Fig Tree Camp

The Masai Mara National Reserve is a core conservation area defined by its expansive grasslands and the lifeblood of its river systems. Fig Tree Camp is situated on a prime bend of the Talek River, a permanent water source that functions as a natural focal point for the region's diverse wildlife populations.

Fig Tree Camp Location Inside the Masai Mara Reserve

Fig Tree Camp's position inside the main Masai Mara National Reserve grants immediate access to premier game-viewing circuits. The camp lies approximately 270 kilometres from Nairobi, reachable via a scenic five-hour drive or a short charter flight to the nearby Keekorok or Ol Kiombo airstrips. The property is constructed along the riverbank, with guest accommodation and public areas oriented to maximise views of the river and the animals that frequent it. This riverine frontage provides consistent wildlife sightings directly from the camp grounds, including resident hippopotamus pods and breeding herds of elephant.

Tented Accommodation and Chalets at Fig Tree Camp

The camp offers a total of 70 guest units, divided into two distinct styles to suit different preferences. Guests can choose between classic canvas safari tents positioned along the river or more solidly constructed chalets set back in the gardens. This combination provides flexibility for both safari traditionalists and families seeking additional structure and security.

Spacious Riverfront Tented Suites

The 38 Tented Suites line the Talek River, offering an authentic safari experience. Each suite is built on a raised concrete base and features a permanent roof structure over traditional canvas walls, providing robust protection from the elements. The interior of each suite includes solid flooring, proper beds with full linen, and an attached, plumbed en-suite bathroom with a shower and flush toilet. A private verandah with safari chairs is a key feature of every suite, providing a dedicated outdoor space to observe the riverine environment.

• En-suite bathroom with hot and cold running water
• Private balcony overlooking the Talek River
• Mosquito netting fitted to all beds
• Dedicated wardrobe and luggage rack space

Secure Garden Chalets

Set slightly back from the river, the 32 Garden Chalets offer a greater degree of solid construction. These single-story, stone-walled rooms provide enhanced sound insulation and a more permanent feel, making them a popular choice for families or light sleepers. Each chalet features large windows, twin or double bed configurations, and a full en-suite bathroom. While they do not have the direct river frontage of the tents, they are located closer to the main lodge and swimming pool.

Dining, Lounge and Pool Facilities at Fig Tree Camp

The central guest area at Fig Tree Camp consists of several interconnected structures that form the operational heart of the camp. The main dining room is an open-sided space under a high thatched roof, allowing for comfortable airflow and uninterrupted views. An adjacent lounge and bar area, furnished with heavy wood and comfortable seating, provides a central point for socialising before and after game drives. The camp also features a swimming pool, well-screened by vegetation and equipped with a sundeck, offering respite during the heat of the day. A small clinic is also maintained on site for basic medical needs.

Practical Information for Staying at Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree Camp operates on a model typical for its mid-range tier and remote location. The entire camp is unfenced, meaning wildlife can and does roam freely through the grounds, particularly at night. For guest safety, trained camp askaris escort all guests to and from their rooms after dark. Electrical power is supplied by a generator that runs on a timed schedule, usually in the early morning and again in the evening. This schedule dictates when power is available in the rooms for charging devices; reliable, all-day charging is best done in the main lounge area. Wi-Fi connectivity is limited to these central public areas and is not designed for high-bandwidth use.

Game Drives and Migration Viewing from Fig Tree Camp

Fig Tree Camp offers guided game drives in open-sided 4x4 vehicles as its primary activity. The camp's location in the Talek sector provides efficient access to areas known for high concentrations of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. For guests interested in the Great Migration, the optimal period for viewing the wildebeest river crossings in this part of the Masai Mara is typically between July and October. The camp's permanent position on the Talek River ensures excellent resident wildlife viewing throughout the year, making it a viable destination outside the peak migration season.

Is Fig Tree Camp the Right Choice for Your Safari

Fig Tree Camp is best suited for classic safari enthusiasts and first-time visitors to the Masai Mara who seek a well-established camp with a prime riverine location. Its strong mid-range offering provides essential comforts without isolating guests from the natural environment. The unfenced nature of the camp makes it more appropriate for couples, solo travellers, and families with older, well-supervised children. It may not be ideal for families with toddlers who require more freedom of movement. The scheduled power supply is adequate for most travellers, but professional photographers with extensive battery charging needs should confirm the generator timings align with their requirements before booking.