The sound of “Ishara” seems to drift effortlessly across the rolling grasses of the Maasai plains. Meaning “sign” in Swahili, the name draws us back time and again to this pocket of African beauty. In Kenya’s Maasai Mara, wildlife is everywhere—hippos, buffalo, hyenas, lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam freely. The camp blends harmoniously into its natural setting, tucked among cooling greenery and anchored by a grand old olive tree. Elevated walkways link the tents, offering both privacy and comfort in a well-concealed retreat—an ideal base for discovering the wildlife-rich Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Masai Mara
22
11
En-suite bathrooms
Not allowed
Non-Smocking Rooms
Ishara Camp offers seven River Suites, each with either a king or twin beds, elevated on cantilevered platforms to provide excellent views while preserving the natural environment. The camp also features two Family Suites with interconnecting tents, ideal for families of up to five, and a Villa Suite designed for private groups with two connected suites. All accommodations include spacious bathrooms with rainfall showers, outdoor showers, vintage bathtubs, private decks with daybeds, and complimentary minibar services. The camp operates entirely off-grid using solar energy and sustainable farming systems, while still providing modern comforts and thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable and eco-friendly stay.
Relaxing with a good book on one of Ishara’s comfortable open-air patios or enjoying a refreshing drink on the Observation Deck while watching animals pass by is hard to beat. For more active pursuits, guests can join guided nature walks, try spear-throwing lessons, or spend time refining their photos in the well-equipped Canon studio. There’s also the option to unwind at the spa, work out in the gym, or cool off in the infinity pool. A visit to a nearby Maasai village offers meaningful insight into local culture and daily life. Game drives—the highlight of each safari day—usually take place early in the morning and again in the late afternoon, with vehicles equipped with charging points, binoculars, and even a Nespresso machine. As evening falls, the day ends beautifully with a traditional sundowner, a delicious dinner, and storytelling around the campfire under the sounds of the Mara night.
The Mara River curves gracefully around Neptune Mara Camp, creating a lush, forested setting and drawing a steady procession of wildlife to its waters. Elephants are often seen gathering along the banks, while a resident pod of hippos occupies the river. Each of the camp’s 20 tents features a private veranda overlooking the river, offering excellent opportunities to watch the lively scenes unfold while enjoying morning coffee or afternoon refreshments.
Immerse yourself in the “Golden Age” of safari at the legendary Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp. Nestled within a vast 6,000-acre private conservancy bordering the Maasai Mara, this award-winning sanctuary offers an unparalleled sense of privacy and old-world glamour. Founded by the Cottar family—pioneers with over 100 years of East African heritage—the camp seamlessly blends refined elegance with a world-class commitment to biodiversity. Recognized by The Wall Street Journal for its innovative conservation model, Cottar’s is not just a stay; it is a journey through time and a masterclass in luxury wilderness preservation.
The camp’s 18 private tented suites reflect timeless safari elegance, featuring polished wooden floors, oriental rugs, writing desks, and classic four-poster beds. Each tent opens onto a private deck with sweeping views over the wildlife-rich plains of the Maasai Mara, while a dedicated butler ensures attentive, personalized service. Antique furnishings enhance the inviting sitting and dining areas, evoking the romance and refinement of traditional safari days.
