Mara North Conservancy Tours & Safaris

Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy is a renowned wildlife conservancy located in the heart of the Maasai Mara ecosystem, Kenya. This vast and picturesque conservation area spans over 74,000 acres and borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve, making it an essential part of the greater Mara ecosystem. The conservancy is community-owned and managed, ensuring sustainable tourism while preserving the region’s rich biodiversity. It is known for offering a more exclusive safari experience compared to the more crowded Maasai Mara National Reserve, providing visitors with a tranquil environment to witness wildlife in their natural habitat.

The conservancy is a sanctuary for some of the most diverse species in East Africa, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhinoceros), along with a plethora of other wildlife. It is also a key area during the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle cross the Mara River.

Wildlife

Mara North Conservancy is teeming with diverse wildlife, making it a prime destination for safari lovers. Here’s a list of the major wildlife you may encounter:

• Big Five: Lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros.
• Cheetahs: Known for their speed, cheetahs are frequently spotted here.
• Wild Dogs: Rarely found in other areas, but Mara North is home to wild dog packs.
• Hippos and Crocodiles: Especially in the rivers during the dry season.
• Antelope Species: Including Thomson’s gazelles, impalas, and topis.
• Giraffes: Particularly the Maasai giraffe, often seen browsing the acacia trees.
• Zebras: These are common and are an important part of the Great Migration.
• Warthogs, Hyenas, and Jackals: Frequent denizens of the conservancy.

Birds

The conservancy is an avian paradise, home to over 500 species of birds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Here are some notable bird species found in the Mara North Conservancy:

• Vultures: Including white-backed, Rüppell’s, and lappet-faced vultures.
• Secretary Bird: A striking bird of prey often seen in the grasslands.
• African Fish Eagle: Commonly found near water bodies.
• Lilac-Breasted Roller: Known for its vibrant plumage and acrobatic flight.
• Wattled Lapwing: Frequently spotted in the wetlands and along the rivers.
• Marabou Stork: A scavenger commonly seen near carcasses.

Best Time To Visit

The Mara North Conservancy offers year-round safari opportunities, but the ideal times for visiting depend on what you wish to see:

• July to October: The peak of the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores flood the area, followed by predators hunting along the Mara River.
• December to March: A good time for general wildlife viewing, with fewer tourists compared to the high season, and the weather is typically warm and dry.
• November to June: For those looking for fewer crowds, this is a quieter period, though occasional rains can make some areas more challenging to traverse.

Weather & Climate

The climate in Mara North Conservancy is typically warm and temperate, with two distinct seasons:

• Dry Season (June to October): The weather is mostly dry, with warm temperatures during the day and cooler evenings. This is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
• Rainy Season (November to May): Rainfall is more frequent, with the short rains from November to December and the long rains from March to May. While the landscape turns lush and green, some areas can become difficult to navigate.

The average daytime temperature is between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F).

How To Get There

Mara North Conservancy is accessible both by road and air.

• By Road: The conservancy is about a 5-6 hour drive from Nairobi, covering a distance of roughly 240 kilometers. The road trip takes visitors through scenic landscapes and local Maasai villages.
• By Air: The quickest option is to take a flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to one of the airstrips within the conservancy. Several airlines, such as Safarilink, offer scheduled flights to Mara North Airstrip. From there, it’s a short transfer to the lodges or camps.

Health & Safety

• Vaccinations: It is recommended to have vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A & B. Malaria prophylaxis is also advised due to the prevalence of malaria in the region.

• Health Facilities: There are basic health services available in the area, but it is advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation in case of emergencies.

• Safety Tips:
  • Always stay within the boundaries of your camp or lodge unless accompanied by a guide.
  • Avoid walking outside after dark without a guide.
  • Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
  • Follow the advice of local guides regarding safety, especially when near large animals.

FAQs

• Is Mara North Conservancy safe to visit? Yes, Mara North Conservancy is generally considered safe for tourists. However, always follow the safety guidelines provided by your guides and camp staff.

• What is the Great Migration, and can I witness it in Mara North? The Great Migration is the seasonal movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara. The conservancy is located in a prime position to view this natural spectacle, especially around July to October.

• What is the cost of a safari in Mara North Conservancy? Costs vary depending on the type of accommodation, length of stay, and the time of year. However, expect rates to be higher during peak migration periods.

• Can I do a night safari in Mara North Conservancy? Yes, night safaris are allowed in the conservancy, providing a unique opportunity to see nocturnal animals like hyenas, leopards, and owls.

• Are there eco-friendly accommodations in Mara North? Many lodges and camps in the conservancy are committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. These include solar energy usage, waste management, and supporting local communities.

• What are the lodging options? Mara North Conservancy offers a wide range of accommodations, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and eco-friendly campsites. Popular options include Mara Plains Camp, Mara Toto Camp, and the Angama Mara.

Visiting the Mara North Conservancy offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while contributing to conservation and community development. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it promises an exceptional safari experience.