Tamarind Tree Hotel | Nairobi
Tamarind Tree Hotel Carnivore Nairobi is ideally located just 5 km to the southwest of Nairobi within the spacious Carnivore grounds and it's iconic Carnivore Restaurant. The hotel offers easy access to all parts of the city, it's national park, as well as to the country’s many diverse attractions via the neighboring Wilson Airport and Southern Bypass.
The nearby Langata and Karen suburbs are among the liveliest and most popular in Nairobi with world-class shopping malls and excellent restaurants. The hotel's world-class leisure facilities and genuine service ensure that all guests experience the very best of Tamarind hospitality.
- Images
- Rooms
Standard Rooms
Standard Rooms
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Electrical Outlets, Foam Mattress, Fridge/Freezer, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), LCD DVD/TV, Safe, Satellite / Cable TV, Smoke Alarm, Table, Tea / Coffee, Telephone, Television, Twin Bed, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe, Wheelchair Friendly
Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Your Rooms
1x Standard Room
Fast Facts
Hotel
Kipalo Hills | Tsavo West National Park
The place you return to again and again“. This is what Kipalo means in the language of the Taitas, the tribe living in the region. No wonder – the view from the slopes of the Mbulia Hills over the vast plains of Tsavo West and the Ngulia Hills to the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro is simply breathtaking. If you are looking for seclusion, privacy and unforgettable encounters with Kenya‘s unique wildlife, then Kipalo Hills is the place for you. The camp, which nestles perfectly against the rocky hillside, was established in Mbulia Conservancy which borders Tsavo West National Park, and which covers almost 36,000 acres.
A waterhole right next to the camp attracts elephants, buffalos and occasionally even leopards and the very rare wild dogs. The swimming pool provides refreshment between activities, and the surrounding rocks form an atmospheric backdrop for your sundowner. The safari tents, luxury suite and private villa, which blend beautifully into the grounds and unspoilt nature surrounding the main open mess, also offer unparalleled views of the spectacular scenery and impenetrable wilderness across the Mbulia Conservancy plains.
The area offers access to Tsavo East and excursions to the Taita and Chyulu Hills.
- Images
- Video
- Suites
- Tents
- Villas
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
- Restaurants
- The good we do
The Rock Suite
Nestled among the natural rock formations, The Rock Suite offers an exclusive and romantic safari experience, combining privacy, comfort, and stunning surroundings. It is particularly well suited for honeymooners and families seeking a unique retreat in the wilderness.
• Double bed and day bed
• Spacious en-suite bathroom with shower, double basins, toilet, and premium bathroom amenities including shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion
• Private dining area
• Furnished natural rock veranda with beautiful views
• English-style three-pin charging points
• Ideal for honeymoon couples and families
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Family Safari Tent, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Shower, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Traditional Safari Tent
Experience the charm of an authentic safari stay in our Traditional Safari Tents, thoughtfully designed to combine comfort, privacy, and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
• Double bed or twin beds available
• Spacious en-suite bathroom with safari bucket shower, basin, toilet, and premium bathroom amenities including shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion
• Comfortable sitting area in front of the tent
• Tents are generously spaced apart to ensure privacy and tranquility
• Spectacular views of the surrounding landscape from every tent
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Bucket Shower, Driver's cabin, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Queen Bed, Shower, Wardrobe, Water Storage Tank
The Cliff Villa
The Private Villa offers the ultimate in exclusivity and romance, providing a secluded sanctuary surrounded by nature. Thoughtfully designed for couples and honeymooners, it combines luxurious comfort with unforgettable wilderness experiences.
