Masai Mara, KENYA
Airing Date: Feb 12th, 2002
And if you time your visit well, you may also be lucky enough to witness one of the greatest natural spectacles on Earth - the 3000km wildebeest migration. During the months from July to October 1.5 million of these creatures set out on their journey from the Serengeti to the Mara.
The Masai Mara Reserve is about five hours from Nairobi, Kenya. You can join a two-day guided safari with the United Touring Company where you will see the fastest cat in the world, the Cheetah, which can get up to speeds of 110km/h. You may even bump into some buffalo. These fellas can weigh up to 850 kilos and have been known to tip over a Land Rover when they get a little upset.
The other locals are the Masai people. They have a reputation as fierce warriors but usually spend their days grazing cattle on the plains. You'll get to see their mud village, made by the women with cow dung and clay, and spend a couple of hours with them. While you're there you can experience the traditional lion dance, which symbolises the warrior killing the lion. There are also souvenirs and handicrafts to take home.
Once the day is complete you head to the Keekorok Lodge in the Masai Mara Reserve where there is a buffet to satisfy any animal. And after dinner you can head to the Kiboko Bar for a drink while overlooking the resident hippos lounging in the river.
The facts
South African Airways fly to Nairobi via Johannesburg. Prices start from $2474 from the east coast and $2267 from Perth
South African Airways
Tel: 1800 221 699 or 1800 099 281
The United Touring Company run two-day safari packages to the Masai Mara. Prices start from $820 per person twin share, which includes two nights at Keekorok Lodge, game drives and all meals.
African Wildlife Safaris
Tel: 1300 363 302
