The Mara Triangle, part of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, is nestled in the southwestern part of the Maasai Mara. This 510 square kilometer area is managed by the Mara Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation and sustainable tourism.
Wildlife and Attractions
The Mara Triangle is home to the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos). The area is particularly famous for its high concentration of predators, especially lions and cheetahs, often seen hunting on the open plains. Visitors also have the chance to spot hyenas, jackals, and the elusive serval cat.
One of the most spectacular events in the Mara Triangle is the Great Migration. Every year, from July to October, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River from the Serengeti in Tanzania into the Maasai Mara. This dramatic river crossing, often fraught with peril as crocodiles and other predators lie in wait, is a sight to behold and draws wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe.
Bird watchers will also find the Mara Triangle a paradise, with over 500 bird species recorded, including ostriches, secretary birds, and a variety of raptors like the African fish eagle and the bateleur eagle.
Differences with the Main Maasai Mara Reserve
While the Mara Triangle is part of the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem, it offers a distinct experience compared to the rest of the reserve. Managed separately by the Mara Conservancy, the Triangle is known for its more stringent anti-poaching measures and well-maintained roads, resulting in a higher quality of wildlife viewing and conservation efforts.
The Mara Triangle tends to be less crowded than the main Maasai Mara National Reserve, providing a more exclusive and intimate safari experience. The limited number of lodges and camps within the Triangle also contribute to this feeling of exclusivity.
Getting There
Reaching the Mara Triangle is relatively straightforward, with several transport options available. The primary mode of transport to this remote corner of Kenya is by air. Daily flights operated by local airlines like SafariLink and Air Kenya connect Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Mara Serena Airstrip, located within the Mara Triangle. The flight takes about 45 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the Kenyan landscape.
Alternatively, travelers can opt for a road trip from Nairobi, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. While the journey is longer, it provides an opportunity to see more of Kenya’s diverse countryside. We arrange both modes of transport for our safari clients. Contact us for a guided safari.
Conclusion
The Mara Triangle is a jewel within the Maasai Mara National Reserve, offering a unique blend of rich wildlife, conservation excellence, and a more intimate safari experience. Whether you are witnessing the Great Migration or marveling at the bird life, a visit to the Mara Triangle promises unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime.
