Lodges closest to the herd right now

When Sayari Camp opened in 2005 it blazed a trail in Tanzania, allowing safari travellers to access one of the most dramatic and under-explored corners of the northern Serengeti. Today, this upmarket Serengeti lodge is one of the finest in Africa, offering luxurious lodgings in some of the best Big Five country on the continent.

The remote and starkly beautiful landscape forms the inspiration for Sayari, with the turret-shaped roofs on each of the 15 expansive tented suites mirroring the iconic Turner Hill to the north. Indoors, rich mahogany floors and delicate tones of sand, stone and acacia reflect the views washing in through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

En-suite bathrooms, with spacious showers and egg-shaped baths large enough for two, offer similarly impressive Serengeti views. Fine linens and safari-chic décor offset the wilderness that lies just beyond the canvas walls, with king-size beds and private verandas to complete the world-class experience.

Lamai Serengeti now sits tucked amongst the rocks of Kogakuria Kopje with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, just a few miles from where the wildebeest cross the Mara River. For roughly a quarter of the year, between late July and October, this is where you'll find the migration.

Our walking safari camp is part of the Wayo Africa Walking Safari experience. It is truly one-of-a-kind and is the highlight of many people's safaris. The aim of our camp is to access remote areas in the easiest manner possible while maintaining high levels of comfort. Our camp is designed to fit on a small trailer that can easily be towed in to the bush, allowing for movement as the animals move.

Tents are 3-man dome style tents that are easy to set-up with plenty of floor space for two people. It is great for a good nights rest in a really remote area. Sleeping is on comfy 4-inch mattresses on the ground and the bedding is cotton covered duvets and cotton sheets.

Offering unrivalled luxury, the camp is situated in the Wogakurya Hills, close to the Mara River and within the main corridor of the world-famous wildebeest migration.

Large boulders and kopjes form the prominent features of the site and each guest tent has been carefully positioned amongst these to ensure privacy and spectacular vistas of the gentle grassed slopes, open woodland and tree lined watercourses, which all make up the scenic north Serengeti landscape. 

10 beautifully designed glass-fronted en-suite tents offer 70 square meters of stylish and contemporary design and include super-king or large twin beds, sitting and dressing areas, indoor/outdoor showers, bath, twin basins, and an outside deck with a plunge pool and deckchairs. The camp has been built using recycled steel, glass, sustainable timbers, composite decking and canvas which, when combined with use of solar power throughout the camp, ensures the lightest footprint for a permanent camp in the Serengeti.

The location of the Serengeti North Wilderness Camp has been carefully selected in the Lamai Wedge, the northern-most corner of the Serengeti National Park.

This relatively isolated spot overlooks the Mara River and is just a few kilometres from one of the recognised ‘crossing points’ for the wildebeest migration. The great thing about Northern Serengeti is that it is nowhere near as densely populated as the Maasai Mara.

 

Situated in the heart of Kenya’s legendary Maasai Mara Game Reserve, near the Mara River, Entim camp is right in the middle of the very best game-viewing areas.

While many other visitors to the Mara will be staying in camps in the surrounding areas and conservancies, at Entim you don't have to drive for hours to get to the wildlife action because you are right there in the middle of it. Nor do you have to be hurried out of the Reserve before gates close at 6.30 pm: at Entim you can continue to witness the wild's most important and dramatic events, which often take place at dusk and dawn. There’s actually no obligation to go out on game drives because you can sit in camp and watch the animals passing by right in front of you.

Sala’s camp has the good fortune to be located on the convergence of two rivers, and in the heart of the Masai Mara. This secluded spot offers tranquillity and tremendous views over the Sand River towards Tanzania and the Serengeti. From your tent you will be able to enjoy an abundance of birdlife and wildlife and the indigenous environment. The camp prides itself on its hospitality and from this wonderful location one can easily explore the vast Masai Mara Reserve. During the Great Wildebeest Migration in the months of July to September, Sala’s Camp is extremely well located as many of the animals move back from the Serengeti in search of lush grasslands in the Mara. The game viewing during this time is exceptional, with dramatic river crossings, and plentiful predators.

In a spectacular location in the heart of the Masai Mara, lies this small, intimate, luxurious and elegant Camp.

