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Discovering Mara Expedition Camp
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Hey there, fellow adventurer! Are you seeking a safari trip that feels like a journey, not just a hotel stay? Then let me tell you about a little secret called Mara Expedition Camp. Hidden away in the heart of the Maasai Mara, this is not a camp, it’s a doorway to a world you’ve only seen in nature documentaries.
Imagine a place where luxury meets the wild – that’s Mara Expedition Camp for you. It’s a fantastic, stylish, and surprisingly affordable home base for anyone looking for an unforgettable safari experience.
Mara Expedition Camp: Video Overview
Explore Mara Expedition Camp
Inclusive Flights
Flights to and from Nairobi are part of your package
Gear Up!
Binoculars are provided in each room
Elegant Tented Rooms
Mara Expedition Camp features just six luxurious tented rooms
Thrilling Safari Drives
Exciting game drives are included in your stay
Capture the Moment
A high-quality camera is available for guest use
Solar Powered
The Mara Expedition Camp is powered by solar energy
Family-Friendly Adventure
Children aged six and above are welcome at Mara Expedition Camp
Connect with the Community
Cultural experiences are offered at an additional cost
Soar Above the Mara
Mara Expedition Camp offers Hot air balloon safaris for an extra fee
Stay in Touch
Limited Wi-Fi is accessible at Mara Expedition Camp
Mara Expedition Camp Introduction
This is a real one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a small, intimate space that offers an authentic taste of safari life, complete with all the comforts you could want. Think of it like a private club in the bush. With only five tented rooms, each with its private deck, you’ll feel like you have the whole savannah to yourself.
You can sit on your deck and soak in the views, feeling completely at one with the African bush. And they have a two-bedroom family tent, perfect if you’re bringing the whole crew along for the adventure.
Intimate Atmospehe
Due to its serene riverine forest location, the camp provides an intimate atmosphere for all guests and has only five luxurious tents. Its small size means you get personalized services, away from the crowded places like safari lodges. Thanks to the family tent, you can spend quality time with your children and enjoy a magical stay close to nature.
The Surroundings
Mara Expedition Camp is situated right on the northern edge of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Being here is like having front row seats to the most incredible show on earth. The open plains and riverine forest are a vibrant ecosystem, teeming with wildlife, including the big cats that everyone wants to see.
And if you time it right, you can even see the Serengeti migration! When you’re not out on a drive, you can just sit back in a director’s chair and watch the world go by. It’s also an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to a nearby Maasai market.
Accommodation and Services at Mara Expedition Camp
Stepping into your tented room at Mara Expedition Camp feels like opening a treasure box. Every detail is thought out, from the old Indian chests and campaign chests to the Persian rugs. It’s a classic safari look with a modern twist.
The tents are beautiful, featuring light tan canvas with high ceilings, which makes them feel very spacious and airy. You’ll have everything you need—a writing desk, a plush bed (double or twin), and a private bathroom with hot water, a flush toilet, and a vanity. It’s the perfect place to relax and reflect on your day.
Safari Themed
Upon checking in, you will realize that the safari theme is evident all over the camp. Campaign chests, brass lamps, and beaded leather cushions create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, all tents come with wardrobes, a hot shower, and everything you will need during your stay. It is like relocating your home to the jungles of the Masai Mara, Kenya.
Safari Experiences
Get ready for some serious safari action! The camp offers scheduled game drives in open vehicles so you won’t miss a thing. And for the ultimate experience, take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the whole Maasai Mara.
It’s a whole new perspective on the landscape and the wildlife. The guides here are top-notch – they’re not just drivers, they’re bush storytellers, making sure you get the best views and learn all about the animals.
Tips for activities
You can enjoy several activities during your stay at Mara Expedition Camp, like game drives, hot air balloon rides, Maasai cultural tour, and walking safaris. Game drives are conducted early in the morning and late in the evening, when most animals are most active. They usually start from 6 am to 9 am for morning drives and from 3 pm to 6 pm for evening drives. If you have £460 to spend, you can opt for a hot air balloon ride that concludes with a bush breakfast accompanied by champagne. To top it off, you will receive a special DVD to relive the journey.
Demerits of the Mara Expedition
Some issues arise when a new camp or lodge is established within the Masai Mara National Reserve. The notable ones are often environmental demerits and socio-economic demerits.
