Mara North Conservancy
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Mara North Conservancies Video Overview
Nestled within the Masai Mara, the Mara North Conservancy stands out as a world-class conservancy renowned for its abundant wildlife. It’s a prime destination for safari enthusiasts seeking an exclusive and private experience, with limited visitors allowed. Whether you’re exploring the Musiara Marshes, Rhino Crest, Heaven Plain, or Leopard Gorge, you’re guaranteed unforgettable encounters with wildlife.
Booking Your Masai North Safari with US
Embark on a memorable wildlife journey with us! Our website, Masaimarasafari.in, is operated by the Nairobi-based Ajkenyasafaris.com Ltd, the same team behind kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk. We invite you to explore the wonders of the Masai Mara National Reserve on an awe-inspiring Masai Mara safari organized by our experts. Reach out to us by phone (+254719222430 or +254748258880) or email (james@ajkenyasafaris.com) to begin planning your Masai Mara adventure. You can also contact us via:
Phone & WhatsApp: +254-748-258-880
Email: james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com
Visit our social media platforms for a glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes of the Masai Mara:
All About Mara North Conservancy
Spanning 70,000 acres on the northwestern edge of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Mara North Conservancy is a not-for-profit haven established in 2009. This remarkable conservancy is the result of a unique partnership between 13 tourism companies and approximately 900 Maasai landowners.
With a high level of exclusivity, the conservancy ensures a truly intimate safari experience, boasting only one bed per 350 acres. Member camps, such as Offbeat Mara Camp, Kicheche Mara Camp, and Mara Rianta Camp, are powered by renewable solar energy and have adopted stringent pollution and waste reduction strategies, making Mara North an eco-friendly destination.
The Story of Mara North Conservancy
Historically, the Mara North Conservancy faced challenges. During the 1980s and 1990s, the land was fragmented, hindering wildlife movement. Overgrazing by the Maasai people’s cattle further degraded the land.
However, in 2009, over 800 Maasai landowners united to establish the 320 square kilometer Mara North Conservancy. Their collaborative efforts, supported by lodges and safari operators, have revitalized the area’s wildlife and improved the future for the Maasai community.
Saving the Land and Animals
Mara North Conservancy is deeply committed to preserving its natural habitat and the diverse wildlife that calls it home. Working closely with Maasai landowners, the conservancy ensures sustainable land use and robust wildlife protection.
Beyond conservation, the conservancy supports vital community development projects, including education and healthcare initiatives, significantly benefiting the local Maasai community. This collaborative effort between tourism companies and Maasai landowners has led to a notable increase in wildlife populations and a reduction in human-wildlife conflict, solidifying Mara North as a model for conservation in East Africa.
Land and Animals in Mara North
The Mara North Conservancy is a picturesque landscape of golden grasslands and iconic flat-topped acacia trees. Thanks to conservation initiatives, it boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in the Mara ecosystem. In addition to the Big 5, the conservancy is home to over 450 bird species and numerous antelope species, creating a storybook-like setting.
The eastern region features wooded valleys and seasonal streams, known as ‘luggas,’ while the lush riverine forests provide sanctuary for elephants, baboons, giraffes, and hippos. To the west, the forested hillsides meet the crocodile-inhabited Mara River, with the Olooloo Escarpment as a stunning backdrop.
From the secretive Leopard Gorge, a haven for big cat families, to the scenic Lemek Hills, a refuge for endangered African wild dogs, the conservancy’s diverse landscape makes it a top safari destination. From December to May, the Loita Hills migration brings thousands of local wildebeest through the area.
The Great Migration in Mara North Conservancy
The Great Migration is a prime time to spot African big cats, as they hunt amidst this awe-inspiring journey of wildlife. During the dry season from July to October, the Mara North Conservancy offers excellent views of the Great Migration.
Wildebeest and zebras traverse from the Mara Triangle and the Maasai Mara National Reserve, heading north through the conservancy. For dramatic Mara River crossings, head south to the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Planning Your Visit
Tips on visiting the Mara North Conservancy:
When to Visit
The best time to visit Mara North Conservancy is during the dry season, from July to October, when the Great Migration passes through the conservancy. This period offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities as animals congregate around permanent water sources. However, the green season, from November to June, also presents a unique charm with its lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it a worthwhile time to explore the conservancy.
Getting to Mara North Conservancy
Reaching Mara North Conservancy is most convenient by air, with several domestic airlines offering flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to the conservancy’s airstrip, a journey of approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively, a road trip from Nairobi takes around 4-6 hours, depending on road conditions. For those opting to drive, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough and dusty terrain.
Places to Stay in Mara North
Mara North Conservancy hosts only twelve safari lodges, including boutique lodges and luxurious tented camps like Karen Blixen Camp, Saruni Mara, Mara Rianta Camp, Offbeat Mara Camp, and Kicheche Mara Camp. Each accommodation adheres to strict environmental standards, utilizing solar power, eco-friendly products, composting systems, and water-saving techniques. These lodges support the Maasai community by paying monthly fees that contribute to education, healthcare, and women’s entrepreneurship.
Guests can indulge in a variety of safari activities, such as off-road driving, walking safaris, bush dining, and night game drives. The exclusivity of the conservancy ensures minimal vehicle traffic during game drives. Many lodges also offer opportunities to engage with the vibrant Maasai culture.
When to Go
The Mara North Conservancy is a year-round destination, though the dry season from July to October is ideal for wildlife viewing and pleasant weather. Visiting between November and June, known as the green season, offers unpredictable weather but still abundant wildlife. Due to limited accommodations, early booking is advisable for the peak July to October period.
