Masai Mara Kenya

An unforgettable safari experience at Olimba Mara Camp

If you're dreaming of a safari that perfectly balances adventure, comfort, and sustainability, Olimba Mara Camp is the ideal destination. Located just 15 minutes from the Masai Mara National Reserve, this eco-friendly retreat offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the wild up close. Guests can enjoy breathtaking landscapes, outstanding service, and a unique blend of budget-friendly luxury — all while supporting environmental conservation. At Olimba Mara Camp, every moment promises an unforgettable connection with nature.

A warm welcome to the heart of the Masai Mara

From the moment you board your flight from Nairobi to the Masai Mara National Reserve, you’ll feel the excitement building. But nothing compares to the warm welcome you’ll receive upon arrival at Olimba Mara Camp. The staff are incredibly friendly, ensuring that you feel right at home from the very beginning.

As you arrive at camp, a stunning view of the Talek River greets you, where your cozy tent awaits. These inviting tents offer the perfect blend of comfort and authentic wilderness. Drift off to sleep to the sounds of the wild: the low grunts of hippos and the distant roar of lions. Here, you're not just close to nature — you’re part of it.

Safari adventures with a personal touch

One thing that makes Olimba Mara really unique is that every guest gets their own safari vehicle. Having my own car completely changed the experience — I could explore at my own rhythm, without being tied to a group or anyone else’s schedule. I could tell my guide exactly what I wanted to focus on, whether it meant following lions on a hunt or spending six hours waiting by a tree for a leopard to come down. No need to compromise between guests who might want to see birds while others are after big cats. It was pure freedom — my safari, my way — and it made every moment even more personal and unforgettable.

A three-course meal under the stars

After a full day of exciting safaris, returning to the camp in the evening was always a treat. The staff greet you with a warm smile, making you feel at home and ready to unwind. Each evening, you're treated to a three-course meal that is nothing short of spectacular. The chefs prepare dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and the dining experience under the African sky is both intimate and unforgettable.

The combination of great food, incredible service, and the stunning surroundings makes each evening feel like a celebration of the day’s adventures.

Making a difference at Olimba Mara Camp

Beyond the safaris, Olimba Mara Camp offers guests a chance to make a positive impact. One of the highlights of my stay was planting a tree in Rudi’s Forest, an initiative designed to protect the environment and support the Oliveseed Foundation. It’s a simple, yet meaningful way to contribute to the preservation of this beautiful part of the world while enjoying your stay at the camp.

Camphor tree

This hands-on activity left me with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I was actively participating in something bigger than myself — helping preserve the land and supporting sustainability efforts.

A lasting impression

Even though I’ve been back in Switzerland for some time now, I still find myself thinking about the incredible memories made at Olimba Mara Camp. This was my first-ever more comfortable safari experience, and it couldn’t have been a better introduction to this type of adventure. The combination of great service, a comfortable stay, incredible wildlife, and environmental consciousness made this experience truly special.

After spending 10 unforgettable days there in December–January 2023–2024, I found myself drawn back in February 2024 for another 4 days. Olimba Mara Camp quickly became a place I couldn’t resist returning to — not just for the incredible safaris and warm hospitality, but for the deep connections I felt with the people there.

On the last day of my second visit in February 2024, one of the staff members surprised me with a traditional Maasai necklace — a gift that carries deep cultural significance. Without saying much, he gently placed it around my neck. I hadn’t expected anything, and in that quiet, meaningful moment, I felt tears welling up in my eyes. It was such a heartfelt gesture, filled with warmth and symbolism, that I was truly moved. This simple yet powerful act made me realize just how deeply this place and its people had touched me. It’s a memory I will treasure for the rest of my life.

Ashe oleng - means thank you in Masai

If you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever, Olimba Mara Camp is the place to be. Just 15 minutes outside the Masai Mara National Reserve, this little gem offers something for everyone — and I can’t wait to return for even more unforgettable memories.

www.olimbamaracamp.com