Located on the banks of the river from which it takes its name, Sand River Masai Mara lies within Kenya's flagship reserve, close to the Tanzanian border. This is where the wildebeest cross the river in search of better grazing later in the year, so you couldn't be closer to the heart of the action. There's profuse resident game too, so there's lots to see year round. The camp itself is charming. Decorated in authentic 1920s colonial safari style, with plush leather seating, travel chests and a well-stocked library, the camp makes you feel like an extra in Out of Africa.
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The accommodation is divided into two separate but adjoining campsites, with each area possessing its own designated dining and public areas. Meals are served in the dining area or outdoors, and the food is five-star, as you would expect. For those looking to cool off there's a swimming pool.
There are 16 tents, including a family suite, in the two adjoining campsites. All the rooms have lovely views of either the river or the surrounding plains. The interiors are elegant and glamorous, with hardwood floors, oriental rugs, brocade curtains, ridiculously comfortable beds and a bathroom with a copper-clad tub, a rain shower and an outdoor shower that offers views of the game. What could beat watching elephant feeding while you rinse off the dust?
Game drives and photographic safaris are always successful, especially as the guides are such five-star experts. See the action from above in a hot air balloon, watch the animals from your own private deck or settle back with a book in your super-glam accommodation.
The huge rooms, the outdoor showers and enormous bathtubs overlooking the Sand River, and all-round fantastic service from the guides to the waiters. This camp has it all.
Come armed with questions and make use of the excellent guides. They know the area and its animals so well, they're like human binoculars and encyclopaedias, all rolled into one.
October and November are the best times to see the migration river crossings around the camp, otherwise it might be a bit of a drive to Mara River. On the plus side, you're in an area where there are very few other vehicles around...
Sand River Masai Mara is owned by Elewana collection which are rooted in the concept of harmony, as reflected in their Kiswahili-inspired name. Through the Land & Life Foundation, Elewana is dedicated to fostering the sustainable coexistence between communities and wildlife across East Africa. Shanga, an initiative under the foundation, empowers individuals with disabilities through artistic expression and economic opportunities, epitomising Elewana's commitment to authentic experiences and positive impact.
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A safari classic filled with the Big Five, wildlife-dotted landscapes and vibrant Maasai warriors.
