Source: Kempinski
Source: Kempinski

Kempinski Hotels today opened the doors (or rather tent flaps) to its all-inclusive Olare Mara Kempinski, Masai Mara Tented Camp. As the company's first property in Kenya, the Camp is located in the Olare Orok Conservancy Masai Mara, a one hour flight from Nairobi or 90 minutes from Mombasa. The Masai Mara is a large game reserve that stretches 1,510 sq km (580 sq miles) and rises 1,500- 2,170 metres above sea level. The terrain is primarily grassland and forest with clumps of distinctive acacia trees. Famous for the abundance of lions, the great wildebeest migration and the homeland of the Masai people, the Camp will allow guests to experience Africa at its finest.

"Adventure in the Masai Mara is the latest Kempinski experience we're proud to offer sophisticated travellers," said Reto Wittwer, CEO and President, Kempinski Hotels. "Exceptional scenery, intimate dining and the opportunity to interact with nature can all be enjoyed, together with Kempinski's style, comfort and service."

Accessible via twice daily air transfer on Air Kenya or Safarilink from Nairobi and one daily flight from Mombasa, Olare Mara Kempinski is hidden in a grove of woodland on the banks of the Ntiakitiak River and accommodates a total of maximum 24 guests at any one time. Each tent is furnished in the classic style of the grand African safaris with four poster or twin beds, outdoor and indoor showers with oversized old fashioned claw foot bathtub and a teak deck spread over 80 sq metres. One of the tents features its own plunge pool.

Designed for active adult travelers, the Camp presents a wide variety of on-site and off-site activities including game drives in 4X4 Land cruisers with knowledgeable safari guides, night safaris, escorted bird, game and nature walks, Masai village visits, bush breakfast at the hippo pool or early morning balloon safaris over the Masai Mara National Reserve. All trackers, rangers and guides have a minimum of Bronze Level KSPGA qualification.

Guests can also relax in the Camp's pool after a long day of activities or enjoy a sundowner on the deck at the main lodge or around the campfire. Keeping with the traditions of rural Africa, Olare Mara Kempinski offers guests a daily set menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner at communal or individual tables in the restaurant. Dinners can also be scheduled under the stars in the bush amid wildlife under the protection of Masai warriors.

Olare Mara Kempinski prides itself on being an eco-friendly resort that believes in taking care of the environment. From growing its own fresh produce in the largest organic garden in the conservancy to sourcing solar power for 70% of its energy needs, the camp ensures that it does not harm the fragile ecosystem of the grasslands.

The recommended itinerary includes a 3 night/4 day stay to allow guests to take in the excitement of the Masai Mara while giving ample time to relax. Packages offered are all inclusive starting with airstrip transfers, full board including beverages, two game drives per day and conservancy fees starting from $435 per night per person (double occupancy).

With the opening of Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi in spring 2013 a visit to the Camp can be seamlessly combined with stays in the capital city.

About Kempinski

Created in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe's oldest luxury hotel group. Kempinski's rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today the Kempinski Group operates 82 hotels and residences in 34 countries and currently has more than 25 prestigious projects under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each one imbues the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands. www.kempinski.com www.ghadiscovery.com