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There has always been a debate between Mara meaning ‘Expansive Land’ and ‘Spotted Land’.  Both are true. The Masai Mara is a huge mass of land, approximated at 1510 Square Kilometers.  The Masai Mara also looks like a stretched piece of furry skin. The endless rolls of grassland dotted with trees and shrubs are an awe-striking sight.

The Masai Mara borders the Serengeti National Park of Tanzania.

It is no wonder, for years, The Masai Mara has been the best safari destination in Africa. Come Travel Kenya is currently offering amazing packages for Masai Mara Safaris, in 2024. In addition to that, Come Travel Kenya has gone a notch higher to give you more than 10 mind-blowing facts about the Masai Mara, that will get you packing.

Here is why you should be booking a flight to Kenya, then to Masai Mara already:

The Masai Mara has the Most Picturesque Landscapes

There is nothing like it in the whole world. The endless acres of grassland, disappearing into the horizon gives the Masai Mara a unique landscape. It is dotted with shrubs and acacia trees. The Mara is surrounded by hills that spill into cliffs. The Oloololo Escarpment is the perfect topping on the landscape.

The Masai Mara is a place that is full of inspiration. A photographer, an artist, a writer, an environmentalist, someone who is bored by the monotony of the city – everyone will find inspiration in Masai Mara. The whole of it has magical topography.

Come for amazing photography in the Masai Mara in 2024.

The Masai Mara is home to over 90 animal species

You read that right. The Masai Mara is full of animal species. During the Migration, people normally notice the large herbivores crossing and they miss out on the small ones. Amongst the thousands of wildebeests, you will not miss hundreds of deer.  The various species of zebras live here. Tens of cat species are in the Mara. Jackals, various types of squirrels, name them.

You will be intrigued by how these species coexist. Choose a tour operator that will give you time to go deep into the Masai Mara, and dissect it to your satisfaction. Come Travel Kenya is one of those.

The Great Migration

By now you already know that The Great Migration of the Masai Mara is recorded amongst the wonders of the world. It is indeed a sight to behold.

It is a struggle to get to the other side, a raw spill of adrenaline all over the place. If you have not witnessed ‘survival is for the fittest’ in its natural element, start booking a Safari from July through November.

2024 is the year you get to witness these wonders of the world. Come Travel Kenya will help you catch it all.

The Masai Mara is a Bubbling Pot of Cultural Experience

Interacting with the community and the people when touring adds flavour to a vacation. The Maasai Community is not only rich in culture but is a hospitable one.

The Music of the Maasai people is serene, and rhythmical and though you may not understand what they are saying, you will feel it flow in your soul.

The popular jumps are a sight to behold. The colourful draping’s of the Maasai Suka is one of Africa’s top Fashion exposes.

You have not tasted the Maasai Traditional grilled meat yet. The barbeque is normally soaked in herbs and incarnations, washed down by cultural drinks. Now you know the secret behind the high jumping…

The Maasai are predominantly semi-nomadic. Some still live in their make-shift Manyattas. An experience of a night in the Manyatta could be all you need to complete your adventure.

Masai Mara – Home of The Big Five

Whenever people plan a Safari to in Masai Mara, the greatest motivation has always been sighting the big five.

Did you know that there are over 900 lions in the Masai Mara at the moment? Imagine the thrill of coming across not just one pride, but several prides as you take your game drive. Thrilling, right?

In the Mara we also have large herds of African Elephants, The mighty Buffaloes, leopards and a good number of Rhinos.

Come and wake up to the roar of the lions, catch leopards hunting, gaze at the majesty of the rhinos and breath in the steam from the raging buffaloes. It is an experience of a kind.

The Government is deliberate about conservation in the Masai Mara

This is the whole point of responsible tourism. The Community around the Masai Mara has seen to it that poaching and logging do not happen in the Masai Mara.

There are several conservancies within The Mara, privately owned and run by the County Government of Narok. As a country, we know the importance of conserving the environment and keeping our heritage for future generations.

When you take up a Safari in the Masai Mara, you are guaranteed to be directly or indirectly involved in the conservancy programs. You can always ask to be a part of – Come Travel Kenya is ready to guide and help.

Best Accommodation and Safari Lodges in East Africa are found in the Maasai Mara

There is a whole variety of lodges and camping sites in the Maasai Mara. It all ranges from luxury to classy lodges. Depending on your pocket size and desire, Come Travel Kenya liaises with all sorts of accommodation services for you.

In the Mara, there are Luxury tents as well. You can camp in style and class. The hospitality services are handled by trained staff who are stellar in their work.

