Encounter Mara

About encounter mara

The conservancy is known for its prolific wildlife and award-winning sustainability model that balances the needs of local communities, wildlife and tourism. It has an even higher density of animals than the neighbouring Masai Mara National Reserve and one of the world’s most concentrated lion populations. 

accommodation

Rooms

Encounter Mara offers 10 spacious and comfortable tents, all with en suite bathrooms with double vanity basins, flushing toilets and hot-water bucket showers. Spend lazy afternoons on your tent’s shaded veranda, chilling on your daybed with a good book or just enjoying the Mara views. 

Experiences

Magical Mara wildlife

ExperienceS

A typical day on safari at Encounter Mara

Game drives depart in the early morning and late afternoon to take advantage of the cooler temperatures when animals are more active. The times will differ slightly with the seasons. If you have a private vehicle, you can talk to your guide about your schedule, but the below is a good example of what to expect. 

Generally, you'll start your day bright and early with a wake-up call and tea or coffee. Enjoy breakfast before you depart for your morning game drive (or have it packed as a picnic to take with you). You'll arrive back in camp mid-morning, with a chance to freshen up before lunch.

After a leisurely lunch, enjoy siesta time. Read a book or just relax and enjoy the views from your tent or our viewing deck. Refuel with afternoon tea, then depart for your afternoon/evening game drive with sundowners. You'll be back in time for drinks at the bar and dinner under the stars – the perfect chance to unwind after a long day in the bush. 

Experiences

Game drives

We run game drives twice a day, around dawn and dusk when animals are more active. As we are in a private conservancy, we can drive off-road to get a closer look when we spot something in the bush. We are also able to drive after dark, which means better chances of spotting nocturnal animals. If you would like to experience the famous Masai Mara National Reserve, we can also arrange game drives there (at an additional cost). 

Experiences

Cultural and community visits 

Most of our guides are from the local area and are more than happy to talk about their culture with guests. We can organise visits to local villages to extend that learning opportunity. 

Experiences

Hot-air balloon rides 

As dawn breaks, glide over the Masai Mara National Reserve in a hot-air balloon and watch the landscape change colour beneath you. Hot-air balloon excursions are not to be missed, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion. Balloon flights are at an additional cost and subject to weather conditions.  

Experiences

Photographic safari

Neighbouring Naboisho is home to one of our specially modified photographic vehicles. The open vehicle allows keen amateurs and professional photographers alike to shoot at eye level with wildlife. It is equipped with all the gear to ensure award-winning shots — from beanbags and camera rests to 360° swivel seats. You can read more about the vehicle here. Please enquire to ensure availability of the vehicle and confirm any additional fees. 

Experiences

Night drives

A night safari gives travellers the chance to see nocturnal animals in action. Our vehicles are equipped with special spotlights so you can have the thrill of watching predators such as lions, leopards and caracals as they stalk their prey. 

Experiences

Family safaris

We welcome families with children over the age of 5. We have two tents specifically for families, plus twin tents for kids over 12 (we strongly recommend younger children share with adults and can add an extra bed to your tent upon request).  

Many of our guides are also parents and love hosting families. These are some of the child-friendly activities available at Encounter Mara:  

• Bow-and-arrow shooting with Maasai
• Starting a campfire with elephant dung and sticks
• Educational bush walks around camp

Families of six or more are guaranteed a private safari vehicle at no extra cost in low season. In high season, families with children under 12 are required to book a private vehicle at an additional cost. 

Experience

Meals and refreshments

We serve homemade meals in our dining tent or outside, depending on the weather. If you’ve opted for a longer game drive, we’ll pack you a picnic breakfast or lunch to enjoy in the bush. Enjoy sundowners and snacks during your late-afternoon game drive, then take your time over dinner back at camp. 

We can cater to most dietary requirements and allergies – please just let us know ahead of your arrival.  

eBook Guide to the Great Migration

Learn everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Great Migration Safari in our eBook guide.  Inside the guide you'll find: a month-by-month summary; a detailed map of how the migration moves; a selection of the best places to stay on safari; and expert tips for an unforgettable safari.