The Mara Olapa camp in the Maasai Mara Reserve is conveniently located between Kaboso Crossing, Double Cross, and the Musiara Marshes.The camp is ideal for spotting our local leopards and lions, and within 10 minutes of departing, you might be seated with a pride of lions or the elusive leopard. Mara Olapa camp is unfenced, allowing small plains game to travel freely throughout it. You can either fly or drive to the Maasai Mara. There are several daily flights to Musiara Air Strip, which is close to the camp. The drive from Nairobi to Maasai Mara takes approximately 5 hours and is a very scenic route through the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. You can use Sekenani, Talek or Musiara gates to enter the Reserve.
Accommodation and facilities
The camp has 6 luxurious en suite tents, tastefully decorated in African themed décor, large comfortable beds with Egyptian cotton whites, a private verandah and a fully functional bathroom with a safari style shower and flushing toilet. All tents are strategically constructed under tree shade providing stunning views and avoiding excessive heat build-up during the day. The layout of the Camp is such that each tent has a private feel to it. The camp also have a very spacious family tent consisting of two ensuite rooms and a lounge available for families visiting the camp.
Dining and cuisine
The camp offers a variety of freshly prepared cuisine which is served in an al carte style in their cozy dining tent.For guest who have a full day game drive,they are often packed lunch. The camp has a lounge tent with rustic touches of wilderness beauty that promises a restful evening with a wide assortment of beverages. As an alternative, you can sit by the fireplace with the Maasai Morans and share stories about the day while the moon and stars shine overhead, interrupted only by the distant (or sometimes not so distant!) roars of lions.
Wildlife and safari experience
Maasai Mara, which is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros). It is also one of the most popular safari destinations in the world, especially during the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras between July and October.You are also likely to see other animals such as Cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, impalas, topi, and a vast array of bird species.The camp offers morning ,afternoon and also night game drives for guest who have interest in observing nocturnal animals, such as leopards, owls, and bush babies.
Cultural and recreational
Staying at Mara olapo ,guest are given opportunity to visit the masai community.During their visit they are given a chance to interact with them also get to learn the way of living.They can also join in the masai dances and also participate in making crafts. Depending on the time of your visit, you may be able to witness traditional Maasai ceremonies, such as coming-of-age rituals, marriage customs, or the famous adumu.The camp also offers other activities such as a sundowner,hot air balloons, and nature walks. Mara Olapa region offer spa services that allow you to unwind after a long day of wildlife encounters. Indulge in a relaxing massage, or enjoy a wellness retreat set against the backdrop of the African savannah.
Sustainability and conservation efforts
Mara Olapa Camp is a solar-powered bush camp that aims to preserve the ecology and has minimal environmental impact.The camp encourage guests to participate in carbon offset programs. This involve investing in local renewable energy projects or contributing to reforestation efforts to balance the carbon footprint generated by travel.Mara olapa creates jobs opportunities to the community and stimulating the local economy, to give the communities more influence.
How to get there
By air:Take your scheduled flight from Wilson airport to Musiara Air Strip, which is close to the camp.
By Road:drive from Nairobi to Maasai Mara takes approximately 5 hours and is a very scenic route through the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. You can use Sekenani, Talek or Musiara gates to enter the Reserve.
Best time to visit
For guest interested in witnessing the Great Migration , then July to October is the best time to go. However, they prefer a quieter and more affordable safari with lush landscapes and baby animals, January to March or April to June are also excellent choices.
Conclusion
Mara olapa is situated in the heart of Masai mara giving guest scenic views of the wildanimals.Its among the camps that’s less crowded providing exclusive safari experience.The camp is also eco -friendly.
Faqs About Mara Olapo
Where is Mara Olapa Camp located, and how do I get there?
Mara Olapa Camp is situated inside Maasai Mara National Reserve, near Kaboso Crossing, Double Cross, and the Musiara Marshes. It’s about a 4–5 hour drive (~250 km) from Nairobi or less than an hour by flight to Musiara or Ol Kiombo airstrips, followed by a short drive to camp
How many tents are there, and what types?
The camp has six luxury en-suite safari tents with queen/king-sized beds, a private veranda, solar-powered hot showers, flush toilets, storage chest, vanity desk, and clothes rack. There’s also a family tent comprising two en-suite rooms with a shared lounge. An authentic Maasai manyatta offering is available on-site
What amenities are included in the tents?
Each tent includes mosquito nets, bottled water, solar lighting, a safari-style hot‑water shower, flush toilet, deck chairs, storage facilities, and solar and generator power. The camp emphasizes comfort and privacy, with tents shaded beneath trees to reduce heat buildup
What dining and beverage options are available?
Meals are freshly prepared à‑la‑carte by a resident gourmet chef in the dining tent. Guests can enjoy bush‑style picnic lunches, sundowners, fireside camp meals, and a well-stocked lounge bar. The chef also tailors meals to individual preferences
What safari activities and services are offered?
Included are game drives in camp-operated open Land Cruisers, guided walking safaris, bush lunches, sundowners, hot-air balloon rides, and Maasai village visits. Nighttime campfire gatherings let you swap safari stories under the stars
Is the camp fenced, and how safe is it?
The camp is unfenced to allow wildlife access, and Maasai Moran guards patrol day and night to ensure guest safety. Animals—including zebras, giraffes, leopards, and lions—are often spotted right near or within the camp. One guest noted seeing wildlife pass “from the comfort of your tents”
What are the rates and what is included?
Rates cover full-board meals, local beverages (excluding premium drinks), daily game drives, walking safaris, sundowners, airstrip transfers, and conservancy fees. Extras like balloon rides, premium drinks, tips, laundry, and spa services may incur additional charges
What is the children and family policy?
Children aged 5–11 pay a reduced rate (~US $130/night extra bed), ages 12–17 are about US $180, and those under 5 stay free in shared accommodation. Family tents accommodate up to 5 and multiple tents can be booked for groups
