Expect nothing but luxury at Mara Plains, a camp so highly regarded it's been added to National Geographic's list of Unique Lodges of the World. Set in the private 35,000-acre (14164-hectare) Olare Motorogi Conservancy on the northern boundary of Kenya's Masai Mara Reserve, the camp allows you to explore an area far larger than that offered at any other camp. Mara Plains is planted inconspicuously along wooden walkways in a copse of riverine trees on the banks of the Ntiakitiak River. The interior reminds you of Hemingway and all you've ever dreamt about African exploration in bygone times. And yet, the atmosphere is unassuming.
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A raised wooden walkway leads between curved acacia branches to the seven canvas tents. Each has a canopied canvas ceiling, wooden floors and accents redolent of East Africa’s fascinating safari history – rich colours, plush beds and leather trims. The en-suite bathrooms are gloriously spacious, with a deep bath and shower of copper (the water is heated using solar power). Outside is a private veranda for admiring the huge expanse of wilderness. For an added dose of luxury, book the two-bedroom Jahazi Suite, complete with its own dedicated butler, vehicle and guide. The tents have both wi-fi and cellphone connectivity.
Relaxing in the spacious tent, with its wide and inviting bed, wooden floor, Persian rugs, old chests and deep copper tub. Heaven on Earth.
Give yourself enough days here to enjoy the conservancy and the Masai Mara itself - the sightings are more than rewarding.
The tents are open-plan with just a curtain separating the bathroom from the rest of the suite - perfectly fine for some, not so for others.
Mara Plains Camp is owned by Great Plains which is dedicated to creating lasting, sustainable conservation solutions for the world's iconic wildlife and wilderness areas. Through their model of compassionate protection and intelligent management, funded by low-impact tourism, they integrate communities, governments, and the private sector. Embracing the concept of 'Conservation Tourism', they prioritise environmentally sound practices while ensuring benefits directly support conservation efforts without a negative impact on the land or wildlife. A contribution of $95 per guest, which is included in the nightly rate, goes towards the above goals.
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Mara Plains Camp 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 Mara Plains Camp 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.
Stays at Mara Plains Camp start from around $1.7K, or US$1.7K, 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.
A safari classic filled with the Big Five, wildlife-dotted landscapes and vibrant Maasai warriors.
