Guide to Governors' Il Moran Camp in Masai Mara National Reserve

Glamping Among Giraffes and Gazelles at Maasai Mara

Governors’ Il Moran is part of a prestigious collection of safari camps nestled within the Masai Mara National Reserve. This intimate, luxurious retreat offers a serene escape, situated in the Musiara Sector of the reserve, where guests are surrounded by abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. The camp features ten expansive safari tents, each carefully positioned amidst towering ancient trees along the winding Mara River. 

Although the camp is permanent in structure, it blends effortlessly with its natural surroundings, creating a harmonious atmosphere. Local wildlife is so accustomed to the peaceful setting that it’s not uncommon to spot giraffes or elephants meandering through the camp. As night falls, the distant grunting of hippos can be heard from the river.

The main communal area is elegantly designed, with large wooden tables, plush blue sofas, a vibrant beaded chandelier, and a mix of African artifacts and tribal portraits. The decor is a captivating fusion of contemporary and traditional styles. Recently, this area was elevated on wooden decking to enhance the experience. 

Guests can indulge in delicious candlelit dinners in the main dining tent, which offers a stunning view of the river below. Breakfasts and lunches are often served outdoors beneath the trees, creating a relaxed and immersive dining experience. In the evenings, the fire pit is lit, providing a cozy ambiance for guests to enjoy drinks while basking in its warm glow. 

The camp’s staff is known for their attentiveness and personalized service, ensuring every guest feels special. The common area also includes a cozy lounge and bar, perfect for unwinding before or after a safari adventure. Here, guests can relax on comfortable sofas adorned with cushions or enjoy the view of the river from the wooden viewing deck, seated in a wicker chair.

The ten safari tents at Il Moran have recently undergone refurbishment, with a light and airy ambiance created through the use of neutral beige and grey tones. Each tent is equipped with a locally crafted king-sized bed made of reclaimed olive wood, a sturdy wooden desk with a copper lamp, and a spacious sofa. 

The floors are covered with plush carpets and cowhide rugs. The tents feature large en-suite bathrooms separated from the bedroom by zip-up flaps, offering twin washbasins, hot and cold running water, expansive walk-in showers, and a freestanding claw-foot bathtub with a shower attachment. For convenience, the tents are equipped with electric lamps, charging points for cameras and mobile phones, and a collection of African decor to enhance the safari experience. 

Elevated on concrete plinths and fully mosquito-proofed, each tent boasts a private verandah with wicker chairs and a hammock for ultimate relaxation. A generator runs continuously to ensure a reliable source of power for charging devices.

Things to Do at Governors’ Il Moran Camp Masai Mara

As part of your experience, you’ll have the opportunity to take up to three extended 4×4 game drives each day. These drives explore the Masai Mara National Reserve, just a short distance from your safari camp. Most of the action takes place in the Musiara Sector, where you’ll travel across the expansive Paradise Plain and reach the stunning Rhino Ridge. 

From the moment you hop into the safari vehicle, you’ll be in prime position to spot wildlife from all angles. With Il Moran’s skilled driver-guides at the wheel, you won’t miss a single moment of the action. If you’re an early riser, you can extend your morning game drive with a packed bush breakfast in a picturesque setting. 

These breakfasts feature a variety of cereals, fresh fruit, pastries, and bread, along with the option to have a freshly prepared full breakfast. Late afternoon game drives are also available, and for an extra dose of adventure, you can book a hot-air balloon ride for an additional fee.

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