Fig Tree Camp is one of the most well-established safari camps in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. Nestled along the banks of the Talek River, the camp offers an ideal combination of prime wildlife viewing, diverse accommodation options, and easy access to the main Mara ecosystem. Known for its comfortable lodgings, direct hot air balloon departures, and consistent hospitality, Fig Tree Camp caters to a wide range of travelers—couples, families, photographers, and group safaris alike.
📍 Location & Accessibility
- Region: Located on the northern edge of the Maasai Mara, adjacent to the Talek River.
- Inside the Reserve: Yes – Fig Tree is within the boundaries of the national reserve, offering unrestricted access to game viewing.
- By Air:
- Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport take approximately 45 minutes to Ol Kiombo Airstrip, followed by a 15-minute transfer to camp.
- By Road:
- Approx. 5.5 to 6.5 hours’ drive (260 km) from Nairobi via Narok and Sekenani Gate.
- Best accessed with a 4×4 vehicle, especially during rainy seasons.
The camp’s central location ensures easy access to game-rich areas such as the Mara River, Rhino Ridge, and Migration Corridor zones.
🛏️ Accommodation
Fig Tree Camp offers a variety of room types spread across its riverside and garden zones, all with en-suite bathrooms and private decks or verandas.
Room Categories:
- Safari Tents (38 Units)
- Located along the Talek River
- Tents are built on raised wooden platforms
- Each tent includes a double and single bed
- En-suite bathroom with hot water and flush toilet
- Private deck for wildlife viewing
- Garden Chalets (32 Units)
- Located amidst lush tropical gardens
- Masonry cottages with modern safari interiors
- Double or twin beds with en-suite bathrooms
- Ideal for guests seeking a solid structure over canvas
- Superior Ngamboli Tents (10 Units)
- Luxury tents in a secluded section of the camp
- Larger space and upgraded décor
- Stunning open views over the Mara plains
- Enhanced privacy, ideal for honeymooners or couples
💵 Estimated Rates (Per Person Sharing)
| Room Type | Low Season (USD) | High Season (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Safari Tent | $220 – $260 | $300 – $350 |
| Garden Chalet | $200 – $240 | $280 – $330 |
| Superior Ngamboli Tent | $300 – $380 | $400 – $480 |
Rates are full-board (breakfast, lunch, dinner), inclusive of accommodation and taxes. Park entry fees, game drives, and transport are additional unless in a full safari package.
✅ What’s Included
- Accommodation in selected room type
- Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Bottled water during meals
- Use of pool and shared facilities
- Taxes and VAT
- Airstrip pick-up/drop-off (with prior notice)
❌ What’s Not Included
- Maasai Mara Park entry fee (~$70/day per adult for non-residents)
- Game drives (bookable on-site or as part of a package)
- Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks
- Hot air balloon safari (optional, ~$450 per person)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Personal items and laundry services
🍽️ Dining & Cuisine
- Main Restaurant: Offers buffet-style meals with international and local dishes
- Outdoor Dining Deck: Overlooks the river; often used for sundowners and bush breakfasts
- Camp Bar: Serves a variety of soft and alcoholic beverages with scenic views
- Bush Meals: On request, guests can enjoy private bush dinners or breakfast in the savannah
Special dietary requirements are accommodated with advance notice (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, etc.).
🏞️ Facilities & Services
- 🏊 Swimming Pool: With loungers and poolside service
- 🔥 Campfire Area: Evening gatherings with storytelling and drinks
- 🛍️ Gift Shop: Selling local crafts, safari gear, and souvenirs
- 📶 Wi-Fi: Available in central areas (signal may vary)
- 🧖 Massage Services: Available on request
- 👥 Conference Facilities: Space for meetings or incentive groups
- 🚐 Transfers & Excursions: Arranged at reception or pre-booked
🚙 Safari & Adventure Activities
- Game Drives:
- Morning and evening drives in open-roof 4×4 vehicles
- Guided by professional driver-naturalists
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris:
- Launch site is inside the camp—no morning transfers required!
- Includes champagne bush breakfast on landing
- Cultural Visits:
- Visit a nearby Maasai village to learn about traditional life, ceremonies, and crafts
- Nature Walks:
- Led by Maasai guides around the camp’s forested and riverine buffer zones
- Birdwatching:
- Excellent sightings along the Talek River corridor
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
- Children of all ages welcome
- Family tent setups and triple occupancy available
- Kids’ menus and flexible mealtimes
- Babysitting available with advance request
- Guided child-friendly walks and wildlife talks
🕐 Check-In / Check-Out
- Check-in: From 12:00 PM
- Check-out: By 10:00 AM
- Late check-out available subject to availability and extra charges
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Fig Tree Camp inside the Maasai Mara Reserve?
Yes, it is located inside the park boundaries, providing direct access to game drives without the need to re-enter daily.
Q: What’s the best time to visit?
The camp is open year-round. The peak season is from July to October during the Great Migration, but wildlife viewing is excellent year-round.
Q: Can I book balloon safaris directly through the camp?
Yes. Fig Tree Camp is one of the few with an in-house balloon launch site, making booking and departure seamless.
Q: Is Fig Tree Camp eco-friendly?
While not a fully solar or off-grid camp, Fig Tree does implement waste reduction, water conservation, and supports local Maasai employment and sourcing.
🌟 Why Choose Fig Tree Camp?
✅ Established camp with a solid reputation
✅ Hot air balloon safaris launch directly from camp
✅ Variety of tented and chalet accommodation
✅ Ideal for families, couples, and safari groups
✅ Prime location on Talek River for wildlife watching
✅ Affordable for mid- to upper-range budgets