&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp offers an authentic Kenyan safari experience that blends contemporary style with the classic charm of the Masai Mara. Located in the heart of one of the world's most renowned wildlife regions, the camp provides an ideal getaway for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and groups seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
Location of &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp
AndBeyond Kichwa Tembo Camp is strategically located on the
western border of the Masai Mara National Reserve, within the Mara Triangle.
This area is known as the most productive part of the Mara ecosystem, offering
exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The camp is set on a private
concession leased from Maasai landlords, providing an exclusive and intimate
safari experience.
Scenic and Historic Setting
The camp is located at the base of the Oloololo Escarpment, offering guests panoramic views over the vast plains of the
Masai Mara. This location is not only picturesque but also historically
significant, as it is near the spot where the iconic scenes from the movie
"Out of Africa" were filmed. The camp's setting allows guests to
enjoy the stunning landscapes and frequent sightings of game right from their
tents.
Private Concession Benefits
Being situated on a private concession, the camp offers
activities that are not available in the national reserve. Guests can partake
in bush walks, night drives, and private game drives, enhancing their safari
experience. This private land ensures a more secluded and personalized
encounter with the wildlife and natural beauty of the Masai Mara.
Easy Accessibility
&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp is easily accessible from
major travel hubs. Guests can fly into the Kichwa Tembo Airstrip, which is
conveniently located near the camp. Transfers to and from the airstrip are
included, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival and departure experience.
Accommodation Options
Superior View Tents
The Superior View Tents at &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp
offer guests a luxurious stay with sweeping views of the Masai Mara. Each tent
is beautifully decorated with Maasai-inspired interiors that blend local
materials in a contemporary style. These tents provide an unparalleled vantage point
to witness the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Key features include:
- Spacious
interiors with comfortable beds
- Private
verandas with panoramic views
- En-suite
bathrooms with indoor showers
- Internet
access, in-room safes, and floor fans
Superior Tents
The Superior Tents are perfect for guests seeking a tranquil
retreat because they are situated within the cool shade of the forest. These
tents feature oversized beds and cypress wood furniture, providing a blend of
comfort and authenticity. Though they do not offer views of the Mara, they are
ideal for bird lovers and those who enjoy a more secluded setting. Highlights
include:
- Maasai-inspired
decor with local materials
- Private
verandas overlooking the forest
- En-suite
bathrooms with indoor showers
- Internet
access, in-room safes, and floor fans
Classic Tents
The Classic Tents evoke the spirit of the early explorers,
with large comfortable beds and traditional safari-style interiors. Located
near the Saparingo River, these tents offer a nostalgic experience of the classic
African safari. Despite their rustic charm, they provide all the modern
amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Features include:
- Spacious
layouts with comfortable beds
- Private
verandas for relaxation
- En-suite
bathrooms with indoor showers
- Internet
access, in-room safes, and floor fans
Superior Family Tents
Designed specifically for families, the Superior Family
Tents consist of two interconnected tents with a shared ensuite bathroom and
private veranda. These tents can accommodate up to two adults and two children
(or three children on special request), making them perfect for family
adventures. Key amenities include:
- Spacious
interconnecting tents
- Ensuite
bathrooms with indoor showers
- Private
verandas for family gatherings
- Internet
access, in-room safes, and floor fans
Amenities and Facilities
Camp Pool
The generously sized lodge swimming pool at &Beyond
Kichwa Tembo Camp is set among the trees, surrounded by lush lawns and offering
spectacular views across the Mara plains. It provides a perfect spot for
relaxation and refreshing swims after a day of safari adventures.
Interactive Kitchen
The camp's interactive kitchen is a highlight, bringing a
cheerful atmosphere to the lodge. Guests can watch their meals being prepared
from the lodge's vegetable garden (shamba) to the table, making food an
integral part of the safari experience. This setup allows for an engaging and
interactive dining experience.
Safari Shop
The well-stocked Safari Shop at the camp offers a variety of
beautiful, locally-sourced home décor items, handicrafts, and fashion pieces.
Guests can purchase authentic Maasai jewelry and décor made by the local
community of Saparingo, as well as hand-knitted toys from Kenana Knitters.
Tusker Bar
Named after the legendary Kenyan beer, the Tusker Bar serves
as the central hub of the camp. Guests gather here for tea before their
afternoon drives and enjoy drinks with their guides in the evening before
dinner. The bar also hosts Maasai performances, adding a cultural touch to the
safari experience.
Conference Facilities
&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp is equipped with various areas
for setting up conference facilities, making it an ideal location for both
leisure and business. The main conference space is located above the bar area
and is equipped with a projector, Wi-Fi, and an interactive TV room, catering
to the needs of corporate groups and events.
Massage Tent
The Kichwa Tembo massage tent offers a serene space for
single or couples treatments. The therapists are trained in using Healing Earth
products, a naturally sourced African wellness brand, providing guests with
relaxing and rejuvenating experiences amidst the beauty of the Mara.
