The hype
Guests are blown away by the river location and wildlife sightings from the deck, but some find the dining hall a bit chaotic.
Ashnil Mara Camp
$300-600/ night
Book this if You want a front-row seat to the Great Migration with 'glamping' comforts rather than roughing it.
Why People Love It
- Prime location at the confluence of the Mara and Olkeju Rivers
- Hippos and crocodiles visible right from the restaurant deck
- Reliable hot water and electricity in a remote bush setting
Quick Take: A large, well-oiled safari machine that trades intimacy for convenience and unbeatable river views.
Reviewed by @suhaila: I stayed at Ashnil Mara Camp and it was incredible. Watching hippos from my deck while sipping coffee was a core memory unlocked. Plus, the tent had a bidet and hot showers! It’s the perfect spot if you want the wild experience without sacrificing comfort.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'river view' is spectacular, but the generator noise can be audible in tents closer to the main area until midnight.
- You are a first-time safari goer who wants safety and structure
- You love the idea of seeing hippos while eating breakfast
- You need reliable amenities like a pool and 24/7 power
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Tents are swept and tidied twice daily, with turndown service including hot water bottles.
- Bathroom hygiene: Surprisingly modern and spotless. tiled showers with good pressure.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition, especially the renovated 'Luxury Tents'. Canvas is well-maintained.
- Linens & towels: Crisp white linens and decent towels, replaced daily if needed.
- Odors & scents: Fresh river breeze mixed with faint woodsmoke and occasional wildlife scents.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hippos in the river (loud grunting)
- Camp generator (runs until ~11pm-midnight)
- Morning wake-up calls and zippers from neighbors
Before you book
Good to know
- Wifi is available in common areas and some renovated tents, but don't count on streaming speeds.
- Lunch boxes are available if you want to stay out on a game drive all day.
- The camp is accessible by air (45 mins from Nairobi) or a long 5-hour drive on rough roads.
What to pack
- Earplugs (for the generator and hippos)
- Binoculars (wildlife is visible from your deck)
- Warm fleece (mornings and evenings are surprisingly cold)
Room Genie
Best picks
- River View Luxury Tents (renovated units with better interiors)
- Tents furthest from the main lodge for less generator noise
Rooms to avoid
- Tents near the bar/dining area (noise travel)
- Garden/Park view tents (you miss the river magic)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a renovated 'Luxury Tent' with a direct River View. Please ensure I am assigned a tent as far as possible from the generator and main bar area for quiet.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there hot water?
Yes, 24/7 solar-heated water with backup, a luxury in the bush.
Is the pool heated?
No, it is an unheated outdoor pool. Reviews call it 'refreshing' (read: cold), best for midday heat.
Can I charge my camera in the tent?
Yes, tents have power strips (UK style square pin), but bring a universal adapter.
Is it safe for kids?
Yes, it is family-friendly with a kids' pool, but strict supervision is required due to unfenced river frontage.
How is the food?
Buffet-style with a mix of international and Kenyan dishes. The Indian cuisine station gets consistent praise.
Do I need a 4x4?
If self-driving, absolutely yes. The road to the camp is rough black cotton soil.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for the 'Hippo Pool Breakfast'—it's an extra cost but a bucket-list experience eating right on the riverbank.
- ✨
The 'Masala Chips' at the buffet are a cult favorite among guests.
- ✨
Book a 'Sundowner' experience ($45) for cocktails in the bush at sunset—better than the bar.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'river view' means you might smell the hippos too (it's a distinct barnyard scent).
💡Monkeys will raid your tent if you leave the zipper even slightly open.
💡The 'gym' is very basic—don't plan a serious workout here.
💡You are escorted to your tent by Maasai guards at night for safety, not just service.
💡The drive from the airstrip to the camp is a mini game drive in itself.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Ashnil Mara Camp is located and what's nearby.