Environmental Demerits:
They include overcrowding during game drives, which impacts the wildlife and can even cause stress to animals and birds. The camp also leads to the degradation of the wildlife habitat by causing pollution through noise and discharges.
Socio-Economic Demrits
Not exclusive to Mara Expendition Camp, but most camps in the Masai Mara are run by foreigners who take a significant portion of the revenue to their country; only a small percentage is left for the local Maasai people. These camps also displace the local people from their land, despite the little compensation they get.
Conservation Efforts at Mara Expedition Camp
Mara Expedition Camp isn’t just about giving you a fantastic trip; they’re also doing their bit for the environment. They run on solar power and are eco-friendly. They’re part of the Great Plains Conservation and Great Plains Foundation, which are involved in local community and conservation projects. One of my favourite things they do is the Conservation Roots program, where you can plant a tree during your stay! It’s a terrific way to leave your mark on the land and contribute to habitat restoration.
Solar Energy Power, Promoting Education, & Tree Planting
The camp is a true conservation champion, powered by solar energy to reduce its footprint. Through the Great Plains Foundation, they partner with local schools to promote environmental education. Guests can plant a tree as part of the Conservation Roots program, making their visit count for the land’s future.
Guest Reviews and Testimonials
Guests can’t get enough of this place! Many have returned time and again, which speaks volumes. The camp is also famous for its resident leopards. How cool would it be to wake up and see a leopard strolling by? It’s an extra sprinkle of safari magic you won’t find anywhere else!
“We very much enjoyed our stay at Mara Expedition Camp! Our guide was Julius, and he had a wonderful intuitive feel for things that “might” happen with the wildlife. He taught us patience–which paid off multiple times.
The service was robust, friendly, and caring without being overbearing. The variety of food options — especially at lunch — was terrific, and my wife’s vegan diet was easily accommodated. We also had a kitchen stay with the singing chefs, which was a lot of fun.
Our tent provided excellent creature comforts, allowing us to sleep comfortably. The public space around the camp is well designed and inviting.” – TDW_KSW.
“The service at this camp was amazing, our guide was superb, and the food and accommodations were excellent. However, it was the service that set this camp apart from other high-end camps. I would highly recommend the Mara Expedition Camp based upon our experience here.” – Davidkennedy2.
Food and Beverage
Dining at Mara Expedition Camp is a sensory feast. Chefs use fresh, local ingredients to create delicious meals that are the highlight of the day. Imagine starting your day with a picnic breakfast on a game drive, accompanied by fresh tea and coffee, bacon, and homemade cereal.
Then lunch is a salad and fresh bread extravaganza. But dinner is the pièce de résistance. A three-course formal dinner, served under the stars with the fire crackling and candles lit, is truly magical.
Fresh Ingredients and Picnic Meals
Meals at the camp are prepared with love using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy picnic breakfasts on morning game drives, followed by salads and freshly baked bread for lunch. Dinner is a three-course meal by the fire, with a fully stocked fridge for all your beverages.
Safety and Security
Your safety is their top priority. The camp is situated within the national reserve and is staffed 24 hours a day by their experienced team. So you can relax and enjoy your adventure without a care in the world. And if you’re bringing the kids, they’ve got you covered! Children 6 and up can join the ‘Young Explorer’s Club’ for some fun, appropriate activities.
FAQs
Ready to learn more about this fantastic place? Here are the most common questions!
How many camps are in the Maasai Mara?
Many, each different.
Which month is best for the Masai Mara Safari?
July to October is the best time.
Which airstrip is closest to Mara Expedition Camp?
Ol Kiombo Airstrip is the closest, making it extremely easy to access the camp.
Best conservancy in the Masai Mara?
Mara North Conservancy is the top choice, offering fantastic wildlife and intense conservation efforts.
Is Mara Expedition Camp family-friendly?
Yes, great for a family adventure! Two-bedroom family tent and activities for kids six and up. A fantastic place for everyone to explore and make memories.
Gladys Mwangi: Your Safari Guru
Gladys Mwangi is a travel enthusiast and the manager of ajkenyasafaris.com. She has personally visited most of the camps in the Maasai Mara. Her writing combines storytelling with a love for the wild to give you the facts about Kenya’s top safari destinations.
A licensed professional and member of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO), Gladys will help you plan your dream African adventure.
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