If you are considering staying at our Kambu Mara Camp, we are very excited to host you and I have put together this article to share some fun activities you can do as part of your Masai Mara Safari Package or as optional activities.
Activity #1.: Go on a game drive:
Kambu Mara Camp is located just a 14-minute drive to the main Gate to Masai Mara National Reserve and borders Nashulai Conservancy to the West and Naboisho Conservancy to the North.
In summary, you can choose to go on a game drive at the Masai Mara National Reserve or opt to go on game drives at nearby Conservancies. Our two top recommended are our neighbouring Nashulai and Naboisho but can also opt for game viewing at Isatek, Ol Kinyei, Olarek, and Mara North, among other Mara conservancies. Read about top Mara Conservancies to visit here.
So, you have two key options for Mara game drive; Reserve or Conservancies– Which one to choose?
The Reserve is a truly remarkable place to see wildlife, nature, and picturesque landscapes. It stretches from the South touching the Tanzanian border and bordering Serengeti National Reserve in Tanzania extending all the way to Mara Triangle.
Currently, the cost of a game drive in the Mara Reserve is $80 for a 12-hour period for non-residents and Kes. 1,200 for residents/citizens. However, the Narok County Government has recently announced its intention to raise the entrance fee to $200 for non-residents and Kes. 3,000 for residents/citizens. We sincerely hope that this proposed fee increase will not be approved.
Irrespective of the outcome regarding the fee increase, Kambu Camp holds a strategic location as it shares borders with conservancies that charge $40 for the same 12-hour periods. Although the Reserve spans a significantly larger area of over 375,000 acres (or 1520 sq kms), the combined 55,000 acres of Nashulai and Naboisho are rich in big cat sightings and bustling with herders.
Naboisho is renowned as the home of Big Cat County, boasting a population of 70-100 identified lions. This makes it home to one of Africa’s highest densities of lions. In the vast savannahs of Mara Nashulai, another neighboring conservancy is also home to several prides of lions, and witnessing the awe-inspiring big cats in their natural habitat is an effortless endeavor. But the splendor doesn’t end there; the region also plays host to over a dozen elusive leopards. Notably, the African wild dog finds its sanctuary within this remarkable conservancy.
Naboisho is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, boasting a diverse array of avian species. From the elegant white-headed buffalo weavers to the regal northern white-crowned shrike, and from the agile pygmy falcons to the majestic Von der Deckens hornbills, the park is teeming with captivating birdlife. Keep an eye out for the charming bush pipits and many more feathered friends that call Naboisho home.
Read my review comparing Masai Mara Reserve vs Mara Conservancies here.
Activity #2: Go on Night Game Drive:
The close proximity to Isaten, Nashulai, and Naboisho which offer night game drives gives Kambu Camp an edge over other camps in the area. Guests can enjoy a thrilling night drive to witness nocturnal wildlife such as the elusive leopard, hunting lions and hyenas feasting on their latest kill. The experience of viewing these creatures under the cover of darkness is truly unforgettable.
The cost of night game drives is $40 and starts right after dinner when predators are more active and can continue until 9 p.m.
Activity #3: Enjoy Guided Bush/Nature Walks:
You can enjoy a short guided bush walk that will last for about $45 mins and may cover up to 2 km in the vicinity of the camp. Kambu Mara Camp is on a fenced 2-acre piece of land but there is an expansive 50 acres with few walking trails that we highly recommend.
The guided bush walks with experienced Maasai guides give you the opportunity to explore the savannah on foot and learn about traditional Maasai practices and their deep connection to the land. From tracking animals to identifying medicinal plants, this unique experience allows guests to immerse themselves in nature.
Activity #4: Experience Masai Culture with Village Visits:
Kambu Mara Camp is just a 10-minute drive away from 2 cultural manyatta bomas that are open to visitors. Guests can interact with and learn from the Maasai community, from their traditional way of life to their colorful beadwork and dances. This cultural exchange is a great opportunity to gain insight into the rich culture and traditions of Kenya’s indigenous people.
The cost of village visits starts at $20 per person.
Activity #5: Unwind with Sundowners:
After a day filled with exciting activities, guests can relax and unwind with a refreshing sundowner drink while watching the sunset over the savannah. Enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine as you take in the breathtaking views and reflect on your adventures during the day.
You can enjoy the sundowners in the Camp or in pre-planned locations near the Camp.
Activity #6: Enjoy Picnics:
Guests at Kambu Mara Camp have the option to enjoy picnics in various scenic locations around Naboisho Conservancy. Whether it’s a romantic picnic for two or a fun family outing, our team can arrange a delicious and private picnic experience for you. Bask in the beauty of the African wilderness while indulging in a gourmet meal.