Well hidden in the beautiful greenery of riverine forest, Ngenche Safari Camp offers panoramic views over the confluence of the Mara and Talek Rivers. Overlooking a hippo pool that is always busy with these beautiful large animals with crocodiles always in close proximity. The six spacious well appointed tents are en-suite and decorated with an amazing fusion of modern African decor with old world charm.

Each tent is partially enclosed in it's own "Boma", has a large four poster king size bed, offers wonderful view on the River and is equipped with a large bath tab and outside shower. Mara Ngenche is unfenced and is designed to allow the exciting movement of animals through the grounds white offering an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere for experiencing the full adventure of the African bush. The incredible surroundings of the Masai Mara make this a spectacular safari experience.

The old adage “Location, Location, Location” surpasses all – Nkorombo has it in spades! The Masai Mara made famous by the BBC’s “Big Cat Diaries” and more recently Disney’s “African Cats” is the predators prime real estate. Secreted away amongst a stand of wild olive and orange croton Alex Walker’s Nkorombo camp flanks a lively salt lick. A refuge for Black Rhino, Lion and Leopard cast about stalking a lavish overabundance of plucky prey.

This snug little bush camp is chock-full of singular character. Five tents command a view over the rushing Mara River, at once bursting with laughing hippo and languorous crocodile. True to it’s unpretentious origins, camp life is low-key and tranquil.

Rekero overlooks an ancient animal river crossing point in the Masai Mara.

A front row seat to witness the spectacular annual migration awaits you. Rekero has a long and proud history in the Mara that leads to its depth of character and low-key authenticity that is the hallmark of this luxury tented camp.

Rekero is enfolded in wilderness, the camp nestles under huge deciduous trees, hippos grunt in the pools below the mess deck, the fragrance of wild sage floats on the air and guests can often watch the migration crossing the Talek River just 50 meters from the camp lawn. Warm, hospitable and intimate, with a guiding team widely recognised as being the best in Kenya, Rekero offers an unsurpassed Masai Mara safari experience.

Opened on July 1st 2013, the Elewana Collection is delighted to announce the introduction of its first bush camp in Kenya – 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, Sand River Masai Mara 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 those 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.

This new and distinctly unique Mara Engai Wilderness Lodge is nestled amongst pristine Kenyan Ravine forest on the Oloololo (Siria) Escarpment.

Overlooking the amazing Masai Mara National Reserve and Wildebeest Migration Route, with around 120km of unbroken views across the vast savannah of the Masai Mara – it is simply breath-taking.

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. 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. Created in 1972 Governors’ Camp set new standards in luxury for a tented camp. Today it’s still Africa’s best. Everything is under canvas, all tents have en-suit bathrooms with hot and cold running water and flushing toilets. There is a bar tent with deck overlooking the Mara River and dinning tent with views over the plains.

Nasikia Migration Camp, we have 8-12 tents that remain mobile throughout the year, depending on seasonal reservation requirements and location of the wildebeest migration. We endeavour to retain the uniqueness and intimacy of the camp, while being directed by the location, wildlife and other factors of responsible tourism. 

1 December - 31 March: located at the Small Marsh special campsite, this location has us in the midst of the great wildebeest migration as they graze on the southern Serengeti plains. We are also so, so close as the calving season is in full swing from approximately late January and into February each year.

1 July - 31 October: located at Bologonja, in the far northern areas of the Serengeti. This puts us in a great position to game drive to the Bologonja and Mara Rivers in the hope of gaining a view as the herds run the gauntlets of crocodiles as they cross the rivers. This is typically ideal, especially between mid-July and mid-September each year. 

On the rim of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment, overlooking the Mara Triangle, with vast amounts of animals, and most spectacularly the iconic wildebeest migration, lies Angama Mara. A place where the light never sits still. The sun shining through the clouds creates chaotic shadows, ever on the move across the Mara plains. The sky – ‘anga’ in Swahili – melts into the horizon, and it is hard to define where it ends and the earth begins.

The lovely Swahili word ‘angama’, meaning ‘hanging or suspended in mid air’, inspired the name Angama Mara. The site completely speaks to this, as each tented suite and guest area hangs on the edge of the Rift Valley, with views that quite simply take your breath away.

