The Masai Mara – in particular the Mara Triangle between the Mara River and the Oloololo Escarpment – is most famous for the Great Migration that passes through each year, around July/August, yet what many don’t realise is that the game viewing is spectacular no matter what month you visit.
The lions, elephants, buffalo and cheetahs that call the area home don’t move with the migration; they are resident, and can be found whatever the season.
Nestled in indigenous forest at the base of the escarpment sits &Beyond Bateleur Camp.
It is situated in the Kichwa Tembo private concession, contiguous with the Masai Mara. Meaning ‘head of the elephant’ in Kiswahili, Kichwa Tembo consists of private land leased from Maasai landlords and situated in the remote western Mara, almost exclusively explored by &Beyond guests. In addition to its the excellent year-round concentration of wildlife, Kichwa Tembo lies directly in the path of Africa’s spectacular Great Migration, and perfectly positioned to maximise the viewing of the reserve’s wildlife.
Guests can almost exclusively explore this area on a game drive or on foot, as well as enjoying access to pristine outdoor dining locations.
Comprised of just two intimate camps of nine Luxury Tents each and a Luxury Family Tent, Bateleur Camp retains a wonderful sense of intimacy; each with its own private butler and housekeeper reflecting the ambiance and glamour of Kenyan explorers of old.
Slip into a world of hardwood floors, polished silver and copper bathtubs juxtaposed against the romance of the open Mara plains, with their abundant herds of game. Beautifully handcrafted artefacts, fine antiques, leather buttoned Chesterfield sofas, books, and crystal and candlelight adorn the comfortable sitting and dining areas, making you feel like you have slipped straight into a 19th century safari.
Cooling pools in each camp provide comfort in between stimulating game drives that can be so varied in their offerings. Grasslands, riverfront or the escarpment itself all offer something different in terms of setting and species.
On the culinary side, delectable cuisine is served in memorable settings – often beneath the stars – and bush breakfasts and romantic sundowners offer an unforgettable African experience. Adventures at Bateleur Camp include twice-daily game drives, including spot-lit night drives on which some of the more elusive nocturnal creatures might be encountered. The camp also offers a range of additional activities such as bush walks, hot air balloon safaris and community excursions, and for the fitness-minded a well-equipped gym and wellness treatment centre await.
The Masai Mara is unforgettable due to the abundance of wildlife and spectacular landscapes. This is the quintessential African safari experience, where travellers can expect to encounter the Big Five and observe thrilling predator interaction.
With the Kitchwa Tembo airstrip only a few minutes drive from camp, and flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi only taking an hour, Bateleur Camp is supremely accessible, allowing guests an easy trip to the greatest wildlife show on earth.
Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about &Beyond Bateleur Camp, and other East African safari offerings…