Activity #7: Get the ultimate Star Gazing experience with clear skies
With minimal light pollution in Naboisho Conservancy, Kambu Mara Camp offers the perfect opportunity to stargaze and marvel at the clear night sky. Our guides are well-versed in astronomy and can point out constellations, planets and even shooting stars. This unique experience is not to be missed.
Activity #8: Warm yourself by the fire pit:
Any of our guests at Kambu Mara Camp can gather around the fire pit in the evenings to warm up, share stories, and make s’mores. This is a perfect opportunity to connect with other guests and bond over a shared love for nature and adventure.
You have the option to request a private campfire, and we will ensure it is ready for you upon your return from the game drive. We really only charge for the wood and this activity will cost you $5 for a bunch of wood to last at least an hour.
Activity #9: Play board games:
For a more relaxed evening, guests can gather in the common area or their tents and play board games. We have a variety of classic and modern games to choose from, including chess, Scrabble, and Monopoly. This is a great way to bond with family or new friends while enjoying some friendly competition.
You can check out the board games at the reception inside the main lounge
Activity #10: Play select outdoor games:
Experience a range of outdoor games under the guidance of our passionate instructors who aspire to be experts. Challenge yourself and surpass their skills as you delve into the world of freebies, corn hole, ladder golf, spike ball, and the local game, Mancala. These engaging activities at Kambu Mara Camp offer both enjoyment and physical activity. Our instructors will ensure that everyone has a delightful time by providing guidance on rules and techniques.
At Kambu Mara Camp, you have the opportunity to explore a wide range of sports equipment or seek guidance from our knowledgeable instructors to enhance your game. Engage in these exciting and interactive activities, and create cherished memories during your stay.
Activity #11: Go on a Walking Safari:
Nearby conservancies offer walking safaris that last from 2 to 9 hours and can plan ahead of your stay at Kambu Mara Camp to book a walking safari. Walking safaris are more intense and lengthier than bush walks. Isatek Conservancy, a nearby conservancy offers 6 different routes as shown in this walking safari map.
The duration of the walks ranges from 1 to 6 hours, covering a distance of up to 15 km. This includes a packed breakfast or lunch, depending on the timings, as well as game drives en route to and from the walking safari location. The rate for this experience ranges from USD 90 to USD 150 per person.
Below is a snapshot of the 6 options for walking safaris near our Camp;
Activity #12: Go on a hot-air Balloon Ride:
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Masai Mara National Reserve from a unique perspective by taking a hot-air balloon ride. This is an unforgettable experience that will take you soaring over the savannah, giving you a bird’s eye view of the landscape and wildlife below.
The hot-air balloon ride is typically done during sunrise, providing you with incredible views of the sunrise over the reserve. You may also catch glimpses of animals roaming around in the early morning hours, making for an even more magical experience.
At Kambu Mara Camp, we can help arrange for this one-of-a-kind activity for our guests to truly make their stay at our camp memorable. The cost of hot air balloon rides starts from $450 per person.
Activity #13: Go watch the Great Migration;
If you are visiting the Mara during the July-October period when the Great Migration takes place, then you are in for a real treat. Witness millions of wildebeest, zebras and other animals crossing the Mara River as they migrate from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
At Kambu Mara Camp, we offer guided tours to witness this incredible natural phenomenon. You will be accompanied by an experienced guide who will provide you with valuable insights and knowledge about the Great Migration. Ready to come to the upcoming 2024 Great Migration? Read more here.
Activity #14: Read a book from Kambu Mara Camp’s Small Library:
For those looking for a more relaxed and quiet activity, we have a small library onsite at Kambu Mara Camp. You can choose from a selection of books that are available and enjoy reading while surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.
Our library includes books on topics such as wildlife, conservation, culture, history and more. We also have children’s books available for our younger guests to enjoy. So grab a book, find a cosy spot and get lost in the world of literature during your stay at Kambu Mara Camp.
Activity #15: Watch animals that wander close to the Camp:
Kambu Camp in the Mara is located in a leafy area with lush vegetation, and shrubs, and this wooded area is a haven for various grazers, including giraffes, zebras, warthogs, elands, antelopes, and wildebeests. From the vantage point of the Kambu Mara Camp’s lower fence, you can delight in the close proximity of these magnificent creatures. We kindly request that you keep noise levels to a minimum to ensure they remain undisturbed in their natural habitat.
Below is another image of a giraffe looking up at Kambu Mara Camp;
Simply make a booking to get started!
If you’re interested in staying with us and experiencing any of the activities mentioned above, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can reach us by giving us a call or sending a WhatsApp message to +254 769 103 670, or sending an email to bookings@kambucampers.com. Alternatively, you can simply fill out the form on this page. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you!
