Horseback riding safaris in Maasai Mara National Reserve: Maasai Mara National Reserve is situated in Southwestern Kenya and close to the Tanzanian border. The park covers an area of about 1510 square kilometers. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is home to over 95 species of mammals and 570 birds. Between June to November, the Maasai Mara houses over 1.5 million wildebeest, Zebras and Thompson gazelle in arguably the largest animal migration on earth. The animals follow the rains from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to the Maasai National Park and back covering an area of about 1,800 miles. The Reserve is also home to Big Five iconic animals such as lions, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos and elephants as well as a dwell for over 500 bird species such as ducks, egrets, geese, herons, ostriches, hornbills, pelicans, spoonbills and storks among others.
One of the most exciting and thrilling activities to do at Maasai Mara National Reserve is horseback riding. horseback riding safari offers a different perspective and a more intimate way of connecting with the natural beauty of this iconic park. Maasai Mara National Reserve is known for its vast savannah, rolling hills, and diverse ecosystems that are home to a variety of animals including the Big Five animals, colorful birds, and stunning vegetation. Embarking on a horseback riding safari, visitors have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close and in their natural habitats, without the constraints of a vehicle.
This particular activity is arranged in the conservancies and not within the main Reserve itself. Participants are taken deep into the Mara on the back of a horse to view antelopes, leopards, wildebeest, hartebeests, giraffes, elephants, leopards and lions. It is the most ecological way to tour the reserve without emitting sounds and fumes. This particular activity is led by park Rangers, owners of the conservancies, or local Maasai Guides. Riding through the grasslands and open plains on horseback also allows visitors to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the African wilderness in a way that is impossible from a vehicle. The gentle rhythm of the horse’s hooves and the fresh breeze on your face create a sense of freedom and adventure unlike any other.
One of the highlights of a horseback riding safari in Maasai Mara is the chance to witness the annual Great Migration when millions of wildebeest, zebras and other herbivores cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures. Riding alongside this natural spectacle on horseback is a truly exhilarating and awe-inspiring experience. In addition to the thrill of encountering wildlife up close, a horseback riding safari in Maasai Mara aos offers the opportunity to explore areas of the park that are inaccessible by vehicle. riders can navigate through dense vegetation, cross rivers, and clam hills to reach the hidden viewpoints, offering a truly immersive and adventurous experience.
What to wear when going on a horseback riding safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve
When going on a horseback riding tour at Maasai Mara National Reserve, it is important to wear comfortable and appreciative Clothing, here are some of the recommendations for what to wear;
- Long pants; wear comfortable, close-fitting pants to prevent chafing the saddles. jeans or riding tight are a good option.
- Closed-toed shoes or boots; opt for sturdy shoes or boats with a small heel to help keep your feet sure in the stirrups
- Helmet; safety should always be a priority when horseback riding, so wearing a riding helmet is highly recommended.
- Lightweight, breathable top; choose a breathable top such as a t-shirt or moisture-wicking shirt, to help keep you cool and comfortable while riding
- Sun protection; don’t forget to wear sunscreen sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Gloves; consider wearing a riding glove to protect your hands and improve your grip on the reins
- Insect repellent; Maasai Mara National Reserve is known for its abundant wildlife, so be sure to bring insect repellent to ward off any pesky bugs.
Best time to go on horseback riding tour in Maasai Mara National Park
The best time to go on a horseback riding safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve is during the dry seasons, which generally occur between July to October and also December to February. July to October is when the great migration reaches the Mara while December to February is the best time to see the big cats in action. If you wish to have a more private safari and avoid the crowds, you should visit when the migration is beginning or about to end. If you are not interested in the great migration but only want to see the Big 5 in one place, then you should plan to visit in the low season. The big 5 mammals do not migrate and it is a mistake to think the Mara is only worth visiting during the migration period. It is important to note that weather conditions can vary, so it is recommended to check with tour operators like we at East Africa Tours for the most- update information before planning your trip.
Other activities in Maasai Mara National Reserve
Besides a horseback riding safari, there are other interesting activities to do in Maasai Mara National Reserve that you can engage while in a Kenya safari in Maasai mara national park such as bird watching where you will be fascinated with a variety of colorful bird species such as ostriches, abdim’s stork, southern ground hornbill, white-backed vulture, saddle-billed stork, African fish eagle, schalow’s turaco, rufous-billed heron, lappet-faced vulture, grey-headed kingfisher, African wood owl, African jacana, white thick-knee, woolly-necked stroke, gull-billed tern lilac-breasted roller among others. Game drives where you will be granted astonishing views of the different animals including the Great Migration wildebeest, Big Five African animals, Kobs, giraffes, zebras, and elands among others. Hot air balloon where you can have the chance to observe the cats on their hunts while in the sky of the park with a rewardable aerial view and great photographic opportunity. guided nature walks where you will have the chance to explore the hidden game in the park on foot among other thrilling activities.
Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about a horseback riding safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Focus East Africa Tours who offer the best tour packages while you are in the country.
