Kichwa Tembo Mara Camp, operated by &Beyond, is a luxurious tented safari camp located on the western border of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, within a private concession at the base of the Oloololo Escarpment. This location provides guests with stunning views of the endless Mara plains while offering access to both private wilderness areas and the Maasai Mara Reserve itself.
The camp features a blend of classic and contemporary safari luxury, offering a choice of Superior, Superior View, and Classic Tents, all designed for comfort while maintaining a strong connection to nature. With its prime location, Kichwa Tembo is an excellent base for witnessing the Great Migration, as herds of wildebeest and zebras move through the Mara between July and October.
Beyond game drives, the camp offers walking safaris, hot air balloon rides, bush dining, and cultural visits to Maasai villages, ensuring a diverse and enriching safari experience. Its reputation for exceptional service, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife makes Kichwa Tembo one of the most sought after luxury camps in the Maasai Mara.
Best Time to Visit Kichwa Tembo Mara Camp
Peak Season (July to October)
This is the most exciting time to visit, as the Great Migration reaches the Maasai Mara. Guests can witness dramatic river crossings at the Mara River, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras face crocodile infested waters. The dry conditions also make for excellent wildlife viewing, as animals gather around permanent water sources.
Green Season (November to May)
During this time, the landscape turns lush and vibrant, making it a fantastic season for photographers. The calving season (January to March) attracts predators like lions and cheetahs, leading to thrilling game drives. Birdwatching is also at its peak, with migratory species arriving from Europe and Asia. Kichwa Tembo Mara Camp is less crowded, and rates are often lower compared to peak season.
How to Get to Kichwa Tembo Mara Camp
By Air
The most convenient way to reach Kichwa Tembo is by taking a 45 minute flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip, which is just 15 minutes from the camp. The lodge provides complimentary transfers from the airstrip.
By Road
The camp is about a 6 hour drive from Nairobi, passing through the scenic Great Rift Valley. The road is mostly paved, but the last stretch requires a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season. While driving allows for sightseeing along the way, most guests prefer flying due to the long journey.