When you think of a flagship for Great Plains Conservation, Mara Plains stands out in every way. It isn’t just about the feel-good factor of supporting the Maasai community, employing locals, and contributing to conservation efforts. It’s about immersing yourself in the raw, unfiltered drama of the African wild. If you want a safari experience with real action, Mara Plains delivers.
Setting: A Step Above the Rest
The Maasai Mara is divided into two key areas: private concessions and the Reserve. The Reserve is often overcrowded, with dozens of vehicles swarming over each lion sighting, which can make the experience feel more like a traffic jam than a safari. In contrast, Mara Plains is located in a private concession, offering an exclusive and tranquil experience where you can enjoy nature without the hassle of too many vehicles.
One of the main reasons to choose the Mara is the Great Migration—an unparalleled spectacle of wildebeest and zebra moving across the plains, attracting a high concentration of predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. It’s a predator’s paradise, and with Mara Plains’ prime location, you’re set to witness this spectacle with a much more intimate and personal experience.
Facilities: Blending Luxury and Nature
Mara Plains Camp is nestled within a 35,000-acre private concession in the heart of the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, only 150 meters from the Maasai Mara Reserve. This location gives you the best of both worlds: the action of the Maasai Mara and the peacefulness of a private concession.
The camp itself exudes a colonial charm, with deep-toned wood, leather furnishings, and antique décor, creating a vintage safari atmosphere. Upon arrival, you cross a wooden bridge over a river, immediately immersing yourself in the wild. It’s the perfect way to begin your stay.
Mara Plains offers modern comforts while maintaining its rustic charm, including an open-plan kitchen and a lovely wine cellar. The addition of a massage room is a nice surprise—an indulgence I didn’t expect from a camp like this. It’s a perfect retreat after a thrilling day of game drives.
Rooms: Comfort with a View
The camp features seven rooms, including the spacious two-bedroom Jahazi Suite. The rooms are elevated on wooden platforms and feature private decks with varying views of the surrounding wilderness. My room, though offering a beautiful river view, did have the presence of hippos, which may not be for everyone. But the soothing sounds of the river were enough to offset any unwanted smells.
Inside, the rooms are spacious with comfortable leather chairs, a small desk area, and a bathroom with a double vanity and a copper bath. The open-plan design lets in natural light, creating a cozy, airy atmosphere. But be warned—the water pressure in the shower is a bit weak, and the wait for hot water might test your patience.
Service & Food: Attention to Detail
The service at Mara Plains is top-notch, with a welcoming staff who greeted me with a traditional song upon arrival. However, there were a few hiccups with meal preferences not being carried over from other Great Plains camps, which could be improved. The food focuses on local cuisine, which adds authenticity but may not suit all tastes. That said, the pastry chef is talented, and the dining experience overall was pleasant, though some meals were less impressive.
Activities: The Thrill of the Wild
The Mara is home to one of the most thrilling wildlife spectacles on earth. From the low, expansive grasslands, you get the best views of predators in action. I had the chance to witness hyenas, lions, and even an attempted hunt by a pride of nine lions. Night drives are a highlight at Mara Plains, offering a chance to see the nocturnal drama unfold. Lions attempted to take down giraffes and hippos, and hyenas were busy scavenging—keeping us on the edge of our seats all night.
While the spiders under the duvet may have startled me, I quickly got over it in exchange for the incredible wildlife encounters that unfolded before me. Mara Plains really brings the drama of nature to life.
Family-Friendly
Children from six years old are welcome at Mara Plains, and what child wouldn’t want to stay up late watching lions hunt? It’s an experience they’ll never forget.
Final Thoughts
Mara Plains is an unforgettable experience, offering the luxury and privacy of a private concession, with unrivaled access to the Great Migration and predator action. While the food could use some refinement, the overall experience is phenomenal. If you’re after a safari adventure that’s more about the wildlife than the amenities, this is the place to be.
For bookings and more information, contact us at info@crystaltourskenya.com or call +254 721 994 205. Let’s help you plan your ultimate safari adventure.