Upon arriving at the camp, crossing a bridge and climbing a few giant steps, you are greeted by an endless horizon with a single, flat-topped acacia, the quintessential shape of East Africa. It is a small detail but one Great Plains co-founder Dereck Joubert spent days considering. Just one of thousands of small decisions that together make Mara Plains Camp the perfect combination of romance, adventure and exploration.

Set in middle of one of the planet’s richest ecosystems, Mara Plains’ design honors rather than upstages what nature has provided. The decor pays homage to the essence of East Africa; Swahili heritage is reflected in large wooden doors from the island of Lamu, and accents of red and purple honour the great Maasai chiefs and warriors. Add to this cultural melting pot a nod to the colonial era, with rich leathers, copper and brass used in campaign-style furniture and you have a lavish yet comfortable atmosphere that complements, rather than overwhelms the surrounding wilderness.

Each of the seven tents has deep canvas canopied ceilings, rough hewn wood floors and accents of East Africa’s rich safari history. Thick Lamu wood doors, deep purples, and brass accents – these small details transport guests to a time and land far away. The well-appointed en-suite facilities (including a deep copper bath) plus the extensive private verandah complete what is genuinely a stunning concept. These stylistic elements coupled with thoughtful environmental elements such as solar power and no cement make Mara Plains a modern-day safari retreat

Mara Plains Camp can accommodate 14 guests sharing, plus an additional guide’s tent as required. Children from 8 years are welcome and can be accommodated in our family suite.

As one of only four camps in the expansive wilderness of the Olare Orok Conservancy of the Masai Mara ecosystem, guests are guaranteed a memorable game viewing experience at Mara Plains Camp. Built by National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert and their partners at Great Plains Conservation, Mara Plains Camp is at once elegant and unassuming. The seven elevated tents and the main camp area are crafted of rough-hewn wooden floors and billowing canvas and filled with an exquisite collection of furnishings and decor that recall the colonial influences of bygone centuries, as well as Kenya’s Swahili and Masai roots.

Whether you come for the thundering wildebeest, the rainbow-coloured birds, or to experience the culture of the Masai, the camp is the perfect setting for immersing yourself in the beauty of the East African savannah. This stylish and secluded camp is accessed by walking over a wide bridge. Two lounges, incorporating a library area, and the dining area also have stunning views and dinners are often savoured under the stars.