Emboo — Hotel in Siana ward

Quite possibly the best place on Earth

When my friends said they wanted to visit me in Kenya, at the top of their to do list was a safari, as I don’t like to do things half heatedly, I researched many within the Serengeti, some camps seemed well over priced, some seemed too cheap to be good, but I was luckily enough to bump into Loic and Valerie & William (the owners of Emboo River) at eco lodge in Kilifi (South Coast) I think it was fate, We instantly got along and after chatting and watching their new mini film I knew this was the Safari experience we were after and boy was I right. Describing Emboo river in words is difficult, simply calling it a Luxury Eco sustainable Safari Camp with a difference does no do this magical place enough credit. Without turning this review into a mini book I will try and summaries our experience, without giving away too much, so the reader can have some nice surprises. Firstly this place would not be what is it without all the people involved, front house and behind the scenes. Everyone makes you feel part of the Emboo family the second you arrive. From the owners, Loic, Valery & Local Masai warrior William, it’s so obvious from the get go they are so passionate about what they have created and their vision of sustainable safaris & preservation of wildlife is contagious, so full of local knowledge (especially William) you could find yourself chatting for hrs. Alex our personal waiter was incredible, such a professional & traditional service he provided he would put many 5 star restaurants to shame. As for the food, 11 out of 10 for the range, quality and service, hats off to the chef and kitchen crew, and a big shout out to the guys that brought us coffee and biscuits in bed at 5.30am each morning, that was a lovely touch. Mary the massage lady provided one of the best 30 minutes relaxing massage I have ever had, right on the edge of the river Our Tour guild Tinka was an absolute legend, knew the park, the animals, their movements like the back of his hand, very honored to have such a great guild and warrior (and best jumper) show around his home, the Masai Mara national park. As for the tours, they were next level, the only way I can describe it was just as you thought it possibly couldn’t get any better we came across something else, if it be an new animal, landscape, the varied weather conditions/elements (from mist, sunrise, sunsets, clouds, rainbows, storms the list could go on) it felt like we were in a never ending movie script. I’m not yet to mention the camp! Wow, you couldn’t ask for more of a safari camp, from its luxury and classy tents, which you can decide to have set up a number of ways, a. so its only a mosquito net protecting you from nature, b. full on canvas covering the whole tent or c. if you’re really brave you can have the sides completely open (which I plan to do when I go back). Along with fresh water pool, chill out areas, games room, hammock, fire pit you couldn’t really wish for anymore after a long day out in the savanna, I can’t big this place and experience up enough, If anyone is thinking about doing a safari look no further, I recommend to do it properly, do it in style, have an experience like no other, you wont regret one single $ spent on the trip. I personally think the price is more than reasonable, I feel you will struggle to beat Emboo River value for money wise, throw that in with a cultural experience, 100% sustainable and self sufficient, magical, incredible the list goes on. Memories/events are sometimes priceless- this is one of them Thank you everyone there for creating a touch of heaven on earth. Can’t wait to come back and see others faces light...

It’s hard to accurately put into words just how amazing our time was at Emboo. It is without a doubt the most amazing, life changing experience we’ve ever had.||Emboo is more than just a camp, its sounds cliche but I challenge anyone visiting to leave without feeling like they’re part of the emboo family.||Every single member of the Emboo team is amazing and works together to produce one of the greatest hospitality experiences I’ve ever had. ||The camp is incredibly well designed to be completely sustainable and feels like it’s a part of the natural wonder of the Masai Mara. ||Our lodging was impeccable and super comfortable. Being inside the camp you are right in the heart of the action. You will be fully immersed in the landscape and I’ve never had a better sleep than I did listening to the sounds of the Mara at night (Having a hot water bottle waiting under your sheets before you get back to your room is an amazing touch too!)||THE FOOD! It’s fair to say that the food and beverage options at Emboo would be right at the best restaurants in the world. The flavours and preparation of the food grown right at the camp will blow you away. I’m a chef and I can honestly say it was THE BEST food I had in Kenya, and the food in Kenya is amazing.||One of the best things about Emboo is the guides and the electric vehicles! Having the quiet vehicles for a game drive allows for much more intimate experiences with the animals without them being scared off by a loud engine.||The most impressive thing about Emboo in my opinion is the Guides. They are SO knowledgeable but more importantly you can tell they care deeply about the animals and their well being.||Every interaction is based around respect for the animal first and foremost. Emboo does NOT use 2- way radios and every interaction is an organic stumble upon thanks to the guides incredible knowledge of the land and animals. ||Having guides who know how to works with photographers and position you correctly can be make or break for your trip. If you want to see their experience check out their instagram for some of the amazing photographs produced while on safari with Emboo.||There is many operators to choose from and it can be a hard decision. Emboo is the TOP choice for people who want to have an ethical, sustainable safari that doesn’t compromise on hospitality. You will truly have the most amazing time.||15/10 we will be back to Emboo soon!||Jay Baumann -...

We had an absolutely magical stay at Emboo River Camp! From the moment we arrived we were swept away by the incredible hospitality, stunning scenery, and commitment to sustainability. Every single member of the staff went above and beyond to make our stay unforgettable, from the warm welcome to the heartfelt farewell.

We were amazed by the attention to detail in every aspect of the camp. Our tent was a luxurious haven, with breathtaking views of the river (including once in a while some hippo’s) and surrounding bush and wildlife. The food was incredible, featuring fresh, organic ingredients from the camp's hydroponic farm and prepared with biogas.

The activities offered by Emboo were the perfect way to experience the Maasai Mara. We loved the silent safaris in solar-powered vehicles, which allowed us to get up close to the wildlife without disturbing them. The bush walks with Maasai guides were fascinating, and we learned so much about the local culture and ecosystem. Our guide Robbert was a wealth of knowledge and genuine passion for the Maasai Mara. He skillfully navigated us to hidden gems, from breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the endless plains to the most amazing spots for sundowner drinks.🍹His insights into animal behavior and the local ecosystem made every game drive even more meaningful.

But beyond the incredible food, activities, and accommodations, what truly made our stay at Emboo River Camp special was the feeling of connection. We felt connected to nature, the wildlife, and the Maasai people. We left with a deep appreciation for Emboo's commitment to sustainability and a heavy heart, knowing that we were leaving a piece of our hearts behind.

If you're looking for a magical safari experience, close to nature, look no further than Emboo. It's the perfect place to relax, reconnect with nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait...