Best Camps and Lodges in the Masai Mara: Complete Guide by Conservancy

What Are the Best Camps and Lodges in the Masai Mara?

The best camps and lodges in the Masai Mara fall into two categories: properties within the Masai Mara National Reserve (government-run, with fixed tracks and no night drives) and those in the private conservancies surrounding the reserve (which allow night drives, off-road driving, and walking safaris). For luxury travellers, the private conservancies consistently deliver superior safari experiences, and choosing the right conservancy is the most important lodge decision you’ll make.

Private Conservancy Camps (Recommended for Luxury Safari)

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

17,000-acre conservancy north of the reserve. Among the best in the Mara ecosystem for big cat sightings. Limited to six camps, ensuring low vehicle density on game drives. Key camps: Mahali Mzuri (Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition property), Ol Seki Hemingways, Olare Mara Kempinski.

Naboisho Conservancy

50,000-acre conservancy — the largest private conservancy in the Mara ecosystem. Excellent lion and cheetah sightings. Highly exclusive with strict vehicle limits. Key camps: Encounter Mara (Asilia Africa), andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp.

Mara North Conservancy

74,000-acre conservancy on the northern side of the Mara River. Exceptional elephant and big cat habitat. Bordering the Laikipia highlands. Key camps: Elephant Pepper Camp, Offbeat Mara, Kitich Camp.

Siana Conservancy

Eastern side of the ecosystem, less crowded than northern conservancies. Good for quieter, more exclusive game drives. Key camp: Siana Springs.

Within the Masai Mara National Reserve

Several established lodges operate within the national reserve itself. These offer good wildlife access on fixed tracks during standard game drive hours (morning and afternoon). No night drives or off-road driving permitted within the reserve.

• Governors’ Camp — One of the Mara’s iconic originals, operating since 1972. On the Mara River with direct hippo pod views. Multiple camps in the Governors’ Collection including Private Camp and Il Moran.
• Angama Mara — Perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, with views immortalised in Out of Africa. 30 tented suites. USD 1,500–2,500 per person per night.
• Saruni Mara — Located in the Mara North area, small and exclusive with just 6 villas.

Choosing by Season

Ready to choose your Masai Mara camp? Enquire with African Safari Group for personalised recommendations based on your travel dates and priorities.