This is the forward of the book "Maasai Mara Safari Guide", the first professional field guide to the Maasai Mara written by a Chinese Conservation Expert Simba Qiang Zhuo, an explorer and expert member of the IUCN’s World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA), this is the first comprehensive, illustrated Chinese-language guidebook detailing the geography, wildlife distribution, field observation techniques, and community-based conservation practices in the Maasai Mara.

Simba has lived and worked in the Maasai Mara of northern Maasai Mara for over 15 years. He has studied multiple lion prides, conducted daily patrols, and documented predator behavior and ecological change. All content is based on long-term field research and firsthand data.

The forewords are written by:

• Simon Nkoitoi, Chief Warden of Olkinyei Conservancy and a key leader in community conservation;

• Jackson Ole Looseyia, host of BBC’s Big Cat Diary and founder of the Mara Repoi Conservancy.

  They describe this book as “a bridge between cultures, a compass for explorers, and a torch igniting the passion for protection.”

With a practical and scientific approach, the guide covers:

• The geography, climate, vegetation, and ecosystem structure of the Maasai Mara;

• Distribution and behavioral patterns of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and other predators;

• Over 100 GPS-tagged locations and navigation advice;

• Ideal timings and routes for wildlife observation by season and migration period;

• Emergency field tips for vehicle recovery, animal encounters, and insect bites.

As the first Chinese conservationist to live deeply embedded in the African wilderness, Simba’s journey has inspired thousands of Chinese and overseas communities to care about Africa’s wildlife. He initiated impactful efforts like the Mara Wildlife Academy and the Savannah Games, showcasing the growing role of Chinese participation in global conservation.

This guide is an essential companion for travelers to East Africa and a valuable resource for schools, museums, and environmental educators. It also stands as a meaningful addition to ecological literature collections.