The Mara Triangle is one of the conservancies in the Masai Mara National Reserve. The Reserve is one of the best places to view wildlife and game in Kenya. It hosts close to 100 animal species and well over 500 bird species.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is located in southwestern Kenya, spreading across 1,510 square kilometres. Besides wildlife, you also get an abundance of endless plains and stunning views.

The mara triangle is one of the most exciting parts of the Reserve. It is under the management of a non-profit organisation known as the Mara Conservancy. The Masai locals founded the Mara Conservancy on behalf of the Trans-Mara County Council to strengthen anti-poaching programmes in the area.

Sadly, the many species that live in the Masai Mara are under constant threat of poaching for meat and other valuables. But you can learn more about the mara triangle and how you can help with anti-poaching efforts below.

Where Is The Mara Triangle?

The Mara Triangle is located in the western part of the Mara River. It is next to the Oloololo escarpment and spreads to 500 square kilometres. The triangle is one of the most popular ecosystems of the Mara-Serengeti. It has scenic landscapes plus nutritious grass for grazers.

The Mara Triangle is open grassland, with a few Balanite trees distributed across the flat grassy area. Because it is next to an escarpment and river, the area attracts both predators and prey. It is easy to catch a hunt in the area, which is why photographers love the triangle.

Who Manages The Mara Triangle?

The Mara Conservancy manages the Mara Triangle. The conservancy is locally owned and run by the Maasai community and other partners. It was established in 1994 but continually faced poaching and other issues before more leaders joined.

Since the establishment of the Mara Conservancy, the triangle has noted multiple improvements. The past 15 years have recorded more than 4,000 poachers arrested for illegal game meat hunting.

The conservancy has also partnered with Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) to help fight against poaching in the conjoining Serengeti. Mara Conservancy has also partnered with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) for technological enhancements such as thermal imaging cameras to help with night raids.

Still, the conservancy does not work without challenges. Revenue is the primary obstacle since the conservancy heavily relies on park fees for any work. The park fees are also distributed to the county government and Kenya Airports Parking Services (KAPS).

What Is So Special About The Mara Triangle?

You may be wondering why the Mara Triangle needs so much protection. Well, this physical location is one of the best places to visit for a front-row seat of the Great Migration. The Great Migration is a unique event that sees thousands of animals crossing the Mara River from July to October.

Thousands of zebras, gazelles and over a million wildebeests make this crossing, risking drowning and predatory impact from crocodiles to reach food and water sources each year. It is a breathtaking sight that attracts thousands globally.

Additionally, the Mara triangle has a hot air balloon trip site. Here, visitors can pay an extra cost to go on a hot air balloon trip to the Mara. It is a fantastic experience that is best enjoyed in the sunrise. You will see the landscapes turn golden and spot wildlife from a new perspective.

Besides this, you can stop at the Mara river for a picnic lunch after an adventurous game drive. It will let you enjoy lunch with a lovely view of the scenic river, plus various species interactions.

Can I Visit The Mara Triangle?

There are two permanent lodges in the Mara Triangle, plus several camps. The accommodation fills up quickly, especially between July and October, during the migration. Therefore, you need to book your stay as early as possible.

But you can also visit during other seasons, such as from November to June. This is the green season, and it comes with an excellent chance for viewing wildlife. The weather is a little harsher, but it is less crowded, so you will still have a good time. Just carry more layers and waterproof items for your visit.

Also see Safaris from Nairobi, Amboseli National Park