My Insider's Guide to the Sarova Mara Game Camp: Luxury Safari Perfection in the heart of Masai Mara
Today I’m going to share a rundown of my time at one of the Masai Mara’s best-known & loved camps—the Sarova Mara Game Camp. I’ve been privileged to travel to just about every corner of Kenya, and one thing this place has that the others don’t—it’s just got it all right.
From its idyllic location to its top-class service and a massive range of activities, what Sarova Mara offers is remarkable. It’s not just somewhere to rest your head, it’s a little community built to make your safari holiday as enjoyable as possible, with a focus on the details that matter.
And that’s why I’ve put together this detailed, no-nonsense guide to give you all the facts you need to plan the perfect trip. If you’re looking for a top-class Masai Mara National Reserve place to stay, then the Sarova Mara is the place to be.
Get in Touch for a Quote
Are you ready to take the plunge and book a stay at Sarova Mara Game Camp? Booking a safari can feel like a challenge, but we’re here to help you sort the lot out from flights into the Mara to that last sundowner. We’re here to help with all that hassle.
Give us a ring at (+254 719 222 430, +254 748 258 880, or +254 704 532 105), or just fire us an email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com. You’ll be chatting to James Maina, Gladys Mwangi or me (Harrison Kamau), and we promise to knock up a fantastic deal for a trip you won’t be forgetting any time soon.
Our Most Booked Kenya Safari Packages and Tours
The Budget, 3-Day, 2-Night Jambo Masai Mara Safari
From £887
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The Luxury, 4-Day, 3-Night Basecamp Masai Mara Safari
From £1233
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The Perfect, 4-Day, 3-Night Keekorok Lodge Safari
From £1111
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The Adventures, 4-Day, 3-Night Masai Mara Luxury Family Safari
From £1143
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The Magnificent 8-Day, 7-Night Family Safari to Kenya
From £2462
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The Classic, 10-Day, 9-Night Family Safari in Kenya
£2495 Per Adult
£1310 Per Child
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The Magical, 4-Day, 3-Night L. Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari
From £959
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The Luxury, 5-Day, 4-Night L. Naivasha, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari
From £1359
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The Super, 5-Day, 4-Night Nairobi & Masai Mara Safari
From £1134
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The Magical, 6-Day, 5-Night Amboseli, L. Naivasha, & Masai Mara Safari
From £2234
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Why The Location Makes All The Difference
People ask me where to stay in the Mara loads, and my first thought is Sarova Mara Game Camp —it’s just my first pick because it really makes life so much easier.
My Top Tip: Where to Stay in the Mara
So why is it the best place to stay? Well, it’s not just that it’s inside the reserve —not stuck away in some little conservation area —but also because of how beautiful the place is. I mean, it’s lush—two little streams are running through the land, which keep the gardens just as green as the rest of the savanna, even when it’s dry outside.
It’s a real contrast and just looks really lovely. This green bubble is popular with the birds and smaller game, so you don’t need to wait for your first game drive to see the wildlife. Just step off your transfer and you’ll be right amongst it.
That’s got to be worth paying extra for – you get the proximity to the wildlife that you want without forking out for luxury just down a dirt track. If the Great Migration is on your bucket list, you won’t be wasting loads of time driving to get to the action—it’s right on your doorstep, with authentic luxury living.
Inside the Reserve: Front Row in the Masai Mara
Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. The fact that the camp is plonked right inside the Masai Mara National Reserve is a game-changer. You’re going to get a lot closer to all the action along the Mara River, which is precisely where the key crossing points will be during the migration peak.
And when it comes to getting into areas like Rhino Ridge, which for some reason has historically been a hotspot for spotting those elusive Black Rhinos, you’ll be in the perfect position. Being so central is a real logistical advantage – our guide today can get us rolling in the mornings and keep us running until much later in the evenings.
And then there’s the wildlife, but what really draws me to this place is the opportunity to connect with the local culture. Next door to the camp is the Isokon Maasai Cultural Village – it’s the real deal, where you can actually meet the locals and soak up the atmosphere. It genuinely feels like being part of the community, rather than just a tourist passing through.
Getting There: How to Make The Journey as Smooth as Possible
Getting to the camp shouldn’t be a hassle; it should be part of the fun! Most people go for the easy option: book a flight to Keekorok Airstrip, then take a flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport—it’s a short trip and often gives you a sneak peek of the Mara from up high, which is pretty cool.
