The best available Campgrounds to stay near Maasai Mara National Reserve

May 4, 2023 Sachiko Swiger

Maybe your local zoo has lions, leopards, zebras or elephants. Maybe they even have wildebeest. But we bet they don't have 1.3 million wildebeest—never mind 1.3 million wildebeest in migration, with predators in hot pursuit. It's one of the most awesome sights in nature, and you can see it at Masai Mara in southwestern Kenya.
Things to do in Maasai Mara National Reserve

1. Loyk Mara Camp

Olare Orok Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve 00502 Kenya
Excellent
86%
Good
7%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
4%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 255 reviews

Loyk Mara Camp

LOYK MARA CAMP is located in one of the most picturesque places on the bank of river Ntiakitiak on 50 acres of private land between Olare Motorogi conservancy and Masai Mara National Reserve - the richest national reserve of Kenya. Settled down in the middle of the African bush, LOYK MARA CAMP will present to you a sensation of privacy and rest, granting a vivifying cool under the shade of sprawling crones of undersized trees within a hot day. Spacious open terraces with comfortable armchairs and coffee tables will allow you to enjoy at any time the bewitching African nature. FACT SHEET LOYK MARA CAMP GUEST ROOM INFORMATION • Total Number of Tents 10 o 7 Luxury Tents o 1 Family Tent (can be divided into 2 separate rooms by request) o 1 tent with special facilities for the people with disabilities CHECK IN FACILITIES • Check In 12:00 PM Check Out 10:00 AM • Cold Towel • Welcome Drink • Transfer to/from the camp • Distance from Nairobi to Talek Gate is 260 Kms • Nearby Airstrip OlKiombo is 20kms away • 5 hours by Road • 45 minutes by Air GUEST ROOM FACILITIES • Hot Shower • Flushing Toilet • Hair dryers (upon request) • Intercom • Personal safety box GUEST ROOM SERVICE • Laundry and Ironing • Flying-doctor on call 24hrs ACTIVITIES HEALTH/SPORT • Archery • Billiards • Bonfire • Table Games • Swimming Pool • Game Drives • Nature Walk • Sunrise/Sundowner • Eagle Nest View Point • Bird Watching • Balloon Safari • Open Air Cinemas • Kids Adventure Club DINING AND BAR ACTIVITIES • Olpul Restaurant • Olaro Bar • Maasai Lounge • Bush breakfast/lunch/dinner • Private romantic dinner by the pool PLACES OF INTEREST • Migration • Maasai Mara National Reserve • Maasai Manyatta Cultural Visit SPECIAL FEATURES • Gift Shop • Traditional Ceremonies (by special request)

Amazing!

Reviewed By 738jemimam

We had the most amazing stay at Loyk Mara. It’s in a wonderful location and the staff were fantastic! We really had the most magical time. In particular, Eunice, Benjamin, Eric and the Masai staff were fantastic! The food was incredible and we had such a lovely stay. A very special touch was that every night we had a hot water bottle in our bed! Such a special time. Thank you so much, Loyk Mara!

2. Governors' Il Moran Camp

Governors Il Moran Road, Maasai Mara National Reserve Kenya
Excellent
92%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 341 reviews

Governors' Il Moran Camp

Il Moran is widely regarded as the premiere camp in the Masai Mara, with the best game viewing right on your doorstep. This is the camp for those who want that extra bit of luxury: We’ve kept Governors’ Il Moran small and intimate, with added touches that place this camp at the top of the safari accommodation range. You’ll be the personal guest of our manager who will look after all your needs. Hidden under ancient trees deep in the forest, are just ten tents which line the winding banks of the Mara River. Dark chunky wooden tables contrast with oversized blue couches and a central, colourfully beaded chandelier, while tribal portraits and African artefacts are dotted around. Meals are served on the raised wooden decking of the main mess and dining tent which offers a birds eye view of the snorting hippos below. The main feature is a sunken fire pit which is lit in the evenings – the perfect spot to sit back with a cocktail of your choice. Il Moran is small and peaceful – the ideal camp for honeymooners and couples who are looking for a very special safari experience, or even families with older children. This camp has been awarded a Silver Eco Rating by Eco-Tourism Kenya for our sustainable tourism practices in place. We are a family with a colourful cast of characters that embodies the spirit of safari, while placing the care of the environment, community and conservation at the heart of everything we do.

Outstanding tented camp experience

Reviewed By Scott B

Can’t say enough about this camp. The location facilities, food and service are all terrific. But really it’s the staff that makes it, from the manager, Philip, to the excellent guides ( Isaac!) security people who walk you to and from your tent, (Stephen) , tentkeepers and bar and kitchen team. All very well organized, including Governors Aviation and Balloon Adventures. Highly recommend a visit.

