31/07/2026
Over tourism is a genuine issue in parts of the Maasai (Times Travel, note the correct spelling!) Mara, and sadly it seems to define the entire ecosystem especially at this time of year. The private conservancies which surround the northern borders of the national reserve have shown that low volume, high value tourism can deliver incredible wildlife experiences while significantly reducing pressure on animals and habitats. Its the same ecosystem, just different access, rules and principles.
Just as importantly, yes! Choose where you stay. We base our photographic safaris at one of very few Maasai owned camps which is built on sustainable conservation, environmental and community principles. This means so much more of the income generated stays in the local community, supports conservation, local employment, healthcare and water projects and it helps protect the very landscape you've come to experience. That's a world away from profits flowing to large international hotel chains. The United Nations recently reported a massive proportion of tourist generated money leaves places like Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia etc when it should be reinvested into communities and conservation.
Responsible tourism isn't about avoiding the Maasai Mara. It's about making informed choices that benefit wildlife, local people and the future of the ecosystem. Places like the Maasai Mara, Serengeti etc etc, need tourism income but it needs to be ethical and sustainable.
With growing concerns about overtourism and animal welfare in the Masai Mara, Chris Haslam tracks down the safari camps away from the crowds
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