The Masai Mara is home to the great wildebeest migration. Every year, over one million wildebeests cross from the Masai Mara from the Serengeti national park In Search for greener pastures in the famous Masai Mara in Kenya.
During the months of July to October, there are large herds of the wildebeests and other animals will fight to make their way into the Masai Mara. This is as they run away from the dry Serengeti national park in Tanzania. The wildebeests have to cross the crocodile infested waters of the Mara River. That’s why the Masai Mara national reserve is the most visited national park in Kenya.
The African big five species, which are much sought after by tourists on safari to the Masai Mara national reserve, are abundant in the park. There is also a healthy population of big cats.
The Masai Mara National reserve is located in the south western region of Kenya. The Reserve gets its name from the Masai people of the area. The Masai people inhabited this area before it was gazzetted as a national game reserve.
Something else you should consider about the Masai Mara is their distinctive culture. Since this reserve was gazetted, the Masai, who were nomads, have been engaging in all kinds of activity. You should investigate their life to learn about how they lived and how they are currently living. You will find it fascinating how some of the older customs—like communal living, for instance—have persisted.
For travelers interested in the great migration of the wildebeests, the best time to visit would be between July to October. You will also have a chance to see some migratory birds if you visit between October and April. December and March are the best warm months for the game viewing.
How Can I Make Sure to See a River Crossing?
Seeing the wildebeests and other animals cross the Mara river that is also infested with crocodile is one of the best events of the great migration. The predators also track and set traps for these animals around the water. This is beacause they know this is their route from the Serengeti national park to the Masai Mara National reserve. There is no guarantee that you will see the animals crossing the river since the wildlife is unpredictable and so it’s rare that you will have a great timing.
The only way to have a closer timing is if you book accommodation near the Mara River. You probably stay a few extra night and try to observe if you will see any herds crossing. Talk to your tour operator and thy will advise on the best timing depending on the seasons of that particular year.
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