Mara Plains Camp: The Great Plains Conservation
The strategic placement of Mara Plains Camp is central to its allure. It sits on the northern boundary of the Masai Mara National Reserve, tucked away in the riverine forest of the Ntiakitiak River. Because the camp has traversing rights to both the private conservancy and the main reserve, guests have access to over 100,000 acres of prime wildlife territory. This dual access is a significant advantage during the Great Migration months, allowing for a flexible safari that avoids the masses.
Quick Facts: Mara Plains Camp at a Glance
Category | Details |
Location | Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Maasai Mara, Kenya |
Accommodation | 7 En-suite Luxury Tents (including the Jahazi Suite) |
Sustainability | Fully solar-powered; zero-cement construction |
Primary Wildlife | High density of Big Cats, Elephants, and Great Migration |
Unique Feature | Complimentary use of professional Canon camera sets |
Activities | Day/Night game drives, Bush walks, Hot air ballooning |
Bespoke Accommodation: Artistry in the Wild
At Mara Plains Camp, the accommodation is designed to be a “subtle refuge.” The camp features only seven expansive canvas suites, each raised on recycled railway sleeper decks. This elevated design ensures minimal impact on the soil while providing guests with sweeping views of the plains.
The aesthetic of Mara Plains Camp pays homage to East Africa’s rich safari history. You will find deep Lamu wood doors, brass accents, and rich red tones that evoke a sense of timeless adventure. Each suite at Mara Plains Camp is a sanctuary, complete with a deep copper bathtub, an indoor shower, and a private veranda that invites the sights and sounds of the bush directly into your living space.
Commitment to Sustainability and Great Plains Conservation
Sustainability is not just a buzzword at Mara Plains Camp; it is the foundation of its existence. The camp is run entirely by a state-of-the-art solar farm, and the lack of cement in its construction means the entire site could be dismantled without leaving a permanent scar on the earth.
Furthermore, every guest staying at Mara Plains Camp contributes directly to the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. These funds support over 1,000 Maasai families and ensure the protection of the critical wildlife corridor. By choosing Mara Plains Camp, you are actively participating in a model of tourism that prioritizes the ecosystem’s longevity over short-term gain.
Primary Wildlife: A Big Cat Haven
If your goal is to see predators, Mara Plains Camp is arguably the best place in Kenya. The Olare Motorogi Conservancy is reputed to have the highest concentration of big cats in Africa. It is common to see resident lion prides lounging near the camp or leopards patrolling the riverine forest at dusk.
Beyond the cats, the area surrounding Mara Plains Camp is home to massive herds of elephants, buffalo, and giraffe. During the migration season, the plains transform into a moving sea of wildebeest and zebra. The camp is a birdwatcher’s paradise as well, with over 300 species recorded in the vicinity.
The Professional Photographer’s Unique Feature
What truly sets Mara Plains Camp apart from other luxury lodges is its dedication to photography. Each tent is equipped with a professional Canon camera body and a suite of lenses (typically 100-400mm and 24-70mm) for complimentary guest use.
At the end of your stay at Mara Plains Camp, the staff downloads your photos onto a memory stick for you to take home. This “Great Plains” signature touch ensures that even those without heavy gear can capture world-class images of the Maasai Mara’s wildlife.
Diverse Safari Activities
Activities at Mara Plains Camp are entirely flexible, tailored to the wildlife opportunities of the day rather than a rigid schedule.
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Game Drives: Conducted in custom-built, open-sided Toyota Land Cruisers designed specifically for photographers.
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Night Drives: A rare opportunity in the Mara, allowing guests at Mara Plains Camp to see nocturnal hunters in action.
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Guided Bush Walks: Accompanied by expert Maasai guides, these walks offer a ground-level perspective on the “Little Five” and local flora.
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Cultural Visits: Guests can engage with the Naboisho Women’s Group, supported by Great Plains, to learn about traditional beadwork and community empowerment.
The Relais & Châteaux Culinary Experience
Dining at Mara Plains Camp is a sophisticated affair. With no set mealtimes, you can enjoy a sunrise breakfast in the bush or a candlelit dinner on your private deck. The chefs at Mara Plains Camp specialize in “field-to-fork” cuisine, utilizing fresh, local ingredients to create world-class dishes that complement the rugged beauty of the surroundings.
