From the time of arriving at Kicheche Mara Camp, to the point of departure, I had nothing but efficient, courteous and friendly service.

Simon and Olivia, the camp managers, made us very welcome on our arrival and ensured that things operated smoothly. I had a problem with the bucket shower on the first night (inefficient water flow) and reported it. Simon kept me appraised of the progress that was being made to remedy it, and by the time I came back from my game drive that evening, all was well.

As the only vegetarian amongst the guests at camp, I was always given a good alternative to what other people were served. And unlike other places I have stayed – this wasn’t just an omelette or salad; it was a proper vegetarian prepared dish. The food was excellent, and the sweets just divine – the macadamia one has expanding waistline written all over it.

The tented camp itself is in a great location, yes the road on the approach maybe a bit bumpy, but hey – this is wild country, not a manufactured theme park and it added to the feeling of really being out in the bush.

But don’t misunderstand – tented camps are about as far removed from camping as you can get. Imagine a well-appointed bungalow, replace the walls with canvas and there you have it. Roughing it – no. Luxury – yes.

Listening to the birdcalls from the set on the veranda while watching flashes of brightly coloured butterflies was heaven. And being out in the bush, amongst the wild life, meant you don’t just wander to dinner on your own (you get escorted by an Askari watchman), unless of course you want to be the main item on the menu for some of the lions that pass through camp.

Being in the heart of the bush was fantastic, within moments of leaving camp, I saw zebra, elephant, and gazelle. Further afield were just about everything else apart from crocodiles. It’s like nothing I have ever experienced – a truly memorable place to be.

Would I go back – you bet!!

Daveontrek

Stayed 5 nights for a Wild Arena photography trip - it was excellent in all regards.
The camp is in a beautiful setting, very well appointed luxury tents (you need to be smartish in the bucket shower for 2 people but perfectly fine).
The staff were all very attentive, fun and friendly and the camp hosts Simon and Olivia helpful and knowledgeable. The food was imaginative, freshly prepared and well presented - really excellent. Eating is at a communal table which is fun to talk to hosts and other guests to find out what they have seen and to share stories and experiences. Good facilities for charging camera batteries, laptops etc.
The Masai Mara lived up to its reputation and the game drives/guides were first class - good spotters, very knowledgeable and happy to explain. Good vehicles.
Existing photos are a good reflection of the camp, tents and facilities.

Kicheche-Mara Camp is located in a small valley, alongside a creek, which means great wildlife viewing around camp. In fact, you can often see zebra, antelope, baboons, and other animals from the dining area and the tents. It’s green and lush, and the eight tents are spaced out, most tucked in among trees and bushes for privacy. Within just a few minutes’ drive out of camp, we could see a pride of five lionesses with nine very young cubs, a trio of tiny leopard cubs, gazelles, and much more. Just like at other Kicheche camps, the tents are beautiful in décor and afford beautiful views. Food is delicious and plentiful. The staff are very friendly and helpful. David, my guide, is an incredibly nice young man, and I learned so much from him, not only about the wildlife but about Masai culture, too. He also taught me a few phrases in Ma. Olivia and Simon, the camp managers, are dear people, and my five nights there ended far too soon. But I will definitely return!

The best African safari ever. Simon & Olivia are excellent hosts and the camp runs like clockwork. Guides are friendly and very knowledgeable and the camp is first class. We saw more animals than we dared to hope for and are already looking forward to our next visit.