5 Ways To Get Around The Maasai Mara In Kenya

The Maasai Mara is the world’s most famous safari reserve. It can be found in Kenya and is a sublime place to see some of the world’s most endangered and beautiful animals, all in their natural habitat. The Mara is perhaps best known for the number of Lions that are in the reserve, and the annual Wildebeest migration.

Of course the indigenous Maasai people are full of character and tradition, making this location the top in Africa.

Maasai Mara In Kenya
Image by Ken Zaremba

If you are planning a safari and you want to know how to get around the reserves, then there are a number of different means of transports. Some offer something a little different, and you may not have considered this form of transport previously.

Game Drives – These are perhaps the best known safaris, where you drive around the reserve in a 4×4 with an open top. These are perfect for getting up close with the animals and getting some amazing photos and videos. Drivers should be familiar with the area to maximise your time out in the reserve. It is easy to see why this is the most popular way of getting around the Mara.

Walking Safaris – Walking safaris involve an adventurous trek around the habitat and you get to see some of the animals right up close and personally. Most camps will offer a walking safari and you will be guided around the tracks on set routes to ensure safety. It’s the best way to experience the Maasai people and culture.

Walking safaris really help you get back to nature and find yourself spiritually among the great animals.

Maasai Mara In Kenya - Lions safari
Image by jeannine

Balloon Safaris – Hot air balloons are for small groups looking for an unforgettable or romantic experience. They roughly last for an hour and take you right over the reserve, so you get to see some of the wildlife with a great view. Enjoy your balloon trip with a glass of champagne.

Horse riding safaris – There are specialist tour operators who will guide you around the reserve on horseback. These excursions usually take a few days but being on an animal gives your safari a unique feel. This is a great alternative to being in a truck, and it only suggested for people who know how to ride a horse, just to make things a bit easier. The last thing you want to worry about is falling off a horse.

Scenic flights – If you can afford to, you can charter a small plane and fly over the reserves to experience a birds-eye view of the reserve. Don’t forget these reserves are extremely big, so a flight is the most complete way to see activity over the whole plain, and the best way to make the most of your time there.

Steve the author of the “5 Ways to get around the Maasai Mara in Kenya” is a travel writer from Africa, specialising in Kenya holidays and trips to the Maasai Mara.