The Masai Mara National Reserve is a vast ecosystem of open savannah, riverine forest, and seasonal wetlands, representing the northernmost part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Entim Mara Camp occupies a strategic position directly on the banks of the Mara River, affording an unobstructed and immediate vantage point over one of Africa's most significant wildlife arenas.
Strategic Location of Entim Mara Camp Inside the National Reserve
Entim Mara Camp's primary logistical advantage is its placement inside the official boundaries of the Masai Mara National Reserve. This location eliminates the daily transit time required to pass through park gates, maximising valuable game viewing hours from dawn until dusk. The camp is constructed in a secluded section of riverine woodland, providing both privacy and a genuine sense of immersion in the environment. Access is typically via light aircraft to the Ol Kiombo Airstrip, located a 25-minute game drive from the camp.
The camp's proximity to key Great Migration river crossing points is a defining feature. Several of the most frequently used wildebeest crossing sites are located within a short game drive from the main tents. In some seasons, these dramatic crossings can be viewed directly from the main lounge area, making the camp an exceptionally efficient base for those focused on witnessing this specific seasonal event.
Unfenced Camp Design and Guest Safety at Entim Mara
Entim Mara operates as a permanent tented camp, constructed with a central mess tent, lounge, and dining area forming the camp's social and operational centre. The guest accommodation tents are strategically spaced along the riverbank for optimal views and privacy. The entire camp is unfenced, a deliberate design choice that allows for the free movement of wildlife through the grounds and creates an unfiltered, authentic bush experience.
The unfenced design means strict safety protocols are in effect. Guests are not permitted to walk unaccompanied around the camp after dark. Maasai askaris, who function as guides and security personnel, are on duty 24 hours a day to provide escorts between guest tents and the main area, ensuring safe passage. A comprehensive safety briefing is provided to all guests upon arrival.
Safari Tents and Accommodation at Entim Mara
Entim Mara Camp comprises just twelve spacious canvas tents, ensuring an intimate atmosphere and a low-impact footprint on the surrounding environment. Each tent is erected on a raised wooden deck, which provides an elevated perspective over the Mara River or the surrounding bushland and enhances the sense of security and privacy for guests.
Tent Design and In-Room Facilities
Each guest tent is constructed from heavy-duty safari canvas with large, roll-up mesh windows to facilitate airflow while keeping insects out. The interior design features polished wooden floors and classic safari furnishings. All tents include an en-suite bathroom at the rear, a significant feature for a tented camp. These bathrooms are fully plumbed, providing a superior level of comfort with hot and cold running water.
- Private, furnished timber veranda with river or plains view
- En-suite bathroom with a flush toilet and hot-water safari-style shower
- Comfortable bedding with quality linens
- Writing desk and campaign-style chairs
- Secure lock-box for valuables
Solar Power and Internet Access
The camp operates entirely on a solar power system with a battery inverter, providing 24-hour electricity to all tents and communal areas. This system supports lighting and the charging of personal electronic devices via universally compatible outlets. Complimentary Wi-Fi service is available throughout the camp, including within the guest tents, though its performance can be variable given the remote location.
Dining and Communal Experience on the Mara River
The camp's social heart is a large, open-plan marquee tent housing the dining and lounge area, complete with comfortable sofas, a small library of reference books, and a bar. This space opens onto a deck overlooking the Mara River, serving as the central observation point for resident hippos and other visiting wildlife. Meals are typically served in the main dining tent or, weather permitting, outdoors under the stars. The camp's intimate scale and high staff-to-guest ratio facilitate a highly personalised service model, from curated dining experiences to flexible game drive schedules tailored to guest interests.
Key Considerations for Guests Staying at Entim Mara
Operational logistics and the camp's intrinsic design cater to a specific type of safari traveller. The camp's core attributes and policies require careful consideration before booking, particularly for first-time visitors or those travelling with dependants.
At a Glance
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Location | Inside Masai Mara National Reserve |
| Perimeter | Unfenced |
| Power Source | 24-hour Solar with Inverter |
| Child Policy | Generally accepts children over 8 years |
Family and Child Policy at Entim Mara
The unfenced nature of the property and the prevalence of potentially dangerous wildlife roaming freely through the camp, including elephant, buffalo, and hippo, mean Entim Mara is not recommended for families with very young or unsupervised children. The camp's quiet, intimate atmosphere is better suited to adults, couples, and families with older, self-aware teenagers who can adhere to the strict safety protocols.
Who Should Choose Entim Mara Camp for Their Safari
Entim Mara Camp is best suited for seasoned safari enthusiasts, dedicated wildlife photographers, and travellers whose primary objective is to witness the Great Migration. The camp's value is anchored in its exceptional location and its commitment to an unfiltered wilderness experience. The unfenced design and direct river frontage provide a level of immersion that prioritises wildlife proximity over resort-style amenities, making it a superior choice for the serious safari-goer.
