An In-depth Review of the Governor's Camp, Masai Mara
Governors’ Camp in the Masai Mara National Reserve is the ultimate safari experience with luxurious tents, amazing wildlife and activities. Established in 1972 this camp is situated on the Mara River, the perfect combination of adventure and comfort. As a pioneer in eco-tourism in Kenya, Governors’ Camp is committed to sustainable practices that protect the environment while giving guests an amazing experience. Find out what makes Governors’ Camp the number one choice for safari lovers.
Overview of Governor's Camp in Maasai Mara National Reserve
Explore the Wilderness on Foot
Embark on guided bush walks for an additional fee
Safari Excursions
Enjoy game drives included in your stay
Elegant Tent Accommodations
Discover the exclusive 10 tented suites at Little Governors Camp
Soar Above the Savannah
Experience hot air balloon rides for an extra cost
Family-Friendly Adventures
Little Governors Camp welcomes children aged 8 and above
Indulge Yourself
Pamper yourself with spa treatments available for a fee
Convenient Access
Reach us easily via Musiara Airstrip in the Masai Mara
Engage with Locals
Participate in community activities for an additional fee
Stay Connected
Complimentary wifi is available at Little Governors Camp
Extraordinary Wildlife Encounters
An ideal spot for observing big cats
Key Points
- Governors’ Camp Collection has a unique blend of luxury and adventure with different camps for all types of travellers, including families.
- Guests can do various activities at Governors Camp from thrilling game drives to peaceful walking safaris and hot-air balloon rides for an unforgettable experience.
- Governors Camp is committed to sustainability and conservation, so guests can enjoy their safari while supporting the conservation of the ecosystem and local wildlife.
Some tips from our travel consultants: Ms. Gladys, our senior travel consultant, says combining Governors Camp with Little Governors Camp offers the best experience of the Masai Mara. She recommends spending at least 4 nights here, 2 at Governors Main Camp and 2 at Little Governors Camp. She adds that choosing a ground package, where you fly from Nairobi to Masai Mara will make your experience more rewarding. Some of the flights flying to Masai Mara include AirKenya Express, Mombasa Air, and Safarilink.
Governors’ Camp Collection
Established in 1972, Governors’ Camp Collection is the pioneer of luxury safaris, situated on the banks of the Mara River. As Africa’s first permanent tented camp, Governors’ Camp has set the benchmark for what it means to combine comfort with the wild beauty of Africa. The collection has multiple camps, each offering a different experience.
Governor’s Camp, the flagship of the collection, has everything for every kind of traveller. From traditional tents to family friendly options, every detail is designed to enhance the safari experience. This camp stands out for its best wildlife viewing locations in the Maasai Mara.
For a unique perspective, hot air balloon rides are available with breathtaking views of the savannah and a champagne breakfast to top it off.
Children of all ages are welcome at Governors’ Camp, making it the perfect destination for families to create lifelong memories together. With luxury, adventure and family friendly options, Governors’ Camp Collection is the top choice for anyone looking for the ultimate safari experience.
Activities at Governors’ Camp
At Governors’ Camp the adventure never stops. The camp offers a range of activities to get you immersed in the Maasai Mara. The most popular are the game drives which offer wildlife sightings at different times of the day. Whether you choose the early morning, late morning or mid afternoon drive each one gives you a different glimpse into the animals lives.
For those who prefer a more intimate encounter with nature the sunrise walking safaris are a must try. Led by experienced safari guides, these walks get you up close and personal with the flora and fauna around the camp and give you a deeper understanding of the ecosystem and its inhabitants. You’ll see the smaller details you might miss from a vehicle making it a truly enriching experience in this wonderful place.
One of the highlights of a stay at Governors’ Camp is the hot air balloon safari. Imagine floating silently over the Mara River and its forests taking in the views from above. This culminates in a champagne breakfast and is the perfect end to an exciting morning. Guests can also customize their safari packages to include visits to local villages so every aspect of their trip is tailored to their preferences.
