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Basecamp Masai Mara: Best Tented Safari Experience in Kenya
Basecamp Mara in Kenya’s Maasai Mara offers the ultimate safari experience under the Basecamp brand. Game drives, hot-air balloon safaris and eco-luxury tents are all part of the Basecamp Explorer experience. Find out why it’s a nature lover and responsible tourist’s top pick.
Overview of Basecamp Maasai Mara
Closest Airstrip
Convenient access via Ol Kiombo Airstrip
Discover the Masai Mara
Thrilling game drives included
Opulent Tented Accommodations
Only 17 luxury tents at Basecamp Maasai Mara
Witness the Great Migration
Best time for migration viewing is July to September
Experience Balloon Rides
Hot air balloon safaris available for an extra fee
Meet the Local Hosts
Community experiences offered at an additional charge
Family-Friendly Environment
Basecamp Maasai Mara welcomes children of all ages
Exceptional Wildlife Encounters
Located near the Masai Mara National Reserve
Accommodate Families
Basecamp Mara features a family tent
Stay Online
Wi-Fi available at Basecamp Maasai Mara
Highlights
- Game drives, hot-air balloon safaris and cultural visits
- Eco-friendly tented accommodation – River View Tents, Family Tents and Honeymoon Tents
- Sustainable tourism – eco-friendly practices and community support
Information from Basecamp team: Basecamp Masai Mara was managed by Basecamp Explore but is now under Saruni Basecamp. Saruni Basecamp arrived after the merger of Basecamp Explorer and Saruni in 2021. Ms. Emily, the dedicated contact person at the camp for AJKenyaSafaris.com, noted that this merger would
Activities and Adventures at Basecamp Masai Mara
At Basecamp Masai Mara the adventure starts as soon as you arrive. The camp offers a wide range of activities to get you into the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Imagine setting off on a safari drive, the early morning sun rising over the savannah as you see lions, leopards and elephants in their natural habitat. These drives are led by knowledgeable guides and offer an intimate encounter with the diverse wildlife that calls the Maasai Mara home.
Hot air balloon safaris give you a bird’s eye view of the landscape. Drifting silently above the plains you can see the Great Migration, a spectacle of movement as over a million wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. If you prefer to stay on the ground, walking safaris and bird walks allow you to get up close and personal with the bush, guided by experts who share their deep knowledge of the flora and fauna.
Cultural visits are another highlight at Basecamp Masai Mara. Guests can visit local schools, make clothes and jewelry, and go on cultural walks through Talek town. These interactions give you a unique opportunity to learn about Maasai culture and the local community and add meaning to your safari.
Activities you can book at Basecamp: We normally advise our guests to add two or three activities during their stay at Basecamp. Some of the activities we recommend include Mt Ololokwe Excursion at USD 250 per person, Reteti excursion for 4 pax at USD 500, includes exclusive use of vehicles and entry fee. Additional guests, upto 2 pax, pay USD 35 pp entry fee, Well Being Treatments (Prices advised at the lodge), Ol Choro Rhino Sanctuary visit at USD 30 per person, Balloon Safari at Mara North Conservancy USD 700 per person, Balloon Safaris – Hot Air (Basecamp Masai Mara and Naboisho Camps) USD 505 per person, and Cultural Blessing Ceremony USD 650.
Accommodation
Basecamp Masai Mara has a range of tented accommodation that combines luxury with eco-friendliness. Each tent has comfortable beds, indoor and outdoor showers and verandas to relax on so you can stay comfortable and immersed at Basecamp Maasai Mara.
Here are the accommodation options:
River View Tents
River View Tents at Basecamp Masai Mara offer the perfect blend of comfort and nature. With king-size double or twin beds, these tents ensure a good night’s sleep. Eco-friendly amenities like bio-flush toilets and 2 solar heated showers show our commitment to sustainability while still providing all the modern comforts you need.
