Angama Mara
If you’ve seen Out of Africa, then you are familiar with the wonders of the Maasai Mara. In fact, Angama Mara is the exact site of some of this iconic film’s most famous scenes. In Swahili, “Angama” means “suspended in mid air” which makes the perfect name for this ideally located camp. Angama Mara is situated in the northern corner of the Mara Triangle, just north of the reserve, atop a 1000-ft escarpment overlooking the Great Rift Valley. The views here are to die for and they are beautifully incorporated into every aspect of the property.
The property consists of two separate camps, each consisting of 15 tented suites. The property is spread out along 3 different kopjes; 2 designated for the 2 separate camps, and one is kept untouched for private romantic picnics (think Robert Redford and Meryl Streep style romance). It’s ideal for couples and families alike as there are 2 sets of 2 inter leading tents in each camp (in addition to the fact that they accept children of all ages and offer free babysitting services). There is even a wheelchair accessible tent available. Each suite offers 180-degree views over the valley with 30-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and beautiful private decks. It’s the perfect place to curl up with a book and a glass of wine to watch the plains below and ever-changing skies. You’ll often see hot air balloons floating by at eye level (very dreamy!). If you need help relaxing, a masseuse is available for in-suite massages. If you’re looking for something more active, there is a fitness center on premise (very rare in the Mara) or you’re welcome to walk the 1.2 kms from the airstrip to the camp.
Activities available are bush walks along the escarpment, game drives, night drives, and romantic picnics. Community visits and hot air balloon rides are available at cost. Angama Mara is very accessible with several daily flights from Nairobi to their private airstrip and they offer bag storage, lunch, and full use of the facilities if you have a later flight out of the Mara.
Angama Mara is owned by Steve and Nicky Fitzgerald, a family that’s been in the safari world for several years and they’re supported by a massive team of local Maasai. The food and service here is great (140 staff to maximum 60 guests). Our only qualm is that the property’s unique design element does not blend well with its surroundings which won’t be to everyone’s tastes. But if you’re looking for ultra luxury and don’t mind a structure that stands out, this is a fabulous option. We think combining Angama Mara with Mara Plains for the real tented camp experience would make for a fabulous safari in the Maasai Mara.
Our Favorite Mara Accommodation on a Map
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