Luxury Tent Camping in the Masai Mara, Kenya, Africa

 

Our view, each morning, as we walk to meet Jackson for our early morning game drive. The hanging lanterns add a nice touch to an already picturesque scene.

Nestled in the heart of the Maasai Mara, Kichwa Tembo's luxurious tent camp promises a safari experience like no other. During our four-night stay, we were treated to a symphony of nature, a unique blend of comfort and wild, and unforgettable moments that will linger in our memories forever.

Our adventure began each morning with the breathtaking sunrise over the savannah, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. What made it even more magical was the sight of hot air balloons gracefully gliding over the Mara River. But there was not too much time to waste taking photos from camp, our guide Jackson was waiting with our safari vehicle, ready for our morning game drive.

As the night fell, our tents became a front-row seat to the sounds of the wild. From distant roars to the gentle rustling of leaves, the Masai Mara came alive. The real surprise, however, came in the form of rock hyraxes living in the trees around our tents. Their playful screams became our lullaby, and we soon found ourselves growing fond of these little furballs.

Nature, as beautiful as it is, comes with its quirks. We quickly learned to watch out for safari ants during our morning bath, a small price to pay for being surrounded by such wilderness. Monkeys added a touch of mischief to our days, dropping things from the trees, a comical reminder that we were guests in their home. And to top it off, wild warthogs grazed the lawn and sipped from the pool, as guests walked delicately around them.

Selfie with a warthog, shortly after it drank from the pool. Who needs a lawnmower?

Despite the occasional disruptions, our second night brought a sense of harmony with the nocturnal orchestra. The calls of various animals became a comforting soundtrack, and the hyraxes' screams seemed like nature's way of welcoming us into its embrace.

The Kichwa Tembo chefs took very good care of us.

Our days were filled with attentive service from our butler, who greeted us with freshly brewed coffee, ensuring we started each day invigorated. The meals at Kichwa Tembo were nothing short of culinary masterpieces, and the drinks flowed freely, adding a touch of indulgence to our wilderness escape. One evening, we had the privilege of dining in a treehouse, the elevated setting providing a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape as Maasai warriors danced around our table.

Up in the treehouse, serenaded by Maasai warriors.

Kichwa Tembo's tent camp in the Maasai Mara is not just a safari; it's a sensory journey that immerses you in the wild luxuriously. From sunrise to sunset, the camp offers an experience that combines the untamed beauty of nature with the comforts of a world-class retreat. Our four-night stay was a symphony of sights and sounds, a testament to the incredible harmony that exists when you find yourself in the heart of the African wilderness. It is possible to get the five star experience while sleeping in a tent in the middle of the African bush, and it is Kichwa Tembo.

Kris, arriving to the Mara like a rock star, in his classic African bush plane.

With four nights, five days here at Kichwa Tembo, we have time to slow down, and really appreciate this amazing location.

When you stay at Kichwa Tembo, there is a warm welcome from the very beginning. This is our guide Jackson, greeting us at the airstrip with beer and snacks.

Infinity pool, looking out over the Mara plains.

Even with our group, Kichwa Tembo never runs out of Tusker.

Half the group in Kenya, and half illegally in Tanzania.

Our trusty safari vehicle. We would head out on early morning game drives and late afternoon game drives, in search of all the the Masai Mara has to offer. It was like a treasure hunt. This photo was shot just before Kris spotted a cheetah from a half mile away!

The scenery of the Masai Mara can be stunning.

What an experience to share with a sibling!

Kris and Keli, safariing in style.

After all the go go go on safari, it was nice to just sit next to the river and soak it all in.

The group in all of their glory, heading out from an amazing stay at Kichwa Tembo.

Our final game drive and we did it right, with a top notch sundowner next to the Mara river. Just hanging out with some great folks, a bunch of yawning hippos, and one African green pigeon. Thanks for putting on such a good show Jackson!

Glamorous tent camping in the middle of the African bush. All night long I could hear different animal noises coming from the forest outside the tent. What an experience!