3. Mara Explorer Camp

C14 Keekorok, Maasai Mara National Reserve 00200 Kenya
Excellent
95%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 485 reviews

Mara Explorer Camp

Located in the world famous Masai Mara, Mara Explorer Camp is set on its own private peninsula, with each of its ten luxurious tents opening to the Talek River and the stunning savanna. The tents, equipped with all mod cons are set on wooden decks opening out to a private verandah where you can enjoy time alone in the wild away from it all.

Best first trip!

Reviewed By S5910GCmaggieb

Stayed at the Mara Explorer the last three nights of my first trip to Kenya and I couldn’t be more pleased. The camp is rustic and beautiful. Watching the hippos play in the river was a highlight. The staff was superb! Our butler made sure we were comfortable at all times, our driver knew where to spot the best animals, and the security team ensured we were always safe (the property is undenied). The food was AMAZING and plentiful. All the staff really made an effort to make us feel welcome, at home, and special.

4. Governors' Camp

Ngiro-are Road, Maasai Mara National Reserve 00200 Kenya
Excellent
88%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 1195 reviews

Governors' Camp

The setting is magical. So much so that almost a century ago it was reserved, exclusively, for Kenya’s colonial Governors. Governors’ Camp nestles in the forest along the winding banks of the Mara River, it’s waters teeming with bird-life, hippo and crocodile, in the heart of Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Created in 1972, Governors’ Camp set new standards in luxury for a tented camp. Today it’s still Africa’s best. Governors’ Camp was the first permanent tented camp in the Masai Mara and it occupies the best wildlife viewing location in the National Park. The location of the camp was considered so good that during colonial times it was reserved for the colonial Governors of Kenya, hence the name Governors’ Camp. Today the camp enjoys the same prime location and is perfect for couples, families and friends wanting to experience the best of what a safari in the Masai Mara has to offer. The entire camp is under canvas with all of the comforts of a luxury hotel. Some of the 37 tents line the riverbank, tucked into the forest they enjoy uninterrupted views over the Mara River, others have views across the sweeping plains of the Masai Mara. The tents are big, bright and allow in lots of natural light. All tents are classic safari style each with en-suite bathrooms and a private verandah. There is a bar tent with deck overlooking the Mara River and dinning tent with views over the plains. Please also be sure to enquire about our Spa tent which offers a range of treatments including facials, massages, manicures and pedicures. Governors’ Camp has been awarded a Silver Eco Rating from Eco – Tourism Kenya due to our sustainable tourism practices in place in camp.

A very special place

Reviewed By kirstylieb

Governors Camp has a magical quality about it and it would be correct to say its location in the Mara is stunning, with incredible wildlife and savannahs surrounding it. But the staff make the camp truly exceptional. Every single person working at Governors Camp goes out of their way to make you feel like visiting royalty and help you create an unforgettable trip. The hospitality, food, service and comfort are first class but I really appreciated the joy and love the staff have for the wildlife and the land. It is contagious and I enjoyed sharing and swopping stories of the day and all the sightings. Julius and Mark made the drives an education with their knowledge and sightings and I came away with an enhanced love of the country, the Mara and the culture. Thank you to everyone at Governors for a wonderful trip. I hope to be back very soon.

5. Karen Blixen Camp

Marula Lane No 40C, Mara North Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve 00100 Kenya
Excellent
91%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 522 reviews

Karen Blixen Camp

Karen Blixen Camp in the Masai Mara offers an authentic ’yesteryear’ experience for visitors wishing to gain that little extra from their safari. Set on the bank of the Mara River; the location is spectacular. Throughout the day elephants, giraffes, zebras and impalas come for a drink while a large hippo pod rest lazily in the river. The Camp gives a feeling of the early 1920’s era with beautiful and comfortable furniture.

Excellent Karen Blixen Camp Safari

Reviewed By Richard J

Authentic safari experience and fantastic friendly service. The Karen Blixen camp is in idillic location on the river with hippopotamuses making their presence known… Recommend the all-inclusive option as the restaurant and bar are both excellent!

6. Fig Tree Camp

Mara Mara Road, Maasai Mara National Reserve Kenya
Excellent
61%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
2%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 586 reviews

Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree Camp, located in the prestigious Masai Mara National Reserve, is a luxurious lodge with top-class amenities and service. You have a reason to adventure, we give you the hospitality to go with it. This 72 roomed property is ideal for game drives and nature walks. Our rooms comprise of the superior Ngaboli tents, executive standard tents and lodge rooms, all fitted with facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. The Talek River also snakes its way around the camp, to give you that serene and tranquil feel from the hustle and bustle of the city. We do hope you enjoy your stay with us. Welcome to Fig Tree Camp.

Just beyond imagination

Reviewed By NN_India

One of the best located camps in Mara. Surrounded by the river on three sides, you can't ask for anything better. Wake up to the sounds of animals and birds and feel being one with the nature. You step out of the camp and one is greeted with hundreds of herbivores grazing on the endless plains. The staff is excellent, supremely curtious, ready to look into your minute requests. Mr Kerore, the manager, is always present to run the show impeccably. Vivian, the young Masai girl, at the frontdesk will make you feel so special. I spent 3 nights and want to come back sooner than later....

