Ashnil Mara Camp with Mara Triangle safaris

Overview

Ashnil Mara Camp is a luxury tented camp situated on the banks of the legendary Mara River, deep inside Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. Operated by the reputable Ashnil Hotels, this award-winning safari camp places you at the epicentre of wildlife action, offering unmatched access to the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration and year-round encounters with the Big Five. It offers an intimate and personalised safari experience with recently redesigned accommodations. In 2026, the camp is introducing even more exclusive amenities, including a yoga deck, a photography studio, and a gym, elevating the safari experience to new heights.

Prime Location – On the Banks of the Mara River
The camp is located at the confluence of the Mara and Olkeju Rivers, where animals gather to drink and cross during their annual odyssey. This riverine location means you can enjoy breathtaking views of the water and its inhabitants right from the camp.

During the migration season (typically July to October), you are perfectly positioned to witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras braving the crocodile-infested waters, providing a front-row seat to one of nature’s most thrilling spectacles. The camp is located in a private concession, which permits night game drives and offers an uncrowded safari experience with remarkable predator sightings.

Luxury Accommodation – Elegant Tents Overlooking the River
Following a bold redesign in 2025, Ashnil Mara Camp now features 27 luxury tents, including 3 spacious family units, all set along the riverbank.

Each of the 24 standard luxury tents has been completely rebuilt with hardwood flooring and stylish, contemporary interiors. Inside, you will find:

• A dedicated lounge area for relaxation

• A fully modernised bathroom with a walk-in shower

• A comfortable king or twin beds with premium linens

• A private verandah offering uninterrupted views of the Mara River

• Minibar, in-tent safe, and hairdryer

• Complimentary in-tent Wi-Fi and 24-hour solar power

For families or small groups, the 3 Family Tents are a rare find. These spacious units feature interconnected sleeping areas and an expanded lounge space, making them ideal for those travelling with children. They offer the same modern amenities, private decks, and stunning river views as the luxury tents.

Dining – A Culinary Journey in the Wild
Dining at Ashnil Mara Camp is an experience designed to delight the senses.

• Extensive Buffets: The main dining hall serves generous buffet-style breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, featuring an international cuisine menu with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. All meals are halal.

• Private Dining: Beginning in 2026, guests can enjoy plated four-course dinners on private dining decks by the river, adding a romantic and exclusive touch to your evenings.

• Bush Dining: For a truly memorable experience, the camp can arrange a bush dinner in a traditional boma, where you can enjoy a meal under the stars accompanied by Maasai dancing and storytelling around a crackling fire.

Facilities & Amenities – Relaxation and Rejuvenation
The camp offers a wide array of facilities designed to ensure your comfort and enjoyment:

• Swimming Pool: A large, attractive swimming pool with a curving terrace, perfect for a refreshing dip while watching wildlife at the river.

• Spa and Massage: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment or a therapeutic massage between game drives.

• Yoga and Meditation Deck: Launching in 2026, a dedicated space for morning yoga sessions overlooking the savannah.

• Gym: A new fitness centre will be available in 2026 for guests who wish to stay active during their safari.

• Lounge and Bar: A vast open-sided lounge bar offers an extensive choice of drinks, including cocktails, local beers, and wines. It is the perfect spot to unwind and share stories of your day’s adventures.

• Children’s Club & Playground: A dedicated facility where young explorers can learn about the bush in a safe, engaging environment.

• Souvenir Shop: Browse a selection of local crafts, clothing, and safari essentials.

• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Available in the main guest areas to keep you connected.

Wildlife & Activities – Unforgettable Encounters
The camp’s prime location unlocks a world of exceptional safari experiences:

• Game Drives: Conducted twice daily in customised 4×4 vehicles. An experienced guide will lead you in search of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and the countless other species that call the Mara home.

• Great Migration Viewing: The camp is closest to the major crossing points along the Mara River, giving you a significant advantage in witnessing the famous wildebeest river crossings.

• Night Game Drives: Explore the reserve after dark in search of elusive nocturnal predators like leopards, hyenas, and serval cats.

• Hot Air Balloon Safari: Float silently over the savannah at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush (extra cost).

• Guided Nature Walks: Explore the smaller wonders of the bush on foot with an armed guide, learning about tracks, plants, and insects.

• Maasai Village Visit: Immerse yourself in the local Maasai culture with a visit to a traditional village.

• Photography Studio: A new amenity for 2026, offering guests access to equipment and expert guidance for capturing stunning wildlife images.

• Birdwatching: With over 470 species recorded, the Maasai Mara is a birder’s paradise. Keep an eye out for the lilac-breasted roller, secretary bird, and martial eagle.

Sustainability & Responsibility
Ashnil Mara Camp is certified by Ecotourism Kenya at the “Natural & Protected Silver” level, demonstrating its commitment to responsible tourism. The camp has a comprehensive environmental management system, including:

• Wastewater management through septic tanks and biodigesters

• Solid waste segregation and composting of organic waste

• Active participation in conservation meetings with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)

• A programme to conserve local biodiversity, coexisting with resident wildlife such as bush babies and rock hyraxes