The jewel in the Governors’ Camp crown; for those who want an exclusive taste of the Governors’ experience. Private Camp can either be booked by one family or group at a time, so it’s yours to enjoy, as the name suggests, in private, or it can be booked on a tent by tent basis to share with others. We’ve picked a spot where animals come to drink, hippo laze in the shallows, elephant bring their calves for a playful dip. The forest around the camp is home to many beautiful birds from rare Trogans and Turacos to nesting Hornbills. Personal attention is the hallmark of a stay here. Your manager is also your host and is on hand to see to all your desires and answer all your questions. You benefit from our very best guides and trackers, whose knowledge of the Reserve is unsurpassed. Backed by the vast resources of the Governors’ Family of Camps this is the ultimate safari. We accept indivual bookings at Governors Private Camp which means you can book a tent and share the camp with others. The camp will still be available for private groups too, inorder to book the whole camp privately you must book and pay for 6 tents per night or if your group will occupy more than 6 tents, you must book and pay for every tent occupied.

Little Governors’ is intimate in character, with just 17 luxury en-suite tents tucked around a large watering hole that teems with both birds and wildlife. The camp is approached by a boat ride across the Mara River, then an escorted walk through the riverine forest. Vehicles are left on the far river bank, and the camp is therefore quiet and undisturbed. The guest tents at Little Governors’ have wooden decks with large verandahs for guests to enjoy the constant game activity that takes place around the natural watering hole at the camp. All Governors’ properties are unfenced, and at Little Governors’ there is a resident family of warthogs that wander freely through the camp. Guests may need to make way for elephants which sometimes visit the camp at lunch time. Little Governors Camp has just been awarded a Silver Eco-Rating from Eco Tourism Kenya due to our sustainable practices in place in camp.

The camp for those who want that extra bit of luxury. We've kept Governors’ Il Moran Camp small and intimate, with added touches that make this the top of the range safari. Il Moran is widely regarded as the premier camp in the Masai Mara. Hidden under ancient trees, deep in the forest, are just 10 tents. They line the winding banks of the Mara River. You’ll be the personal guest of our manager, who’ll look after all your needs. The camp is situated is along the banks of the Mara River, right in the heart of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, with the best game viewing right on your doorstep. Governors Il Moran Camp has been awarded a Silver Eco-Rating by Eco Tourism Kenya for our environmental practices both in camp and with our neighbouring community.

Kicheche Bush Camp is located in the Masai Mara within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy bordering the Reserve. The Conservancy, through it’s strict limit on bed numbers, offers an incomparable game viewing experience without crowds. Further information on the Conservancy is available here. The camp is located in a prime wildlife area and game viewing starts at your doorstep. The location is also ideal to enjoy the wildebeest migration. Access is from Ol Kiombo airstrip, 40 minutes game drive away.

Imagine a camp set right in the heart of some of the greatest predator country of Africa...

This is Mara Plains Camp, located on the northern border of the Maasai Mara Game Reserve in the 35,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy. Rarely a night passes without lion roaring nearby, while leopard are regularly found to wander through the camp and cheetah have established territories on the savannah nearby the main area.

Mara Plains Camp is a small, high quality, seven-roomed camp under canvas and on raised decks with sweeping views across Kenya’s notable savannahs. It is among the smallest and most personal camps in the Maasai Mara region. It is just one of four camps currently operating within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which boasts the region’s lowest vehicle density with no mini-buses, and lowest ratio of guests to land. Here, it is possible to avoid the high tourist density of the Maasai Mara Game Reserve proper, if desired. In total, guests of Mara Plains have access to over 100,000 acres of low-density vehicle tourism lands as well as an additional 375,000 acres within the Maasai Mara Game Reserve itself.

‘Toto’ means baby in Swahili, and was often used as a term of endearment in reference to young safari staff in the days of early exploration. But today, in our context, it is simply meant out of respect to its sister camp, Mara Plains, which has developed a phenomenal reputation. We are certain Mara Toto will follow suit. Just a few kilometers downstream from Mara Plains, Mara Toto resides in a small bend in the Ntiakitiak River, where thick forest meets savannah, and we’ve made a home.

A perfect blend of comfort, adventure and intimacy make this a gem in the otherwise confounding matrix of camps in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Mara Toto positions itself squarely in the heart of magnificent predator country, and the camp’s traversing rights of both Mara North Conservancy and the Maasai Mara Game Reserve give guests the flexibility to explore far and wide in search of arguably the finest wildlife sightings on earth. 

