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Instinct of the Mara, Masai Mara | Timbuktu Travel
Masai Mara

Instinct of the Mara

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Instinct of the Mara

A classic safari camp tucked away in a quiet Mara conservancy.
Instinct of the Mara is located in the Olderkesi conservancy, a secluded 7,000-acre conservation area bordering the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and Serengeti National Park. With a private guide and vehicle at your disposal, explore this beautiful area however you would like, whether you spend all your time in the conservancy or venture into the Maasai Mara itself. You can also go on guided walks, swim in fresh water springs or spend time in camp bird watching and learning to cook with local chefs. Just to top it all off, the camp is completely solar-powered.
Masai Mara , Kenya
From $450 per person/per night
Safari
9 Rooms
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Property details

The property

Most meals are enjoyed on the open grassland just outside the main area. With views out towards the salt lick, they often feature a zebra or wildebeest roaming the area. The mess tent is comprised of a more formal dining area and a large decked area perfect for catching up on the day’s sightings and adventures.

The rooms

This intimate property has only 9 rooms in total. There are 7 traditional Meru-style tents with ensuite facilities and a furnished private verandah looking out over the mini savannah. There are also two larger tents perfect for honeymooners or families. The grandest is their private villa, which features two rooms, a lounge area and plunge pool.

Activities

You can explore the Olderkesi conservancy on game drives (day or night) and walking safaris with your private guide. Your guide can also take you to the fresh water springs for a swim - it’s completely safe! If you want to spend the day in the main reserve, they can whip up an early breakfast to eat on the way and a packed lunch for later.
Why we love it

Why we love it

The private guide and vehicle give you so much freedom. Spend every minute of your stay however you like.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Make sure your guide takes you up to one of the secret sundowner spots; the views up there are unreal!
Something to think about

Something to think about

This property is quite a drive from the main reserve and the area where the hot air balloon operates, so be prepared for an early start.
Trips

Masai Mara Tours & Trips

Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch

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9 nights from $10.3K per person

Kenya’s road less travelled
Kenya

Kenya’s road less travelled

9 nights from $10.7K per person

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How to book Instinct of the Mara

How do I book Instinct of the Mara?

Instinct of the Mara can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Kenya trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Kenya trips featuring Instinct of the Mara or get advice and suggestions from one of our Kenya specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Instinct of the Mara?

Stays at Instinct of the Mara start from around $450 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Instinct of the Mara

Kenya

Masai Mara

A safari classic filled with the Big Five, wildlife-dotted landscapes and vibrant Maasai warriors.