(Currently closed) Situated just outside the Masai Mara, overlooking the Njageteck River in the private Mara North Conservancy, Richard's River Camp is an intimate, seven-bedroom camp dedicated to the preservation of the natural beauty of the area. Originally the Robert family's 'home away from home' in the Mara, the camp is now run by Richard Robert and his wife Liz, and much of the casually luxurious style is down to the bits and bobs that Liz has collected on her travels over the years. Climb into one of the hanging baskets outside your tent, and watch the sun rise and fall over the iconic Mara landscape - this place will feel like the home you always dreamt of.




Raised up on a stone-masoned platform, the open sided main dining and lounge tent rises up over the Mara plains like a boutique sail boat floating over the grasslands. Effortlessly beautiful cream sofas make the most of the views, while textured rugs and local artefacts (many of which have been collected by Liz on her worldly travels) hark back to safari adventures of old. Dining is done either under the canvas, or more likely, out in the bush under the stars. Magical.
Seven exquisitely decorated tents are scattered in intimate zones around the camp. They're chic, but still charmingly rustic: think richly-weaved arabesque carpets mingling with ancient, carved chests, and complemented by soft linens in neutral shades. Even the tent itself is a beautiful, contemporary patterned canvas. The ensuite bathroom with flush loo and heated shower is framed by wall of bamboo - Robinson Crusoe's dream bathroom indeed! And at the front of each is a small sitting area with safari chairs, ideal for admiring the passing wildlife.
You're right in the midst of the Mara wilderness at Richard's. Discover all the hidden corners on day and night game drives, walking safaris, and cultural visits to local Masai villages. If you want to stay out all day, ask the staff to pack you bush breakfast, lunch or dinner (or all three!). There's also visits to the nearby rhino and elephant sanctuary, hot air balloon rides over the Mara at sunrise or, if you're not feeling energetic, simply watch the wildlife from your tent.
Dinner out on the savannah, accompanied only by the twinkling stars and the snortings and gruntings of the wildlife, will be a night to remember.
Take time to visit the Mara Elephant Project to see their instrumental work in alleviating human-wildlife conflict and anti-poaching in the area.
The camp is completely unfenced, so wildlife is free to roam about as it pleases. We love this detail, but it's something to bear in mind.
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A safari classic filled with the Big Five, wildlife-dotted landscapes and vibrant Maasai warriors.