The Governors’ Camp Collection has something for everyone from adrenaline pumping game drives to peaceful walks and awe inspiring balloon rides. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking to relax and soak up the natural beauty, the range of activities at Governors’ Camp guarantees an unforgettable experience.
A word from our CEO: Mr. James, visited Governors Camp in March 2025 and recommends adding extra activities to your package. He notes that adding a hot air balloon ride at USD 550 per person makes the experience more rewarding. Other activities to consider include a walking safari, a bush breakfast, and a bush dinner.
Game Viewing at Governor’s Camp Masai Mara
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is famous for its wildlife and Governors’ Camp is located in the best spot to see it all. The camps are situated along the Mara River where the meandering banks of the Mara and riverine forests create a diverse habitat for many animals. You are never far from the action.
One of the best things about staying at Governors’ Camp is seeing predators in their natural habitat. The riverine forest is a favourite haunt of leopards which are often spotted near the Marsh. The Musiara region is famous for its lions and several prides reside in the area. Watching these majestic creatures interact and hunt is a highlight for many.
Elephants visit the camp area frequently and are often seen in family groups foraging near the riverbanks. During the Great Migration the plains come alive with the dramatic sight of wildebeests and zebras making their annual crossing of the Mara. This is considered one of the natural world’s greatest events and a must see for any wildlife enthusiast.
Cheetahs with their incredible speed and agility are another common sight on the open plains where they hunt in the grasslands. Guests at Governors’ Camp often share stories of unique encounters such as seeing hippos and elephants near their tents. These experiences combined with the stunning scenery make Governors’ Camp a top game viewing location.
And to add to the adventure you can explore the landscape in open sided land rovers which makes the safari experience even more personal. These vehicles give you an unobstructed view of the surroundings making it easier to spot big cats and other wildlife. The camp has a rich history of colonial governors who once roamed these lands so you get a sense of history with every step.
Did you know? Governors Camp is among the few lodges in a prime location inside Masai Mara National Reserve. You can easily spot lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, wildebeest, giraffes, Cape buffalo, hippos, zebras, and various antelope species from the camp. You might also spot hyenas, jackals, mongoose, crocodiles, and even rhinos. At AJKenyaSafaris.com, we offer the best and most affordable package to Governors Camp.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation the main Governors’ Camp has it all. The whole camp has 21 guest tents, 8 family tents and 1 safari suite, each designed to be comfortable and close to nature. The dining tent is huge and cosy.
Each tent at Governors’ Camp has a modern en-suite bathroom with a large shower with hot and cold running water, so you have all the comforts of home while being in the wild. The private verandah of each tent has stunning views of the Mara River or the bush, so you can sit back and take it all in. Guests love the cleanliness and comfort of the tents, they are critter and insect free.
The family tents are perfect for families with children, lots of space and privacy. They allow families to do their safari together without compromising on comfort. Each tent has a hot water bottle for those chilly nights and a laundry service to keep your safari gear fresh. For those who want to go all out the safari suite is an elevated experience with extra amenities and space.
Governors’ Camp is in the perfect spot for relaxation and adventure, so you’re always close to the action and can fully immerse yourself in the Mara.
Dining
Dining at Governors’ Camp is an experience in itself. There are options to suit all tastes and preferences. You can dine in the cozy dining tent or the open bar tent, all with stunning views of the Mara. The camp offers a varied menu, continental and full English breakfasts, alfresco lunches and a la carte dinners. Guests are often surprised by the quality and presentation of the food which is served buffet style so you have plenty of choice.
Vegetarian meals are prepared with extra care to ensure all guests are happy with their dining experience. If you prefer to eat on the go, packed meals are available so you can have breakfast, lunch and dinner at your convenience. This way you can make the most of your safari without missing out on food.
One of the most memorable dining experiences at Governors’ Camp is the champagne breakfast after a hot air balloon safari, including a bush breakfast. Imagine starting your day with a scenic balloon ride over the Mara, followed by breakfast in a beautiful location. This is the ultimate indulgence.
