Governors' Camp

Twenty-four canvas tents sit on the Mara River inside the Masai Mara National Reserve, with hippos and crocodiles in the water below the verandahs year-round. The river draws game to it continuously, and the camp has occupied this site since 1972 — the earliest permanent tented camp of its kind established in Africa.

The tents divide across three categories. Nineteen luxury tents — twins and doubles — look directly over the Mara River, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private verandah. Five family tents sit back in the riverine forest with views across the open plains; each connects a double room and a twin through a central living area. The Justus Suite occupies a bend of the river and is configured for two guests. A bar deck and dining tent look out over the same water and plains.

Guides take guests out twice daily in custom-designed vehicles. The camp sits inside the migration corridor, so wildebeest, zebra and gazelle cross the Mara River during the annual movement between the Serengeti and the Mara. Hot-air balloon flights depart before dawn from a launch site behind the adjacent Little Governors' Camp. Bush dinners are served on the riverbank; sundowners are included in the nightly rate.

Eco-Tourism Kenya has recognised the camp's sustainability practices with its Gold rating. Visits to community projects — including Mara Rianda Primary School and Mara Rianda Medical Centre — can be arranged at no additional charge.