Mara Plains Camp opened in 2008 in an extraordinary location on the Ntiakatek River, with views of the surrounding plains and the cooling canopy of the riverine forest. The camp has been designed to be as low impact as possible while still providing a luxury safari experience. We can boast that not even a teaspoon of cement can be found anywhere on site.

The camp caters for only 14 guests in seven uniquely designed octagonal canvas rooms. Each is raised on decks, and opens on three sides to the outside. Floor to ceiling net walls and the marquis ceiling make for very open-air environs. The rooms have a dressing area as well as private verandahs with seating and exquisite views. The en-suite facilities consist of a double basin vanity, flush loo and shower with hot water 24 hours a day.

CAMP DESCRIPTION
Upon arriving at Mara Plains Camp, it is immediately clear that this is a unique place. The camp is hidden, and it isn’t until a few steps that it reveals itself, on the other side of the river! Luckily, the crafty team at Mara Plains Camp has constructed a memorable and grand swinging bridge. Once across the river, and under the cool shade of the trees, is a lovely open grass area leading to the main area. Mara Plains Camp is centred around three open-air marquis tents connected together in a pod concept. There are two lounges, one with a small library and writing area. A main dining room with a grand wood table and magnificent chandelier host breakfast and some dinners, when we are not dining under the stars. The décor - rich in browns, coppers and reds - is warm and inviting, encouraging a relaxing break from adventures. Also raised on decking, and blessed with sweeping views, the central area brings together the whole camp. As the evening ends, we often move to the campfire and listen to the resident lion prides begin their night’s exploits.

WATER
Water is a precious global commodity, but even more so in the Masai Mara region. We are fortunate, due to the camp’s position, to have running water from the Ntiakatek River most of the year. The water does contain mineral salts, so we pass it through a series of filters for purification. It is then used for showers, washing, toilets and the like. However, all cooking water comes from a nearby pure spring, and is transported to camp. For drinking and ice, we use and supply bottled mineral water free of charge.

LAUNDRY
Laundry is done on a daily basis by your tent steward and is complimentary.

MEALS
Complementary refreshments and snacks are served on all our drives and include tea and coffee on the morning drive and the traditional "sundowner" cocktail in the late afternoon. All drinks are included in the tariff excluding champagne.

Special meals and dietary requirements can be catered for on request. (However, please note, due to the remoteness of the location, we do your requests in advance, as per our guest information sheet.)

The fresh air, getting on and off vehicles, walking and will incite an appetite and there’s no going hungry here. After all the excitement, a good night’s rest is a guarantee!

ELECTRICITY
The camp operates on a 240V electricity system. It is powered by a generator that operates a few hours a day, when guests are generally not in camp. The generator charges a set of batteries, which in turn pass through an invertor system capable of converting battery power to 240V power. This conversion supplies power 24 hours a day to the entire camp but cannot handle high-wattage gear (e.g. hairdryers).

All equipment powered by this system must be 240V compatible. A set of universal and international plug convertors will serve any traveler well. These are available at large airports or shops prior to departing on safari. Plug points are available in the tents, and there is a small selection of convertors in camp. It is recommended to bring a spare set of batteries as well – these can be charged while one set is in use.

MOBILE PHONE ETIQUETTE
Mara Plains Camp does receive a weak cell phone signal. Cell phones can only be used in the privacy of the guest tents and certainly not in the public areas or on game drives. Please respect this house rule for the benefit of all.

ACCESS
There are four ways to get to Mara Plains Camp:

- Safarilink or Air Kenya's scheduled daily flights from Nairobi (or elsewhere) to the Ol Kiombo airstrip (Masai Mara Reserve)
- Private charter to Olare Orok Conservancy’s private airstrip
- Helicopter directly to Mara Plains Camp
- By road

Transfers from Ol Kiombo or Olare Orok Conservancy airstrips are included in the rate. It is approximately a 20-minute transfer (but could be longer, depending on wildlife sightings). Safarilink and Air Kenya are often early and do not wait, so we do arrive at the airstrips well in advance of departure.