Introduction to Karen Blixen Camp
Karen Blixen Camp is a luxurious, eco-friendly safari retreat located in the heart of the Mara North Conservancy, part of the greater Masai Mara ecosystem in Kenya. Inspired by the iconic Danish author Karen Blixen, whose memoir Out of Africa immortalized the African safari experience, the camp blends the romance of classic safaris with modern comforts. Overlooking the meandering Mara River, guests are treated to front-row views of abundant wildlife from the comfort of their tents.
📍 Location and Setting
Situated within the Mara North Conservancy, Karen Blixen Camp offers exclusive access to one of the most wildlife-rich regions in the Masai Mara. The camp’s riverside setting allows guests to witness elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of other wildlife directly from their private verandas, creating an immersive safari experience.
- Location: Mara North Conservancy, Masai Mara, Kenya
- Accessibility:
- By Air: 45-minute flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Mara North Airstrip, followed by a 30-minute transfer to the camp.
- By Road: A scenic 5–6-hour drive from Nairobi through the Great Rift Valley.
🛏️ Accommodation: Authentic Luxury Tents with River Views
Karen Blixen Camp features 22 spacious luxury tents, designed to reflect the classic safari style of the early 20th century. Each tent offers breathtaking views of the Mara River, with frequent sightings of elephants, hippos, and other wildlife right outside your doorstep.
Tent Categories
Luxury Tents:
- Spacious canvas tents with large, comfortable king-size or twin beds
- Private verandas with lounge chairs overlooking the Mara River
- En-suite bathrooms with solar-heated showers, twin basins, and flush toilets
- Elegant furnishings inspired by colonial-era safaris
- Eco-friendly amenities powered by solar energy
Family Tents:
- Two interconnected tents ideal for families
- Shared lounge area for relaxation and wildlife viewing
- Large outdoor deck with comfortable seating
Amenities
- Solar-powered electricity
- Complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas
- In-room safes and eco-friendly toiletries
- Mosquito netting for restful sleep
- 24-hour security with Maasai guards (askaris)
🍽️ Dining: A Farm-to-Table Safari Experience
The Karen Blixen Camp Restaurant delivers an exceptional dining experience, blending international and local Kenyan flavors. Meals are crafted using fresh ingredients sourced from the camp’s organic garden, ensuring a sustainable and delicious culinary journey.
Dining Highlights
- Main Dining Area:
- Overlooks the Mara River for scenic mealtime wildlife viewing
- Offers both indoor and outdoor seating options
- Al Fresco Dining:
- Bush breakfasts along the riverbank
- Private dinners under the African sky, illuminated by lanterns
- Organic Ingredients:
- Fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruits from the camp’s organic farm
- Locally sourced meats and dairy products
- Special Dietary Accommodations:
- Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs catered to upon request
- Signature Experience:
- Sundowners: Enjoy cocktails and canapés at scenic viewpoints as the sun sets over the savannah
🌿 Amenities
Karen Blixen Camp is designed to offer both relaxation and adventure in the heart of the wild.
- Eco-Spa: Offering massages and wellness treatments with natural products
- Swimming Pool: Perfect for cooling off after a game drive
- Library Lounge: A quiet space with books on African wildlife, culture, and history
- Gift Shop: Featuring locally crafted Maasai jewelry and safari souvenirs
- Wi-Fi: Available in the common areas
🚙 Activities
Guests at Karen Blixen Camp can enjoy a wide array of safari activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the Masai Mara.
Game Drives:
- Guided Safaris: Expert Maasai guides lead morning, afternoon, and full-day game drives
- Mara North Conservancy Access: Exclusive wildlife viewing areas with fewer vehicles
- Big Five Spotting: Lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos
Nature Walks:
- Guided Bush Walks: Led by experienced naturalists and Maasai warriors
- Learn about animal tracks, medicinal plants, and birdlife
Cultural Visits:
- Maasai Village Tours: Discover traditional Maasai customs, dances, and crafts
- Learn about Maasai warrior training, beadwork, and community life
Hot Air Balloon Safaris (Optional):
- Aerial Safari: Experience the Masai Mara from above at sunrise
- Includes a champagne bush breakfast upon landing
Photographic Safaris:
- Customized vehicles for photographers
- Expert guides who understand the needs of wildlife photography enthusiasts
🌍 Eco-Friendly Practices
Karen Blixen Camp is deeply committed to sustainability and responsible tourism.
