This is Kenya's most popular game reserve because of its concentration of wildlife and the annual migration of the wildebeest. Situated approx. 4hrs drive from Nairobi or 1 hour by light aircraft (depending which lodge you stay at), The Mara is a must see. I have had the priviledge of visiting this game reserve 4 times and each time was different and magnificent - just like seeing it for the first time. A safari is an unpredictable and exciting experience - you never know what you are going to encounter. High on everyones list is the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino and Buffalo) and The Mara offers one of the best opportunities to see all of them. During the migration of the wildebeest, lion are especially prevalent and often seen in large prides. It is not unusual to see a kill and because the animals are so relaxed around people you can get extremely close without any danger. A safari is an adventure and whilst there are luxury tented campsites with ensuite bathrooms and 4 poster beds, you will travel on rough dirt tracks. However, the scenery is so spectacular with flat topped acacia trees dotting the vast plains that you will hardly notice the ride. Most safaris commence in Nairobi and either travel by road to the Masai Mara or offer and air option. I recommend you fly if possible as this elimates the 4hr drive and gives you a totally different perspective of the landscape - you fly low enough to actually see game from the air. You will also fly over scores of local Masai villages and see the tribesmen herding their cattle in their distinctive red robes.

When planning your safari you need to consider the time of year you visit as this will influence which game you are likely to see. From late June to August/October is the famous migration. Over 1 million wildebeest, thousands of zebra and gazelle from the plains of the south - western Serengeti cross the rivers to reach the Mara's grasslands tracked by predators. The dramatic river crossings are a spectacle of the survival of the fittest and best seen at Rhino Ridge, Kiboko Crossing (near Mara Serena Lodge and not far from Governors Camp) . Apart from the annual migration, game viewing is excellent year round. The elephants, black rhino, buffalo, zebra, hartebeest, topi and big cats roam the plains and the rivers are home to hippo and crocodiles. There are also 453 species of birds, 53 or which are raptors.

Where you stay is another major consideration. There are some luxurious permanent tented camps that will make your safari a 5 star experience or you can choose more rustic lodge style. Whichever safari you choose the accommodation is included and listed in the itinerary.

Deluxe Category
Govenors actually comprises 3 camps.
Little Governors is a a small exclusive luxury safari camp in an idyllic setting overlooking a seasonal swamp which attracts game and bird life. The atmosphere is intimate with only 15 tents all with ensuite bathrooms. The tariff includes all game viewing by 4 wheel drive. The restaurant tent has a romantic setting and the chefs cook your choice from the evening dinner menu before your eyes.

Main Governors is the larger original camp and offers the same level of luxury accommodation on a slightly larger scale than Little Governors - there are 40 tents.

Il Moran is the most luxurious and exclusive. There are only 10 tents and they are by far the largest and most lavishly appointed of any I have seen in East Africa. The bathrooms are the same size as the living area and have a free standing bathtub! The beds are king size doubles which is a rare occurrence in safari camps.