ZEBRA PLAINS MARA CAMP

Overview

Welcome to Zebra Plains Mara Camp, a premier safari lodge nestled in the pristine Olare Orok Conservancy, bordering Kenya’s world‑famous Maasai Mara National Reserve. If you have ever dreamed of waking up to the sound of zebras grazing metres from your tent, sipping coffee as the sun rises over endless savannah, and witnessing lions, elephants, and leopards in their natural habitat, this is your destination. Zebra Plains Mara Camp is more than just a place to sleep – it is an immersive journey into the heart of wild Africa, designed for adventurers, photographers, families, and honeymooners alike.

Operated by the award‑winning Zebra Plains Collection – a brand known for excellence, sustainability, and authentic Maasai hospitality – this camp offers an intimate atmosphere with only 20 luxury tents. Unlike large, impersonal lodges, Zebra Plains Mara Camp ensures that every guest receives personalised attention, expert guiding, and a deep connection to the land and its people.

Location – The Golden Triangle of Wildlife

The camp’s exact coordinates (-1.38587, 35.2126) place it on a gentle hill overlooking the Olare Orok River and the vast plains that stretch all the way to the Tanzanian border. This location is strategically chosen for three reasons:

1. Proximity to the Mara River – Just 12 kilometres (20 minutes’ drive) from the famous Mara River crossing points, where over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras cross during the Great Migration (July to October). You will be perfectly positioned to witness the dramatic river crossings, complete with splashing herds and lurking crocodiles.

2. Private Conservancy Advantage – Olare Orok Conservancy is a 9,000‑acre protected area that operates on a low‑vehicle density model. Unlike the main reserve, which can become crowded, here you will often have a lion sighting entirely to yourself. Night game drives and off‑road driving are permitted, offering exceptional photography opportunities.

3. Year‑Round Game Viewing – Even outside migration season, the conservancy is home to resident wildlife: elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, and the famous Moniko pride of lions (14 strong). Leopards are regularly spotted along the Olare Orok River. Birdwatchers will find over 470 species, including the lilac‑breasted roller, secretary bird, ostrich, and martial eagle.

Accommodation – Luxury Tents That Redefine Glamping

Zebra Plains Mara Camp features 20 spacious tented suites, each elevated on a wooden deck to maximise views and airflow. Tents are divided into two categories:

• Savannah‑View Tents (14 units) – Directly facing the open plains. From your veranda, you can watch zebras, topis, and wildebeests graze. At night, the distant calls of hyenas and lions create an unforgettable soundtrack.

• Hillside‑View Tents (6 units) – Tucked against the Oldonyo Oloip Ridge, offering stunning sunrise views over the valley. These are slightly more sheltered and ideal for guests who prefer extra privacy.

Inside Each Tent (Approx. 50 sq. metres including veranda):

• King‑size bed (convertible to twins) with premium cotton linens, duvet, and extra blankets for cool nights.

• En‑suite bathroom with a hot water rain shower (solar‑heated), flushing toilet, vanity sink, and eco‑friendly soap, shampoo, and lotion.

• Private veranda with two safari chairs, a small table, and a clothes rack.

• Writing desk with rechargeable LED reading lamp.

• Mosquito nets over the bed (though the area has very few mosquitoes, nets are provided for peace of mind).

• 24/7 solar‑powered lighting plus a backup battery for phone charging (USB ports available).

• Luggage rack, safe box (small size for passports and valuables), and a complimentary bottle of water daily.

Family Accommodation: Two of the savannah‑view tents are interconnecting, making them perfect for families with children. An extra bed or child cot can be added upon request.

Dining – A Culinary Safari

Food at Zebra Plains Mara Camp is a celebration of Kenyan and international flavours. The camp employs a team of chefs who prepare fresh, nutritious meals using locally sourced ingredients. Dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, halal) are accommodated with advance notice.

Typical Daily Menu:

• Early Morning (5:30 AM): Coffee, tea, and biscuits delivered to your tent before the sunrise game drive.

• Breakfast (9:00–10:00 AM): Buffet with fresh fruits, yoghurt, cereals, pastries, plus a hot à la carte menu (eggs, sausages, bacon, pancakes, or traditional Kenyan chapati and sukuma wiki).

