Everything about Masai Mara, Africa's famous national park where Ranbir Kapoor proposed to Alia Bhatt

Time of India

5 days ago

Ever wondered what was so special about Masai Mara that Ranbir Kapoor proposed to Alia Bhatt here? Well, Masai Mara is the soul of Africa, where golden sands are in contrast to the vast blue skies, creating a magical spectacle.
It's a paradise for wildlife lovers and also happens to be Alia Bhatt's fav destination.
Let's explore more about the place:
Location
Masai Mara is located in the southern part of Kenya along the Great Rift Valley area. It is some 224 km from the capital, Nairobi, and borders the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Both of these parks are part of the world's oldest ecosystem. This national reserve is located in a semi-arid area and is surrounded by Acacia trees.
History of the land
It is also the only reserve that is directly managed by the Masai tribe, unlike the other reserves and national parks that are managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service. The place got its name in honour of the Maa people who occupy the land on which the reserve is present. This reserve in Kenya is one of the premium protected areas in the whole of Africa.
In 1961, it was established as a wildlife sanctuary; then, in 1974, it was declared a national reserve; and in 1976, more land was added to it.
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The Maa people described the land as 'Mara' in their local language, which means 'spotted' when seen from afar.
A wildlife paradise
This reserve offers shelter to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and black rhinos. You can easily spot the Big Five here, as this place has an ideal climate throughout most of the year. You can also spot the Big Nine African animals, along with 400 bird species ,most of them are migratory birds and one can also see 60 species of raptors here.
Home to the Big Five
This is one of the world's premier locations to spot Africa's king of the jungle, the lion. This species will definitely leave you awestruck with its strength, speed, and reputation. The African elephant can also be easily spotted here but has been threatened by poachers for its ivory tusks. In Mara, the population of elephants has grown over the years.
There's a great population of the majestic leopards here too, but they are not as easy to spot and are listed as vulnerable due to their loss of habitat and human encroachment.
You can go on the Masai Mara safari to spot these animals. The Cape buffalo and black or white rhino are also part of the Big Five. Whether it be white or black rhino, they are difficult to spot during the safari. The Cape buffalo is one of the most dangerous animals, and they are mostly found in herds of 100 or more.
The Great Migration
The biggest mammal trek in the world, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebra, 12,000 eland, and 300,000 Grant's and Thomson's gazelles trek from Serengeti to Masai Mara.
This sight is like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity ,everyone should witness it once in their life. It is considered that they start their trek in July and August and start arriving in Masai Mara around the same time, and around October, they start to leave.
But nature does not live according to our timetable, so it's difficult to predict when you'll be able to witness it.
They are basically trekking in search of greener, mineral-rich pastures and water.
These herds are not safe from predatory animals, as while crossing the Mara River, crocodiles are waiting for them in the water, and in Masai Mara, these herds are threatened by the big cats as well.
Masai Mara offers the best African safari experience with a wide variety of animals, like the Big Five or the migratory species that come into Masai Mara during the Great Migration. You can also get involved in authentic cultural activities with the Maasai people.
This is the perfect spot for all the wildlife lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and a romantic getaway for lovers- you might not know, but you might be the next one getting proposed to on this beautiful land!
(Image Credits: Canva)