Mahali Mzuri is Sir Richard Branson’s luxury tented safari camp in Kenya’s Masai Mara. It sits within the 13,500-hectare private Olare Motorogi Conservancy in the wider Maasai Mara ecosystem. At Mahali Mzuri you’ll have a front-row seat. Not just to the migration, but also to the abundant game you can see all year round. There are endless opportunities for game viewing. So all you need to do is sit back and let the wildlife come to you!
At the heart of the camp, is a relaxing lounge with an open fireplace and a large decked area where you can enjly breakfast and lunch. This boutique camp features an infinity pool and a ringside view of some of the most awe-inspiring wildlife viewing you are ever likely to witness.
Camp exterior at sunset
Mahali Mzuri Accommodation
There are 6 x tents on either side of the Main Tent. Therefore a total of 12 x tented suites – a maximum of 24 guests in the camp at any one time. The furthest of these is approximately a five-minute walk from the Main Tent. All are accessible by a walkway.
The 106 m2 tents at Mahali Mzuri include a spacious seating area and an en suite bathroom. They all have a large deck to maximize the amazing views over the plains. Ten of the suites can have either king or twin beds.
Two of the suites have four-poster king-size beds. These can accommodate up to two children on sofa beds in the living room. These are called the Family Tented Suites – see more info under family safaris.
Views from your bed in your tent
All rooms are equipped with a hairdryer, sunscreen, insect repellent, torches, extra blankets, ponchos, bathrobes, slippers, a complimentary mini-bar, snacks, tea and coffee-making facilities, and hot water bottles.
Glamping safaris don’t get better than this!
A bath with a view
Masai Mara Family Safari
Family Safari at Mahali Mzuri
Mahali Mzuri welcomes all children aged 2 years old or older. They call them little warriors. As all kids are different, there is no set program. Instead, they offer a range of activities that are tailored to each child or group depending on their ages and interests. For children’s safety, there are security guards on duty all night that will pay particular attention to tents occupied by Little Warriors.
There are two tents which are able to accommodate children in a separate enclosed sitting room. For younger children, we can provide a cot and roll-away bed for a nanny if required.
Family tent
Children between the age of two and five stay for free, while children aged between 6-15 years, pay a nightly supplement. Enquire with us for rates. Also, see our family special in the low season.
On arriving at Mahali Mzuri, all ‘little warriors’; will be given their own pack of goodies to keep them entertained. These will educate them about the African Bush and get them excited for the fun that awaits.
Some of the activities for children An organized treasure hunt to test tracking skills around camp, Animal spotting around camp from birds to lizards and the wildlife, DVDs like The Lion King or Madagascar where kids can recognize some of the game they’ve seen on game drives.
Special food and beverages or simple snacks and light meals can be prepared according to your child’s tastes.
Children aged 2-6 are welcome on game drives but are required to travel in a closed vehicle. This is at an additional cost.
Children of all ages must be under parental supervision at all times while in camp. Babysitting is available at no extra charge for parents who wish to enjoy a private evening game drive.
Mahali Mzuri Sustainability & Community Upliftment
The Olare Motorogi Conservancy is a part of one of four established conservancies bordering the northern edge of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Together they cover a total area of 63,000 hectares in the Greater Maasai Mara ecosystem.
The other three conservancies are Olare Orok, Mara North, and Naboisho. Together all are helping to increase the protected area of the ecosystem by nearly 50%. Since 2006 a unique land management structure has been developed in the conservancies. With a dual aim of extending the protection afforded to wildlife in the National Reserve to an even greater area. Whilst directly supporting the needs of some 1,550 Maasai families.
The basic concept of these conservancies is to protect the land from over-tourism and development. Of course, the wildlife also needs to be protected by compensating the farmers whose livestock are killed by the Masai Mara’s free-roaming wildlife. Both of these naturally add to the guest experience. Furthermore, it guarantees a fair income to every landowning member. While allowing tourism to contribute to the sustainability of the conservancies.
Today it can be seen how both the Maasai community and safari guests are enjoying the true benefits of conservation of this land in a relationship that will see the ecosystem protected for many years to come.
