Western Mara
The roads in the Mara can be quite tricky, especially after rain and we found a few damp spots near the rivers. Camping is possible at each Park gate and we were heading for the Ololuo Gate, which is the most western.
Although the density of animals was not quite the same as further south, and the majority of migrating animals were in the eastern half of the park, there was still a wide variety in the west. As we drove to the park gate we spotted a serval, a sleek, small cat with a beautifully distinctive coat. A very shy animal, as soon as the camera was brought to bear, it disappeared into the long grasses.
Camping at the gate was not as we had imagined. The gate house was a new structure, manned by park staff and the camping was literally on the grass beside the building. The toilet facilities were welcome, but the endless passing safari traffic was somewhat irritating. We felt was much photographed as the park animals!
As we transited back through the park, to exit towards Narok, we saw a hunting cheetah. It was quite a sight, but sadly the chase was always just over the hillcrest, preventing quality viewing or photographs. We were able to watch for a while, but the safari hordes descended on the animal like vultures, causing her disturbance, so she called off her chase.