Set in what is considered Kenya's prime wildlife area, Mara Leisure Camp is located along the Talek River, at the confluence of the Masai Mara's four wildlife viewing areas, on the northern boundary of the Masai Mara Game Reserve.

Mara Leisure Camp is located within one of the most spectacular locations in the entire Masai Mara Game Reserve. One of the most exciting spectacles in the world is that of the 'Great Migration', where two million wildebeest, zebras and other herbivores pass through the Masai Mara/Serengeti ecosystem in Kenya and Tanzania. This is a perilous migration for the animals, where they encounter many river crossings, and have to run the gauntlet of crocodiles in waiting.

This uniquely situated luxury camp on the banks of  the Talek River overlooks the mottled plains of the Maasai Mara, where vast herds of wildlife co-exist with the colourful Maasai people between June and October the Maasai Mara plays host to one of the most spectacular wildlife shows on earth the great annual migration of over a million wildebeest and zebra as they enter the Mara ecosystem from Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania.

Tipilikwani's tents enjoy river frontage and are decorated with warm, rich Maasai colours. The family tents have a stand alone bath tub in addition to showers. Excellent food, personalised service and traditional Kenyan hospitality further compliment the prime location.

Game drives offer the unforgettable opportunity to enjoy the diversity of animals and birds living permanently in the Maasai Mara, as well as many migratory species. Guests can also learn more about the Maasai people, proud pastoralists and warriors, many of whom still retain their traditional nomadic lifestyle.

Experience classic safari style, where wildlife adventures by day blend with elegant panache under canvas at night, at andBeyond Bateleur Camp. Commanding sweeping views over some of the premier game viewing regions in the world, this intimate camp reflects the ambiance of the Kenyan explorers of the 20's and 30's. Verdant branches that open up onto an expansive panorama provide endless views of the Masai Mara as soon as you open your eyes in your vast wooden bed.

Let the untouched landscapes take you back to the style and glamour of vintage Africa. Slip into a world of hardwood floors, polished silver and sparkling crystal juxtaposed against the romance of the open Mara plains, with their abundant herds of wildlife.

Known as Kenya’s best loved safari camp, andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp offers a quintessential game viewing experience, with sweeping vistas of the Masai Mara or the Sabaringo River. Located where the riverine forest meets the sweeping plains in the path of the awe-inspiring Great Migration, the camp provides an authentic dose of African wildlife, delivered with legendary Kenyan hospitality. andBeyond Kichwa Tembo is renowned for its gracious teams of Kenyan staff whose warm welcome, charming service and effortless energy delight guests from all over the world.

The Serengeti Migration Camp is located at the starting point of one of the world’s great wonders - The Migration.

The landscape, originally formed by volcanic activity, has been sculptured by the ever-changing climate and now varies from open grass plains in the south, savannah grasslands with scattered acacia trees in the centre, hilly wood grasslands in the north to extensive woodland and black clay plains to the west.

Elephant Pepper Camp is situated in the prime core of the protected Mara North Conservancy wilderness area. In the same location for 20 years, one of the original, very small and exclusive tented camps.

A small boutique camp, our spacious canvas tents are stylishly furnished with Indian “Raj campaign furniture”, and feature ensuite bathrooms with flush toilets and traditional safari showers. Nothing rivals sitting around the campfire enjoying the sounds of the African night. Enjoying extended game drives in the best equipped 4×4 game drive vehicles, guests participate in the most unique wildlife experience in the world. Elephant Pepper Camp brings people back to nature - no traffic, no permanent structures, just the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Sanctuary Olonana is an award-winning tented safari camp on a private stretch of the Mara River in the heart of Kenya’s most famous game reserve, the Masai Mara. This small and exclusive camp, the first of Sanctuary's luxury safari properties, was built along sustainable lines which, along with our innovative wetlands and tree-planting projects, have earned Sanctuary Olonana a gold award from Ecotourism Kenya. Game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, scenic flights and balloon rides, Olonana makes for a wonderful African safari.

Majestically situated on the edge of the Kuka Hills, andBeyond Klein’s Camp consists of just ten intimate cottages made of local stone and makuti thatch, with rich wooden floors and classic interiors. Each cottage has an ensuite bathroom and private veranda with breath-taking views over the surrounding hills and the valley below.