• King-size bed
• En-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower, double basins, toilet, and premium bathroom amenities including shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion
• Spacious furnished deck for relaxing and enjoying the views
• Rooftop terrace with lounge area and star bed for unforgettable nights under the African sky
• Private plunge pool built into the natural rock formation
• Ideal for honeymooners and couples seeking privacy and exclusivity
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fan, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Shower, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Baby Sitting, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Children Friendly, Drivers Cabin, Eco Friendly, Guided Tours, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Meal On Request, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Power Generator , Room Service
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Bucket Shower, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Driver's cabin, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Family Safari Tent, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Queen Bed, Twin Bed, Water Storage Tank
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Baby Sitting, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available), Room service 24 hours, Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, Night Drives, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Night Drives, Safaris, Wildlife Tours
ACTIVITIES ARE ARRANGED TO EACH GUEST’S PREFERENCE, EACH DAY TAILOR-MADE
Every stay is tailored to the individual interests and preferences of our guests, allowing them to enjoy a truly personalized safari experience. Activities can be arranged flexibly each day with the private guide and may include:
• Individual game drives in custom-built 4×4 safari vehicles with open roof hatches in Mbulia Conservancy, as well as in Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks
• Full-day safaris to the Taita Hills and Chyulu Hills
• Night game drives within the conservancy
• Visits to the conservancy’s waterholes, offering exceptional close-up encounters with resident elephants
• Guided bush walks with experienced guides
• Birdwatching excursions
• Visits to the ranger post to learn more about local conservation efforts
• Picnic breakfasts and lunches in the bush
• Sundowner experiences at scenic viewpoints with magnificent views across the landscape towards Mount Kilimanjaro
Personalized Dining Experience
At Kipalo Hills, dining is an integral part of the safari experience. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Masai Mara, every meal is thoughtfully prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients and served in a variety of beautiful locations throughout the camp or in the bush.
Guests can enjoy a delicious blend of international cuisine and locally inspired dishes, tailored to individual preferences and dietary requirements. Whether starting the day with a private breakfast at the tent/suite or villa, overlooking the Tsavo West, enjoying a leisurely lunch between safari activities, or ending the evening with a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars at the pool deck, each dining experience is designed to be both memorable and authentic.
The camp's welcoming dining and lounge areas provide a relaxed atmosphere for socializing and sharing stories from the day's adventures, while private dining experiences can be arranged for those seeking a more intimate setting. Sundowners around a fire pit in the middle of the bush, accompanied by spectacular views and the sounds of the African wilderness, complete the experience and create unforgettable safari memories.
Security for Wildlife
Our Mission
The Secluded African Wildlife and Community Trust (SAWCT) manages and operates three conservancies. These areas have very different challenges, but need to be protected either way. SAWCT have their own rangers, anti-poaching teams, fence crews and community liaison officers where needed. These are an amazing group of people who operate without fear in some of the harshest environments, against the scourge of poaching, charcoal burning, overgrazing and encroachment.
To spend a day out in the field with them is entertaining, enriching and very satisfying.
It does not take long for the wildlife to understand that they are safe and protected in these areas, Mbulia being the most perfect example of this, when we first moved in to the area game was scarce and very timid, today you can sit at a waterhole and have elephant come in to drink all around you. In the Mara we have seen remarkable change in a very short time, the areas we have now leased, which are now free of people and cattle, the game fully took over in less than a month.
Food for community
Our Mission
In the heart of Kenya, the Tsavo region is home to a diverse community that relies on sustainable and reliable food supplies to thrive. As we continue to face challenges such as climate change, population growth, and economic fluctuations, it is essential to prioritize the availability and accessibility of nutritious food for everyone in Tsavo. When things get really bad and the drought bites, Secluded Africa Wildlife and Community Trust (SAWCT) with the help of community elders and priests make a list of the neediest families and then carry out a food drive to help them.
Friends and family came together and donated either money or in kind to the Trust in a food drive, this initiative aimed to provide essential nourishment to families facing hardship. In total we regularly feed approximately 500 families.
Water for wildlife
Our Mission
Water is essential for Kenya’s diverse wildlife, from elephants and lions to birds and smaller species. However, climate change, deforestation, and human activity have led to water shortages and dried up waterholes, threatening both animals and their habitats. Conservation efforts, such as building water pans, protecting wetlands, and promoting sustainable water use, are crucial to ensuring wildlife survival. By supporting these initiatives, we can help maintain Kenya’s rich biodiversity and safeguard its iconic species for future generations.
In tsavo for example we refill waterholes on a daily basis, twice a day in order to keep the wildlife happy and healthy but also to stop elephants wandering through community land and farms in search of water, which is a recipe for disaster in human wildlife conflict.
In 2024 we delivered 6,423,500 million liters of water for the wildlife.
Water for Community
Our Mission
Access to clean water is vital for communities in Kenya, supporting health, agriculture, and livelihoods. However, many areas face water shortages due to droughts, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. Investing in sustainable water solutions, such as boreholes, rainwater harvesting, strategically placed water tanks and conservation efforts, is dramatically improving lives and boosting development. Ensuring safe and reliable water access empowers communities, promotes well-being, and creates a more sustainable future for all.
