Mara Plains Camp is an ultra-luxury safari camp located in the heart of the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which borders the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Hidden beneath a canopy of riverine trees along the banks of the Ntiakitiak River, the camp blends colonial elegance with East African heritage, offering a sophisticated yet authentic safari experience. With canvas walls, deep red hardwood floors, brass fittings, and antiques throughout, it evokes the charm of early explorers while delivering world class comfort and style.
This camp is intentionally exclusive, with just seven spacious canvas suites, including one two bedroom family suite, each raised on wooden decks with sweeping views of the surrounding plains and wildlife. Every suite features a private veranda, luxurious en-suite bathroom with deep soaking tub, indoor and outdoor showers, and a writing desk, creating a personal retreat in the bush. Wildlife is ever present, with the conservancy boasting one of the highest densities of big cats in Africa. Guests can frequently spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, and elephants right from their tent.
Mara Plains is not just about luxury, it’s a camp with purpose. Built using recycled hardwoods and canvas, it’s fully solar powered and has a strong conservation ethos. The camp supports local communities and helps preserve one of Kenya’s richest ecosystems. With exclusive access to the conservancy and seamless entry to the Maasai Mara, guests can enjoy extraordinary wildlife encounters with fewer vehicles and maximum freedom, including night drives and walking safaris.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mara Plains Camp is from July to October, during the Great Migration, when herds of wildebeests and zebras flood into the Mara from the Serengeti, attracting predators and delivering dramatic wildlife action. However, the Olare Motorogi Conservancy offers exceptional year round game viewing. The green season from November to March is lush, quiet, and excellent for birding, photography, and newborn sightings. April to June is the low season with fewer visitors, ideal for privacy and cooler temperatures.
How to Get There
The camp is most conveniently accessed by a scheduled or charter flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Ol Kiombo or Mara North airstrip, followed by a short 45 minute to 1 hour game drive through the conservancy. For a scenic overland adventure, it is also possible to drive from Nairobi, taking approximately 6 to 7 hours, but flights are highly recommended for comfort and maximizing your safari time.
