Seasonal Information
Do you love spending your time outdoors, becoming one with nature and discovering the beauty of the wilderness? If so, we have the perfect trip lined up just for you. During your short and sweet Kenyan safari experience at the captivating Mara Plains Camp, you will get the opportunity to explore the famous Maasai Mara, filled with elusive and iconic wildlife residents. There will also be a chance to capture some amazing photographs of both the wildlife and their stunningly beautiful habitats.
So, don’t miss out on this amazing adventure. Take a leap of faith and create some magical memories that you can reminisce about forever.
- Game Drives
- Elusive and Iconic Wildlife
- Breathtaking Landscapes and Scenery
- Fantastic Photographic Opportunities
Kenya
Kenya is one of the best places for first-time safari travellers, not only does it accommodate the famous Maasai Mara National Reserve, but Kenya is also known for the abundance of wildlife scattered within the savannah, sparkling lakelands, the extraordinary great Rift Valley and captivating mountain highlands.
Mara Plains Camp
Situated on the curve of the Ntiakitiak River, the Mara Plains Camp is secluded within the forest and resides in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. The camp also borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve, a famous safari park in Kenya that welcomes over 300,000 tourists a year.
During your time at Mara Plains Camp, your days will consist of twice-daily game drives, led by qualified guides and drivers, who will be able to share vast amounts of knowledge on the African wildlife. As you journey throughout the Maasai Mara, you will encounter lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalos. Not only do you get to see these amazing animals in their natural habitats, but you can also capture some amazing photos.
Maasai Mara Game Reserve
The Maasai Mara Game Reserve is home to over 400 different bird species, including raptors, vultures, kori bustards and Narina trogons. The stunning birdlife is most prolific during Kenya’s green season (November to May), when the vegetation is lush and overgrown. The diverse landscape of the Maasai Mara is ideal for many different species as birds are able to access both the river, trees and plains. The dry season begins around June, as the flora dies up and the game congregates around the river and waterholes. Herds of elephant, giraffe, zebra and buffalo will gather together, providing incredible game viewing and luring in predators such as lions and cheetahs.
Late September/October sees the return of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Millions of wildebeest will chase their dwindling food supply from Serengeti to the Maasai Mara. During their 1800 mile journey, hundreds of thousands of wildebeest will perish. They must evade predators along the open plains, and avoid crocodiles lurking in treacherous rivers. Vultures soar above, waiting for those who will not be able to complete their journey to fall. The experience is incredible and like nothing else.
When you arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, an andBeyond representative will be waiting for you. They will then drive you to Wilson airport in time for your scheduled flight to the Maasai Mara.
Day 1 – 3
After breakfast, you will embark on your scheduled game drive, exploring the Maasai Mara for its iconic and elusive wildlife residents. Game drives can be a lengthy experience, but are filled with exciting insights into the African wildlife and wilderness in some of the Mara Plains’ most coveted vehicles. The four Toyota Land Cruisers are all open-sided, canopied and specially customised for photographers with fold-down screens, raised roofs, photographic bars and multi-plug invertors all installed for the guests’ convenience. With a passenger allowance of four to six guests each, the Cruisers each come with fully-stocked fridges of drinks and snacks.
Photographic Opportunities
Every one of the guest tents at Mara Plains comes with a professional Canon camera set, including a 7D camera body and100-400mm and 24-70mm lenses all made by Canon. Photos you take will be downloaded to a memory stick ready for you to take home on departure, creating memories that will last forever. You will get the chance to capture some fantastic photos of the lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalos all in their natural habitats.
Hot Air Balloon
For those who wish make the most of their adventure, can take a hot air balloon safari around the Maasai Mara. This is an adventure you do not want to miss, it’s filled with breathtaking views of the landscapes and an game viewing experience like no other (at an additional cost).
Community Experience
The Maasai are the local indigenous people of the area. If a chance to learn about them and their culture is of interest to you, visits to a nearby Maasai village (locally known as an “enkang”) are available and would no doubt serve as a highlight of your trip. Locally produced crafts are available to purchase at the camp, every penny of which goes towards the community, particularly the women’s groups and schools.
Once you have finished breakfast, you will be transferred to the Maasai Mara airstrip for your flight back to Wilson Airport. Once you reach Wilson Airport, an andBeyond member will be waiting to collect you and drive you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your flight back home.
Dates are flexible so please make an enquiry and tell us a range of dates you are considering so we can check availability.
Recommended activity (at an additional cost)
- Balloon safaris
Plan your own adventures
You can customise your day’s adventure, your hosts are more than willing to tailor your safari according to your expectations. You can even experience the legendary Great Migration which is an absolute must! As a huge bonus, the vast herds can be found right at the camp’s doorstep at certain times of the year.
Things To Look Forward To
- A guided bush walk in the camp’s private concession
- Canon Camera will be given to you by the camp to ensure you have exceptional photos on your game drives
- Swarovski binoculars to use during your duration of the trip
- Meet and greet at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
- Accommodation inclusions (as per the itinerary)
- Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance
- Meals and Local Brands of Drinks
- All Private Road Transfers
- All Scheduled Flights
- Administration Fees
- All Flights
- Health Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Vaccinations
- Visas
- Recommended Activities
- Carbon Offsetting through Climate Care
- Keen safari-goers
- Avid photographers
- First time Africa travellers
- Wildlife enthusiasts
- Adventurous Personalities
- People with Moderate levels of fitness
Suitable for ages 6 to 65
Some safari activities require adult supervision at all times and have age restrictions in place for safety measures