Don’t worry about the landing because the camp will have a 4×4 waiting to whisk you off and start your first informal game drive! However, if you’d rather drive, that’s always an option too. The drive from Nairobi is doable, but fair warning: the road conditions can be pretty rough. About 6 hours is what you’re looking at.
If you decide to drive, we really can’t stress enough the importance of hiring a high-clearance, reliable 4×4 safari van or cruiser—you don’t want to be stuck on that journey in a standard vehicle! And whatever option you choose, we’ll make sure that all your transfer details are sorted out in advance.
Your Safari Home: The Ins & Outs of Accommodation and Camp Life
This is where the magic of Sarova Mara Game Camp really shines – they’ve managed to blend the romance of a traditional safari tent with the comforts of a five-star hotel.
The Tented Experience: Luxury in the Wild
It’s a full-on luxury tented camp experience, but without sacrificing authenticity. You’re not going to be sleeping in some flimsy tent here – these are proper structures with permanent roofs and wooden floors, so you get that solid feeling, but still get to hear the sounds of the wild outside.
Every tent has a beautifully designed interior, a private deck (I love starting the day on mine with a coffee!) and an essential modern amenity—a proper en-suite bathroom with hot water that actually works! And we’d never send you anywhere without making sure you’ve got the best bedding, and they absolutely deliver on that.
Choosing Your African Home
- Deluxe Tents: These fantastic rooms are the perfect blend of safari chic and proper comfort. They offer all the authentic camp vibes without sacrificing an inch on the little extra things that make a stay special.
- Club Tents: If you’re looking to treat yourself, these are well worth it. Not only are they in quieter locations with a bit more space, but you’ll also get exclusive access to the Olchani Club Lounge – it’s the perfect spot to grab a pre-dinner drink and unwind.
- Family Tents: This is what makes our family-friendly options so brilliant – these tents have two separate rooms that connect and a shared living area, giving you the space and flexibility you need on a long trip.
Enjoying a Meal Under the African Sky: More Than Just a Meal
When it comes to the food here, you’ll be in for a real treat. I guarantee you won’t get bored with the menu.
Where to Wine and Dine
- Isokon Restaurant: This is the central spot for your food fix, serving up fantastic buffets and à la carte dishes. Expect a great mix of what’s fresh and local, along with some international flair.
- Experiential Dining Highlights (My personal Faves):
- Bush Dining/ Boma Nights: Picture this – an evening spent stargazing under the stars, gathered around a bonfire, and enjoying some fantastic grilled treats while watching the local Maasai dancers give it their all. It’s a truly unforgettable bush dining experience.
- Dinner under the Salt Lick: We’ve taken the dinner table to the wild! Guests dine while the local animals are out and about, drawn to the mineral lick—you get to enjoy your meal while nature does its thing.
- Cooking up a Treat in our Organic Garden: This is one of our unique selling points – guests get a behind-the-scenes tour of our organic garden, can help with the harvest, and then cook it all up with the chef. It’s hands-on learning and totally delicious.
Camp Amenities: Chilling Out Between Game Drives
The camp’s got loads to keep you entertained when the sun’s beating down. The big, free-form swimming pool is perfect for a mid-afternoon splash – I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve soaked up the sun there! The pool bar right next to it is super handy for a cold drink just when you need it.
If what you’re after is total relaxation, then the Tulia Wellness Tent/Spa is a must. They’ve got a whole menu of treatments—from Swedish massage to aromatherapy—to work out all the aches and pains from a day of driving around the savanna. For business types or anyone who still needs to stay online, you’ll find decent conference and business facilities.
And there are all the usual amenities, too, like a lovely Gift Shop and laundry service—all the essentials when you’re away. Wi-Fi is available in the main areas, but please put the phone away and take in the view—you’re here for that after all!
The Thrill of the Hunt: Game Drives and Wildlife
A safari’s only as good as its guide, and I can tell you that the guys at Sarova Mara are the real deal.
Game Drives: Our guides Know Their Stuff
They do fantastic morning and evening game drives in sturdy, purpose-built 4×4 Land Cruisers. These vehicles are just what you need for bumpy ground and getting those perfect snaps. Our guide today would be a certified pro—they don’t just drive; they track, teach, and share stories, too.