• Lunch (1:00–2:00 PM): Two‑course set menu – soup or salad, followed by a main dish (grilled chicken, fish, beef stew, vegetarian curry) with rice, potatoes, or ugali.

• Afternoon Snack (4:00 PM): Light bites such as samosas, spring rolls, or fruit skewers before the evening game drive.

• Dinner (7:30–8:30 PM): Three‑course plated dinner under the stars (weather permitting) or in the dining tent. Sample mains: roasted lamb chops, Mara river fish (tilapia), barbecue ribs, vegetable lasagna. Desserts include passion fruit mousse, banana fritters, or chocolate cake.

Special Dining Experiences (extra cost, request in advance):

• Bush Breakfast – Dine on the savannah with zebras and giraffes as your audience.

• Sundowner Cocktails – Watch the sunset over the Mara from a scenic hilltop, with sparkling wine, beer, and Kenyan snacks.

• Romantic Bush Dinner – A private table set with candles and lanterns, deep in the bush (requires minimum 4 guests or honeymoon supplement).

Facilities & Amenities – Comfort in the Wild

Despite being a tented camp in a remote area, Zebra Plains Mara Camp offers a surprising range of modern comforts:

• Swimming Pool – A natural‑salt infinity pool, 12 metres long, overlooking the plains. Perfect for cooling off between game drives. Pool towels are provided.

• Main Lounge & Bar – A spacious, open‑sided tent with comfortable sofas, a small library of wildlife books, board games, and a fully stocked bar (local beers, wines, spirits, and signature cocktails). The bar operates on an honesty system for any extra drinks beyond your package.

• Campfire Area – Every evening at 7:00 PM, the campfire is lit. Guests gather here to share stories of the day’s sightings, listen to Maasai songs, and watch the Southern Cross appear.

• Spa & Massage Tent – One dedicated tent for in‑camp massages (Kenyan style with warm oils). Book 24 hours in advance. Extra cost – approximately $40 per 45‑minute session.

• Gift Shop – Sells Maasai handicrafts, beaded jewellery, kikois (sarongs), safari hats, and a small selection of snacks, sun cream, and batteries.

• Wi‑Fi – Available in the main lounge area. Connection is via satellite and can be slow; suitable for WhatsApp, emails, and social media (not for streaming). Free of charge.

• Laundry Service – Offered at $15 per bag (maximum 5 kg). Same‑day service if dropped off before 9:00 AM. Not available for delicate items.

• Airport Transfers – Complimentary return transfers from Olkiombo Airstrip (25 minutes’ drive). The airstrip is served by Safarilink, AirKenya, and Mombasa Air Safari daily.

• Parking – Secure parking for self‑drive guests.

Activities – Safari Beyond the Game Drive

Zebra Plains Mara Camp offers a curated selection of activities, all led by professional Maasai guides who speak English, French, German, or Spanish (subject to availability).

Included in your stay (per night stay, except arrival/departure days):

• Morning game drive (6:00–9:30 AM) – Includes coffee/tea stop in the bush.

• Afternoon game drive (4:00–6:30 PM) – Includes sundowner stop.

• Guided bush walk (1–2 hours, 8:00 AM or 4:00 PM) – Learn about tracks, medicinal plants, and small wildlife.

Extra cost activities (book at reception):

• Night game drive (8:00–10:30 PM) – $45 per person. Spot leopard, genet, civet, honey badger, aardvark, and lion hunting.

• Full‑day game drive in Maasai Mara Reserve – $80 per vehicle (up to 6 guests) plus park fees. Includes picnic lunch at Mara River.

• Hot air balloon safari – $450 per person. Includes 1‑hour flight, champagne breakfast in the bush, and a certificate. Pick‑up at camp at 4:30 AM, return by 9:30 AM.

• Maasai village visit – $20 per person. Spend 1 hour at a traditional manyatta, learn about jumping dance, fire making, and purchase beadwork.

• Horseback safari – $120 per person (2 hours). Ride through the plains accompanied by a Maasai guide. For experienced riders only.

• Photography workshop – $80 per hour (private, with a resident wildlife photographer). Learn camera settings, composition, and post‑processing basics.