The tour guides and rangers in the Masai Mara are always on call and your safety while in the wild is a guarantee.

What are your thoughts on starry nights and waking up to a spectacular view of bathing elephants?

The Masai Mara is Easily Accessible.

Did you know you could fly to the Masai Mara from Mombasa or Nairobi? From Mombasa, on a clear day, it is 1 hour 45 minutes flights and from Nairobi, it is only 45 minutes.

If you love burning rubber and seeing sceneries on a road trip, then you got yourself a 7-hour drive of tire and beauty.

There are several gates at various points and you can always have your tour agent guide you on the easiest one.

The entry rates are also very pocket-friendly. You don’t have to worry about this if you have an erudite travel agency like Come Travel Kenya by your side.

The roads inside the Masai Mara are also well-maintained. Drives in the wild are not so hectic and are very accessible.

You will enjoy several safari activities in the Masai Mara

Did you know you can have an air balloon safari in across the Masai Mara?  Yes, you can glide across the Mara in an air balloon with your family or friends.

Besides the hot air balloon, many travel agencies provide vehicles for safaris. Come Travel Kenya is particular about the efficiency of the vehicles and the additional thrill of doing it big. You can have a group safari or alone one.

You can also enjoy bike rides, treks and small drives. There are amazing picnic spots in various places in the park and campsites. Bonfires are normally so epic.

The Masai Mara Safari is always loaded with fun activities; you may want more days. Come prepared for extreme adventure.

There are a variety of quiet activities as well

Bird watching is for instance one of those quiet activities. The Masai Mara is endowed with over 400 bird species. Would you like to challenge yourself to spot at least 200 species in 3 days?

Apart from birdwatching, going on a soft nature walk, and sitting in a silent clearing for a picnic among others are common activities in Masai Mara.

You could be looking for a thrill and adrenaline explosion, or a quiet holiday for inspiration. Maybe you just want to catch a breath from the hectic life and the chaos of city life. Do you want to find your lost self and maybe catch an epiphany of life? Or rekindle love? You could be looking for a way to give back to mankind or participate in conservation.

A trip, vacation, and several days in the Masai Mara is what you need. Come Travel Kenya is here to make all these happen for you.

Will you contact us for a Masai Mara Safari in 2024?

The post Here Are 10 Mind-Blowing Facts You Should Know About The Masai Mara. first appeared on Come Travel Kenya.

The post Here Are 10 Mind-Blowing Facts You Should Know About The Masai Mara. appeared first on Come Travel Kenya.

For this reason, Come Travel Kenya has decided to serve you slices of details on what you should be coming to see, in Kenya, on your next extreme adventure vacation.

The “Big Five” emerge as the resplendent stars of the African savanna, casting their enchanting spell on all who venture into their realm. The African elephant, the noble lion, the elusive leopard, the mighty buffalo, and the regal rhinoceros; are each a majestic note in the symphony of Kenya’s wildlife symposium.

Join us as we journey through the untamed heart of Kenya to witness these awe-inspiring creatures in their natural rhapsody.

African Elephant (Loxodonta Africana and Loxodonta Cylotis):

In Kenya’s vast grassy canvas, the African elephant stands as a colossal masterpiece. These sentient giants amble gracefully across the plains of Amboseli National Park, their ivory tusks whispering tales of age-old wisdom. A moment spent in their presence is a profound encounter with the soul of the savanna.

African elephants are not categorized into different species based on geographical location; instead, they are classified into two subspecies: The African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) and the African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana).

Both of these subspecies can be found in various parts of Kenya, primarily within national parks and wildlife reserves. Here’s where you can typically find these elephants in Kenya: The Amboseli, Tsavo, Kerio Valley, Maasai Mara and other animal orphanages in Kenya.

Did you know you can adopt an Elephant in Kenya? Come Travel Kenya will load you with that information. Join Come Travel Kenya on an anti-poaching campaign by doing so.

African Lion (Panthera leo):

The first time I heard a lion roar, my belly danced with a strange feeling. The depth of the roar, the majesty and the splendour of the lion itself, as it bellowed, is unforgettable. This is something you may want to experience.

Imagine being awakened by the roar of an African Lion, while sleeping in a tent, camping in the Tsavo National Game Park. It is simply epic. You probably have heard of the Tale of the Tsavo Man-eaters… the Maneless white lions.

The African lion, crowned sovereign of the wild kingdom, reigns supreme in Maasai Mara National Reserve. With their noble mane and thunderous roars, these regal beasts command the stage. Witnessing a lion pride on the prowl is akin to glimpsing the poetry of nature’s royalty, a saga of strength and resilience.