Secluded Africa wildlife and community trust has strategically placed water tanks throughout the tsavo community and continues to fill these and the local schools with fresh water.
In 2024 we delivered 535,500 liters of fresh water to the community and 97,500 liters to local schools.
Bursary Projects
Our Mission
In Kenya primary school education is compulsory and “theoretically” free. Secondary education on the other hand is relatively expensive and not compulsory. This unfortunately leaves a cross section of very bright students with exceptional grades but no opportunity to go any further in their education. At SAWCT we work closely with the primary school headmasters, the chiefs, the village elders and the priest to carefully handpick individual children from the very poorest families in our community but with the highest grades. We do a home visit to each of these families and respectfully request the family and communities blessing to take these kids further, of which we have never been turned down but rather received with great joy and open arms.
When we take such a child, we cover all their costs from uniforms to bedding, etc. as well of course school fees (all but a few attend boarding school). The trust currently has 88 children in secondary education and 9 in universities and a number in vocational training.
Boda-Boda Project
Our Mission
In Kenya, especially in the rural areas, the informal transport sector has been taken over by cheap motorcycles that help transport villagers to market, hospital, schools etc. These have become known as “boda bodas”. The Secluded Africa Wildlife and Community Trust has so far taken 5 young men from the community around Tsavo and so far one from the Mara, these young men are selected from the poorest families in the community and sent them for driving lessons and eventually bought them a boda boda each for them to start their own micro-business. The principle of this, is that we have some really bright young men who aren’t great at academics but are great at other things. All these young men pay back to the Trust Kshs 200.00 ($1.54) per day until they have refunded the trust the full amount for the purchase of the boda-boda. All of these monies are kept in a kitty and each time it reaches an amount of a new motorcycle, another member of the community is selected to benefit from this project.
Community Tailoring Project
Our Mission
So far we have taken 6 ladies from the local communities around the lodges, who again are not great with their academics but for more practical (2 from Tana River Delta, 2 from Tsavo and 2 from Masai Mara). We start by taking the ladies to tailoring school anywhere from 1.5 years to 2 years (depending on how quickly they pick up). After graduation they spend some time with Nikita learning the basics of business eg cash flow, profit, stock, tax etc. At this stage we buy them special sewing machines from India (manual pedal operated due to no electricity). Thereafter, they set up their own micro-business making clothes and other items within the community. These businesses are also supported by the lodges with making cushion covers, uniforms etc.
Beekeeping Project
Our Mission
Not every poacher is a criminal. Some of them simply want to feed their families, pay bills and send their children to school. Hence, they look at small petty poaching like bush meat e.g. dik dik, impalas. When our anti-poaching team catch them, they are sat down and given a square meal and given an opportunity to make a living in other ways. This is where the beekeeping project started. The trust buys them a starter pack with all the necessary items and training required. With all the honey that is produced the lodges buy it from them and is also sold to others, which helps them to make a living. Beekeeping has another surprising benefit: it is saving elephants’ lives. That is because elephants are terrified of the bees. It’s a win-win-win situation. The elephants leave the farmers alone, the bees pollinate the crops, the beekeper makes money, the lodges get delicious, organic honey for their pancakes.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Your Rooms
1x Villa
Fast Facts
4 Stars
Camp
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Flora, Hiking, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Instinct of the Mara | Olderkesi Conservancy
Experience the unspoiled Masai Mara up close and personal at the “Instinct of the Mara” lodge. Hidden away in a corner of Olderkesi Conservancy the camp celebrates the true luxury of privacy and endless possibilities. Here, the magical “Out of Africa” feeling is ever-present. Embedded in the untouched nature of the 7,600 acre conservancy in the secluded southeast of the Masai Mara, guests enjoy unforgettable safaris in one of the most beautiful and animal-rich areas of Kenya.
Olderkesi Conservancy is far away from the crowds of the more frequented Mara region in the northwest, is incredibly rich in wildlife and worth a trip at any time of the year, but especially during the “Great Migration” from late July to mid/end of September.
As there is only one other lodge in this region of the Maasai Mara, our guests share the unforgettable wildlife encounters with very few, if any, other people. The camp is nestled on a hillside, surrounded by pristine forest, features plenty of privacy and very personal, attentive service. There are no fixed times for activities or meals - the guests plan each day individually together with their personal guide. Exclusive use of an open safari jeep per booking!