Each tent has a private deck with stunning views of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Here you can sit with a book, have a coffee or simply take in the beauty of the landscape. With free in-room Wi-Fi you can stay connected while feeling miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Family Tents
Designed for families, the Family Tents at Basecamp Masai Mara have plenty of space and comfort. These tents have 2 separate wings with shared en suite bathrooms making them perfect for families traveling together. Bio-flush toilets, free Wi-Fi and private balcony overlooking the river add to the convenience and comfort for all family members.
The Young Explorers Club at the camp offers a range of family friendly activities so parents and kids can bond over shared adventures. From guided nature walks to educational activities families can create lasting memories while exploring the wonders of the Masai Mara.
Some important notes: All children are welcome to Basecamp Masai Mara. Children below 5 years sharing with adults stay free of charge. Children of up to 16 years sharing with adults pay 50% of the adult rate. Children of up to 16 years staying in their own room pay up to 75% of adult rates. Since Basecamp is located inside Masai Mara, children of 8-17 years have to pay a fee of USD 50 per person per night.
Honeymoon Tent
For couples looking for a romantic escape the Honeymoon Tent at Basecamp Masai Mara is the perfect choice. This secluded tent has a king-size bed, bio-flush toilet and solar heated shower, luxury and eco-friendly all in one. The private deck has stunning views so couples can relax and enjoy each other’s company in comfort and nature.
Designed to create a romantic atmosphere, the Honeymoon Tent is a memorable and enchanting stay. The combination of luxury and the natural beauty of the surroundings makes it perfect for honeymooners and couples celebrating special occasions.
Dining
Dining at Basecamp Masai Mara is an experience. The camp’s commitment to sustainability extends to the dining table, with meals featuring ingredients from the camp’s organic vegetable garden. Imagine eating delicious food, fresh vegetables and Kenyan staples, knowing it was grown right on the camp’s grounds. This farm-to-table approach means every meal is not only tasty but also good for the planet.
In addition to the food, Basecamp Masai Mara is involved in conservation efforts like the tree planting project to restore and preserve the natural habitat. This initiative not only benefits the environment but also the camp’s mission of sustainable tourism.
Dining at Basecamp Masai Mara is varied and delicious. Guests can enjoy bush dinners under the stars or open-air meals in the charming dining area serving traditional Kenyan dishes. These unique set ups are part of the camp’s charm and will be memories you’ll treasure long after your trip.
Visitors rave about the quality and presentation of the food saying that eating in such a beautiful setting makes the whole experience even better. The combination of great food and the Maasai Mara landscape makes every meal a highlight of your stay.
Cultural Interactions
One of the best parts of staying at Basecamp Masai Mara is the opportunity to interact with the local Maasai community and immerse yourself in Maasai culture. Guests can go on a cultural walk through Talek town and meet the local people and learn about their way of life.
The Enjoolata Awareness Centre is another highlight, with cultural artifacts and information about the Maasai’s relationship with wildlife. Visits to traditional Maasai homes, or manyattas, give a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions. The camp also runs a fair trade certified community-based handicraft workshop that supports disadvantaged Maasai women. This initiative preserves the Maasai beading tradition and provides these women with an income while guests can buy authentic Maasai crafts.
Please note: Basecamp Masai Mara offers a lot of opportunities for the guests to have a cultural experience at no extra cost. Some of their known activities include a visit to Maasai Women Arts & Crafts Centre, Basecamp Forest & Tree Nursery Tour, Enjolaata Awareness Center Tour, & Young Explorer’s Club and Warrior Academy. You can add these to a visit to a local Maasai village, which goes for USD 30 per person.
Wildlife and Nature
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is famous for its abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty within the Maasai Mara ecosystem. Home to lions, leopards and African elephants, the reserve offers unparalleled wildlife viewing with animals passing by your camp all day long. Over 500 bird species, including many raptors, add to the diversity and colour of the ecosystem.
