A viral video showing tourists seemingly obstructing the world-famous wildebeest migration across the Mara River has sparked outrage and global concern, prompting swift action from the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.
The footage, which has circulated widely on social media, depicts a group of tourists alighting from their vehicles at the flooded Purungat Gate in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, appearing to stand in the way of the migrating herds.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, in a statement on Thursday, August 21, confirmed that the Narok County Government had authenticated the incident.
According to the Chief Warden, the tourists had stepped out of their vehicles to wait for floodwaters to subside at the gate, a designated rest area where visitors are occasionally permitted to alight under the supervision of armed guards.
However, Miano stressed that while context was important, the images had raised serious conservation concerns. “The Ministry remains deeply concerned by the images, given the global sensitivity surrounding conservation and the Maasai Mara’s critical role in Kenya’s international reputation,” she noted.
The County Government further clarified that the episode lasted less than a minute, and rangers quickly ordered the tourists back into their vehicles.
Allegations that guides accepted a $20 bribe to allow the tourists to step out remain unverified, though investigations are ongoing.
In response, CS Miano issued four key recommendations. These include stricter enforcement of park rules, ensuring tourists remain in vehicles except at designated points; holding rogue tour guides and operators accountable; enhancing ranger presence at sensitive migration sites; and running awareness campaigns to educate visitors.
The Ministry also pledged to collaborate with the Narok County Government on harmonising visitor management, erecting clearer signage, and strengthening conservation standards.
