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Richard’s River Camp-The Best Luxury Camp in Masai Mara Kenya

Sunset at Richards River Camp

Richard’s River Camp – Luxury Safari in the Heart of the Masai Mara!

Imagine waking to the hushed lull of the Mara River, the distant roar of a lion carried on the breeze, and the soft glow of dawn spreading across endless savannah. At Richard’s River Camp, every sunrise is a front-row seat to Africa’s wild theater — intimate, unspoiled, and unforgettable. This isn’t just another Masai Mara safari lodge; it’s a secluded eco-luxury retreat where nature dictates the rhythm of your days.


A Camp Born from Passion and Conservation

Richard’s River Camp was founded by the Roberts family, whose deep connection to the Masai Mara spans generations. Built initially as a private retreat, the camp was opened to a select number of guests seeking an authentic safari experience. Today, it remains one of the most exclusive luxury safari camps in Kenya, blending high-end comfort with a true sense of wilderness.

The camp also plays a role in Mara Elephant Project and conservation initiatives, ensuring that every stay directly contributes to preserving the fragile ecosystem and supporting local communities.


Nestled on the banks of the Njageteck River, a tributary of the Mara River, the camp sits in prime wildlife country. Its position allows easy access to:

  • Masai Mara National Reserve for the Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October).
  • The Mara North Conservancy, known for fewer crowds and excellent predator sightings.
  • Seasonal river crossings, where crocodiles and big cats await the herds.

For those looking to combine their Mara safari with Kenya’s finest properties, consider pairing a stay at Richard’s with [Hemingways Nairobi] for a city–to–safari transition, or escape afterward to [Hemingways Watamu] on the Indian Ocean coast for barefoot luxury.


Accommodation – Luxury Tents by the River

Richard’s River Camp offers just seven spacious en-suite canvas tents, ensuring privacy and exclusivity.

  • Design: Elegant interiors with hand-crafted furniture, warm textiles, and private verandas overlooking the river.
  • Facilities: King-size beds, flush toilets, hot showers, and eco-friendly solar power.
  • Family Tents: Options available for small groups or families traveling together.

Each tent provides a seamless blend of wilderness immersion and modern comfort, making it one of the best luxury safari lodges in Masai Mara.


Safari Experiences at Richard’s Camp

Game Drives & The Great Migration

Morning and evening drives with expert Maasai guides take you into both the Mara National Reserve and surrounding conservancies. Between July and October, the spectacle of wildebeest herds crossing crocodile-filled rivers is a once-in-a-lifetime highlight.

Bush Walks & Cultural Encounters

Guided walking safaris reveal smaller wonders — birdlife, animal tracks, medicinal plants — while cultural visits with Maasai communities add depth to the experience.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Optional sunrise balloon flights offer panoramic views of the plains, followed by champagne breakfast in the bush.

If you’re combining Kenya’s top safari destinations, Richard’s pairs beautifully with other boutique camps such as Saruni Samburu in the rugged northern frontier or Sanctuary Tambarare in Laikipia.


Dining – A Feast in the Wild

Dining at Richard’s Camp is a highlight of every stay:

  • Bush Breakfasts: Served after early morning game drives, often under acacia trees.
  • Three-Course Dinners: Gourmet meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
  • Sundowners: Classic safari cocktails overlooking elephant herds at dusk.

For a coastal finale, many guests extend their journey to Sirai Beach orAlfajiri Villas at Diani — perfect complements to a safari adventure.


Sustainability & Conservation Ethos

Richard’s River Camp operates on solar power, eco-waste systems, and sustainable water management. The camp actively supports anti-poaching initiatives and community education. By choosing Richard’s, you directly support wildlife conservation in the Masai Mara.


Best Time to Visit Richard’s River Camp

  • July–October: Prime for the Great Wildebeest Migration.
  • November–March: Lush green season, excellent predator action.
  • April–May: The quieter “green season” — dramatic skies, lower rates, and fewer visitors.

Why Stay at Richard’s River Camp?

  • Seven tents ensure exclusivity and privacy.
  • Exceptional location for both migration safaris and year-round game viewing.
  • Luxurious yet eco-conscious design.
  • Easy to combine with Hemingways Collection properties or other luxury safari camps in Kenya for a seamless itinerary.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic safari in Kenya, a family safari holiday, or a private tented camp in Masai Mara, Richard’s River Camp delivers an unforgettable experience that celebrates both wilderness and comfort.