There are no fences between the Masai Mara and Olare Motorogi, so there is fantastic game viewing to be enjoyed all year.
Community projects
Mahali Mzuri are proud members of Pack for a Purpose. This initiative allows travelers to make a lasting impact in the community at your travel destination. If you save just a few kilos of space in your suitcase and bring supplies for area schools or medical clinics in need, you’ll make a priceless impact on the lives of the local children and families.
Mahali Mzuri is currently supporting the Enkenju – Enkoirien Primary School, located about 4kms from the Mahali Mzuri camp in NAROK county. The school currently houses 120 students, aged between 4-14 years. Donations from local businesses have helped to fund essential items such as solar lights, computers, and printers. While local communities and guests have provided stationery including; books, pens, and pencils, beads for bead-making, maps, and dictionaries.
All contributions are a big help towards encouraging young children to go to school for formal education. Make your contribution and see what supplies are needed for the Mahali Mzuri project/projects.
Activities at Mahali Mzuri
Naturally, you are here for the amazing wildlife that can be seen not only in the Masai Mara but right here in camp! In between, you’ll be wining and dining and have the most amazing experience. From bush BBQs to champagne picnics to sun downers. It just doesn’t get better than this!
Bush Sundowners
Things to Do on your Masai Mara Adventure
Relax in the Main Tent that features an open but snug lounge area with a fireplace, a library of books, iPads, iPod docking stations and speaker systems, and a TV/DVD. There is a 12-meter outdoor heated infinity pool. Big enough for a leisurely swim or a refreshing dip. Or let us arrange a hot air balloon ride to see the Maasai Mara ecosystem from a totally different perspective (at an additional cost).
PoolRelax in the bar area at camp
Game drives
The abundant animal life in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy is quite simply jaw-dropping. And you won’t need to go far to see some unforgettable sights. At Mahali Mzuri there are twice-daily game drives. Filled to the brim with exciting wildlife sightings. As well as romantic scenery and dramatic views.
Game drives in the evening open up a whole new world with the chance to see predominantly nocturnal game. These include aardvarks and honey badgers. Full-day excursions with a packed lunch give you the flexibility to really explore the conservancies.
Game drives can also be organized into the main Maasai Mara National Reserve at an additional cost. Private vehicles are available and can be pre-booked subject to availability.
Giraffe and zebra
Maasai Community Tours
While you’re staying at Mahali Mzuri you’re welcome to visit one of the Maasai villages in the local area. Get a flavor of daily life in the Mara and learn about the local Maasai Tribe. The village is only a 10-minute drive from Mahali Mzuri. The best times to go are first thing in the morning when you can help milk the cattle. Or in the evening when the cattle, goats, and sheep are being herded back to their enclosures for the night.
The local school is a further 5-minute drive from the village. This is where the Maasai children aged 3-15 years attend. You are welcome to visit the school. Please let your guide know in advance of your trip. Your Guides at Mahali Mzuri will take you on a tour and introduce you to their families. While explaining some of the cultures and traditions.
Charges apply for the Maasai Community Tours.
Community Tour
Spa Treatments
The Spa is located down near the valley floor and provides a private, intimate setting in which to be pampered. A whole range of treatments is available. From facials to massages to those essential grooming rituals. Spa treatments are available for an additional charge.
Spa Treatment Room
When to visit Mahali Mzuri
For game viewing the Olare Motorogi Conservancy has abundant wildlife year round. The best time to view the migration will depend on the climatic conditions that year. In the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, you can expect to see the herds arrive anytime from July to September. They depart again around November for the return journey to the Serengeti in Tanzania.
Cheetah
Kenya’s position straddling the equator means there isn’t a huge amount of variation in temperature throughout the year. You can expect average highs of about 30°C/86°F in the months from December to March. During the height of the migration, there are somewhat cooler temperatures. Due to its elevation temperatures in the evening do drop to around 15°C/59°F. However, it rarely gets much colder than this.
Getting there
The best way to arrive is by plane from the city’s Wilson Airport which serves domestic destinations within Kenya. We can arrange transfers between the international and domestic airports for you. Both scheduled and charter airlines operate from Wilson Airport and flights to the region take about 1 hour. Olare Orok airstrip is approximately 25 minute drive from the camp.