- Images
- Video
- Suites
- Tents
- Villas
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
- Restaurants
- The good we do
The Forest Suite
Nestled beside a natural spring and surrounded by lush indigenous forest, the Forest Suite offers an exclusive wilderness retreat where privacy, comfort, and exceptional wildlife encounters come together in a truly unique setting.
Highlights of the Forest Suite:
Two separate bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom
Bathrooms featuring a shower, double basins, toilet facilities, bathrobes, and premium bathroom amenities
Spacious living room with comfortable lounge area
Expansive private deck with sun loungers, chairs, dining table, fire pit, and outdoor bathtub
Located directly beside a natural spring, attracting wildlife throughout the day
Excellent opportunities for animal sightings directly from the deck
Surrounded by dense indigenous forest, ensuring privacy and tranquility
Ideal for families, small groups, or honeymooners seeking an exclusive safari experience
English-style three-pin charging points
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Shower, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Premium Safari Tent
The camp features seven spacious Premium Safari Tents, thoughtfully positioned far apart to ensure maximum privacy and an exclusive wilderness experience. The generous spacing between the tents guarantees a sense of seclusion and tranquility, allowing guests to fully connect with nature while enjoying all the comforts of a luxury safari camp.
Each tent features:
Double bed or twin beds
Spacious en-suite bathroom with shower, double basins, bathroom amenities including shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and lotion, toilet facility
Writing desk
Furnished private veranda
English style three pin charging points
The tents are located far apart, so privacy is guaranteed
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Shower, Vanity Cabinet
The Private Villa
Offering the perfect blend of privacy, space, and luxury, the Private Villa is an exclusive safari retreat ideally suited for families, friends travelling together, or couples seeking a more secluded wilderness experience.
Highlights of the Private Villa:
Two separate bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom and private deck featuring a day bed
Spacious bathrooms with shower, bathtub, double basins, toilet facilities, bathrobes, and premium bathroom amenities including shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion
Comfortable living room with dining area, sofa, and fireplace
Expansive shared deck with outdoor dining area
Private plunge pool overlooking the surrounding wilderness
Prime location close to the waterhole, offering excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities
Ideal for families, small groups, or couples seeking privacy and exclusivity
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Shower, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Baby Sitting, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Children Friendly, Drivers Cabin, Eco Friendly, Guided Tours, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Malaria Free, Power Generator , Restaurant, Room Service, Secure Parking, Smoking Section, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Driver's cabin, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Tea / Coffee, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe, Water Storage Tank
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Baby Sitting, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available), Room service 24 hours, Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Hot Air Ballooning, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
ACTIVITIES ARE ARRANGED TO EACH GUEST’S PREFERENCE, EACH DAY TAILOR-MADE
Individual game drives in custom built 4×4 vehicles with open roof hatches in Olderkesi Conservancy and in the Masai Mara National Reserve
Game drives after dark in the conservancy
Picnic breakfast and lunch in the bush
Guided bush walks
The Waterfall is a stunning location with incredible views, an exciting hike, and the opportunity to swim at a stunning spot underneath the falls
A sundowner on the nearby hill offers you the most splendid view of Masai land
Bird watching tours and guided ornithological walks
Cultural visit to the local Masai village
Balloon safaris (at additional cost)
Personalized Dining Experience
At Instinct of the Mara, dining is an integral part of the safari experience. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Masai Mara, every meal is thoughtfully prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients and served in a variety of beautiful locations throughout the camp.
Guests can enjoy a delicious blend of international cuisine and locally inspired dishes, tailored to individual preferences and dietary requirements. Whether starting the day with breakfast overlooking the savannah, enjoying a leisurely lunch between safari activities, or ending the evening with a candlelit dinner under the stars, each dining experience is designed to be both memorable and authentic.
The camp's welcoming dining and lounge areas provide a relaxed atmosphere for socializing and sharing stories from the day's adventures, while private dining experiences can be arranged for those seeking a more intimate setting. Sundowners around a fire pit in the middle of the bush, accompanied by spectacular views and the sounds of the African wilderness, complete the experience and create unforgettable safari memories.
Food for community
Our Mission
n the heart of Kenya, the Tsavo region is home to a diverse community that relies on sustainable and reliable food supplies to thrive. As we continue to face challenges such as climate change, population growth, and economic fluctuations, it is essential to prioritize the availability and accessibility of nutritious food for everyone in Tsavo.
When things get really bad and the drought bites, SAWCT with the help of community elders and priests make a list of the neediest families and then carry out a food drive to help them.
