OVERVIEW:
Mara Plains Camp is definitely one of the top-top camps in the Mara conservancies – and a YZ favorite! Everything about it is seriously top-notch, among the very best in Kenya. If you love luxury safari, you will love it here!
ACCESS & LOCATION:
It is very close to the border with the Maasai Mara National Reserve, but as it is located within a conservancy it is able to offer a more private game-viewing experience, away from the crowds.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT MARA PLAINS CAMP:
The camp is approached via a bridge over the river. Guests then walk through part of the forest and up a small slope and large steps, at the top of which is an amazing vista of a flat-topped tree amid sprawling plains. The communal areas comprise a comfortable lounge and dining tent. This is open fronted, to provide spectacular views. The lounge has a colonial feel, with well-cushioned leather armchairs and sofas under chandeliers for a touch of grandeur. There is also a library here, with loads of books about wildlife! The dining room has a long ironwood table and rows of upright chairs. However, guests often eat al fresco.
The guest accommodation at Mara Plains Camp consists of just seven tents, two of which are designed for honeymooners or family. All have an authentic Africa vibe, combining pale canvas and linings with black mosquito screens to very stylish effect! They are raised above the ground on decks constructed from old railway sleepers imported from South Africa. The decks have a wraparound design, so guests are able to enjoy lots of different viewpoints! It is very pleasant to sit on the veranda, which overlooks the plains. The beds share this outlook. The tents also boast ample storage space, comfortable seating, and an oscillating fan above the beds for when the temperatures soar. The family/honeymoon units even have their own lounge/dining area! En-suite facilities include a flush toilet, double washbasin, generous-sized shower and gorgeous brass bath. Every detail is perfect.
ACTIVITIES AT MARA PLAINS CAMP:
Mara Plains Camp offers a fine assortment of activities.
- Game drives in the conservancy take place three times per day – early morning, late afternoon and night! This is a wonderful location for wildlife watching. The rippling plains, lower river valleys and dense woodland provide habitat for a wide variety of species – predators such as lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog, plus loads of herbivores including elephant and rhino. And there are plenty of feathered friends to keep keen birders happy!
- The camp lends every group of guests a pair of Swarovski optic binoculars and an impressive Canon 7D camera. Guests who enjoy photography also appreciate the adjustable camera trays in the vehicles.
- Other activities include hot air balloon safaris at dawn (at extra cost), and visits to the local school or village. These visits are an excellent opportunity to get to know the local people – highly recommended!
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.