The development of appropriate and
conservation-compatible visitor attractions in the HUZ and MRZ has
the potential to enhance the MMNR visitor experience by increasing
the diversity of the tourism product, providing opportunities for
increasing visitor understanding and appreciation of the
exceptional resources the Reserve contains, and, in many cases,
providing a much-needed opportunity for visitors to spend time out
of their vehicles. In addition, the development of such attractions
will complement efforts to reduce overcrowding in the Reserve by
providing a complementary activity to wildlife viewing, and also
has the potential to encourage visitation of currently
underutilised parts of the Reserve. As discussed above, at present
there are a small number of picnic sites established in the Mara
Triangle, and other sites that have developed more informally on
the CCN side of the Reserve. In light of their popularity and the
benefits described above, under this action new attractions will be
developed within the High Use and Mara River Zones to complement
these existing attractions. This will include the development of
resting areas and toilet facilities on the CCN side of the Mara
River Bridge, which will be complemented by the development of a
permanent viewing platform at the already popular hippo pool in
this area, and the possible development of a short walking trail
along the river (which will require a ranger escort, as has been
initiated and proved popular along the Mbagathi River in Nairobi
National Park). In addition, a number of new picnic sites will be
developed in both zones, including several along the Mara River and
in the CCN section of the High Use Zone, as will other attractions
identified by area managers, in consultation with relevant tourism
stakeholders, during the implementation period of this
plan.