If you’re feeling adventurous we can arrange a private helicopter transfer which can land right at Mahali Mzuri.
What to expect on a typical safari at Mahali Mzuri
Mahali Mzuri 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Mahali Mzuri – home to some of the best wildlife in the world! Enjoy welcome drinks overlooking the Great Plains while planning the exciting few days ahead. Your stay will begin with an afternoon game drive where you’ll be cruising across the open Savannah in search of the Big Cats and plains game seen year-round. Arrive back in camp and make yourself at home in your luxury safari tent.
Lions drinking
Day 2
Cameras at the ready, kick off your day bright and early with a morning game drive where you will see amazing sights unfold right in front of you. After breakfast, relax by the heated pool or unwind with a spa treatment before heading out on your afternoon game drive where you might discover nocturnal game including aardvarks and honey badgers. Back at camp dinner will be served with a performance by the Maasai dancers around the campfire.
Day 3
Stop by a Maasai village to get a flavor of daily life in the Masai Mara and learn about the local tribes. You’ll be able to visit a local school and share provisions donated via the Pack for a Purpose initiative. This afternoon’s game drive will finish with a refreshing glass of your favorite tipple while watching the African sunset for the final time.
Dinner will be back at camp where you can discuss your favorite moments of your trip while indulging in a food and wine pairing menu.
Day 4
Rise and shine! It’s time to take your safari experience to new heights. Take a hot air balloon across the Mara River giving you the perfect birds-eye view of the plains and forests below. Land back on solid ground for a champagne breakfast.
Mahali Mzuri Accommodation Rates
Rates per night
Per person sharing
Migration Season* 15th June – 31st October 2023
$1700
Low Season 1st November – 21st December 2023
$990
Festive Season** 22nd December 2023 – 6th January 2024
$1600
Low Season 7th January – 14th June 2024
$1100
Migration Season* 15th June – 31st October 2024
$1900
Low Season 1st November – 19th December 2024
$1100
Festive Season** 20th December 2024 – 4th January 2025
$1800
*During the migration season, the rates also include one complimentary day pass per adult to the Maasai Mara National Reserve when you book at least 3 nights ** See festive season inclusions below.
Cheetah chasing wildebeest
Rates include:
Your accommodation in luxury tents Twice daily game drives in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. Night time game drives are subject to availability All meals and drinks (including alcoholic beverages) Unlimited access to the exclusive Olare Motorogi Conservancy Transfers from Olare Orok airstrip (25 minutes drive from camp) Visits to the local markets Complimentary wireless internet is available throughout the camp Laundry service (dry cleaning not available) All taxes and local levies
Rates Exclude:
Any other transfers to the domestic and international airports Private vehicles are available and can be pre-booked subject to availability. Relaxing spa treatments Cultural day trips to learn more about the Maasai Tribe Hot air ballooning Maasai Mara National Reserve (additional park fees apply) Medical insurance – AMREF (please ask our reservations team for more information) Lunch on the day of departure (additional cost will apply)
Mahali Mzuri Accommodation Special Offers
Stay 4, pay 3
Enjoy an exclusive safari experience at Sir Richard Branson’s luxury camp located in the Olare Motorogi conservancy for four nights or more, and the final night will be on us!
Your tent is the window to some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. Each one designed to be your home away from home. The tented suite includes an en-suite bathroom and an inviting private deck offering panoramic views. Giving you a front row seat to the unrivaled year-round game viewing.
Valid for stays from 1st November – 21st December 2023, 7th January – 14th June 2024 and 1st November – 19th December 2024.
Kids stay for free!
Get the family together for an unbeatable adventure that you’ll remember forever! Located in the exclusive Olare Motorogi Private Conservancy, Mahali Mzuri offers an exciting safari, packed with abundant wildlife plus enjoy all your creature comforts, fun activities, delicious meals, and more.
Up to two children (2-15 years old) stay for free when sharing a family tent with at least one adult. Valid for stays from 1st November – 21st December 2023, 7th January – 14th June 2024 and 1st November – 19th December 2024.
