gallery of 6 photos

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Governor's Main Camp

This was the premier camp of the Masai Mara in the 1970's & 1980's. Owned by a great Kenyan family, the location is considered the best in the Mara for year round game viewing.

Main Camp is surprisingly well run for its size, although it is practically a small tented city! Too big for intimacy, this is a great option for groups.

 — Mango's view

The setting at Governor's Main Camp is magical. So much so that almost a century ago it was reserved, exclusively, for Kenya's colonial Governors and their royal visitors. Now Governors' Camp nestles in the forest along the winding banks of the Mara River, its waters teeming with hippo and crocodile.

Some of the 36 tents line the riverbank with uninterrupted views over the Mara River; others have views across the sweeping plains. Created in 1972, Governors' Camp set new standards in luxury for a tented camp. Everything is under canvas. All the tents are comfortable and tasteful. Each has an en-suite bathroom, hot and cold running water, even bidets. In keeping with safari tradition, lighting is by gas and kerosene lanterns or by candlelight. As dusk falls, the flickering lights in the forest make the Camp peaceful and atmospheric. Meals are of high standards, served outdoors during the day and in the candlelit dining tent by night. Come the evening it's time for chilled drinks and tall tales around the blazing campfire. Then finally a delicious dinner and a hot-water bottle to keep you warm in bed.

The Masai Mara is a unique area with a constant and unrivalled flow of wildlife throughout the year. Walking safaris, aerial visits to Lake Victoria and bush breakfasts are option extras.

Includes: All meals, safari activities & laundry