4-Day Sample Itinerary at Richard’s River Camp

Day 1 – Nairobi to the Masai Mara
Overnight at [Hemingways Nairobi] before flying to the Mara. Arrive at Richard’s River Camp, settle into your riverside tent, and enjoy an evening game drive.

Day 2 – Full-Day Safari
Explore the Masai Mara with packed bush breakfast. Track lions, elephants, and during migration season, wildebeest crossings. Evening sundowners and dinner under the stars.

Day 3 – Walks & Culture
Guided bush walk and optional hot air balloon safari. Afternoon visit to a Maasai community.

Day 4 – Departure or Extension
Final morning drive and breakfast before returning to Nairobi. Continue on to [Saruni Samburu], [Ol Pejeta Bush Camp], or [Hemingways Watamu] for coastal relaxation.


When to Visit

  • July–October: Great Migration spectacle.
  • November–March: Excellent predator action and birding.
  • April–May: Green season with dramatic skies and fewer visitors.

Why Choose Richard’s River Camp?

  • Just seven tents for exclusivity.
  • Prime Mara River location with year-round game.
  • Luxury meets eco-sustainability.
  • Easy to combine with [Hemingways Hotels] and other luxury camps in Kenya.

Whether you seek a romantic safari retreat, a family adventure, or a private luxury lodge in the Masai Mara, Richard’s River Camp delivers unforgettable experiences in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.


Suggested Reading:Cottar’s 1920s Camp and Segera Retreat

Richard’s River Camp Rates in US$

Seasons  Per Adult Sharing  Single Supplement  Child (13-17 years)  Child(5 – 12 years)  Original family Tent  Private Family Tent
  Premium$1,550$1,550*$1,162$775$5,580$6,200
 High$1,395$1,395*$1,046$698$5,022$5,580
Standard$990$990*$723$495$3,564$3,960
  

Seasons

  • Premium:-1st July – 31st August and 18th December 2025 – 5th January 2026
  • High:-1st – 30th June, 1st September – 31st October and 1st – 17th December 2025
  • Standard:-7th January – 31st May and November 2025

BOOKING NOTES – IMPORTANT SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:

  • One free single supplement based on a minimum booking of two rooms. Only 1 free single supplement per booking (additional single occupancy rooms will be charged at an additional 50% of the normal rate).
  • Family Tent: Please see additional notes (on the terms and conditions page), in relation to the pricing of the two family tents.
  • Airstrip Transfers and Bush Dinnrs might be shared.
  • Exclusive Use: This camp is available for exclusive use, please contact us for more info.
  • Guide Rate is $240 per guide, per night plus applicable conservation fees. The guide rate is applicable on a ‘1 guide to 6 clients’ ratio,
  • Exclusive use of vehicle: $450 per car, per day (subject to availability). CONSERVATION FEES: Please note that these can change at any stage without warning

Iincluded: Full board accommodation; game drives (day and night); sundowner excursions; in house selection of beverages; bush meals (breakfasts, lunches and/or dinners); laundry, guided bush walks; local airstrip road transfers – please note in adverse weather conditions, when the roads are not usable alternative modes of transport may be required and this would be billed directly at cost.

Excluded: Conservation fees $180 per adult, per night and $90 per child (5-17 years) per night, Masai Mara Reserve fees; Champagne, premium spirits & cellar wines; Cultural Visits, $30 per adult or $15 per child – this can be billed in advance or paid directly; Late departure fee ($150 per person), includes a final lunch & final game drive; Balloon safari (please enquire); Gratuities (cash kindly requested) and anything else of a personal nature.