Cape Winelands and Wildlife
Combine a wildlife safari stay at Mahali Mzuri with a stay at Mont Rochelle in the Cape Winelands of South Africa and receive: A complimentary 30-minute massage at Mahali Mzuri and a half-board upgrade at Mont Rochelle.
Half board at Mont Rochelle includes a choice of a 3-course lunch, picnic basket, or 3-course dinner daily in any of Mont Rochelle’s restaurants.
For that ultimate safari, this offer can also be used at Ulusaba in the Sabi Sand reserve in South Africa and Mahali Mzuri.
Valid until 21st December 2023 and from the 7th January – 19th December 2024
Christmas and/or New Year on safari
The festive season is a great time to get your herd together and celebrate what’s really important. Spend this important time with loved ones at Mahali Mzuri in the Masai Mara. Add even more sparkle to the usual festive cheer.
A minimum of 2 nights is required for our festive season offers.
Christmas Activities
Tree lighting ceremony on Christmas Eve followed by a cocktail party by the pool with mulled wine Christmas cocktails, and canapés Champagne breakfasts at camp Bush games for the adults such as bow and arrow, spear throwing, and other traditional Maasai games Treasure hunts and cake decorations for the children. If you’re lucky Father Christmas might just visit the camp too! Enjoy a special bush dinner on Christmas Day
New Year Activities
Traditional Maasai Regalia dress code – Mahali Mzuri will even provide Maasai shuka for all guests. Champagne breakfast at camp New Year’s eve BBQ candlelit dinner in the bush graced with Maasai dancers around the bonfire See the New Year in with champagne, cocktails, and midnight snacks. Celebrate around the bush fire with the Maasai dancers followed by a bush disco (if you’re still awake!)
Group bookings
Hire Mahali Mzuri exclusively for anniversary celebrations, birthdays, or any type of gathering where you might like the place to yourselves! You get the best rates for exclusive use. Exclusive use of Mahali Mzuri is quoted per night for use of all 12 x tents and facilities. Exclusive use rates usually apply when booking seven or more tents.
A romantic safari escape
What could be more perfect than a romantic escape to the Masai Mara for your honeymoon or just as a couple’s treat? Ignite (or re-ignite!) the magic at Mahali Mzuri! The mix of an exciting safari packed with wildlife sightings and adventure, along with gourmet meals, fine wines and pampering guarantees an unforgettable getaway.
We have some surprises to make it extra special for you and your partner.
Romantic private dining
A romantic safari escape cost
Rates per night
Per person sharing
Additional Night
Migration Season* 15th June – 31st October 2023
US$ 10,425
US$ 3,400
Low Season 1st November – 21st December 2023
US$ 6,165
US$ 1,980
Low Season 7th January – 14th June 2024
US$ 6,850
US$ 2,200
Migration Season* 15th June – 31st October 2024
US$ 11,650
US$ 3,800
Low Season 1st November – 19th December 2024
US$ 6,850
US$ 2,200
Valid until 21st December 2023 and from the 7th January – 19th December 2024.
What’s Included?
3 nights’ accommodation in a luxury tented suite with extra nights available All food and beverages including champagne Twice daily game drives with our experienced Maasai guides A fruit basket and champagne in the room on arrival A 60-minute oil massage treatment per person in the Nasaro spa Lovers’ picnic private lunch on a day of your choice. Your Guide will whisk you away to a secluded location for a romantic picnic lunch. Trust us, the views are fabulous, and the champagne somehow tastes even better! Private dinner for 2 on the last evening under the stars with your own personal butler Following your private romantic dinner, you can look forward to a romantic turn down with rose petals, a bubble bath, sparkling wine, and a cozy corner on the deck. Perfect for stargazing. Transfers from the nearest airstrip Wireless internet throughout the camp Laundry service
We also do weddings at Mahali Mzuri – this is a remarkable destination wedding venue for 2 or your family and friends.
The award-winning Cottar’s Safari Camps are situated in the private conservancy, bordering Maasai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti, Tanzania – rates and offers
