Tourism and wildlife
Wildebeest Migration breaks the record of all-time first batch of migration with a staggering 3.5 million wildebeest this season, surpassing the usual 1.5 million.
Speaking to the media, during development tour in Trans Mara Sub County which also covers Maasai Mara game Park, Governor Patrick Ntutu expressed astonishment at the unprecedented surge of wildebeest migrating to the Maasai Mara this season.
“We have never witnessed such a high number of wildebeest in migration. This season is truly exceptional,” Ntutu said. Governor Ntutu emphasized that the Maasai Mara Game Reserve is renowned worldwide, often cited as one of the best parks globally.
“It is no surprise that the Maasai Mara is recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World,” Ntutu noted, highlighting the park’s significance and unique allure. Addressing concerns about the recent hike in entry fees, Governor Ntutu defended the decision by the Narok County Government.
“Despite the increase in entry fees from $70 to $200 per person during the high tourist season, the Maasai Mara continues to attract visitors in full capacity. This indicates the value and unparalleled experience the park offers,” Ntutu explained. Governor Ntutu further elaborated on the necessity of the fee adjustment, pointing out that maintaining the park is costly.
“The maintenance of the Maasai Mara, including the development of roads, conservation and ensuring the well-being of surrounding communities’ benefits. The increased fees will ensure that the park remains in top condition and continues to offer an exceptional experience to all visitors,” Governor Ntutu added.
Governor Ntutu also mentioned that the raised fees would contribute to conservation efforts and ensuring the community benefits through development projects. “Part of the revenue generated from the increased gate fees will be reinvested into conservation initiatives and improving the livelihoods of the local communities,” he said.
Photo taken while Wildebeest grouping themselves from Serengeti side ready to cross sand river.
However, the record-breaking wildebeest migration and the ongoing popularity of the Maasai Mara suggest that the park’s allure remains strong in the region. Governor Ntutu has encouraged tourists to continue visiting the Maasai Mara and witness the extraordinary spectacle of the wildebeest migration.
“We welcome everyone to come and experience the wonder of the Maasai Mara,” Ntutu said. Speaking on the phone to KNA, renowned Maasai Mara game park tour guide Johnson Pingua Nkukuu narrated the factors contributing to the high numbers of wildebeest this season.
Nkukuu explained that controlled burning by the county government and favorable rainfall patterns played significant roles.
“Compared to Tanzania’s Serengeti Park, where they regularly perform controlled burning, which has consistently boosted wildebeest numbers, the Kenyan side had not implemented this practice until this season. The controlled burning, combined with the recent rainfall, might have contributed to the increased numbers of wildebeest we are seeing now,” Nkukuu stated.
Nkukuu said other factors that might have contributed to the success is reduction and relation of predators in the main crossing areas on the sand river just at the onset of the migration. As the season progresses, the Maasai Mara Game Reserve is set to continue captivating the world with its natural wonders, drawing visitors eager to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the wildebeest migration and the rich biodiversity of the park.