7. Mara Maisha Camp

Cis-Mara/Talek/419, Maasai Mara National Reserve Kenya
Excellent
94%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 50 reviews

Mara Maisha Camp

Mara Maisha Camp is a Luxury Tented Camp located 4.5km from Talek Gate of Maasai Mara National Reserve. It is Sister Hotel to Kibo Safari Camp and Kibo Private Wing of Amboseli National Park Kenya. You won’t forget your time in this romantic, memorable place.

Love in the wild

Reviewed By duncan_wairimu

The trip was an overnight . We departed as a group of 20+ and we traveled all the way. Mara maisha is just minutes drive from Talek gate of Masai Mara. The camp is above board and once it's operational it will add more bed capacity need in greater Masai Mara And ohhhh I forgot, this is a luxury camp in the wild

8. Mara Eden Safari Camp

Maasai Mara National Reserve 00504 Kenya
Excellent
88%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 394 reviews

Mara Eden Safari Camp

Hidden deep in the Maasai Mara game reserve, along the great Mara river, lies a magical, untouched and untamed valley with crocodiles basking on the banks of the river and hippos fighting for dominance against a backdrop of absolute wilderness, for centuries the great wildebeest migration has thundered through this hidden valley and crossed the Mara river. Nestled in the midst of this valley is our little boutique tented camp, sit out on the verandah and watch the magic of the african wilderness unfold before you. We invite you to be a part of this untamed bit of Africa!

Excellent camp - including vegetarian food

Reviewed By CJamie

The camp was fantastic. They catered to me being vegetarian really well and I am confident they would also cater to vegans. The food was excellent. Our guide for the Mara listened to everything we wanted, he was knowledgeable about all of the animals and personalised our experience. I highly recommend this camp - and enjoy trying to spot the resident hippo Maskio!

9. Emboo River

Maasai Mara National Park, Maasai Mara National Reserve Kenya
Excellent
94%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 106 reviews

Emboo River

Emboo River is located in a river bend within Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve. It is the perfect spot for the your dream safari. Your Game Drives start as soon as you jump into the fleet of Electric Safari Vehicles, because there are animals all around the camp. You can even see animals inside the lodge because Emboo River is not fenced. During the Great Migration season, the herds use a popular River Crossing close to the lodge. You will be in the centre of the action. Emboo River's vision is centered around this Maasai saying: "Mataramat enkop pee eramat iyook.", that translates to “If you take care of nature, nature will take care of you.” Legend has it that the Maasai Community made an agreement with Enkai (God). The Maasai Community would be given cattle and in return they had to promise to be the custodians of nature. A promise must never be broken. Emboo River’s founders William Partois Ole Santian, Loïc Amadò & Valery Super are keeping this promise by being the first full eco lodge in the region and combining tradition and innovation. Emboo River promises to be a custodian of nature, to be a catalyst for change and to continuously promote sustainable practices. At Emboo River you will enjoy a luxurious holiday in the midst of nature, while positively contributing to this unique environment, conserving wildlife and empowering the local community.

Very nice stay at Emboo

Reviewed By 181christyl

Nice eco friendly camp in the masai ! We are family of 4, (2 kids , 8 and 11 years old) with a very spacious family tent,and they have different actitives for kids after coming back for a game drive! Super friendly staff, super clean, and professional guide! And they are all very nice with kids!! Nice dance performance in front of the fire before dinner Recommended and Will come back next time!

10. Elewana Sand River Masai Mara

Maasai Mara National Reserve Kenya
Excellent
93%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 272 reviews

Elewana Sand River Masai Mara

Located on the banks of a river from which it has taken its name, Sand River Masai Mara is located within the Masai Mara National Reserve, close to the Tanzanian border. Situated on a secluded and picturesque site, the camp replicates the heyday of exclusive permanent tented camps of the late 1920’s. The interior fixtures and furnishings mirror this period perfectly, reminding all who visit of the countless Hollywood movies that have paid homage to a classic era of African adventure. Sand River Masai Mara is an ideal destination, at any time of the year, for those wishing to enjoy exceptional game-viewing. The National Reserve is best known for its large concentrations of big cats, such as leopard, cheetah and, of course, lion. Even the dramatic arrival of the Annual Migration merely adds to an already abundant resident wildlife that awaits discovery.

A wonderful place

Reviewed By Somnathboom

A beautiful property with extremely warm and helpful staff. It is located on the banks of the Sand river and we could see water hogs and baboons at the river bank, from our tent. The stay was all the more special due to the care received from the staff especially Nicolene and Colin. My wife was having some issues with her stomach, so they prepared exactly what she wanted at every meals. The personalized water sippers were also a great help in the safari. The presence of a leopard within 500 metres of the camp made it all the more exciting! The wifi was superb. Lots of electric points to charge your things. Delicious food, great ambiance, extremely comfortable tents. We highly recommend this beautiful place!

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