Seasonal Highlights:

• July–October: Great Migration river crossings. Best time to see wildebeest and zebra herds at Mara River.

• November–December: “Green season” – lush landscapes, calving season for wildebeest, and excellent birdwatching.

• January–February: Dry season – game concentrates around water sources; excellent for lion and cheetah sightings.

• March–May: Low season (long rains) – fewer tourists, lower prices, dramatic thunderstorms, and vibrant wildflowers.

Sustainability & Community Impact

Zebra Plains Mara Camp is deeply committed to responsible tourism. The camp operates on a 100% solar‑heated water system, uses LED lighting, recycles glass and plastic, and avoids single‑use plastics (glass bottles are refillable). Waste is sorted and sent to a recycling facility in Narok. The camp employs over 70% of its staff from local Maasai communities, pays fair wages, and provides ongoing training in hospitality and guiding.

Through the Zebra Plains Foundation, a portion of every booking is donated to:

• School bursaries for Maasai girls (10 students supported annually).

• Mobile health clinic that visits the conservancy once a month.

• Anti‑poaching patrols – The camp funds two rangers who monitor the conservancy daily.

By staying at Zebra Plains Mara Camp, you directly contribute to wildlife conservation and community development.

Practical Information for Your Stay

Check‑in / Check‑out: Check‑in from 12:00 PM. Check‑out by 10:00 AM. Early check‑in or late check‑out subject to availability (half‑day rate may apply).

Getting There:

• By air: Daily flights from Nairobi (Wilson Airport) to Olkiombo Airstrip (approx. 45–60 minutes). Campsite provides free transfer.

• By road: 270 km from Nairobi (approx. 5 hours). Route: Nairobi – Mai Mahiu – Narok – Sekenani Gate – Olare Orok Conservancy. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during rainy season.

What to Pack:

• Neutral‑coloured clothing (khaki, green, beige)

• Warm jacket and fleece (morning game drives can be cold, 10–15°C / 50–59°F)

• Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+)

• Insect repellent (although malaria risk is low in Maasai Mara due to altitude)

• Binoculars (essential)

• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards

• Power bank for charging devices

• Personal toiletries (camp provides soap and shampoo)

• Swimsuit (the pool is unheated but refreshing)

Safety & Health:

• The camp has a trained first‑aid responder on site 24/7.

• Nearest hospital: Narok County Referral Hospital (about 2.5 hours by road). For serious emergencies, the camp can arrange an air ambulance to Nairobi (approx. $5,000 – ensure you have travel insurance).

• Malaria: Maasai Mara is low‑risk due to altitude (1,500–1,800 metres). However, some guests choose prophylactics. Consult your doctor.

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from an endemic country. Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus.

• Wildlife safety: Never leave your tent at night without an escort (ask at reception). Keep zippers closed to avoid inquisitive monkeys (rare but possible).

Rates & Inclusions (Typical – verify at booking):

• Low season (March–May): $250–$300 per person per night sharing

• High season (June–October & December–February): $350–$450 per person per night sharing

• Peak season (July–August & Christmas/New Year): $500–$600 per person per night sharing

• Single supplement: 50% of the double rate

• Children (5–12 years): 50% of adult rate when sharing with two adults

Included: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner), soft drinks and house wine/beer (selected brands), two game drives per day, bush walks, Wi‑Fi in common areas, airport transfers, conservancy fees.
Excluded: Maasai Mara National Reserve park fees ($80peradultperday,$45 per child), tips, premium drinks, balloon safari, massage, laundry, and any other extra activities.

Why Choose Zebra Plains Mara Camp Over Other Options?

• Intimacy – With only 20 tents, you never feel crowded. Staff know your name and preferences.

• Value – Compared to neighbouring camps (e.g., Angama Mara, Mara Plains), Zebra Plains offers similar game viewing and service at 40‑50% lower cost.

• Location – The Olare Orok Conservancy consistently ranks among the top three for predator sightings in the entire Maasai Mara ecosystem.

• Flexibility – Night drives, off‑road driving, and bush walks are included or available at low cost – many reserves in Kenya prohibit these.

• Authenticity – The camp is Maasai‑owned and operated, not a foreign chain. Profits stay in the community.