Mara Plains Camp

Nestled in the exclusive Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Mara Plains Camp is a boutique, ultra-luxury safari lodge that offers a deeply personalized experience. Set beside a quiet river and surrounded by rich wildlife territory, the camp is renowned for its privacy, elegance, and attention to detail. With just a handful of beautifully designed tents, it caters to discerning travelers particularly photographers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking both seclusion and exceptional game viewing. The camp’s intimate atmosphere, world-class guiding, and stunning setting make it a standout choice for a bespoke safari in the Mara.
Sand River Masai Mara (Elewana Collection)

Located along the picturesque Sand River within the Masai Mara National Reserve, Sand River Masai Mara captures the romance of a bygone safari era. This elegant camp, part of the Elewana Collection, blends classic 1920s safari style with modern luxury, featuring beautifully appointed tents with colonial-inspired touches and sweeping views over the river. Its prime location offers superb wildlife viewing right from camp, while the vintage charm, attentive service, and refined comfort make it a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic yet indulgent safari experience.
Mara Serena Safari Lodge

Centrally located within the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve, Mara Serena Safari Lodge is a well-established property offering reliable infrastructure and sweeping views of the surrounding plains. Designed to blend into its hilltop setting, the lodge provides easy access to a variety of wildlife-rich zones, making it ideal for those looking to explore different parts of the reserve. With family-friendly amenities, consistent service, and a more structured lodge experience, it’s a great choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and classic game viewing in one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations.
Governors’ Camp

Set along the lush banks of the Mara River within the Masai Mara National Reserve, Governors’ Camp is one of the Mara’s most iconic and historic tented camps. Surrounded by abundant wildlife and shaded by riverine forest, the camp offers a beautiful blend of comfort and authenticity. Its riverside setting provides front-row seats to wildlife activity, while the camp’s relaxed yet well-appointed atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between classic safari charm and modern convenience. A trusted favorite for decades, it delivers a truly immersive experience in the heart of the wilderness.
Choosing the Lodge: What Matters Most
To find the perfect lodge for your Masai Mara adventure, consider these important factors:
Timing and Season
If your visit aligns with the Great Migration, lodges near migration routes or river crossings offer prime viewing. For those seeking fewer crowds and the thrill of first arrivals, more remote camps can provide exclusive access.
Location: Reserve vs. Private Conservancies
Lodges within private conservancies often allow off-road driving, night safaris, and more intimate wildlife encounters due to fewer vehicles. Those inside the main Masai Mara Reserve follow stricter regulations, see more visitors, but are often easier to reach.
Privacy and Exclusivity
If solitude matters, choose lodges with fewer tents, private decks, and limited neighboring vehicles ensuring a more intimate experience.
Amenities vs. Wilderness Focus
Decide if you prefer full luxury; spas, gourmet dining, plunge pools, butler service or if you prioritize a raw wilderness experience with simpler, comfortable accommodations.
Sustainability & Conservation
For eco-conscious travelers, research lodges’ commitment to conservation, community engagement, and sustainable practices. Many support local people and protect the environment in meaningful ways.
Budget and Value
Luxury comes with a range of price points. Consider what’s included game drives, park fees, meals, transfers as sometimes a higher rate offers better overall value.
Access and Travel Logistics
Think about how you’ll arrive: by road or light aircraft. Long or rough journeys might sway you toward lodges with short flights for convenience.
The Masai Mara is a truly spectacular destination, where breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife await you no matter where you stay. Yet, the lodge you choose can transform your safari into something unforgettable; whether it’s waking to the roar of lions by the river, greeting the sunrise from your private deck, drifting silently over the plains in a hot air balloon, or dining beneath a sky full of stars. There’s a luxury lodge perfectly designed to bring your dream safari to life.
Ready to experience the magic of the Mara in style? Let Cross Wild Safaris craft your perfect luxury safari adventure, tailored to your wishes and every moment unforgettable. Get in touch today and start planning your journey to the wild heart of Africa.





