Private Cars Banned At Maasai Mara, Only 3 Types Of Cars Allowed
Previously the park allowed members of the public to embark on game drives in the parks using their vehicles
Marvin Chege 
The Narok County Government has banned private cars from accessing the iconic Maasai Mara National Game Reserve.
As per a memo issued by Chief Park Administrator, Alex Nabaala dated Monday, June 3, when the directive takes effect, only driving through the game reserve using the specified means will going forward, be banned, adding that only three types of vehicles will be allowed in the major tourist attraction.
“In line with the implementation of the Maasai Mara Management Plan, we have banned the usage of private vehicles for game drives.
"The vehicles that will be used for game drives are only the safari trucks, safari land cruisers and safari vans. Kindly adhere to this strictly,” the document reads.
Tourists using a private vehicle during a safari. /FILE
The directive is expected to take effect immediately as announced by the Chief Administrator.
Previously the park allowed members of the public to embark on game drives in the parks using their vehicles, especially 4-wheel drives that could navigate the bumpy terrain, in the company of a guide.
All cars are expected to stick to the established vehicle tracks to avoid interfering with the ecosystem and also endangering their lives.
However, often rangers have had to crack down on vehicles that ventured off the tracks or over-ambitious safari enthusiasts who dare drive close to the animals.
This decision to ban private vehicles from safaris has sparked both excitement and controversy among wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
While some applaud the measure as a step towards preserving the delicate ecosystem, others raise concerns about the impact on self-drive safaris and the unique experiences they offer.
The decision by the Narok County Government to ban private vehicles within the reserve aims to address the growing concerns over environmental degradation and wildlife disturbance. By limiting access to designated safari vehicles, the authorities hope to minimise the negative impact of human presence on the delicate ecosystem.
Maasai Mara National Reserve is an area of preserved savannah wilderness in southwestern Kenya, along the Tanzanian border.
It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Its animals include lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras and hippos.
Every year, it plays host to the famous Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the vast plains in search of greener pastures, a Wonder of the World that attracts thousands of tourists every year, eager to witness nature's grandeur up close.
The landscape has grassy plains and rolling hills and is crossed by the Mara and Talek rivers. The area nearby is dotted with villages (enkangs) of Maasai people.
