Travel reviews by Mr Jim from Medford, OR

"Truly, a delightful place to begin our Kenya safari.The camp staff was incredibly friendly and helpful which was facilitated by the fact we were the only guests there at the time.

Animal drives were pleasant outings with a skilled and friendly guide who helped introduce us to Kenya and its varied wildlife. We also visited the cattle ranch headquarters and were very impressed with the integration of the cattle operations and the safari activities.

Getting there by vehicle is a real challenge! The bumpy, dusty roads show rural Kenya as it is. However, arrriving at the camp makes it all worthwhile."

"The trip guide describes the lodge as being tucked into a quite thick indigenous forest which it surely is. Getting here from the airstrip required fording a stretch of the river, challenging in itself. Driving to and from game drives involves really arduous conditions-truly "remote"-but what better way to remain secluded.

The camp is larger than El Karama, a bit less sophisticated but well-run. The cabins are right along the Mara, on a cliff, with many hippos below in the river, grunting away at all hours which makes one feel like being close to nature. With "guards" monitoring the area, especially at night, one feels safe and secure.

Staff were friendly, efficient and readily available. Our animal guide was especially thoughtful, energetic and resourceful. We saw what we came here for: thousands of wildebeest, crossing the Mara, and lions everywhere."

"This club has seen better days! Chosen, one assumes, for its convenient location and most likely for its price.

The bar is fine; the restaurant closed several months before so we walked to a nearby cafe, about a mile away, a bit scary but the food was very good!

One can't expect much for the accommodations but it is clearly conveniently located."

"As our program guide indicated, Tortilis is a luxury safari camp, well-located on a small rise with views of the savanna and the mountains beyond.

Excellent restaurant, highly-qualified and friendly staff, and pleasant tented accommodations.

Game drives, focused on elephants, were exceptionally well done.

An added benefit here was an opportunity to visit a Maasai village. Just ask, otherwise not scheduled.
Most interesting, heart-warming and very informative Contrasting the village itself with the nearby schools for boys and girls was a bit disturbing but that is life in Africa, so I understand."

"Please see earlier remarks [Ed: see below]"