The Magic of the
Masai Mara
The Magic of the
Masai
Mara
Experience the mystical beauty of Africa
Wide-open plains provide a sanctuary for a plethora of wildlife, sprinkled with acacia trees, the Masai Mara is a renowned destination in East Africa.
The abundance of wildlife and the incredible landscapes lends itself to the perfect classical safari experience. Encounter large herds of zebra, elephants, buffalo, and plains game as well as predators and for three months of the year, the great migration passes through the Mara, a sight to behold.
To experience Africa in all its grandeur is an adventure that will change your life forever. And witnessing the great migration crossing the Mara River is a spectacle that you will never forget. The sights sound and smell that you will experience is a reflection of nature in its purest most brutal form.
Thousands upon thousands of wildebeest make this journey every year. The life of a wildebeest is a constant search for food and water and this need drives them to travel vast distances in search of what sustains them. They arrive at the Mara river, with an innate fear of water, yet their instinct drives them forward. The Mara River is not only deep and wide but filled with crocodiles that lie in wait as the wildebeest gather on the river’s edge.
Not only do they need to contend with the predators in the water but also those on land that have stalked them for days. Vultures and Marabou storks wait on the sidelines for their share. They run the gauntlet and many are lost but those who survive continue their heroic journey.
Although the migration is a highlight on anyone’s bucket list, we encourage you to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Go beyond the game drive and take a glimpse into the daily life of a noble tribe that live their life as close to tradition as modern life allows.
The word “Mara” means dotted or spotted in the Maa language spoken by the Maasai of Kenya. An ancient semi-nomadic tribe that have settled in Kenya and Northern Tanzania, the Maasai are self-proclaimed naturalists who, notwithstanding living alongside the wildlife of Kenya, have an aversion to eating game and are pastoralists at heart.
Although still living a semi-nomadic lifestyle, the Masaai tribe have modernized in some ways. Spend some time in a village, hear their stories, and take part in some of their daily rituals. Browsing through their craft center you may be drawn to purchase a memento or two to help you remember this incredible group of people. This culture is recognized worldwide for their colorful clothing, beautiful dancing, and fierce pride that they have in their land and nation.
Image courtesy of &Beyond Bateleur Camp
“There is something about safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne — bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive.”
Karen Blixen
Image courtesy of &Beyond Bateleur Camp
The Masai Mara National Park covers around 370 000 acres and shares unfenced borders with a number of private conservancies. One of these private conservancies is andBeyond’s Bateleur Camp. With only two camps comprising of 9 tented suites each, and personal viewing decks overlooking the vast game-filled plains of the Masai Mara, the Bateleur camp offers intimate luxury and exclusivity.
Not only is the Masai Mara synonymous with game viewing, but an array of activities are available to you including:
- Great Migration
- Safari Drives
- Bush Walks
- Cultural Interaction
- Hot Air Ballooning
Nestled below the Great Rift escarpment, the camp is a luxurious & elegant tented camp reminiscent of bygone days.
If you are wanting to indulge in a theatre performance that will leave you speechless, then the great migration is the performance for you. And our “Best of East Africa” journey may be exactly what you are looking for. This journey will have you run the gamut of emotions and will leave a lasting impression on you. A journey that memories are made of.
Image courtesy of &Beyond Bateleur Camp
Join our next scheduled journey
MASAI MARA / NGORONGORO CRATER / SERENGETI
An epic journey combining the rugged beauty of East Africa with the greatest show on earth, the great migration. This journey has been planned to the finest detail and will be escorted by experienced and knowledgeable Premier Africa hosts.