Friends and family came together and donated either money or in kind to the Trust in a food drive, this initiative aimed to provide essential nourishment to families facing hardship. In total we regularly feed approximately 500 families.
Security for Wildlife
Our Mission
SAWCT manage and operate three conservancies. These areas have very different challenges, but need to be protected either way.
SAWCT have their own rangers, anti-poaching teams, fence crews and community liaison officers where needed. These are an amazing group of people who operate without fear in some of the harshest environments, against the scourge of poaching, charcoal burning, overgrazing and encroachment.
To spend a day out in the field with them is entertaining, enriching and very satisfying.
It does not take long for the wildlife to understand that they are safe and protected in these areas, Mbulia being the most perfect example of this, when we first moved in to the area game was scarce and very timid, today you can sit at a waterhole and have elephant come in to drink all around you. In the Mara we have seen remarkable change in a very short time, the areas we have now leased, which are now free of people and cattle, the game fully took over in less than a month.
Water for wildlife
Our Mission
Water is essential for Kenya’s diverse wildlife, from elephants and lions to birds and smaller species. However, climate change, deforestation, and human activity have led to water shortages and dried up waterholes, threatening both animals and their habitats. Conservation efforts, such as building water pans, protecting wetlands, and promoting sustainable water use, are crucial to ensuring wildlife survival. By supporting these initiatives, we can help maintain Kenya’s rich biodiversity and safeguard its iconic species for future generations.
In tsavo for example we refill waterholes on a daily basis, twice a day in order to keep the wildlife happy and healthy but also to stop elephants wandering through community land and farms in search of water, which is a recipe for disaster in human wildlife conflict.
In 2024 we delivered 6,423,500 million liters of water for the wildlife.
Water for Community
Our Mission
Access to clean water is vital for communities in Kenya, supporting health, agriculture, and livelihoods. However, many areas face water shortages due to droughts, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. Investing in sustainable water solutions, such as boreholes, rainwater harvesting, strategically placed water tanks and conservation efforts, is dramatically improving lives and boosting development. Ensuring safe and reliable water access empowers communities, promotes well-being, and creates a more sustainable future for all.
Secluded Africa wildlife and community trust has strategically placed water tanks throughout the tsavo community and continues to fill these and the local schools with fresh water.
In 2024 we delivered 535,500 liters of fresh water to the community and 97,500 liters to local schools.
Bursary Projects
Our Mission
In Kenya primary school education is compulsory and “theoretically” free. Secondary education on the other hand is relatively expensive and not compulsory. This unfortunately leaves a cross section of very bright students with exceptional grades but no opportunity to go any further in their education. At SAWCT we work closely with the primary school headmasters, the chiefs, the village elders and the priest to carefully handpick individual children from the very poorest families in our community but with the highest grades. We do a home visit to each of these families and respectfully request the family and communities blessing to take these kids further, of which we have never been turned down but rather received with great joy and open arms.
When we take such a child, we cover all their costs from uniforms to bedding, etc. as well of course school fees (all but a few attend boarding school). The trust currently has 88 children in secondary education and 9 in universities and a number in vocational training.
Boda-Boda Project
Our Mission
In Kenya, especially in the rural areas, the informal transport sector has been taken over by cheap motorcycles that help transport villagers to market, hospital, schools etc. These have become known as “boda bodas”. The Trust has so far taken 5 young men from the community around Tsavo and so far one from the Mara, these young men are selected from the poorest families in the community and sent them for driving lessons and eventually bought them a boda boda each for them to start their own micro-business. All these young men pay back to the Trust Kshs 200.00 ($1.54) per day until they have refunded the trust the full amount for the purchase of the boda-boda. All of these monies are kept in a kitty and each time it reaches an amount of a new motorcycle, another member of the community is selected to benefit from this project. This project has proved to be a great success, and not only helps with their livelihoods but also assists with the community in providing transport services where there are none.
Community Tailoring Project
Our Mission
So far we have taken 6 ladies from the local communities around the lodges, who again are not great with their academics but for more practical (2 from Tana River Delta, 2 from Tsavo and 2 from Masai Mara). We start by taking the ladies to tailoring school anywhere from 1.5 years to 2 years (depending on how quickly they pick up). After graduation they spend some time with Nikita learning the basics of business eg cash flow, profit, stock, tax etc. At this stage we buy them special sewing machines from India (manual pedal operated due to no electricity). Thereafter, they set up their own micro-business making clothes and other items within the community. These businesses are also supported by the lodges with making cushion covers, uniforms etc.
