Narok, Kenya – July 16, 2025

Maasai Mara Enters World Book of Records for Hosting the Planet’s Greatest Terrestrial Wildlife Migration

In a landmark recognition of Kenya’s ecological prestige and tourism potential, the Maasai Mara National Reserve has been officially inducted into the World Book of Records for hosting the “World’s Greatest Annual Terrestrial Wildlife Migration.” The announcement was made on July 16 by World Book of Records President Santosh Shukla, who praised the reserve’s central role in the breathtaking migration of over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazellesfrom Tanzania’s Serengeti into the Mara ecosystem.

The recognition cements the Maasai Mara’s place on the global stage as not only a premier wildlife destination but also a vital conservation stronghold. It also affirms the Reserve’s contribution to one of the most extraordinary natural phenomena on Earth—an event that draws visitors, researchers, and photographers from around the world.

Narok County Governor Patrick Ole Ntuntu welcomed the honor as both a conservation triumph and a tourism milestone. “The migration is more than just a spectacle—it’s a testament to the resilience of ecosystems and the importance of transboundary conservation,” he said. He added that the Maasai Mara, established in 1961, is home to over 95 species of mammals and more than 570 species of birds, making it a biodiversity treasure.

A formal certificate ceremony will be held at the Reserve to mark the achievement. Governor Ntuntu also announced continued investment in roads, security, and tourism infrastructure, reaffirming the county’s commitment to maintaining the Mara as a world-class destination and a critical engine for Kenya’s tourism economy.

The World Book of Records honor comes at a time when Kenya is intensifying efforts to align tourism development with sustainability goals, emphasizing community participation, conservation, and cultural heritage. Stakeholders hope the international spotlight will drive renewed global interest and responsible visitation to one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.