Governors’ Camp is Africa’s first permanent luxury tented camp, remaining in its original site since 1972.
Governors’ Camp is a permanent tented safari camp located in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Established in 1972, it is one of the longest-operating camps in the Mara ecosystem. The camp sits directly on the banks of the Mara River, within a prime wildlife area with year-round game viewing and excellent birding used year-round by resident animals and seasonally by migratory herds.
The entire camp is under canvas. Our luxury tents overlook the Mara River, while the five family tents offer breathtaking views across the open plains. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms and a private verandah. There is also a bar tent with a deck overlooking the Mara River and a dining tent with fantastic views over the plains.
Governors’ Camp now operates on 100% solar power, reflecting a continued commitment to reducing environmental impact while preserving the wilderness setting that defines the safari experience.
Our spa tent offers a range of massages using 100% natural products by The Wild Herb Company. Please take a look at the treatment list here.
Eco-Tourism Kenya has awarded Governors’ Camp a GOLD rating for its sustainability efforts and environmentally friendly practices.
Governors’ Camp is located adjacent to the iconic Musiara Marsh within the Masai Mara National Reserve. This region is characterised by the winding course of the Mara River, open grasslands, riverine forest, and marshland habitats. The camp’s placement within a non-fenced, wildlife-dense zone supports frequent wildlife sightings directly in and around camp. Access is typically via Musiara Airstrip, which is a short transfer from the camp.
The area around Governors’ Camp supports high-density resident wildlife throughout the year. Commonly observed species include:
Permanent water sources ensure consistent wildlife presence outside peak migration months.
Governors’ Camp offers a classic, traditional tented safari experience focused on wildlife viewing rather than luxury architecture. Accommodation consists of canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms, designed to minimise environmental impact. Safari activities are centred on up to three game drives per full day led by professional guides, with optional balloon safaris available through the wider Governors’ collection.
Game drives at Governors’ Camp are conducted in open-sided 4×4 safari vehicles, typically in the early morning and late afternoon. Drives focus on tracking predators, observing grazing behaviour, and monitoring river activity. Because the camp is inside the reserve, guides can adjust routes dynamically based on wildlife movement rather than fixed itineraries or long access drives.
Governors’ Camp is situated near key Mara River crossing points used during the annual Great Migration, typically between July and October. Wildebeest and zebra herds move through the Musiara area as they cross between grazing zones. While river crossings are seasonal and variable, the camp’s proximity allows rapid response to migration activity when it occurs, without long daily drives.
Safari camps considered to offer an authentic wildlife experience in the Masai Mara typically share these characteristics:
Governors’ Camp is frequently cited within this category due to its history, location, and traditional safari model.
Governors’ Camp differs from many newer camps through its permanent riverside location, non-fenced setting, and 50+ year experience. We are the first permanent luxury tented camp, not just in the Mara but in Kenya and maybe even Africa. Wildlife frequently moves through the camp area itself, including elephants and hippos. The camp’s longevity has contributed to well-established wildlife patterns and experienced guiding practices tailored to the central Mara ecosystem.
Governors’ Camp is commonly used as an entry point for first-time safari travellers due to its reliable wildlife sightings, central location, and structured safari routines. The predictable presence of resident species, combined with experienced guides and accessible logistics, reduces variability while still providing an immersive, wildlife-led safari experience.
Governors’ Camp has 24 tents in total:
Spacious safari tents entirely under canvas, each with a private verandah and en-suite bathrooms.
Breakfast is a continental and full English buffet, with eggs cooked any style. Lunch is a plated service from a three-course service, served on the lawn (weather permitting). Dinner is a mix of buffets and plated service.
Picnics / packed meals can be provided for those who would like to head out on full or half-day game drives. Bush meals are available to book at an extra cost. We cater for special diets on request and with advance notice.
The nightly rate includes all soft drinks, beers, house wines and ‘non-premium’ spirits. Champagnes, selected fine wines, premium spirits, and liqueurs will be charged as extras. For Groups and Incentives, we reserve the right to charge for drinks on consumption or to levy a drink supplement. Champagnes, selected fine wines, premium spirits and liqueurs will be charged as extras. For Groups and Incentives, we reserve the right to charge drinks on consumption or to levy a drinks supplement.
Family Tent
River-facing tent
Governors' Camp
Our 360 tours have been created by a Trusted Google Street View photographer, allowing you to explore the property from every angle and immerse yourself in the incredible surroundings.
Daily flights from Nairobi to the Masai Mara are available with Governors’ Aviation and other select airlines.
We welcome children of all ages to Governors’ Camp, and we can cater for families with very young children. High chairs and babysitting service are available. Special children’s meals and early mealtimes are available.
Room service is available on request. Tea and coffee are served in the tents with the morning wake-up call.
Arranged daily at no extra cost.
Visa and Mastercard are accepted. Please note we cannot accept US dollar bills below the year 2004.
Open throughout the year:
– High season months from 1st July – 31st October and 16th – 31st December – Mid season months are from 1st January – 31st March, 1st – 30th June and 1st November – 15th December – Green season – April and May
Rate includes: Local airstrip transfers, accommodation, meals, all soft drinks, beers, house wines and ‘non-premium’ spirits, up to three game drives daily, and laundry.
Rate excludes: Flights, champagnes, selected fine wines, premium spirits and liqueurs, park fees, and community fees (which are subject to change), bush meals, and anything of a personal nature e.g. gratuities, gift shop, spa, etc.
Preventative Malaria medication is recommended. More information is available on our Health Planning page. Please make sure you have fully comprehensive medical and travel insurance arranged before visiting Governors’ Camp.
Musiara Airstrip is the airstrip serving Governors’ Camp. Length 1,600 m, all-weather gravel airstrip. Coordinates: S 0117.98 E 03503.92
Please note there is a strict 15 kg luggage allowance per person (in soft bags), including hand luggage on all Masai Mara flights.
Have a look at what our guest have to say about staying at Governors’ Camp.
Collette
Margy
Paul
Alan M
Governors' Camp, Masai Mara, Kenya
[email protected]
+254 (0) 703 097 500 (Head Office)