That’s the difference between a good safari and one you’ll never forget. We’re in prime country for checking out wildlife at any time of year, and while there’s no guarantee, this place has got an excellent track record for those elusive Big Five sightings.
The Great Migration: Timing it Right at Sarova Mara
People always ask me: ‘When’s the best time to see the migration?’ And the truth is, the Sarova Mara Game Camp is in a fantastic location for this event – the wildebeest and zebra migrations are often right on your doorstep.
Our target window is from July to October, when the masses of animals come into the area, and you often get the thrilling spectacle of those dramatic river crossings, right from your camp. I get asked all the time about the best time to visit Sarova Mara for the migration, and the answer depends on the animals’ current movements—they don’t follow a calendar to the letter!
Being right next to the Mara River crossings gives you a huge advantage – you’re not wasting hours driving just to get to the banks. The whole experience is truly epic and life-changing.
Unique Activities: There’s More to a Safari than 4x4s
While the game drives are the meat of a safari, the camp at Sarova Mara also offers a load of unique activities that make your holiday stand out.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: I’ve tried a few of these, and floating over the Mara in silence as the sun rises, followed by a fantastic Champagne Breakfast in the bush, is truly unbeatable. Trust me—you really must try it!
- Maasai Cultural Interaction: Just next door, the Isokon Maasai Cultural Village lets you meet the local community and experience their way of life. You can join in some Maasai cultural dances and talks, and even pick up a few words of Maa.
- Guided Walking Safaris / Nature Walks: and then there’s the chance to slow down and really focus on what’s around you. Led by a knowledgeable Maasai naturalist, you’ll get to take in the plants, insects, and spoor – a whole different way of experiencing the bush, especially if you’re a bird-watching nut.
- Recreational Facilities: and if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, the camp’s always got something to do – like Mini Golf, Archery, table tennis, or even Catch-and-Release Fishing or Kayaking in the camp’s pond area.
Getting to Grips with the Details: Prices, Booking and Planning
When you’re looking at Sarova Mara Game Camp prices, you typically have two options.
Rate Structure: Full-Board vs. All-Inclusive
There’s the full-board deal, which covers your accommodation and three main meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner). Then there’s the all-inclusive option, which bundles in most local drinks and usually a set number of game drives, making budgeting much easier.
Keep in mind that Sarova Mara Game Camp rates can vary wildly depending on the time of year – the migration period is always the most expensive, simple as that. We can also help you find the current Resident vs. Non-Resident rates.
Why I Recommend the Full-Board Rates – Demerits of All-Inclusive Rates
Some people are tempted to choose all-inclusive rates when booking their safaris to Kenya from India, but this is usually a problem. As noted, the all-inclusive rates include a few drinks and scheduled, shared game drives. But that is just a small part of Kenya safaris. You need to get from Nairobi to Sarova Mara Game Camp, pay entry fees, and you will end up paying extra if you need private game drives, as private vehicles go for over USD 400 per day at the camp.
Instead, you can book the hotel on a full-board basis (or have a travel company book it for you) and then arrange other services with a professional travel agent in Kenya. Tour companies will take care of everything from welcoming you at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, transferring you to the Masai Mara, paying your entry fees, and conducting private game drives for you.
Celebrating in the Wild: Special Occasions
This camp is a magical place for celebrations – if you’re looking at planning a honeymoon or a romantic escape, the staff here can add all sorts of lovely touches to your stay, from private deck dinners to sundowners with a view.
For larger events, they can host a spectacular destination wedding complete with a traditional Maasai-themed ceremony. We’ve also had a lot of Corporate and Incentive Group bookings over the years; the setting is perfect for team-building and getting the gang away from the office din.
Booking Your Stay: Let’s Get the Ball Rolling
You’ve read all the details now, and it’s time to secure your trip. We’d love to help you book Sarova Mara Game Camp with the best possible package—don’t hang around, especially if you’re trying to snag those migration dates, as things can get pretty busy.
Trust and Comparison: My Two Cents
I’ve read a ton of guest feedback, and the Sarova Mara Game Camp reviews are primarily favourable. One thing that comes up again and again is just how welcoming and safe the place feels, despite being deep in the wilderness.
