Tourists in viral Mara video were in designated area - Narok Chief Warden

Narok County Government’s Department of Tourism and Wildlife has addressed a viral video appearing to show tourists on foot obstructing a wildebeest crossing at the Purungat (South) Bridge in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

 A video shared by wildlife advocates Cheetah Guardians on Instagram on Tuesday showed visitors jumping out of safari vehicles and crowding the riverbank, leaving less than a meter between themselves and the animals.

This caused some wildebeests to go back into the crocodile-infested river. 

Chief Warden Stephen Mars clarified that the location is a designated viewing area and that the tourists were briefly out of their vehicles during a temporary bridge closure

He added that the incident occurred while vehicles were temporarily halted due to flooding and debris on the bridge.

“During this waiting period, guests alighted as is usual at this location. Unexpectedly, wildebeest gathered to cross the river,” he said. 

“The situation was immediately addressed by myself and rangers on site, who promptly instructed all visitors to return to their vehicles. This was done within a minute, which is why the circulating video is brief.”

Mars clarified that no harm came to either wildlife or visitors during the brief encounter. 

Unverified claims that guests were asked to pay money in exchange for access were also addressed. 

The Chief Warden stated that if such conduct is confirmed, disciplinary measures will be taken. 

“I have already engaged the guides who were present, and they committed to adherence to Reserve rules and to prevent a repeat of such incidents,” he said.

To prevent future incidents, the Department of Tourism and Wildlife is working with the county and national authorities to raise the Purungat Bridge above flood levels. 

“This will reduce congestion and help prevent similar situations in the future,” Mars said.

In a statement by the Ministry of Tourism on the same incident, CS Rebecca Miano said they are working closely with the Narok County Government and the Kenya Wildlife Service to strengthen oversight and ensure that regulations are strictly followed, especially at key wildlife crossing points.

Among the key actions recommended by the Ministry are strict enforcement of park rules, accountability for tour operators, enhanced visitor safety and wildlife protection, and joint oversight and awareness.

“Kenya's tourism future is anchored in our ability to protect both visitors and wildlife,” Miano said.

“We must act decisively to preserve the Maasai Mara's integrity. uphold visitor safety, and demonstrate Kenya's unwavering commitment to conservation.”