We stayed at Mara Explorers Camp for 2 nights in September 2012 and then stayed a further 3 nights at their sister camp, Mara Intrepids. Having been to Kenya before we knew what to expect from a safari lodge but the time we spent at Explorers & Intrepids exceeded all those expectations. The main thing that stood out at these lodges was the staff. Steve, Godfrey and all the rest of the staff at Explorers, Francis, Abby and the staff at Intrepids and our expert guide Sammy who was with us at both lodges all looked after us so well that we really did feel sad to leave them. The food at both camps was very good, especially Explorers, and the tents were very comfortable and we quite enjoyed the more rustic feel of a tent over a normal lodge. Sammy was excellent on the game drives, and was very knowledgeable about the area and all the animals. He really got us in to some great positions and the amount of game we saw was amazing. His vehicle was very well kept, well stocked with water/drinks and was completely washed and cleaned after every game drive. I definitely hope to return to Explorers and Intrepids again in the future and would gladly recommend these camps to anyone wishing to see the Mara but also have a great holiday in a relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff around you. Kenya has always held a special place in our hearts and after such a great experience on this trip I can’t wait to go back and visit again!

If I could move in to the Mara Explorer camp I would definitely do so. It is by far my favorite lodge location that I have ever stayed at. The lodge is situated in the Confluence area of the Masai Mara, which swarms with wildlife (including the infamous Maleika the Cheetah) during the Migration. It is nestled in to bends of the Talek River, providing extreme privacy and excellent views. The lodge is small, intimate, and meticulously run. The food is 5 star and includes a 4 course meal (with desert!) at lunch. The staff was amazing! But the best feature is definitely the hippos. There are several areas in the river where they congregate- you can see them from the main lodge and many of the tents- but you can hear them from almost anywhere in the camp. There is nothing more amazing that soaking in an outdoor bubble bath and listening to the hippos down below. The thought is making me smile right now : )

We stayed at Mara Explorer at the end of our ten day safari in Tanzania and Kenya. I was expecting a high quality camp but was blown away by this extraordinary property. The setting is amazing. The Talek River wraps around the property and is filled with wallowing hippos who would occasionally come by the little beach, just beneath our deck and sun themselves. We also had a family of baboons come by every afternoon to entertain us and once a day, a large group of bandit mongoose ran around tent (No. 4) and played on the beach. It was an amazing atmosphere. Our tent was large and beautifuly appointed and provided us with a feeling of secluded luxury and privileged to be surrounded by these wonderful animals and beautiful scenery. The rest of the property was just atmospheric. With only 10 tents, the level of service was the best we experienced in Africa, or for that matter, anywhere in a very long time. We enjoyed beautifully presented and delicious food at every meal. The staff couldn't have been nicer or more helpful. Steve, the manager sets very high standards of service and hospitality. As an added bonus, the proximity to the airport was surprisingly convenient. Oh, and did I mention the outdoor tub. Staying at the Mara Explorer was a wonderful way to end our trip. This was one of the highlights of our two week trip and will live in our memories forever.

Pat & Bob

Mara Explorer Camp is just a few minutes from the air strip when flying into the Maasai Mara. A small, intimate setting makes this location ideal. On the banks of the Talek River, it is common to hear the roar of the hippos during the night. The room is large and tastefully decorated...having a very colonial feel. Hair dryers are available upon request, for use in your tent. The ceiling has a beautiful white gathered fabric covering it which feels very rich. The claw foot tub just outside on the deck beside your tent is tempting and a wonderful treat. They occasionally have dinner out in the open, food cooked on the grill, with white table clothes and candles everywhere. Candles light the path as you walk to and from dinner. This is a very special spot. Loved it!