Basecamp Mara Houses: Information from the owner

Birdwatching

If you have an interest in birds or just enjoy seeing the colourful ones, our passionate and knowledgeable guides would love to show you what the Mara ecosystem has to offer. With almost 500 species of resident and migrant birds including 57 species of raptors, from the lush forested hills to grass plains and waterways, you will not be disappointed. We carry field guides in the vehicles and would recommend a pair of good binoculars.

Bush Breakfast & Sundowners

Enjoy breakfasts along the Mara River and in secluded valleys or sundowners, a well-deserved drink at the end of a long day on safari to ‘salute’ the African sun as it is setting. We drive you to secret corners and on top of the highest peak in the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem and serve you your favourite drink along with a selection of scrumptious ‘bitings’; small snacks to whet your appetite ahead of the delicious dinner which awaits.

Guided Day and Night Game drives

Guests can enjoy morning, afternoon and all-day game drives through renowned and teeming conservation areas: Mara North Conservancy and Lemek Conservancy; two fantastic habitats for African wildlife. We also highly recommend night game drives in Mara North Conservancy, when nocturnal species can be encountered. This is a unique activity not permitted in the National Reserve. Game drives are included in the nightly rate. Our lodge managers will assist you in planning your stay with us, day by day, upon your arrival.

Hot Air Balloon Flights

PAYABLE EXTRA: Imagine seeing the beauty of the Mara and witnessing the vastness of the annual natural phenomenon that is the Great Migration from above. This once in a lifetime experience gives you a unique perspective of the beauty of Africa as it awakens. Starting just before dawn you will enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea whilst the crew inflates the balloon and then set off just as the sun has risen, drifting across the plains, forest and Mara River you are sure to spot a myriad of animals whilst being basked in the early morning glow of sunrise. The air current in the Masai Mara is said to be one of the best in the world meaning that you glide effortlessly and silently being able to observe animals in their natural habitat without them even knowing that you are there. Drifting wherever the current takes you, you will finally land where a welcoming champagne breakfast is served on the plains and then take a leisurely game drive back to your lodge.

Maasai Wellbeing Space

In the most serene, relaxing environment, guests can treat themselves at the Maasai Wellbeing Space at Mara Bush Houses. Our specially-trained team combine expertise and ancient Maasai knowledge to provide soothing treatments as you listen to the sounds of the outdoors. Manicures, pedicures, body/foot massages and facials are just a few of the many treatments we offer. For a complete listing, contact our Reservations team in advance or lodge manager upon arrival. The Maasai Wellbeing Space is open 07:00-19:00 daily or unless by prior arrangement with the therapists. Bookings can be made through the therapists, your guide or any of our staff.

COMPLIMENTARY MASSAGE: We are delighted to offer a 1 x complimentary massage per room per stay; a 30 mins. classic Back and Neck massage.

The Annual Great Migration

PAYABLE EXTRA – NATIONAL RESERVE RIVER CROSSINGS: From July to October-November (depends on the year), the world famous ‘Great Migration’ reaches the Masai Mara ecosystem from the Serengeti when over 2 million animals – zebra and wildebeest (‘gnu’) are the most prominent – head north and cross the Mara river (“the river crossings”) in huge herds to search for water and fresh grass. The biggest misconception, however, is that the migration is only about the river crossing. Driving through the plains during this period, guests bear witness to thousands upon thousands of wildebeest and zebra; a truly astonishing sight. This far-reaching vision also makes up the ‘Great Migration’. It’s the greatest natural show on earth. If guests wish to try their luck at witnessing a river crossing (it’s not guaranteed), the costs involved are exclusive use of vehicle at US$350 per day and daily conservation fees to enter the Masai Mara National Reserve apply (if the crossing happens within this area).

Visit to local school, village and Trading Centre

The culture of the natural guardians of this land is both complex and fascinating. There are few that would deny they are one of the best-known tribes in Africa and it is with good reason that does not purely stem from the game rich plains they roam. The concept of encouraging our guests to experience this wilderness and its people on their own terms very much extends to exploring the world beyond the animals and the scenery.

Time spent with your guide and his community is often the most rewarding aspect of a visit to this world and we believe it is the best way to take as much or as little from their culture as you would like.

We visit only villages, communities and trading centers that are part of our team’s home life. The results are that you are well received and made to feel very welcome as you explore this extraordinary culture and they get to know a little about you.

In 2009 the judges of the prestigious Responsible Tourism Awards recognised the on-going achievements in this complex arena. We welcome all our visitors to explore our work and to get involved as much as possible with our vision of protecting and enhancing this very ancient and magical people.

Visit to Olchorro rhino sanctuary

Located in the Ol Chorro Conservancy, about 30 min. from both Mara Bush Houses, this is a conservation project employing staff from the local community that has been protecting white rhino for the past 20 years. Rhino roam freely on the slopes of the mountain and the unique attraction of this project is approaching the rhino on foot in complete safety, whilst guided by a local ranger. The visit costs US$30 person that goes back to the community and to the Sanctuary directly in their efforts to protect this endangered species.