A diversity of resident wildlife, including huge elephant herds, can be viewed from everywhere in camp – even the kitchen boasts unforgettable views. The camp has a large, beautifully furnished bar and sitting area, a sparkling swimming pool tucked into the hillside and a Safari Shop featuring locally-made Maasai crafts. 

Fresh vegetables picked from the camp’s shamba, or organic African garden, are used to create wholesome dishes. Dinners are served in the main dining area, which is graced by a large open fireplace.

Encounter Mara is a safari experience that is never rushed or superficial. The rhythm of each day should allow our guests to truly encounter the culture and wildlife of the Masai Mara in a unique and genuine way. We strive to provide a warm, personal and “down to earth” service whilst operating to high standards of professionalism and attention to detail. Our staff members are the most important part of our organization and we are committed to their well being and development. We operate on principles of integrity and honesty, leading the way in sound business ethics and in benefiting surrounding communities. We are determined to play a crucial role in the conservation and regeneration of the Masai Mara ecosystem.

Karen Blixen Camp is an eco-friendly luxury camp that gives a sense of the exiting explorer days when the savannah was seldom visited and elaborate and comfortable camps were set up providing a luxurious and stylish retreat after each day’s adventure.

Karen Blixen Camp comprises 22 large luxury canvas tents each placed with an undisturbed view along the Mara River. The stylish restaurant, the reception, the lounge and bar and the gift shop with internet are set on a raised wooden deck and furnished with accurate reproductions of Karen Blixen’s private furniture to fit in with the cozy atmosphere. The beautifully laid swimming pool offers relaxation and even a little exercise in-between game drives.

Karen Blixen Camp is the perfect place to sit back and relax with a gin and tonic overlooking the Mara River and the wildlife coming to drink, whilst exchanging stories about the adventures of the day.

This refuge of serenity may not suit those who seek a tame, barren surroundings Rather, it fits the more audacious voyager who seeks out safari's real character. Because of its intimate and select character, Ngare Serian is suited to being set aside in its entirety for family gatherings or close friends on a private basis. Each of the four, tented suites stands on a rich hard wood deck, sat above the burbling Mara river deep in the North Mara Reserve.

Calvin and Louise Cottar established Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in the mid-nineties. The camp is situated in a timelessly unspoiled setting with sunset views stretching to distant horizons of the Masai Mara and the Serengeti plains covered in boundless game. The Camp has its own 6,000 acre private conservancy and is situated one kilometre from the Masai Mara game reserve. The location provides easy access for day and night game drives to the Masai Mara game reserve and the conservancy, game walks, and cultural interactions with the Masai community.

Set on a private conservancy that is a shining example of conservation and communities working together, Naboisho Camp offers a rare opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the majestic Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.Expert guides lead guests on bush walks, night drives and wilderness excursions, offering exclusive and unparalleled access to one of the most remarkable natural areas on the planet. And at the heart of it all is Naboisho Camp; a stylish safari haven that touches the earth lightly while forever making its mark in your memories.

Buffalo Luxury Camp is situated approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Kleins Gate to the East of the Serengeti National Park.

It offers a unique combination of luxurious accommodation, extraordinary wildlife, the exhilarating freedom to participate in guided game & nature walks as well as bush dinners, the rare opportunity to go on night game drives and a fascinating insight into the culture of the local Maasai tribesmen and women.

The camp is set on the Eastern side of the 50,000 hectare Mara Naboisho conservancy in a beautiful secluded valley dotted with Acacia trees.

The location is close to both the Enniskeria river region, with it’s stunning granite outcrops and permanent pools popular with the resident wildlife, and the vast plains to the north hosting large numbers of plains game and containing a vital elephant corridor.

The valleys to the west provide a scenic backdrop whilst game driving is ideal for game walks. Access is from Ol Seki airstrip, a 10 minute drive from the camp.

Losokwan Camp is an authentic Kenyan safari camp offering the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding Masai Mara wilderness without compromising on comfort or responsive service.

Losokwan Camp offers 6 luxurious tents nestled amongst trees to ensure maximum privacy for all guests and minimum interference with the local fauna. Each tent is superbly furnished with African decor and style to offer maximum comfort.

Dining at Losokwan Camp is cosy with soft lighting, combining European, African and Asian dishes. All meals are freshly prepared made with the abundance of Kenyan produce.

With its gorgeous attention to detail and remarkable wildlife offerings, Losokwan camp is luxurious enough for even the most discerning clients.