Masai Mara National Park

Located in the Narok region of Kenya, Maasai Mara National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike. Spanning an area of over 1,500 square kilometers, this vast national park is contiguous with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and boasts a rich and fascinating history.Named in honor of the Maasai people who have inhabited the area for centuries, Maasai Mara is known as “The Mara” to the locals. The Maasai people aptly described the park as “spotted” due to the many short bushy trees that dot the landscape, hence the name “Mara.”Maasai Mara is renowned for its exceptional populations of African bush elephant, lion, leopard, and cheetah. It is also home to the Great Migration, which involves millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Maasai Mara in search of fresh pastures. The Great Migration has secured Maasai Mara’s place as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and one of the ten Wonders of the World.The Greater Mara ecosystem comprises the Maasai Mara National Reserve, the Mara Triangle, and several Maasai Conservancies, including Koiyaki, Lemek, Ol Chorro Oirowua, Mara North, Olkinyei, Siana, Maji Moto, Naikara, Ol Derkesi, Kerinkani, Oloirien, and Kimintet. The Maasai Mara National Reserve was established in 1961 as a wildlife sanctuary and has since been extended to cover over 1,500 square kilometers.The park’s history is fascinating, and it dates back to when the Maasai people were forced to move out of their native lands. Before the establishment of the park, the Maasai relied on the land to sustain their cattle, as well as themselves and their families. Today, modern-day Maasai people still hold on to their traditions and are known for their tall stature, patterned shukas, and beadwork.In conclusion, Maasai Mara National Park is a must-visit destination in East and Central Africa. It boasts exceptional wildlife populations, breathtaking scenery, and a fascinating history. With its conservation efforts, the park ensures that future generations will get to experience its natural wonders and cultural significance.