Mara Toto Tree Camp: Our full report
Mara Toto Tree Camp is located on the site of the former Mara Toto camp.
That camp was at ground level, and prone to occasional flooding when the Ntiakatek Stream spilled its banks. The revisioned Mara Toto Tree Camp is all well above ground, offering a delightful perspective to guests.With just four platform tented suites, of a hybrid design of canvas and hard wood decking, this innovative camp has a delightful setting, nestled in an evergreen canopy, suspended over the meandering Ntiakatek stream. The reinforced walkways lead to the suites, each with an immersive forest view and a wonderful bush vibe.
The suites are spacious and imbued with the signature opulent luxury that is featured in all the camps owned by Great Plains – especially their "Reserve Camps". Each suite is accessed through Arabic-styled doors, into a large bedroom and lounge area where the bed faces out onto a large deck with a view of the surrounding forest.
Towards the back of the suite is a spacious bathroom, with an open-plan shower, bathtub and dressing area with twin wash basins. If you like a bit of exercise during your stay, each suite has a yoga mat, weights and an exercise bike on the deck. And in keeping with Great Plains’ keen interest in photography, the camp has a hi-spec camera and binoculars that you can borrow during your stay. Please speak to your Expert Africa specialist if you'd like to reserve this equipment.
The main areas of the camp look over a large bend of the river, and the open lounge space blends into a spacious dining area. The showstopper is a suspended foliage-style chandelier, stretching the length of the dining room, and reflecting light from its clever metallic leaves. A small herd of comfy leather sofas provide one of many areas to relax. A wooden deck leads directly out above the river, and the natural shade from the tree canopy makes this a memorable spot for outdoor meals.
Dining at Mara Toto is very much woven into the overall camp experience. At least one night during your stay, you'll be led to the kitchen, where your host will knock on the bolted kitchen’s wooden doors. The head chef then welcomes you in, and you eat at the kitchen bar counter, giving you the best view in the house to watch the culinary magic that takes place in front of you. If you're in a large group, a private table will be set, still allowing you a view into the kitchen.
The activities at the camp consist largely of game drives in open-sided safari vehicles, with a maximum of four guests in each, exploring either the Maasai Mara National Reserve or the Mara North Conservancy, in both of which the camp enjoys driving rights. Each Toyota Land Cruiser safari vehicle is open-sided, canopied and customised for photographers, with a fold-down windshield, raised roof, photographic support bars and a multi-plug invertor for charging your kit. Each vehicle is also stocked with a fridge with drinks and snacks. Note that if a family or group travels together, the vehicles easily accommodate up to six guests. These vehicles are outstanding for the opportunity they offer to immerse yourself totally in the realm of the animals.
Our view
A camp in the Mara on high platforms, connected by aerial walkways, in a forest, by a river: could safari accommodation be any more appealing? We loved our visit, and look forward to a longer acquaintance with Mara Toto Tree Camp as soon as possible.
Kenya expert
Geographics
- Location
- Maasai Mara Conservancies, Kenya
- Ideal length of stay
- 4 nights
- Directions
- Ol Kiombo Airstrip is the one used by this camp and you can expect a 30-minute transfer time, depending on any intesting wildlife you see en route.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Well behaved children over the age of six are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- 6+
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- This is a luxury safari camp with an adult atmosphere
Communications
- Water supply
- Borehole
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Fire safety
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
Other lodges in Maasai Mara Conservancies
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