Big Game, Migration & More
Nestled on the eastern edge of Kenya’s iconic Maasai Mara ecosystem, Lemek Conservancy is fast becoming a premier destination for travelers seeking an authentic and intimate safari experience. Unlike the busy central Maasai Mara reserve, Lemek offers pristine wilderness, fewer crowds, and exceptional wildlife encounters – all set against the backdrop of community-led conservation.
At Mattikoko, we’re lucky enough to be based in the heart of Lemek. This means we’re surrounded by wildlife – and so will you if you come and pay us a visit. Below are the wildlife encounters you can expect during game drives, or just while relaxing at camp.
Images by Alan Hewitt and Kaleel Zibe
1. Witness the Big Cats in Their Element
Lemek Conservancy boasts healthy populations of Kenya’s iconic big cats: lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The open savannah and wooded areas provide perfect hunting grounds for these predators.
- Lions: In Lemek, it’s common to see prides lounging in the shade or stalking prey. Because of fewer tourists, sightings feel more private and genuine.
- Leopards: Known for their elusive nature, leopards are spotted more frequently here due to the vast, less disturbed territory.
- Cheetahs: With open plains, Lemek offers excellent opportunities to watch these incredible sprinters chase down gazelles at breathtaking speeds.
Find out more about our location in Lemek Conservancy
2. Encounter Elephants in Tranquil Surroundings
Lemek Conservancy is home to a robust population of African elephants who roam freely across its diverse landscapes. Unlike more congested areas, elephants in Lemek often appear more relaxed and natural.
Enjoy watching these gentle giants engage in social behaviors such as family bonding, mud wallowing, and feeding on acacia trees. Early morning or late afternoon game drives offer prime viewing opportunities.
3. Marvel at the Great Migration Crossings
While the central Maasai Mara is famous for the Great Migration, Lemek Conservancy serves as a critical corridor for migrating herds moving between the Serengeti and Mara. From July to October, witness wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles pass through this conservancy as part of their epic journey.
The migration crossings here are less crowded, giving travelers a more exclusive and raw wildlife experience. This is your chance to observe dramatic river crossings and predator-prey interactions without the large safari crowds.
4. Spot Rare and Diverse Birdlife
For bird enthusiasts, Lemek Conservancy is a hidden gem. It hosts over 450 bird species, including both resident and migratory birds. Look out for:
- Vultures and eagles soaring overhead, often circling above predator kills.
- Lilac-breasted rollers, hornbills, and bee-eaters adding bursts of color to the landscape.
- Secretive species in riverine forests that are rarely seen in the central reserve.
Birdwatching here offers a peaceful and enriching complement to the big game safari.
5. Observe Unique Grazers and Herbivores
Apart from the iconic species, Lemek Conservancy supports a variety of grazers and browsers that thrive in its expansive grasslands and riverine habitats.
- Giraffes browse gracefully on tall trees.
- Impala, Grant’s gazelles, and Thompson’s gazelles move in herds, offering dynamic scenes of wildlife interaction.
- Buffalo herds provide impressive spectacles with their sheer size and social structures.
These encounters paint a fuller picture of the Mara’s rich ecosystem and offer diverse photographic opportunities.
Why Choose Lemek Conservancy Over Central Reserve Camps?
- Fewer Crowds: Lemek offers a quieter, more exclusive safari experience away from the busier central Maasai Mara.
- Community-Led Conservation: Your visit supports Maasai landowners and conservation efforts, ensuring sustainability.
- Unspoiled Wilderness: The conservancy’s commitment to preserving natural habitats means wildlife encounters are often more authentic and undisturbed.
- Diverse Safari Activities: From walking safaris to night drives (where permitted), Lemek provides a wider variety of ways to experience the bush.