The Maasai Mara landscape is vast grasslands, seasonal rivers and acacia trees, a beautiful and varied habitat. The Talek River, which forms the boundary of the reserve, is a key feature during the Great Migration, one of the world’s most incredible wildlife spectacles. Seeing 1.3 million blue wildebeest migrate is an experience that attracts tourists from all over the world, and offers breathtaking views of this natural wonder.
Basecamp Masai Mara is involved in conservation efforts by running tourism operations that are environmentally sustainable. These initiatives not only protect the habitat but also ensure the local Maasai community and local landowners benefit from responsible tourism. We address the unprecedented environmental challenges by promoting sustainable practices and working on projects that support the local ecosystem.
Location and Accessibility
Basecamp Masai Mara is situated along the Talek River, a peaceful and picturesque setting for our guests. The camp is designed to be private and secluded while still allowing you to take in the surroundings. Our location gives you direct access to wildlife viewing, making your safari experience even better.
Guest Reviews
What are guests saying about their stay at Basecamp Masai Mara in Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Enjoyment and Full Trust by Francisco C
“We trusted them, the whole organization, and they helped us enormously with the transfers. They picked us up and gave us an especially incredible safari where we saw a scene of a lioness hunting. It was impressive, as was the place, the food, and the room where we rested very well.”
Saruni Masai Mara Basecamp, a perfect place to be by Arne B
“A perfect place. Super good food, excellent service. Special thanks to Helen, who served us all our meals and did all she could to fulfill our needs, and to John Lesinko, our extremely knowledgable, nice and helpful guide and driver.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most common questions about Basecamp Masai Mara?
What activities are available at Basecamp Masai Mara?
At Basecamp Masai Mara you can go game driving, walking safaris and hot air ballooning. And connect with local culture through school visits and Maasai crafts!
What accommodation options are there at Basecamp Masai Mara?
Basecamp Masai Mara has River View Tents, Family Tents and a Honeymoon Tent, all with eco-friendly facilities and stunning views. Perfect for anyone who wants to stay in comfort in nature!
How is the food at Basecamp Masai Mara?
Food at Basecamp Masai Mara is amazing, with meals from our own organic vegetable garden and bush dinners in an open air setting with traditional Kenyan dishes. You will love the fresh flavours and atmosphere!
What cultural interactions can I participate in?
You can connect with the local culture by taking a guided walk through Talek town, visiting the Enjoolata Awareness Centre and visiting traditional Maasai homes, all while supporting community projects like the fair trade workshop for Maasai women. It’s a great way to connect and experience the heritage!
How does Basecamp Masai Mara support sustainable tourism?
Basecamp Masai Mara supports sustainable tourism through solar power and rainwater harvesting and local community projects. With a Gold eco-rating from Ecotourism Kenya it’s clear they are committed to both the environment and culture.
Your Masai Mara Basecamp Adventure Starts Here!
Your journey into the wild begins at Basecamp Masai Mara. Imagine walking into a camp where tents are luxury and blend in with the wilderness just outside your door. Here, service is tailored to your every need and goes beyond a normal safari.
Located in the best spot, you’ll have front row seats to the Great Migration and resident wildlife all year round. This isn’t just a trip; it’s an unforgettable experience for those who want the best of Africa.
Ready to make memories that will last a lifetime? Book your Basecamp Masai Mara safari now!
Get In Touch
- Email: [email protected] | [email protected]
- WhatsApp & phone: +254704532105 | +254719222430
About the Author – Harrison K. Irura
Written by Harrison K. Irura. With an MBA and over 15 years in the travel industry, Harrison has a wealth of knowledge and a passion for African safaris. As a safari consultant at AJKenyaSafaris.com, he creates bespoke and personalized journeys so every client has the best of Africa’s wildlife and natural beauty. He knows the ins and outs of luxury travel and delivers ultimate safari experiences.
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- Phone: +254 748 258880
- WhatsApp: +254 748 258880
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