The Mara River
The Mara River, a vital component of the Serengeti and Masai Mara conservation ecosystems, is a unique waterway that flows through Narok County in southern Kenya within the Masai Mara National Reserve and extends into the Mara region in northern Tanzania. It is also known as the ‘river of death’ due to its role in the annual wildebeest migration. Originating from the Kenyan highlands, it traverses the Masai National Reserve to the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.
The Mara River, spanning about 395 kilometers and covering an area of 13504 square kilometers, ultimately flows into the Masai Mara National Reserve and extends into the Mara region in northern Tanzania. It is also tagged as a river of death and plays a significant role in wildlife migration. This river flows from the Kenyan highlands through the Masai National Reserve to the northern part of Tanzania, the Serengeti National Park. The Mara River is about 395 kilometers long and has a base cover of about 13504 square kilometers. The Mara River drains into Lake Victoria.
This river plays a significant role in the wildebeest migration, which occurs annually in the Serengeti and Masai Mara national reserves. Almost 2 million wildlife cross this river in search of new pastures. Wildlife in this area includes wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles. To experience this river, you should check with tour operators for the potential migration dates. This event of the wildebeest migration usually occurs from June to September.
What wildlife is found around the River?
On safaris to the Mara River, you’ll encounter a rich variety of wildlife, with crocodiles and hippos being the most popular. The area is also home to rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and many other species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
What activities do you do on safaris to the Mara River?
There are several activities that you can engage in while on the safaris to the Mara river, and some of these include;
Game drive
Game drives are one of the key activities that you can engage in during your visit to the River. Around this River, you can encounter diverse wildlife during safaris. While on safaris around the river, several wildlife species are seen, including lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, wildebeest, rhinos, zebras, and impalas. Game drives around the Mara River are usually done in the morning and late afternoon, when the wildlife is more active.
Walking safaris
Experience walking safaris that lead you to encounters along the River. A ranger guide accompanies you to ensure your safety throughout the safari. It takes you to encounter several flora and fauna.
Balloon safaris
Balloon safaris offer a luxurious experience. They allow you to explore the Mara region from the sky. This activity lasts approximately one hour and provides stunning aerial views of the river and surrounding wildlife.
Masai community tours
The Masai community visits immerse you in the unique lifestyle of the Masai. This is a well-known indigenous community within the Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park. During your visit to these communities, you will participate in various activities such as cultural dances, cattle rearing, bead making, traditional clothing, folk songs, and much more.
How can I get to the Mara River?
One of the most common questions when planning a safari is how to reach the river, which can be accessed from Kenya and Tanzania. In Tanzania, the river can be reached through the Serengeti National Park. You can travel by road or air via the Serengeti to access it. For air travel, domestic chartered flights from Arusha connect to various airstrips in the Serengeti, such as Seronera Airstrip. If you prefer road transport, it involves a long drive from Arusha to Serengeti National Park, taking around 8 hours to reach the river.
While in Kenya, you can also utilize road and air transport to visit the River. You can drive from Nairobi to the river for road travel, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. Air transport can be arranged from Wilson International Airport to multiple airstrips in the reserve. This flight takes about 45 minutes and serves various airstrips, including Ol Kiombo, Angama Mara, Musiara, Keekorok, Kichwa Tembo, and others.
Accommodation near the Mara River?
Various accommodation options are available during safaris to the Mara River, ranging from budget to luxury. These include Mara River Camp, Soroi Mara Camp, Rekero Camp, and Mara Explore Camp.
What is the best time to visit the Mara River?
The Mara River can be visited year-round, but the ideal time is from June to September, coinciding with the wildlife migration. During this time, various wildlife can be observed.