Activities and Experiences
Safari Game Drives
&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp offers spectacular safari game
drives in customized, open vehicles. Guests can expect to encounter large
numbers of plains game, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs, as well as
experience predator interactions year-round. These drives provide an immersive
and thrilling wildlife experience in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Bush Walks
For those seeking a more intimate connection with nature,
the camp provides privately-guided bush walks. This activity allows guests to
discover the natural wonders of the Mara on foot, following wildlife trails,
learning tracking skills, and interpreting the signs and sounds of the bush.
The use of courtesy SWAROVSKI OPTIK binoculars enhances this ground-level
exploration.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
Guests can experience the Masai Mara from a unique
perspective with a hot air balloon safari. As the balloon ascends at dawn, it
offers a bird’s-eye view of the Mara’s vast plains and diverse wildlife. The
hour-long flight concludes with a champagne breakfast in the bush, reminiscent
of the romantic scenes from "Out of Africa."
Maasai Village Visit
A visit to a traditional Maasai village provides an
authentic cultural experience. Guests can witness daily rituals, explore the
Maasai Craft Centre, and purchase handmade artifacts. This interaction supports
the local community, as all proceeds from the craft purchases go directly to
the Maasai people.
Night Drives on the Private Concession
Unlike within the national reserve, night drives are allowed
on the camp’s private concession. These drives reveal the nocturnal side of the
Mara, where guests can see predators and other night-active creatures coming to
life under the cover of darkness.
Bush Dining and Picnics
Guests can enjoy al fresco dining experiences with bush
breakfasts, lunches, or picnics. The camp’s guides select picturesque spots in
the wilderness, setting up tables for a memorable meal surrounded by nature.
These experiences combine gourmet food with the beauty of the African
landscape.
Wellness Treatments
After a day of exploration, guests can indulge in Healing
Earth wellness treatments offered at the Kichwa Tembo massage tent. Treatments
can also be arranged in the privacy of guest tents, providing a relaxing end to
an adventure-filled day.
Sundowners on the Escarpment
A beloved safari tradition, sundowners at &Beyond Kichwa
Tembo Camp are enjoyed on the famous Oloololo Escarpment. This location offers
breathtaking views of the Masai Mara, making it the perfect spot to watch the
sunset with a refreshing drink in hand.
Dining and Cuisine
&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp offers a variety of dining
options that cater to different preferences and occasions. Guests can enjoy
delicious meals prepared by skilled chefs using fresh, locally-sourced
ingredients. The camp provides plated service, buffets, and an interactive
kitchen experience, ensuring that dining is an integral and enjoyable part of
the safari experience.
Interactive Kitchen Experience
One of the unique features of &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp
is its interactive kitchen. Guests can watch their meals being prepared from
the lodge's vegetable garden (shamba) to the table. This setup allows for a
lively and engaging dining atmosphere, where guests can interact with the chefs
and learn about the culinary techniques and ingredients used in their meals.
Private Dining
For couples and those seeking a more intimate dining
experience, the camp offers exclusive dining location options. Guests can enjoy
private dinners set up in picturesque spots around the camp, such as by the
pool or overlooking the Mara plains. These private dining experiences are
tailored to create memorable and romantic moments.
Bush Dining
&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp takes the dining experience
into the wilderness with bush dining options. Guests can relish an open-air
breakfast on the banks of the Mara River or on the Oloololo Escarpment. These
meals, served in the wilds of Africa, are reminiscent of the adventurous spirit
of early explorers and add a touch of romance to the safari experience.
Dietary Options
The camp is committed to accommodating various dietary requirements. While kosher options are not available, guests can request halal and other special dietary options in advance. The chefs are dedicated to ensuring that all guests enjoy delicious and satisfying meals tailored to their needs.
Family-Friendly Features
&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp is committed to providing an
enjoyable safari experience for families. The camp's child policy ensures that
children of various ages can participate in different activities:
- 0 -
5 Years: Children can join game drives only in a private vehicle or on
special children's game drives that avoid lions, leopards, and elephants.
No walks outside the lodge are allowed.
- 6 -
11 Years: Children can participate in regular game drives at the
discretion of the lodge manager but are not allowed to join walks outside
the lodge.
- 12
- 15 Years: Children can join all game drives but not walks outside
the lodge.
- 16
Years and Above: All activities are available.
Activities for Kids
The WILDchild program at &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp is
designed to engage and entertain young guests through a variety of fun and
educational activities. Children can:
- Participate
in bush walks.
- Join a
Maasai spear throwing competition.
- Learn
fire-making the Maasai way.
- Play
soccer with the camp’s team.
- Visit
a nearby Maasai village.
- Prepare
a Ranger’s omelette breakfast on a game drive.
- Create
colorful items and learn beadwork.
Family Accommodation Options
The camp offers specially designed Superior Family Tents,
which consist of two interconnected tents with an ensuite bathroom and private
veranda. These tents can accommodate up to two adults and two children (three
children on request), making them ideal for families. The tents provide ample
space and privacy, ensuring that families can enjoy their time together while
experiencing the African bush.
Childminding Services
While &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Camp does not have trained
childminders, certain staff members who are wonderful with children can offer
their services at an additional cost. This ensures that parents can enjoy some
relaxation time while knowing their children are well taken care of.
