The Mara River is one of the most visited water courses in the East African region second only to the Nile River. And what makes it most visited is the Wildebeest migration that happens on this river all year round. This watercourse flows from Kenya, all the way to Tanzania. The river that is approximately 395 kilometers originates from the Mau Escarpment in Kenya and flows down to Tanzania with a number of tributaries like the Talek and Sand rivers.
On its journey the river transverses through the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya through to the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania; as it makes a critical migration corridor for wildebeests, zebras, and other wildlife.
The river supports a unique riparian ecosystem that has lush vegetation and aquatic life. The river is home to over 30 species of fish mainly Nile tilapia and African catfish and is also home to over 500 bird species.
Though it is a food source for some wild creatures, the Mara River is threatened by water pollution mainly from agricultural runoff and a number of human settlements and activities. Things like habitat destruction, agricultural expansion, urbanization and other human activities are threatening the quality of the riparian ecosystem.
The Mara River going through the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania makes it a home for a wide range of animals that you can spot feeding or going on with their own life as you visit either parks.
Other animals you hope to spot along this river will include the Hippopotamuses and Crocodiles that usually prey on the migrating animals; Elephants and buffaloes hydrating from the river. Giraffes, Antelopes, Gazelles, Wildebeest, zebras, Impalas etc; usually during the migration season. Other animals like the Lions, Cheetahs and hyenas can be spotted along the river.
As stated the river is also home to several birds, the include but not limited to:- African fish eagle, lappet-faced vulture, Marabou stork, giant kingfisher and others that can be always spotted along the river.
The River mara is open to visitors all year round, but you can only visit it on your safari to either Masaai Mara Game reserve or Serengeti National Park. So when you book your safari to either one of the two parks make sure to include a tour of the mara river.
Visitors to this river, on top of enjoying the wild beauty of the river also get to enjoy and experience the rich cultural and spiritual significance of this river. Though it also comes with a number of myths, like the people from the ancient days say that the Mara River is cursed, and anyone who disturbs its peace will have bad out comes, so you have to be behave yourself when touring the river.
The Maasai people believe the river is inhabited by a spirit that protects the river. They say the river is a symbol of life and fertility that’s why it feeds the unique riparian ecosystem.
The locals also see the wildebeest migration across the Mara River as supernatural as many believe the wildebeests are pulled to the river by a supernatural force. Hence the river crossing is a test of strength and courage for the wildebeests; and only the bravest of all will make it to the other side.
Well, there are a number of beliefs about this river; that’s why you shouldn’t be shocked when you visit the river and you find locals worshiping and doing rituals; it’s rare to find them, but in case you do just be respectful. The Maasai people go to this river to worship their ancestors and to receive healing.
