Narok County is the community of Masai Mara, Kenya. Its name comes from the its local tribe inhabitants called Maasai while Mara translates into “spotted,” talking about the trees which looks like “spots” in the desert-like landscape. Masai Mara houses over a million wild animals and is considered to be Kenya’s wildlife jewel. Mara Serena Airport (MRE), which is about 30 minutes away, has domestic flights to other Kenyan cities such as Nairobi.
Best Time to Visit
Masai Mara is one of those destinations you can visit anytime of the year. There is plenty of sun to enjoy most months and the temperature goes from warm to cooler from day to night daily. However, moderate to heavy rain showers are also expected a good half of the year. It is most recommended to visit the town between late July and early October when there is less chance of rain and more sunshine. These also happen to be the peak tourist season and thus, Masai Mara, Kenya hotels have higher rates.
What to Do & Area Attractions
For wildlife viewing, there is no other place greater than Masai Mara National Reserve/Park itself. From tigers to giraffes to monkeys, there is plenty to see at the park. The town’s other attraction is the Narok Museum. In there, you will find various facts about the Maasai people and artifacts that they have used in the past. There is also the Musiara Gate, one of the gates you can use to enter the national reserve where you can find local restaurants and small shops. Located near a river is the Olare Mara Kempinski Masai Maria, a magnificent five-star resort where you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the entire national reserve. On the other side and facing another river is Mara Intrepids Tented Camp, which offers complimentary game drive tours daily.