Mara Major Camp — Hotel in Siana ward

最高です!! No one asked me to write a review, but I feel compelled to share just how special my experience was here. Words can hardly capture how much I enjoyed both the lodge and the game drives.

This cozy, stylish lodge has only five tents, run with so much love and attention by a wonderful couple, Christophe and Sylvie, together with their Maasai team. Because it’s small and intimate, you can feel the quality, care, and effort in every detail of your stay.

Christophe, a professional photographer with a deep passion for wildlife, designed the lodge himself. Every corner reflects authenticity and Maasai culture — from handmade table mats to natural building materials and unique décor. From the moment I stepped into the main entrance, I was impressed by the design and warm atmosphere. Christophe and Sylvie personally welcomed us, sharing stories about photography and how they built the lodge. Their stunning photographs, displayed throughout, surround you with the beauty of the Masai Mara.

I often saw Christophe and Sylvie out in the field during game drives, which made me feel part of their community and gave me a real sense of home.

The food was exceptional — honestly better than some fine restaurants in Nairobi! Each meal was beautifully presented and full of thoughtful flavors. If the chef ever opened a restaurant, I would definitely be a regular.

The Maasai staff were consistently kind, warm, and attentive, making each day memorable.

For game drives, we were incredibly lucky to have Sam as our guide. Born in the Masai Mara, he has studied and worked hard to become a professional, and it shows. Safari experiences depend so much on the driver, and I believe Sam is the best. He understands animal behavior so well that he can position the vehicle perfectly, often before the animals even arrive. Several times lions walked directly toward us because he knew their path. I trusted him completely, and thanks to that, we saw far more than expected. His balance of friendliness and quiet moments made the drives even more special. I’ll recommend him to everyone and will request him again when I return.

The camp also provides thoughtful comforts — blankets and water bottles during drives, and hot water bottles in the bed at night. I even asked for one to take on an early morning drive, and it kept me warm the whole time. Charles, the manager, and his team really go out of their way to meet guest requests.

Tips: • If you have long hair, wash it in the early evening since nights are chilly and there’s no hairdryer. • The natural sounds at night are beautiful, but light sleepers may want earplugs.

Overall, Mara Major is filled with authenticity, warmth, and unforgettable memories. I will never forget my time here, and I can’t wait to return.

… Wow, I didn’t notice I wrote sooo long!! haha thank you...

Major Positive Review of Mara Major Camp!

In June 2024, I spent 12 unforgettable days at the Mara Major Camp on an intense photo safari.

There are several reasons why I chose this camp. Firstly, it has been newly renovated by wildlife photographer Christophe Dandurand. Knowing Christophe personally, I was confident it would be a project well-executed. He and his team of partners have a clear vision for creating an authentic safari experience tailored for wildlife photographers. Importantly, they also partnered with a talented and veteran Masai guide, Anthony, and operate the cam with a 100% Masai team. This ensures that a significant portion of the economic benefits goes directly to the local community.

Another reason is the camp’s prime location, offering easy and rapid access to areas with high wildlife density in the Mara, minimizing drive times and maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities. During my stay, I witnessed incredible wildlife moments, including thrilling lion and cheetah hunts, leopards, serval cats amd all the other usual and amazing animals.

I also trusted that Christophe would provide top-notch guides, and I was not disappointed. A big thank you to Anthony and Anelka! They knew the best spots for photography, and their expertise made each outing productive and exciting.

The camp’s amenities are excellent: comfortable and clean tents with hot water, work desks for photo editing, plenty of outlets for charging batteries, and each tent has its own WiFi router. The camp runs on solar energy and manages its resources well, including water and locally sourced food.

Speaking of food, I ate very well during my stay. The chef ensured I was satisfied, even providing non-alcoholic beer! Each meal was a delightful experience, featuring fresh and delicious ingredients.

The common areas are welcoming and comfortable, featuring a beautiful fireplace and hammocks. These spaces were perfect for relaxing and sharing stories with other guests after a day of adventure.

The Masai team went above and beyond to ensure my happiness. Their hospitality and warmth were truly exceptional. Hats off to them.

While the camp is still working on landscaping, I have no doubt it will soon be a top destination. Their commitment to sustainability and community involvement is commendable, and I look forward to seeing their future developments.

Put it on...

In June 2024, I spent 12 unforgettable days at the Mara Major Camp on an intense photo safari.||There are several reasons why I chose this camp. Firstly, it has been newly renovated by wildlife photographer Christophe Dandurand. Knowing Christophe personally, I was confident it would be a project well-executed. He and his team of partners have a clear vision for creating an authentic safari experience tailored for wildlife photographers. Importantly, they also partnered with a talented and veteran Masai guide, Anthony, and operate the cam with a 100% Masai team. This ensures that a significant portion of the economic benefits goes directly to the local community.||Another reason is the camp’s prime location, offering easy and rapid access to areas with high wildlife density in the Mara, minimizing drive times and maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities. During my stay, I witnessed incredible wildlife moments, including thrilling lion and cheetah hunts, leopards, serval cats amd all the other usual and amazing animals. ||I also trusted that Christophe would provide top-notch guides, and I was not disappointed. A big thank you to Anthony and Anelka! They knew the best spots for photography, and their expertise made each outing productive and exciting.||The camp’s amenities are excellent: comfortable and clean tents with hot water, work desks for photo editing, plenty of outlets for charging batteries, and each tent has its own WiFi router. The camp runs on solar energy and manages its resources well, including water and locally sourced food.||Speaking of food, I ate very well during my stay. The chef ensured I was satisfied, even providing non-alcoholic beer! Each meal was a delightful experience, featuring fresh and delicious ingredients.||The common areas are welcoming and comfortable, featuring a beautiful fireplace and hammocks. These spaces were perfect for relaxing and sharing stories with other guests after a day of adventure.||The Masai team went above and beyond to ensure my happiness. Their hospitality and warmth were truly exceptional. Hats off to them.||While the camp is still working on landscaping, I have no doubt it will soon be a top destination. Their commitment to sustainability and community involvement is commendable, and I look forward to seeing their future developments.||Put it on...