African Leopard (Panthera pardus):

My favourite poem is ‘A Leopard Lives in a Moo Tree’ by Jonathan Kariara, one of Kenya’s renowned poet. It is a masterpiece, describing exactly what the leopard depicst, hiding in shadows, waiting to maul an unsuspecting victim. You should find as you plan a Safari to see this majestic cat.

The Kenyan leopard (Panthera pardus), a subspecies of the African leopard, is a creature of enigmatic beauty and awe-inspiring grace. Its presence in the wilds of Kenya paints a picture of nature’s exquisite artistry, blending stealth, power, and elegance in a mesmerizing tapestry.

In the realm of shadows and secrets, the African leopard dons the cloak of enigma. Amongst the emerald alcoves of Aberdare National Park, these spotted phantoms reveal their elusive grace. Their stealthy dance, concealed in the dappled moonlight, is a ballet of beguilement and beauty.

The thought of an encounter with the leopard on a night safari, could be what an adrenaline junkie like you needs urgently. Come Travel Kenya got you covered.

African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer):

Buffaloes are my first love, my spirit animals. Looking into the storm in the eyes of a raging buffalo is a sight to behold. You can never forget such an encounter with this beast.

The African buffalo, a symbol of tenacity, forms a living tapestry on the canvas of Nairobi National Park. These indomitable herds paint a portrait of unity and fortitude. As they graze in unison, they evoke a mural of communal strength, a testament to the undying spirit of the savanna.

African Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis and Ceratotherium simum):

Nairobi National Park, the park in the heart of a city, would be your first stop if you are looking forward to seeing this grandness. Rhinoceros are huge in a spellbinding way.

In Kenya’s sanctuaries of hope, the African rhinoceros stands as a sentinel of resilience.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy guard these horned sentinels from the abyss of poaching. Gazing upon their armoured forms is an ode to the guardians of a fragile future, a solemn vow to protect their legacy.

A journey through Kenya’s wilderness is an odyssey through the pages of life itself. Beyond the Big Five, Kenya’s story unfolds with a menagerie of graceful giraffes, swift cheetahs, zebras in their striped elegance, and the haunting calls of myriad bird species. Your next experience is just a phone call away. Call Come Travel Kenya and let us arrange your Big Five Safari.

The post The Enigmatic Big Five in Kenya’s Wildlife Safari Fiesta first appeared on Come Travel Kenya.

The post The Enigmatic Big Five in Kenya’s Wildlife Safari Fiesta appeared first on Come Travel Kenya.

Kenya prides itself in having the largest population of Lions in Eastern Africa. As it is at the moment, the population has increased by a whopping 25% since 2010. This is a result of deliberate efforts to conserve, breed and expand the population by the government and the communities around savannas.

Here is how Kenya has managed to beat Lion extinction.

Conservation Efforts and Protected Areas

Kenya has established National Parks and Wildlife Reserves where lions are protected from poaching and habitat loss. Actually, Kenya has over 50 Parks and Conservancies. If you have only been to Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, it’s time to explore the remaining 47. Won’t that be an extreme Safari?  These protected areas provide safe spaces for lions to thrive. Come Travel Kenya will organize an extreme lion Safari, during the day or night and you can see prides hunting.

Community-Based Conservation

Did you know the Maasai Moran has to kill a lion on his own to be declared a real man after circumcision? This was a reason behind the decrease of the lion population in the past but not anymore. Lion hunting and killing for cultural purposes and sport is currently illegal in Kenya. Instead, involving local communities in lion conservation is crucial.

Community-based conservation initiatives have included incentives for local people to protect lions and their habitats. These, involve programs that provide benefits to communities in exchange for supporting lion conservation efforts.

Anti-Poaching Measures

Poaching is a significant threat to lions due to the illegal trade of their body parts. Kenyan authorities have been working to strengthen anti-poaching measures, including increasing patrols, using technology like cameras and drones for surveillance, and implementing stricter law enforcement. The lion gear worn by elders as a sign of bravery has been replaced with other ornaments. The cultures stay strong, only without poaching. Come Travel Kenya will show you around when you visit.

Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation

As human populations expand and encroach on lion habitats, conflicts can arise due to livestock predation. Implementing methods to reduce conflicts, such as improved livestock husbandry practices, building predator-proof enclosures for livestock, and providing compensation for livestock losses, has helped foster better coexistence between lions and local communities. If you are a nature enthusiast, Kenya provides you with an opportunity to exercise your passion by participating in educating communities about the importance of peaceful coexistence with the wild.

What do you think? Should Come Travel Kenya engage you?

