Flying for Elephants: Drones and the Future of Conservation

The Mara Elephant Project (MEP) is at the forefront of conservation efforts in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, using innovative technology to protect the region’s 2,600 elephants and promote co-existence with the communities that share this iconic ecosystem. Led by Marc Goss, affectionately known as the "flying CEO," MEP has revolutionized elephant conservation by integrating drones into their work.  

Equipped with nine drones, including three with thermal imaging, MEP rangers deploy this cutting-edge technology to mitigate human-elephant conflict, monitor herds, and conduct reconnaissance in challenging terrains. From moving herds out of community farms at night to pinpointing injuries in densely forested areas, drones provide a cost-effective aerial solution that ensures rapid and effective responses.  

MEP’s comprehensive training program, developed in partnership with Expert Drones Africa, has empowered 18 rangers and counting with the skills needed to operate drones. The program’s success has expanded beyond the Mara, offering training to wildlife rangers across Kenya. This technological edge, combined with community-driven conservation, ensures both wildlife and people benefit from shared spaces.  

Curious to experience this groundbreaking work firsthand? Imagine being an elephant researcher for a day, joining the MEP team to witness their innovative efforts in action. Here are the different options:

Elephant Researcher for a Day

Join the MEP team in the field to collect data on individual elephants that call the Mara home. You’ll act as research assistants, taking detailed photos, learning to identify different elephants, and experiencing what it’s like to be an elephant scientist.

• Group size: 4 people
• Time: 2 - 3 hours
• Minimum donation: $500

Conservation Helicopter Flight

Ride along with MEP’s conservation helicopter to monitor collared elephants, see the landscape from the air, and learn about the critical rescue operations MEP undertakes.

• Group size: 2 people
• Time: 2 - 5 hours
• Minimum donation: $2,000

Ancient Forest Experience

Take to the skies and ground in this unique excursion. After a scenic helicopter flight, you’ll land in Loita Forest and learn about MEP’s protection work directly from CEO Marc Goss. Then, walk through the forest with MEP community rangers—the true heroes of conservation.

• Group size: 2 people
• Time: 4 hours
• Minimum donation: $4,000

Community Education

Engage in a community activity such as training women to cultivate nutrient-rich, elephant-friendly gardens or delivering presentations to children about the importance of conservation.

• Group size: Any
• Time: 3 hours
• Minimum donation: None

Deploy Drones with MEP Rangers

Join MEP rangers on patrol to witness their efforts in conflict resolution, habitat protection, and elephant monitoring. Then, enjoy a bush lunch while getting hands-on experience with drone deployment.

• Group size: 4 people
• Time: 2 - 3 hours
• Minimum donation: $1,500

Get in touch if you would like to add any of these activities to your stay in the Maasai Mara.