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Experience the Beauty of Wildlife at Basecamp Masai Mara
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Hey there, fellow traveller! Have you ever dreamed of a place where you can feel connected to nature and the people who live there? Imagine a retreat in the heart of one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth, where adventure and warm community spirit go hand in hand. That’s what you’ll find at Saruni Basecamp Masai Mara!
This isn’t just a holiday; it’s a journey that will open your eyes and fill your soul.
Basecamp Masai Mara: Video Overview
Overview of Basecamp Masai Mara
Closest Airstrip
Convenient access via Ol Kiombo Airstrip
Game Drives: Discover the Masai Mara
Included thrilling safari game drives
Elegant Tented Accommodations
Only 17 luxurious rooms at Basecamp Mara
Witness the Great Migration
Optimal migration viewing from July to September
Experience a Balloon Ride
Hot air balloon rides available
Pamper Yourself
Treat yourself to a spa service, available for an extra charge.
Convenient Access
Reach the camp easily via Musiara Airstrip.
Engage with Your Hosts
Community experiences offered at an additional charge
Family-Friendly Environment
All ages are welcome at Basecamp Mara
Exceptional Wildlife Observation
Located near the Mara for superb game viewing
Family Accommodation
Basecamp Mara features a single family tent
Stay Online
Wi-Fi access is provided at Basecamp Mara
Accommodation
When you stay at Basecamp Masai Mara, you’re not just getting a room; you’re stepping into an intimate, eco-friendly retreat that feels like part of the wild. Each of the 17 river-view tents is a private haven, designed to bring the outside in. Imagine waking up on your private deck, sipping your morning coffee as the African savannah comes to life!
It’s like having front row seats to the best show on earth. The tents are incredibly comfortable, featuring plush beds, stylish furniture, and modern en-suite bathrooms, allowing you to unwind in total comfort after a day of exploring. For families, we have two-winged tents with separate beds and bathrooms, perfect for keeping everyone happy.
And for those celebrating a special occasion, the honeymoon tent has the best views in the house, a real treat for the eyes! You’ll be lulled to sleep by the peaceful sounds of the Talek River, its magic!
Community Activities
One of the things I love most about Saruni Basecamp is its deep commitment to the local Maasai community. They don’t just exist alongside the community; they are part of it. When you visit, you have the opportunity to learn from and connect with the Maasai people.
You can even roll up your sleeves and get involved in projects like their tree planting initiative, which is making a real difference in the fight against climate change. It’s a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself! The Enjoolata Centre is the hub of this connection, a vibrant space where you can attend workshops and lectures all about Maasai culture.
It’s like a cultural treasure chest just waiting to be opened. By choosing Basecamp Masai Mara, you are directly supporting local landowners and providing jobs for people in the area. No wonder they have a Gold eco-rating from Ecotourism Kenya – they are leading by example.
Price for visiting the Activities
Most of the community activities at Basecamp Masai Mara are offered free of charge. These include Maasai Women Arts & Crafts Centre, Enjolaata Awareness Center Tour, Basecamp Forest & Tree Nursery Tour, Guide Bird Walk Safari, and Young Explorer’s Club and Warriors Academy. Others are paid, such as the Lion, Hyena, or Elephant lecture, at GBP 40 per child, and the Maasai village tour at GBP 30 per person.
Food and Drink
Get ready to indulge! The food at Basecamp is a celebration of fresh local flavours. Most of the delicious dishes you’ll eat are made from ingredients from their very own organic vegetable garden. It’s like farm-to-table but with a safari backdrop! Each meal is an opportunity to gather with fellow travelers and swap stories from the day. The food is fresh, sustainable, and yummy.
Location and Geography
Basecamp Masai Mara is situated on a green peninsula right on the Talek River, so it’s in the perfect spot. Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Talek Gate, you have access to the whole of the Maasai Mara. The lush grounds and riverfrontage make it feel like a true wilderness oasis. And they’ve got you covered with free Wi-Fi and cell phone coverage so you can share your adventures with everyone back home!
The camp’s location provides easy access to the Masai Mara National Reserve and the stunning landscapes of this part of Africa. The camp is situated on a riverbank, the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Guests can stay connected with free Wi-Fi and cell phone coverage during their stay.
Conservation Efforts
Choosing Basecamp Masai Mara means you’re supporting a place that practices what they preaches when it comes to conservation. They’re the guardians of the wild, working hard to protect the habitat of the Maasai Mara. They have a great waste collection and recycling program that benefits the local communities.
They’re big on education, using the Enjoolata Centre as a hub where you can learn about Maasai culture and the Mara wildlife. It’s a win-win! They use solar energy and harvest rainwater, and in a lovely gesture, they share their water with the community during the dry seasons. When you stay here, you’re not just a tourist, you’re a partner in preserving one of the most important and beautiful places in the world.
Safari Experiences
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Saruni Basecamp has you covered with exciting safari experiences led by expert guides. Jump in a safari vehicle for an unforgettable game drive in the Sekenani sector of the park, a less-visited area.
Alternatively, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try a guided walking safari, which offers an entirely different perspective on the landscape. Imagine a walkabout in the bush! You’ll see the famous Big Five and many other amazing animals. Bring your camera because you’ll want to capture every moment of this incredible journey.
Guests can enjoy a game drive in the Sekenani sector of the Masai Mara National Park, a unique opportunity to visit this area. Guided walking safaris are available for guests 15 and older, offering a unique perspective on the landscape. Take stunning photos and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Cultural Experiences
The magic of Basecamp lies in its ability to let you immerse yourself in the heart of Maasai culture. You can visit a local village, sit with Maasai elders, and hear their stories and wisdom. Many of the staff have been with Basecamp for over a decade, so you’ll be guided by people who have a deep personal connection to the land and its history.