The kind service and the food are huge winners with most people—the food is awe-inspiring, especially at their unique dining events. Of course, you will get the odd negative comment (maybe the Wi-Fi was out for an hour once—that’s just what you get in the bush!), but all in all, the feedback is just superb—the place really delivers on value, location, and staff expertise.
Sarova Mara Game Camp Reviews: What People Say
Fantastic stay in Sarova Mara by Marianna G, Nov 6, Harpenden, United Kingdom
“We just came back from our holiday in Kenya and had an unforgettable time in Sarova Mara, right in the heart of the Masai Mara. From pickup to drop-off, our experience was incredible—Pius, our guide, really made our stay the most special.
He took us on fantastic game drives in the Masai Mara, really making the effort to ensure we saw as much as possible and to tell us so much about the park and the animals. We loved Pius! The hotel was just top notch – tents were so big and comfortable (thank you Jackson and Simon for taking care of cleaning and the hot water bottles for our kids!), food was so so good, the service was excellent – from reception, to waiters, to the gardener who gave us an impromptu tour of the gardens.
And we loved our special breakfast outside—it was an unforgettable experience. We loved our stay at Sarova Mara and would definitely recommend it to everyone! If you’re considering Sarova Mara, you won’t regret it.”
Amazing safari experience in the Masai Mara camp by Villy D, Nov 3
“The most beautiful lodge in the park. Excellent rooms, clean and beautifully decorated. The food and amenities were all perfect. Doreen, Andy, and Role x —they were fantastic—unique service and a huge smile from everyone.
I highly recommend it. I will definitely come back with my kids.”
Who Should Book a Stay Here?
In my view, this is an all-around excellent choice—but it’s particularly perfect for …
- Families: With separate Family Tents, a kids’ club, and loads of fun activities, it’s an excellent option.
- Couples/Honeymooners: If you’re after a bit of luxury, the private Club Tents and romantic add-ons make it an ideal romantic getaway.
- Incentive Groups: The camp’s ability to host events and organise top-quality excursions makes it perfect for corporate groups, too.
Comparison Snippets: How Does it Stack Up Against the Rest?
I’m not going to give you any specific links to competing camps (you probably don’t need them anyway!). Still, I know you’re wondering how this one compares to the likes of Mara Serena or Mara Intrepids. One thing that springs to mind :
Sarova Mara Game Camp vs Mara Serena Lodge
If you’re asking Sarova Mara Game Camp vs Mara Serena Lodge, it comes down to style. Mara Serena offers a beautiful, unique architectural lodge, set high on a ridge, with huge views.
Sarova Mara, on the other hand, offers authentic, close-to-nature luxury tented living, along with a more comprehensive list of recreational activities, such as archery and mini-golf. If you want a hands-on, activity-rich, tented experience, don’t hesitate to choose Sarova Mara.
FAQ Section: Quick Answers for Your Trip
What are people asking about Sarova Mara Game Camp? Find out more from this section of Q&As.
Where is Sarova Mara Game Camp located?
It is located within the Masai Mara National Reserve in southwestern Kenya. It’s uniquely positioned in a lovely, green spot between two streams, not far from the main Sekenani Gate area.
Is Sarova Mara inside the Masai Mara Reserve?
Yes, absolutely. The Sarova Mara Game Camp is inside the Masai Mara Reserve. This is a big plus because it minimises your travel time to and from the best wildlife viewing areas.
What is the best month to visit for the migration?
The best time to visit Sarova Mara for migration is typically between July and October. However, I always tell people to check the latest movement reports since the animals can be unpredictable!
Do they offer babysitting services?
Yes, they are very family-friendly. They offer professional babysitting services upon request (usually at a small fee) and run a great kids’ club with supervised activities.
What is included in the whole board package?
The whole board package generally covers your accommodation and all three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). You should plan to pay extra for drinks, alcoholic beverages, park fees, and most activities, such as game drives or the balloon safari.
About the Author – Harrison K. Irura – Profile
I’m Harrison K. Irura, a seasoned Travel Consultant with over ten years of experience at AjKenyaSafaris.com. My work is my passion; I don’t just book safaris—I live them. I hold a degree in Human Resource Management from a respected Kenyan University, but my real education comes from the road.
I have personally travelled and vetted numerous destinations across Kenya, including Amboseli, the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Tsavo, and the coast at Diani. I am a proud member of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), which is my way of assuring you that the advice I give is both expert and trustworthy.