Translocation and Reintroduction

In some cases, lions that are at risk due to habitat fragmentation or conflict may be translocated to other suitable areas. Reintroduction programs carefully select release sites and monitor the lions’ adaptation to their new environment. There are also breeding parks and genetic improvement techniques. Come do your research in Kenya and be a part of these programs.

Research and Monitoring:

Ongoing research and monitoring of lion populations help conservationists understand their behavior, movements, and health. This information is critical for making informed decisions about conservation strategies. Kenya often collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international conservation groups to implement effective strategies for lion conservation. These organizations bring in expertise, funding, and resources to support local efforts. Strong legal frameworks and policies related to wildlife conservation and anti-poaching are essential for protecting lions and their habitats. Kenya’s government works to enforce laws that safeguard wildlife.

You can be a part of these through tourism and safaris with a goal to conserve and increase the lion population. Come Travel Kenya is here to aid you.

The post Visit the Home of Lions: How Kenya has Increased the Lion Population by 25%. first appeared on Come Travel Kenya.

The post Visit the Home of Lions: How Kenya has Increased the Lion Population by 25%. appeared first on Come Travel Kenya.

There is this common joke that is told among people about eradication of creatures. It is said that when all flying creatures are eradicated, the world will come to a stand still. When all crawling and walking creatures are eradicated, the world will come to an end. But if humans are eradicated from the face of earth, earth will thrive! All creatures, plants and physical features will flourish!

There is a sad reality in the joke. With the conversation headed towards climate change and nature conservation, it is clear that man is not only a danger to themselves but also to the rest of nature. Conserving the little good that is still left and changing what is damaged for the better should be everyone’s goal at this point. Here are some reasons why you should visit at least a sanctuary in Kenya if not all of them.

• Contribution towards nature conservancy

When you visit an animal Sanctuary, the monies paid are used to make the sanctuary better and more habitable for the animals and the endangered plants species. You will be indirectly fascillitating more research on these species and supporting breeding that will lead to their existence now and in future. You sure want your children to find a White Rhino and gaze at it’s majestic presence, don’t you?

• Natural health benefits

Everyone wants to live long, stay healthy and be fulfilled. Knowing that you have contributed towards the saving of some species is fulfilling. On the other hand, filling your lungs with fresh air, in an eco-friendly environment. Fresh air heals what doctors might be unable to deal with.

• Mental health

You envy the monks right? Their peaceful minds and rested spirits are something to admire. They achieve this through meditation and embracing serenity that nature provides. Visiting an animal sanctuary for a few days will heal your mind, calm your spi

• Interaction with rare animals

Kenya is the home of some of the almost extinct animals and birds. At the sanctuary you have a better chance of assured seeing and interacting unlike in a park where you need to search for some. The animals are also bred and researched on. There is a lot to learn especially for a nature enthusiast.

• Be a part of a great history

A time will come when the effort to conserve the little that there is will pay off. The next generation will appreciate the current one for saving some for them. You want to be a part of their team that writes history.

• It’s fun

The whole Sanctuary visiting and nature trails is totally fun! It is relaxing and wholly therapeutic. Start packing your sneakerd for a walk into the wild or book a safari for a drive or camping!

10 Life-Changing Things to do in an animal Sanctuary

1. Take a nature walk and enjoy the freshness of the ecosystem. Moss smells so good.
2. Go on a group hike
3. Go on a safari drive
4. Watch birds
5. Professional photography
6. Shoot clips for TikTok and YouTube
7. Set camp with family and friends
8. Go on a romantic picnic
9. Take time off to meditate and enjoy serenity.
10. Interact with endangered species of animals and plants, learn about them.

Here are some of the best nature sanctuaries in Kenya.

17 Best Animal Sanctuaries in Kenya.

1. Reteti Elephant Sanctuary

When elephants die as a result of poaching or drought, they leave baby elephants orphaned. You can adopt an elephant here. You can buy milk for an elephant as well. And you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Samburu, leave alone interacting with amazing people with a beautiful culture. I put this at number one because… it is my dream to have my own baby elephant too.

2. Kisumu Impala Sanctuary

This is a slice of heaven on the shores of lake Victoria. The beautiful nature trail, breeze from the lake, the peace and quiet, the thrill of waves, sunsets, Impalas, monkeys… name it. When visiting Kisumu City, Impala Sanctuary should be on top of your itinerary list.

3. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

The Grevy Zebra is highly endangered and there are only a few thousands left in the whole wild. 90 percent of these are in Kenya. 12 percent are in Lewa. Lewa is an animal sanctuary in Meru County on the slopes of Mount Kenya. It is a home of selected endangered species besides the Zebra. Breeding is done here as well.

