Masai Mara Game Reserve
Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the best known and most popular reserves in the whole of Africa. It is Kenya's finest wildlife reserve. Everything about this reserve is outstanding. Seasoned safari travelers, travel writers, documentary makers, and researchers often admit that the Masai Mara is one of their favorite places.
The Mara comprises 200 sq miles of open plains, woodlands, and riverine forest. Contiguous with the plains of the Serengeti, the Mara is home to a breathtaking array of life. The vast grassland plains are scattered with herds of Zebra, Giraffe, Gazelle, and Topi.
The reserve's topography is mainly open savannah (grassland) with clusters of acacia trees along the southeastern area of the park. The Mara and Talek rivers grace the rolling plains of the reserve. Myriad seasonal rivers appear during the rainy season but dry out once the rains are gone.
Climate
Daytime temperatures run at 85°F (30°C) ) maximum and night temperatures can drop to around 60°F (15°C). Most rain falls between March and May and during the short rainy season in November and December. The park may be difficult to navigate at these times. Between July and October, the weather is dry, the vegetation is lush and the daytime temperatures are pleasant, making it the best time to see the park's wildlife. Hot temperatures peak between December and January while June and July are the coolest months at the park.
Getting there
By Road: It’s about 270 km from the capital Nairobi City and takes about 5-6 hours by road. The road is great for the most part. there is a section from Narok town to Sekenani Gate that is dirt road but fairly good.
By Air: You can book one of the scheduled daily flights that depart from Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. Travel time is about 45 minutes and flights land at one of the three airstrips (Keekorok, Olkiombo and Musiara) that serve the park. Flights are also available from Mombasa to Masai Mara.
