Olare Mara Kempinski
Olare Mara Kempinski
Olare Mara Kempinski Masai Mara is one of Kenya’s most exclusive luxury safari camps, located in the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy on the northern edge of the Maasai Mara ecosystem. It combines a classic “under-canvas” safari atmosphere with five-star Kempinski hospitality.
Location & Setting
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Region: Masai Mara, Narok County, Kenya
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Conservancy: Olare Motorogi Conservancy (a private wildlife conservancy adjacent to the Maasai Mara National Reserve)
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Environment: Open savannah, riverine forests, and wildlife-rich plains overlooking the Ntiakitiak River area.
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Access: Usually reached by scheduled or private charter flights from Nairobi or other safari destinations to nearby airstrips, followed by a short vehicle transfer.
The private conservancy setting provides a quieter safari experience than the main reserve, with fewer vehicles and opportunities for activities that are generally restricted inside national parks, such as night drives and guided walking safaris.
Accommodation
The camp has 12 luxury safari tents, designed to preserve the romance of traditional East African safaris while providing modern comfort.
Tent Features
Typical features include:
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Large bedroom area
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Private bathroom
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Dressing area
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Lounge space
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Private viewing deck
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Elegant safari décor combining canvas, timber, leather, and Maasai-inspired design elements
Some accommodation categories offer especially scenic views over the plains or river landscapes.
The small number of tents creates an intimate atmosphere, suitable for couples, honeymooners, families, and travelers seeking privacy.
Facilities
Despite its wilderness location, the camp offers high-end amenities:
Dining
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Full-board dining
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Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in safari-style settings
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Bush dining experiences
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Sundowner drinks in the wilderness
Leisure & Wellness
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Swimming pool
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Spa treatments and in-tent massages
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Safari bar
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Lounge areas
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Library-style relaxation spaces
Connectivity
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Wi-Fi available in tents and main guest areas
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Mobile reception can vary depending on conditions
Safari Experience
The main attraction is the wildlife.
Big Cats
Olare Motorogi Conservancy is known for excellent predator sightings, especially:
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Lions
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Leopards
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Cheetahs
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Spotted hyenas
The conservancy environment allows guides more flexibility to track animals away from crowded areas.
Other Wildlife
Guests may encounter:
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Elephants
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Giraffes
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Zebras
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Wildebeest
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Buffalo
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Gazelles
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Numerous bird species
Activities
Available experiences include:
Game Drives
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Morning and afternoon drives
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Night drives (a major advantage of private conservancies)
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Experienced safari guides and dedicated vehicles
Walking Safaris
Guided walks provide opportunities to learn about:
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Animal tracks
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Plants
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Smaller wildlife
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Local ecology
Hot-Air Balloon Safari
A sunrise balloon flight over the Mara plains is available as an additional experience.
Cultural Experiences
Guests can visit Maasai communities and learn about local traditions and conservation partnerships.
Food & Service Style
The camp follows Kempinski’s luxury service philosophy while maintaining safari authenticity.
Expect:
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Personalized service
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Flexible dining locations
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Elegant meals rather than a rustic bush-camp style
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Attention to dietary preferences
The atmosphere is refined but intentionally informal — guests typically dine in safari clothing rather than formal resort attire.
Best Time to Visit
July–October
Peak season
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Great Migration period
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High wildlife concentrations
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Excellent predator action
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Higher rates and more demand
January–March
Excellent alternative
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Good predator viewing
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Fewer visitors
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Pleasant weather
November–December
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Green landscapes after rains
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Fewer tourists
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Good photography conditions