4. Langata Giraffe Center

You wouldn’t imagine there is a slice of quiet in the busy city that is always on the whirl for 24 hours. Langata Giraffe Center is that quiet, serene place. Just go kiss a giraffe and dine with some if you are vegan!

5. David Sheldrick Wildlife Center

This is a privately owned animal sanctuary as well. Adopting an elephant is my favorite bit here. You can adopt one and they take care of it for you.

6. Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Let’s go on a picnic! This is a Romantic place to be! It is the home of the white rhino and a breeding ground for the endangered species but besides the science of breeding, Ol Pejeta is a piece of heaven. It’s lash, has a perfect climate and the environment is amazingly attractive. Love feels different here.

7. Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy

The beautiful private sanctuary is situated in Laikipia County. It is a home of the big five with a pristine surrounding, a mild touch of the wild, serenity and marvelous scenarios. Small groups can enjoy hikes, bush walks and photography here.

8. Lake Elementaita Conservancy

This is a historical site. The archeology here goes way back to over 7000 years. This is just one of the reasons for you to visit Lake Elementaita among many others. It is a home of flamingos, a picturesque environment, great for family tours. Children, especially curious teenagers will love it here.

9. Lake Simbi Nyaima Conservancy

Lake Simbi is a mythological lake, with a unique beautiful scent. It is on the shores of lake Victoria and the story behind it’s formation is interesting. You want to hear it from the locals as you enjoy watching birds, flamingos included, and listening to the sweet Benga melodies. It is a newly set up place thus the serenity and less population if you are not a crowds person. Solitude lovers will enjoy being here.

10. Bour- Algi Giraffe Center

Imagine giraffes in a desert! You heard it right. This is a community sanctuary in Garissa County. It is the home of pretty large acacia trees as well. The ambience and a chance to feed the giraffes is something you don’t want to miss. Besides, it’s a potential place for you to practice animal kindness by supporting the community in making the sanctuary a better place for the giraffes.

11. Taita Hills

This is a privately owned animal sanctuary and has been in existence since 1972. It is a well established home of endangered small wild animals and special birds. It is in Taita Taveta, about 360 Km from Nairobi and it is situated along Tsavo West. If you prefer your wild fenced and controlled, you can get a Tsavo experience here only if it will be within a smaller radius.

12. Tana River Primate National Reserve

Your day should not have any other activity when you visit this home of primates. There are a dozen endangered primates, ranging from the beautiful red colobus to the rare bird life. The birds in the remains of the West African Forest are beyond description. Ever seen the white winged Apalis? You get to see here . You need to be here to know exactly what it feels like. This place is a suggested refugium area for climate change. Be a part of the conversation.

13. Lumo Community Conservancy

Lumo is an acronym for the two communities in Mwatate, near Taita Taveta that formed the conservancy. The villagers and well wishers help in keeping the animals, birds and trees safe in this area. Remember being a part of a history in nature conserving and doing good by the earth, here is an open opportunity. They accept donations and contributions towards making Lumo better. Lumo can be described as a peek into the mighty Tsavo.

14. Shimba Hills

This is famously known as the paradise of sable antelope. It is the second largest park with the highest number of Elephants. The beautiful Sable Antelopes are conserved here alongside other wild animals. It is a beautiful place for a day or two. The events here are endless ranging from camping, nature trails, safari drive, bird watching, photography among others.

15. Haller Park

Located in Bamburi in the coastal region of Kenya. This is a wonderful place to visit. You get to watch birds, enjoy the serenity, see the conserved wildlife, feed the animals and set camps. Since it is closer to Mombasa City, it is a place you can slot in your itenerary for a Mombasa tour.

16. Nguuni Nature Sanctuary

Nguuni is a few Kilometers from Haller Park. It is an amazing nature trail, a home of over 500 bird species and several wild animals. The highlight here is the nature trail. It is a perfect place for a private getaway for a couple or an individual.

17. Ngomongo Villages

This is a bonus for nature lovers. These eco-cultural villages are in Mombasa, built in the corals. The purest form of ecosystem is found here. The green is superb and the serenity is beyond this world.

REFERENCES

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Wildlife_sanctuaries_of_Kenya

http://www.kws.go.ke/sanctuaries

https://stavica.com/list-of-all-animal-sanctuaries-to-visit-in-kenya/

The post 17 Best Animal Sanctuaries In Kenya first appeared on Come Travel Kenya.

The post 17 Best Animal Sanctuaries In Kenya appeared first on Come Travel Kenya.