NAIROBI, Kenya – The Maasai Mara National Reserve has responded to public uproar over a viral video showing tourists apparently blocking wildebeests during a river crossing, forcing the animals back into crocodile-infested waters.
In a statement, Chief Warden Stephen Ole Minis clarified that the incident occurred at Purungat (South) Bridge—a designated rest and viewing area where guests are permitted to alight from safari vehicles under the escort of armed rangers.
The site, he said, is equipped with sanitary facilities and also serves as a hippo viewing point.
On the day in question, the warden explained, the bridge was flooded and vehicles were waiting for water levels to subside when wildebeests suddenly began crossing.
“During this waiting period, guests alighted as is usual at this location. 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,” Minis said.
No harm to wildlife
The warden stressed that no animals were injured during the incident and that such conduct is not condoned within the Reserve.
“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 added.
He also dismissed claims that tourists had been asked to pay bribes to access the area, saying the allegations remain unverified but would be investigated further.
The Maasai Mara wildebeest migration, one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events, attracts thousands of local and international tourists every year.