Masai Mara Conservancies - Discover the Unique Wildlife Areas

Exploring the Greater Masai Mara

The Greater Masai Mara is an incredible place where wildlife and culture coexist. Once, the Maasai people lived harmoniously with the land and its animals, only hunting lions during important rites of passage. However, with the arrival of European hunters, things began to change drastically. The booming hunting safaris led to the near extinction of local wildlife, and by 1961, only nine lions remained in the Mara. It wasn’t until the Masai Mara National Reserve was established that these conservation efforts began to restore the ecosystem. Today, the Greater Masai Mara stands as one of the world’s top safari destinations.

Struggles in Paradise

While the Masai Mara has thrived under conservation efforts, the Maasai people living nearby have faced challenges. As modern-day safaris gained popularity, the Maasai way of life was threatened. They could no longer graze their cattle within the reserve, and this, combined with increased predator attacks on livestock, made life difficult for local communities. In response, Maasai leaders came together to form wildlife conservancies to the north of the Masai Mara National Reserve, ensuring a balance between preserving nature and sustaining their community.

How the Masai Mara Conservancies Work

The creation of conservancies has dramatically changed the landscape for the Maasai. In these conservancies, land previously used for grazing cattle is now preserved for wildlife. Maasai landowners lease their land to safari companies, who pay both a monthly fee and a daily fee for each tourist that visits. These funds are then reinvested into the Maasai community, often supporting education and development projects. Because there are no fences between conservancies, animals roam freely, and in some areas, the wildlife concentration is even greater than in the Masai Mara National Reserve itself.

An Exclusive Safari Experience

Staying in a conservancy offers a unique and more exclusive safari experience. These areas limit the number of visitors, ensuring a less crowded environment. You’ll find yourself in a tranquil setting, with the vast plains stretching around you and wildlife at every turn. Unlike the busy reserve, conservancies have few lodges and maintain strict visitor limits. This ensures a more peaceful, intimate safari where you’re not stuck in a jeep traffic jam.

Activities in the Conservancies

In addition to traditional safari experiences, conservancies offer extra activities such as bush walks, bush meals, cultural exchanges with the Maasai people, and night game drives. These activities are not available within the Masai Mara National Reserve itself, making the conservancies even more appealing. Some conservancies even allow day trips into the Masai Mara National Reserve, which is especially essential if you’re visiting during the Great Migration.

Key Conservancy Areas in the Masai Mara

Each conservancy in the Masai Mara offers something unique, with distinct landscapes and wildlife experiences. Here’s a glimpse of what you can explore:

Masai Mara National Reserve

As one of the world’s most famous safari destinations, the Masai Mara National Reserve is home to iconic wildlife and dramatic landscapes. From the thrilling Mara River crossings during the Great Migration to the playful monkeys of Musiara Marsh, this reserve has it all. However, be aware that during peak seasons, some parts of the reserve can become crowded, which may affect your safari experience.

Mara Triangle

Nestled between the Serengeti and the Mara River, the Mara Triangle offers some of the most breathtaking views in the reserve. Known for its stunning volcanic hills and riverine forests, this area has the highest concentration of lions and cheetahs. If you’re looking for spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, this is the place to be.

Mara North Conservancy

The Mara North Conservancy is a private and exclusive area with a limited number of visitors at any given time. It boasts diverse landscapes, from woodlands to expansive plains, and is home to the Big Five, as well as other incredible wildlife. One of its hidden gems is Leopard Gorge, known for its big cat maternity wards. The lesser-known wildebeest migration at Loita Hills is also a must-see.

Mara Naboisho Conservancy

A collaborative effort by over 500 Maasai families, the Mara Naboisho Conservancy is an exemplary model of teamwork in conservation. With only seven camps, the conservancy offers an intimate experience, where you’ll find an abundance of big cats, wildebeests, giraffes, and elephants. This area is rich in wildlife and a great place to immerse yourself in the Maasai culture.

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

Famed for its high concentration of lions, Olare Motorogi Conservancy is an idyllic location for safari enthusiasts. Despite its popularity with big cats, the conservancy maintains low tourist numbers. Apart from lions, it is also home to numerous raptors and other predators. The presence of luxurious safari lodges, including one owned by Sir Richard Branson, adds to its allure.

Ol Kinyei Conservancy

Ol Kinyei Conservancy is known for its wide-open plains and rolling hills, providing a perfect setting for bush walks and cultural immersion with the Maasai. Bird watchers will be especially delighted, as the area boasts over 300 bird species. In addition to the birds, you’ll find lions, leopards, buffalo, and giraffes roaming the land.

Olderkesi Wildlife Conservancy

For those seeking solitude and a more exclusive safari experience, the Olderkesi Wildlife Conservancy is a hidden gem. Located in the most remote part of the Mara, it has just one camp, with only twenty rooms available. This area is known for its large populations of elephants and big cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Lemek Conservancy

Although small in size, Lemek Conservancy offers a peaceful experience with off-road safaris, walking tours, bush meals, and night drives. While migrating herds are rarer in this area, you’ll still encounter plenty of game, especially during the quieter months when wildlife is more concentrated.

Ol Choro Oiroua Conservancy

Ol Choro Oiroua is one of the more remote conservancies, offering only three accommodations. Here, you’ll find large stretches of open plains, riverine forests, and permanent wildlife residents. While migratory animals are not as common in this area, it remains an excellent spot to observe permanent residents like elephants, buffalo, and predators.