Notes

  • Deposit:-In order to confirm/secure your booking, you will need to pay a 20% non-refundable deposit. Provisional bookings will be held for 14 days before they automatically expire from the system, it is the responsibility of the agent/guest to extend this provisional period through negotiation with our reservations staff should this be required.
  • Full Confirmation and Payment:-Full payment must be received 60 days in advance. On receipt of full payment, a final reservation summary will be issued.
  • Exclusive use of Vehicle:A booking of 4 or more people will automatically secure an exclusive use vehicle, free of charge. We will endeavor to provide all smaller bookings with their own vehicle, however this cannot always be guaranteed. Should you wish to secure an exclusive car in advance, the charge will be $450 per car, per day.
  • Single Supplement:- free single supplement based on a minimum booking of 2 rooms. Only 1 free single supplement per booking allowed. Additional single occupancy rooms will be charged at an additional 50% of the normal rate.
  • Refunds:-Whilst Fire Lily Ltd endeavors to ensure that all anticipated accommodation is available as planned, there shall be no claim whatsoever against Fire Lily Ltd for a refund either in whole or in part, if any accommodation or excursion is unavailable.
  • Insurance:-Any person that travels to Richard’s Camp, or undertakes a tour with us, is required to have comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover cancellation, medical expenses, personal baggage, and money. It is mandatory that all guests have a temporary Flying Doctors Membership (air evacuation in medical emergencies) where relevant in Kenya. Please see www.flydoc.org for more info and to sign up.
  • PLEASE NOTE:-In the event of increase in taxes, training levy, services charges, Fire Lily Ltd reserves the right to adjust all contract rates accordingly from the date of such change, and without prior notice

Cancellation Policy

  • All cancellations must be made in writing.:-Confirmation to 90 days prior to arrival 20% of the total value of the booking will be forfeited.
  • 89 days to 46 days prior to arrival 60% of the total value of the booking will be forfeited.
  • 45 days to arrival 100% of the total value of the booking will be forfeited.
  • Cancellation during travel or stay 100% of the total value of the booking will be forfeited. NOTE: We consider the conservation fees to be included in the value of the booking.

Child Policy

  • Children who are under 5 years of age at the time of travel, stay free of charge.
  • The child rate is split between two age brackets, that is 5-12 years and 13-17 years of age. Child rates apply to those who fall into either of those age brackets at the time of travel.
  • The adult rate applies to those who are 18 years and over, at the time of travel.
  • Child rates are applicable for up to two children in either age bracket, sharing with two adults.
  • Should children wish to be accommodated in a separate tent on their own, the cost of the tent will be based on one adult and one child sharing (we do not advise children who are 13 years and younger to stay in a tent on their own).
  • Child conservation fees of $90 per child, per night, apply to those who are between the ages of 5 years to 17 years at the time of travel.

Family Tents and Luxury Tents

The family tents are our preferred accommodation option for families and were designed specifically with this in mind.

  • The rate for the Original Family is applicable for families travelling with children 17 years and under, for 4 adults sharing over the age of 17 then the rate would be based on the adult per person sharing rate. This tent can accommodate a family of up to 6
  • The rate for the Private Family Tent is applicable for up to 4 guests of any age, any additional guests would be charged at the applicable per person rate. This tent can accommodate a family of 6 although 2 extra beds can be easily added for a larger family , maximum 8 guests.

The Camp 6 luxury tents can accommodate up to 4 family members, provided the children are aged 12 or under, although we would advise for 3 people to share this space – please refer to the fact sheet for more information. Children in their own tent would be calculated as a minimum of 1 adult & 1 child, should 3 children be sharing a tent together then the rate of 1 adult & 2 children would be applicable.

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Guest Testimonials for Richard’s Camp


At Richard’s Camp, the feedback from guests is as radiant as the African sun, illuminating the exceptional experiences had by those who have ventured into the heart of the Masai Mara. Here’s what guests are saying:
“A Surreal Experience”
“Staying at Richard’s Camp was like stepping into a dream. The close encounters with wildlife, the luxurious yet authentically African tents, and the starry night safaris were out of this world. I felt entirely at one with nature.”
“Exceptional Service”
“From the moment we stepped foot in the camp, the staff made us feel like royalty. Their attention to detail and warm hospitality made our safari experience truly memorable. It’s clear that guest satisfaction is their top priority.”
“Culinary Delight in the Bush”
“The food at Richard’s Camp was a delightful surprise. Dining under the vast African sky with meals that could rival top restaurants added an unexpected layer of luxury to our adventure.”
“Unmatched Wildlife Viewing”
“Our game drives were simply astounding. Each day felt like a new chapter in a wildlife documentary, with expert guides who not only found incredible animal sightings but also shared their knowledge passionately.”
artfelt hospitality, a stay at Richard’s Camp