gallery of 7 photos

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Little Governor's Camp

This was the second property to open in the Governor's group. Owned by a great Kenyan family, the location is central to the airstrip and fabulous game viewing areas of the Mara. With 17 tents, this is larger than our ideal. An added bonus is that this IS the location for hot air ballooning in the Masai Mara, so you don't need to leave at 4am to get there.

 — Mango's view

Little Governor's Camp casts its spell over all who visit, from honeymoon couples to Presidents. Intimate in character, there are just 17 tents tucked away amongst the trees. From every veranda the view changes constantly as giraffe, elephant, buffalo, hippo and warthog all come to drink or graze. Getting there is an adventure in itself. You first have to cross the Mara River by boat, then a short walk through the forest escorted by guards.

All the tents are comfortable and tasteful. Each has an ensuite 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 a peaceful and atmospheric place. Meals are our usual superlative standards served, as is the style, outdoors during the day and in our candlelight-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. All meals, three game drives daily as well as laundry is included. Drinks as well as other activities (such as walking, ballooning, Lake Victoria excursion, a visit to a Maasai village) are to be paid separately.

Includes: All meals and game drives