Environmental Initiatives:
- 100% solar-powered energy
- Water conservation systems for eco-friendly operations
- Use of sustainable materials in construction
Community Engagement:
- Employment of local Maasai staff
- Support for local schools, healthcare programs, and women’s empowerment projects
- Active participation in Mara North Conservancy’s conservation efforts
💰 Rates (2025)
| NON-RESIDENTS RATES IN USD | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CATEGORIES | Low Season (1/04/25-30/5/25) | Shoulder Season (1/6/25-30/06/25 and 1/11/25-22/12/25) | High Season 3/1/25 to 31/3/25 | Peak Season (1/7/25-31/10/25 & 23/12/25 to 2/1/26) |
| Single Tent | 685 | 764 | 843 | 974 |
| Double / Twin | 1,060 | 1,191 | 1,322 | 1,534 |
| Triple Tent | 1,496 | 1,668 | 1,839 | 2,141 |
| CHILD RATE: Child sharing with 2 adults/Per child if 2 children share with an adult | 337 | 377 | 417 | 484 |
| CHILD RATE: Child in own tent/child sharing with an adult | 422 | 473 | 524 | 609 |
📊 Resident Rates in KSH (Per Night)
| Categories | Low Season (1 Apr – 30 May 2025) | Shoulder Season (1 Jun – 30 Jun & 1 Nov – 22 Dec 2025) | High Season (3 Jan – 31 Mar 2025) | Peak Season (1 Jul – 31 Oct 2025 & 23 Dec 2025 – 2 Jan 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Tent | 31,019 KSH | 35,160 KSH | 39,301 KSH | 43,798 KSH |
| Double / Twin Tent | 51,016 KSH | 57,910 KSH | 64,804 KSH | 72,304 KSH |
| Triple Tent | 71,009 KSH | 79,793 KSH | 88,577 KSH | 98,874 KSH |
| Child Rate (Sharing with 2 Adults / Per Child if 2 Children Share with an Adult) | 15,442 KSH | 17,507 KSH | 19,571 KSH | 22,748 KSH |
| Child Rate (In Own Tent / Sharing with One Adult) | 19,572 KSH | 22,156 KSH | 24,740 KSH | 27,564 KSH |
Inclusions:
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Morning and afternoon game drives
- Sundowners and guided bush walks
- Transfers to/from Mara North Airstrip
Exclusions:
- Park fees for Masai Mara National Reserve (if visiting)
- Optional activities (hot air balloon, Maasai village visits)
- Personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance
- Conservation fees which is $116 for adults and $58 for children
- Masai Mara National Reserve entrance fees
📅 Best Time to Visit
- July–October: Witness the Great Migration and dramatic river crossings
- November–March: Lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, excellent birding
- April–June: Green season with dramatic skies, discounted rates, and fewer crowds
🗣️ Guest Reviews
⭐ “A magical place where luxury meets the wild. The tents are spacious with river views, and we saw elephants every day right from our veranda!” – Sophia, USA
⭐ “The food, service, and safari guides were outstanding. Our game drives felt exclusive, and the cultural visits added a special touch.” – David, UK
✅ Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Prime location in Mara North with abundant wildlife
- Spacious luxury tents with river views
- Eco-friendly, sustainable practices
- Exceptional dining and personalized service
Cons:
- Premium pricing may not suit budget travelers
- Remote location requires flights or long drives from Nairobi
ℹ️ Practical Information
- Getting There: 45-minute flight from Nairobi to Mara North Airstrip
- Check-In/Out: Flexible, depending on safari schedules
- Packing Tips: Light clothing, safari gear, camera, binoculars, sunscreen