Beekeeping Project
Our Mission
Not every poacher is a criminal. Some of them simply want to feed their families, pay bills and send their children to school. Hence, they look at small petty poaching like bush meat e.g. dik dik, impalas. When our anti-poaching team catch them, they are sat down and given a square meal and given an opportunity to make a living in other ways. This is where the beekeeping project started. The trust buys them a starter pack with all the necessary items and training required. With all the honey that is produced the lodges buy it from them and is also sold to others, which helps them to make a living. Beekeeping has another surprising benefit: it is saving elephants’ lives. That is because elephants are terrified of the bees. It’s a win-win-win situation. The elephants leave the farmers alone, the bees pollinate the crops, the beekeper makes money, the lodges get delicious, organic honey for their pancakes.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Your Rooms
1x Hemingways Suite
Fast Facts
4 Stars
Camp
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 11
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Flora, Hiking, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Mara Expedition Camp | Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Mara Expedition Camp is a magical revisiting of the past, drawing from Africa’s original explorers’ designs and designed for those who search for East Africa’s romantic safari era. Here, you will experience the best of both worlds: the intense action of the Maasai Mara ecosystem, as well as the more private Mara North Conservancy.
It is safari chic with six light and spacious canvas tents, each with en-suite bathrooms. It is set down low, hidden from lights and noise from other camps or properties or any sign of mankind. Under the grove of Africa ebony trees, its humble main area is lit by lantern and candlelit and simple in design.
The camp is locally famous for its leopard residents wandering nearby, and is positioned to take the best advantage of two migrations – the famous annual Serengeti migration and the green season migration from Loita Plains, an additional 50,000 wildebeest and over 100,000 zebras vying for grazing rights. Full days, with picnic breakfast (and often lunch, too), traverse some of Africa’s richest wildlife country, renowned for extraordinary predator density and frequent hunts. Access to both the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Mara North Conservancy give guests options of more privacy.
- Images
- Video
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
- Restaurants
It is safari chic with five light and airy, spacious canvas tents, each with en-suite bathrooms where you enjoy hot water from huge brass safari showers. It is set down low, hidden from lights and noise from other camps or properties or any sign of mankind. Under the grove of Africa ebony trees, its humble main area is lit by lantern and candlelit, simple in design, but just enough for all the comforts.
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed, Wardrobe
The 2-Bedroom Family canvas tent is custom-designed and sits on a slightly raised platform. It consists of two bedrooms, each with their own separate bathroom, dressing and washbasin areas;
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Twin Bed, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Bar, Communal Dining, Credit Card Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Library, Mobile Connectivity, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Pool, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Hairdryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Twin Bed, Verandah, Wardrobe
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Cycling, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Hot Air Ballooning, Safaris
Mara Expedition Camp’s two specially designed Land Cruisers are totally open-sided (a rarity in the Mara) and offer 300-degree views which provide ideal opportunities for photography. Under the guidance of our top guides, each vehicle comes fully equipped with a stocked fridge and photography tools.
Each guest tent is equipped with a pair of high-quality binoculars and a professional camera set, including a camera body and lenses, for guests to use during their stay at Mara Expedition Camp. Photos will be downloaded to a memory stick upon guests’ departure.
Hot-air ballooning over the Masai Mara is available at an additional cost, and is a truly stunning way to experience the landscape and an unforgettable sunrise.
The Naboisho Women's Group cultural experience is supported by the Great Plains Foundation, enabling the group to purchase raw materials in bulk including a tailor hired to work on leather products. Available to guests staying at Great Plains Conservation camps all profits from the sale of their wares are ploughed back into the women's business training to ensure this group is self-sustainable. Items available for purchase include, but are not limited to, beaded & leather products, coasters, bracelets, necklaces, belts, dog collars, earrings, and decorated dawa sticks for example.
Mara Expedition Camp offers guests a guided bicycle experience to exercise after their morning safari drives. The riding takes place on open plains and the landing strip.
Besides just exercising, riding among plains game, gazelles, topis, impalas, and warthogs is also fun.
These bicycles are available upon request, and a safari vehicle is always on standby during the riding activity.
Mara Expedition Camp
All meals are served in the main area offering guests great selection of healthy options
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Your Rooms
Fast Facts
Camp
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 6
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife