The Great Wildebeest Migration
Central Highlands & Rift Valley, Kenya
South Western Kenya is the heartland of the Masai. Wildlife moves freely in and out of the reserve, and through neighbouring Masai lands. Outside the boundaries of the reserve there are many other small camps and lodges, some of which offer walking, horse riding and other safari options.
The Masai are a strongly independent people who still value tradition and ritual as an integral part of their everyday lives. They regard themselves not just as residents of this area but that they are as much a part of the life of the land as the land is part of their lives.
Background
Traditionally, the Masai rarely hunt and living alongside wildlife in harmony is an important part of their beliefs. Lions and wildebeest play as important a role in their cultural beliefs as their own herds of cattle. This unique co-existence of man and wildlife makes this Masai land one of the world’s most unique wilderness regions.
At the heart of these lands is the Masai Mara Game Reserve, widely considered to be Africa’s greatest wildlife reserve. The Mara comprises 200 sq miles of open plains, woodlands and riverine forest. The vast grassland plains are scattered with herds of zebra, giraffe, gazelle, and topi. The Acacia forests abound with Birdlife and Monkeys. Elephants and buffalo wallow in the wide Musiara Swamp. The Mara and Talek rivers are brimming with hippos and crocodiles.
Relaxing
The Mara is probably the best serviced of all Kenyan Parks and Reserves with a wide range of accommodation for any budget. For the adventurous diner, a visit or stay among a Masai community will allow them to try traditional Masai cuisine. Masai delicacies include sour milk, and on special occasions, fresh blood taken either from a live cow or freshly slaughtered animal.