Guests often comment on the quality and presentation of the food, often exceeding their expectations for camp dining. Whether you are dining under the stars or a thoughtfully prepared bush meal, dining at Governors’ Camp will delight and thrill your taste buds.
Dining to remember: From our recent visit, I was highly impressed by the large collection of meals at Governors Camp. I was able to spot different types of food like bacon, croissants, fruits, Kenyan coffee, eggs, and fresh milk for breakfast. For lunch, some of the selection on offer included roasted meats, fresh salads, as well as desserts. The bush dinner experience is a story worth a whole chapter.
Guest Reviews and Testimonials
See what previous visitors are saying about their stay at Governors Camp:
An unbelievable Kenyan experience by Alan E
“It was 30 years since I had been to Governor’s Camp, and so pleased by what my family and I experienced. The care that the staff extended to us was wonderful making our stay a really delightful occasion. The safaris with the abundance of wildlife (we saw the ‘Big Five’), the hot air ballon and everything about the camp was unbelievable.
Our guide, Saidi, was charming, so informative and always ready to please. He will have a long and successful life as a safari guide. I had hoped that this holiday was going to be special, it was and exceeded all my expectations. So my sincere thanks to Governor’s Camp. I leave Kenya twice as wise and ten times happier.
Best wishes Alan
Alan Eldridge
02083999321
07885282362
Every day was a new experience by Noel R
“Life changing experience. Our guides were amazing. Duncan is an excellent tracker and knew so much local history. Saidi really knows his birds. We added over 130 new birds to our life lists. We got up close to lions, cheetah, elephants, zebras, hyenas and giraffes.”
FAQs
Our team has answered some of the commonly asked questions about governors camp.
Who owns Governors Camp in Kenya?
Governors Camp in Kenya is owned by Aris and Romi Grammaticas who started it over 50 years ago as the first permanent luxury tented camp in Africa. Their innovative idea has created an experience you will never forget.
What type of accommodation is available at Governors’ Camp?
Governors’ Camp has a range of accommodation including classic safari tents, family tents and a luxurious safari suite all with modern en-suite bathrooms and private verandas with stunning views. It’s the perfect spot to stay!
What can I do at Governors’ Camp?
You can go on exhilarating game drives, sunrise walking safaris, hot-air balloon rides and tailor made safaris at Governors’ Camp. Each activity is an adventure in itself!
What is the dining experience like at Governors’ Camp?
Dining at Governors’ Camp is delightful with options of alfresco lunches and a la carte dinners under the stars. You can also experience unique experiences like champagne breakfasts making each meal special.
What wildlife will I see at Governors’ Camp?
You will see plenty of wildlife at Governors’ Camp including leopards, lions, elephants, cheetahs and the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras. It’s a nature lover’s dream!
Where can I find more information about Governors’ Camp?
For more information about the Governors’ Camp experience check out the “Governors Camp Read”. It has all the information you need to know about the camp, its history and guest experiences so you’re well informed before you arrive.
Governors Camp Social Media profiles:
Your Safari Begins Here: Governor’s Camp
Escape to the heart of the Maasai Mara and experience the ultimate safari at Governor’s Camp. Imagine this: luxury tents, nature on your doorstep and service that knows your every wish. Stop dreaming of an African safari – do it! Our location is front row to the Great Migration and resident wildlife all year round.
Ready to make memories that will last a lifetime? Book your Governor’s Camp Safari now!
Contact Us:
- Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
- WhatsApp: +254704532105
- Phone: +254704532105 / +254719222430
About the Author: Harrison K. Irura
The descriptions of Governor’s Camp are by Harrison K. Irura. With a BA in Tourism from Kenyatta University and over 15 years in the travel industry, Harrison is a travel consultant. He knows Kenya’s best destinations and the art of crafting a truly unforgettable safari experience, all of which is reflected in his writing.
Other Camps in Masai Mara National Reserve:
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Thanks for stopping by! We’re excited to help you plan an unforgettable safari.
- Phone: +254 748 258880
- WhatsApp: +254 748 258880
- Email: [email protected]
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