This isn’t just a tour; it’s a chance to build genuine relationships. And here’s the best part: The Basecamp Maasai Brand provides a steady income for local Maasai women who create beautiful beaded ceremonial necklaces and handicrafts. When you buy one, you’re directly supporting their empowerment and preserving a vital part of their cultural heritage.
Many of the staff at Basecamp Masai Mara have been there for over a decade, providing a wealth of knowledge and authentic experiences. The Basecamp Maasai Brand offers a steady income for Maasai women through responsible tourism initiatives. You can buy authentic ceremonial necklaces and handicrafts from local Maasai women artisans.
Activities and Excursions
Never a dull moment at Basecamp! Whether you’re a nature lover or an adrenaline junkie, there’s something for everyone. Go on guided walks, game drives, or birdwatching to spot some of the incredible birds in the area. Treat yourself to a hot-air balloon ride? Floating above the park as the sun rises, you’ll get a stunning view of the winding Talek River and the landscape below. Basecamp also has a kids club, the Dorobo Club, with activities like making local crafts, so that the little ones can have their adventure too.
The Great Migration
If you time it right, you can witness one of the most incredible events on the planet: the Great Migration! Each year, over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and other animals make an epic journey across the Mara in search of new grazing land. It’s a testament to the power and resilience of nature, and seeing it in person is a moment you’ll never forget. This is one of those bucket list items that’s even more amazing than you imagine.
Book the Activities with AjKenyasafaris.com
Basecamp Masai Mara accommodation costs around GBP 300 per person per night, including bed and meals. In addition to accommodation, you will need to pay extra for the entry fee, safari vehicle, and transfers. We provide all these services at an affordable cost, with a daily charge of GBP 300 for the car. Other costs for a safari to the Masai Mara can include a hot air balloon ride at £460 per person, a Maasai cultural tour at £30 per person, and transfers. You can opt for a flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi at GBP 200 one way.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
The Maasai Mara is a paradise for wildlife lovers. It’s full of amazing creatures, from the majestic lions and elegant elephants to the speedy cheetahs and elusive leopards. It’s like a living, breathing natural history book! And if you’re a bird enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. The Mara is home to over 250 bird species, so it’s a birdwatcher’s dream come true. The concentration of animals and the open grasslands make this a very special place.
TripAdvisor Review of Basecamp Masai Mara
See what other people are saying about their stay at Basecamp Masai Mara.
“Base camp Masai Mara was our final destination on a two-week holiday in Africa, and what a way to end! Firstly, the camp – the tents were really comfortable and well-spaced out, allowing for privacy and views of the Talak River. The food is plentiful and delicious, more than you could need—the staff are an absolute credit, all so friendly and helpful in every way.
And then the Safaris, we had Tonkei as our guide. He made sure we saw many wonderful animals, whenever possible, away from the crowds of jeeps, allowing us to watch and photograph the animals in their excellent habitat.
Whilst at base camp, we also took the time to visit the Enjoolata centre, where the local, primarily ladies, are supported to make a living and gain training.” – Linda G.
Excellent Service With Quick Access to Wildlife.
“Basecamp Masai Mara offers a great, relaxing stay with quick access to the national reserve with abundant wildlife in the area. My group went on the Great Migration and were not disappointed. Our guide, John, was very flexible and knowledgeable.
He knew great locations for wildlife observation and provided good insight into the lives of the animals. Our standout service was provided by Ben, who always took good care of us. Food quality exceeded expectations. Would highly recommend!” – Compass36498139354
Best Time to Visit
Saruni Basecamp is open all year round, but the ideal time to visit is during the dry season, from July to September. This is when the Great Migration is in full swing and the wildlife is super active. But don’t worry if you can’t make it then! Every season has its magic, from the river crossings to the green landscapes of the wet season. The guides are pros and will ensure you get the most out of your trip, regardless of when you visit.
The exact dates of the Great Migration can be challenging to predict, but our experienced guides and staff are always on hand to advise and ensure you get the most out of your trip. Every trip reveals a new perspective on the magic of the Maasai Mara.
Demerits of Staying at Basecamp Masai Mara
There are two significant issues people face when staying at Basecamp Masai Mara: unfenced and rustic accommodations. While the tented camp offers an enjoyable experience due to its unfenced nature, it poses a potential danger to guests because of the wild animals that roam around. Some guests have reported seeing monkeys around their tents, which can be scary for families with small children.
The other major issue is the rustic nature of the accommodation. Some guests have described it as being basic but comfortable. While it is a nice thing for travellers seeking an authentic safari, this can be a demerit for those seeking luxury.
Final thoughts
So there you have it! Saruni Basecamp is more than a lodge; it’s a chance to have an authentic travel experience. They’ve built a place that’s all about conservation, community, and responsible tourism – and it’s possible to travel the world without leaving a footprint. It’s a place where you can get up close and personal with Kenya’s amazing wildlife and culture.
Hope that’s inspired you! Just like a small seed can grow into a big tree, every small step you take towards responsible travel makes a big difference. Why not start your journey today? Maybe it’s as simple as getting a potted plant to remind you of the Mara’s green landscapes. Your adventure awaits!
Gladys Mwangi: Basecamp Masai Mara Specialist
Gladys Mwangi is a safari guide and manager at ajkenyasafaris.com. She loves the wild and crafts bespoke safaris. Gladys has personally visited the Maasai Mara and its camps, including Basecamp Masai Mara, so her recommendations are based on firsthand experience and in-depth knowledge of each destination.
Her writing is a blend of storytelling and practical advice to help you discover your ideal African adventure. She is a member of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) and holds a license from the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA), so you can trust her.
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