What We Saw in the Masai Mara: Kili and Jeremy’s Epic Kenya Excursion
In December, We spent 2 weeks criss-crossing the Masai Mara and the adjacent Mara Conservancies. We visited more than a dozen camps, and had some epic wildlife sightings.
It was the beginning of the short rains, and the Mara was drenched. The animals were all fat and happy, and everything was lush and green. We were the only vehicle on a marshy plain full of zebras, giraffes and wildebeest as we watched a family of 50 elephants walk out of the woods toward us. Their silent steps slurped as they surrounded us, and they stopped and just drank trunkfuls of water right out of the ground at their feet.
We saw big cats everyday and nearly on every drive.
We saw multiple cheetahs with cubs, lions mating and on the hunt, a leopard being chased by a troop of baboons and dozens of soggy hyena who had been washed out of their dens.
At many sightings, we were the only vehicle. When there were crowds, our amazing guides would suggest checking another area where we would inevitably find a spectacular sighting. Even though it was technically low- or off-season, we were more than impressed by the wildlife, guiding and hospitality.
All photos by Kili McGowan. See full Masai Mara gallery here.
Where We Stayed IN MASAI MARA
We stayed in a wide range of camps from the traditional charm of Emboo River to the laid back luxury of Kicheche Bush to the elevated elegance of Mara Nyika.
Explore all three below.
Emboo River
Emboo River is a boutique camp situated on the banks of the Talek River, in the heart of the safari action and just minutes from the airstrip. Emboo River's commitment to conservation is reflected in every aspect of the guest experience and its operations. Emboo River's solar powered safari vehicles are a game changer and elevate your safari experience.
Kicheche Bush
The perfect hideaway in the outstanding wilderness of Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Kicheche Bush Camp has attracted scores of professional photographers who trust the Kicheche approach to a day on safari and has created an exciting environment where any amateur photographer can raise their game and capture the sorts of images that inspired them in the first place.
Mara Nyika Camp
This intimate camp of just three suites and two 2-bedroom family suites is set in a valley, straddling a small stream, with light-coloured canvas tents designed to sit under canopy of umbrella thorn trees while still offering guests views out over the bush.
