Julia's River Camp

We had the most amazing, authentic safari experience in Masai Mara staying at Julia’s River Camp. We stayed in the VIP Camp for 4 days and their service was excellent. The staff were friendly and helpful, and attentive to our needs. The tent/room was clean and was newly renovated (just middle of this year, I heard). It is right in front of the river so it has the best view, especially during sunrise. I already miss the sound of the hippos in the morning. The game drives were excellent. It exceeded my expectation, thanks to our very experienced driver. The only down side is the food. Sometimes the chef’s cooking is bland, sometimes too salty, but I appreciate that they try to mix their menu with different dishes per meal for variety. Overall, Julia’s River Camp offered great value accommodations for the budget-friendly fees they charged. If you want better dining experience and fancy camp facilities, then choose the more luxury camp options. But if you’re looking for an affordable yet comfortable glamping experience, I’d say Julia’s (at least for their VIP Camp section) is a great choice.

I was traveling with my 6-year-old son, and staying at Julia’s River Camp was like stepping into a National Geographic documentary, except with better food! The camp is inside the Masai Mara Reserve, and trust me, that makes all the difference. From the moment we landed at the Ol Kiombi airstrip, the adventure began. The tents are spacious and luxurious, blending comfort with the raw beauty of nature. The Italian roots of the owner shine through in the food: delicious, abundant, and well beyond expectations. Think restaurant-quality meals with an African twist. The staff made the experience unforgettable, especially for my son. They taught him how to be a Masai warrior: complete with traditional attire, skills, and even a few words in Maa. When it was time to leave, he cried, heartbroken to say goodbye to his new friends. And then there’s Kantai, our guide: a legend in the Masai Mara. This man has the eyes of a hawk (or maybe a lion). He could spot a camouflaged predator from miles away. He was patient, knowledgeable, and had a great sense of humor. And let’s talk about the game drive vehicle: an open SUV that was by far the best we used anywhere in Kenya. Spacious, comfortable, and offering unbeatable views!!! Oh, and did I mention the hippos and crocodiles? You can see them in the river right from the camp! But don’t worry, it’s totally safe. And for those who need to stay connected, they have Starlink WiFi, which is a game-changer. If I ever return to the Masai Mara, this is where I’m staying.

Wonderful experience with exceptional personnel who genuinely care for one's every need to ensure 100% enjoyment throughout the visit. Beautifully located inside Masai Mara on the banks of the Talek River with each tent and restaurant overlooking its view. The food is excellent with each delicious dish professionally presented and served this makes for an anticipated enthusiasm for the next meal! Then following a long and highly fulfilling day one falls asleep on the comfortable bed to the valuable bush sounds of hippos snorting and splashing feet away hyenas 'singing' close by and lions roaring regularly. In the morning the same acts as your alarm call! Mark the manager has a true concern for his guests and each small detail is attended to thoughtfully and successfully. I achieved super superb sightings during my 4 nights (wish it were 14) on this unexpectedly amazing first visit to Julia's River Camp although it was my 8th visit to the Mara. The professionalism and consideration cannot be overstated and I have no hesitation in recommending and hopefully return.