Discover Hemingways River Camp Mara

Your Signature Safari with Beyond Kenya Safaris

Imagine waking to the gentle murmur of the Njageteck River as the African sun filters through ancient trees, and a distant fish-eagle calls signal the magic at Hemingways River Camp Mara.

Once known as Richard’s River Camp, this exclusive retreat has been lovingly reimagined under the prestigious Hemingways collection and now offers the perfect blend of safari charm and luxury.

Moreover, as your trusted safari partner, Beyond Kenya Safaris is proud to offer you privileged access to this extraordinary destination.

Why Choose Hemingways River Camp Mara?

An Intimate, Personalized Escape

With just eight individually designed tents, including a Family Suite and a Private Suite, this camp delivers an intimate, crowd-free experience that larger lodges simply cannot match. The camp’s setup ensures guests enjoy privacy and a tailored stay, where the surroundings and layout contribute to a connected, yet unobtrusive atmosphere.

The exceptional staff-to-guest ratio means every detail is tailored to you. From remembering your favorite cocktail to surprising you with a candlelit bush dinner beneath the stars, service consistently adapts to individual preferences. Each interaction reflects careful planning and thoughtful hospitality.

One recent guest described their stay as “the best experience of our lives,” praising the “personal, warm, and truly thoughtful” service that made their honeymoon unforgettable

This is the kind of heartfelt hospitality that turns a safari into a story.

Moreover, such experiences become stories you’ll tell for years to come.

Unrivaled Location in the Mara North Conservancy

Location – In the Heart of the Mara Ecosystem

Hemingways River Camp Mara sits within the exclusive Mara North Conservancy, a 73,000-acre private wilderness bordering the Maasai Mara National Reserve

. Here, you’ll enjoy:

Exceptional wildlife viewing without the crowds—game drives start right from your tent veranda
Night drives and guided bush walks not permitted in the main reserve
Front-row seats to the Great Migration (July–October), when millions of wildebeest and zebra thunder across the plains

Firstly, Hemingways River Camp Mara offers a safari experience that felt unbelievable. Secondly, guests reported seeing almost every animal they could dream of. Finally, they credit their expert guide for tracking giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and two rhinos.

Luxurious Tents with Soul

Each tent is a sanctuary of comfort and style. Liz Roberts, wife of founder Richard Roberts, personally curated the antique furnishings and vibrant textiles that give each tent its distinctive character

. Your tent features:

47 square meters of elegant space with king or twin beds draped in luxurious linens
En-suite bathrooms with both indoor and solar-heated outdoor showers
Private verandas with swing seats overlooking the river
In-tent WiFi, electronic safes, and hot water bottles for cool Mara nights

The Family Suite (180 sq. m) offers two en-suite bedrooms with a central lounge, perfect for families seeking both togetherness and privacy

Dining Under the African Sky

Food is an event at Hemingways River Camp. Meals are served in the open-fronted mess tent with sweeping views over the riverine forest

. But the true magic lies in the bush:

Surprise bush breakfasts cooked in the middle of nature—a highlight for honeymooners
Three-course candlelit dinners beside a lantern-lit fire in the heart of the bush
Happy hours with cocktails by the campfire, or even set up mid-safari for an unforgettable sundowner “The food was outstanding every single day… every dinner felt like a chef meal,” raves one delighted guest

Safari Experiences Beyond the Ordinary

Beyond game drives, Hemingways River Camp offers experiences that connect you deeply with the land and its people:

Photographic safaris with expert-led sessions to hone your wildlife photography
Hot air balloon safaris at dawn, followed by a champagne breakfast
Maasai cultural visits to learn about ancient traditions and support local communities
Children’s activities—storytelling, nature walks, and creative play, making this an ideal family safari

Conservation with Heart

The camp’s roots run deep in conservation. Founder Richard Roberts established the Mara Elephant Project (MEP) in 2011, addressing human-wildlife conflict and anti-poaching . Today, Hemingways River Camp is a proud tourism partner in the Mara North Conservancy, supporting over 1,000 Maasai community landowners through education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods

When you choose this camp, your stay directly contributes to preserving the Greater Maasai Mara for future generations.

The Hemingways Collection Difference

With over 40 years of hospitality excellence, the Hemingways Collection is renowned for its brand ethos: “Every Stay a Story”

. This is not just a tagline; it’s a promise of meaningful, emotionally resonant experiences that linger long after you return home.

Exclusive Offer: Stay 3, Pay 2

For travel between 1 September and 17 December 2026, Hemingways River Camp is offering an incredible Stay 3, Pay 2 promotion

. Your package includes:

Full-board accommodation
Two shared game drives daily
Shared bush breakfast and night drive (minimum 3-night stay)
Guided bush walk (1.5 hours per stay)
Return airstrip transfers
In-tent minibar with water and soft drinks
Complimentary WiFi

This is the perfect opportunity to extend your safari and immerse yourself fully in the Mara’s wonders.

Book Your Story with Beyond Kenya Safaris

Hemingways River Camp Mara is more than accommodation—it’s a journey into the heart of Africa, where every sunrise brings new wonders, every meal is a celebration, and every moment becomes a treasured memory.

Let Beyond Kenya Safaris craft your perfect safari itinerary. We’ll handle every detail—from flights and transfers to exclusive experiences—so you can focus on what truly matters: embracing the wild.

Contact us today to secure your stay at Hemingways River Camp Mara and discover why this is one of Kenya’s most sought-after safari experiences.

“This was the best experience we have ever had in every way. The service, the safari, the food, the atmosphere, and the people were all exceptional. We will never forget it.” — Guest Review, January 2026

Continue Your Kenyan Journey with Beyond Kenya Safaris]

Your safari doesn’t have to end in the Maasai Mara. The Hemingways Collection offers a portfolio of exceptional properties across Kenya, each telling its own unique story. As your trusted partner, Beyond Kenya Safaris can craft a seamless multi-center itinerary that combines the thrill of the Mara with the serenity of the coast or the elegance of Nairobi.

Hemingways Ol Seki Mara: An Exclusive Safari in Naboisho Conservancy:-Experience another facet of the Mara at this sister camp. Perched on an escarpment in the private Naboisho Conservancy, Ol Seki Mara offers an equally exclusive and uncrowded safari, with a focus on big cat sightings and intimate bush experiences Hemingways Nairobi: A Luxury City Retreat in Karen :Begin or end your safari in style at the flagship property. Nestled in the leafy suburb of Karen with views of the Ngong Hills, this boutique hotel is the perfect base to explore Nairobi’s attractions like the Giraffe Centre and Nairobi National Park
Hemingways Watamu: Barefoot Luxury on the Indian Ocean :-Extend your adventure to the coast. Located on the pristine shores of Watamu Marine National Park, this beach resort offers a perfect contrast to the safari, with opportunities for snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, and exploring the Arabuko Sokoke Forest
Hemingways Eden Residence: An Artistic Sanctuary in Nairobi :-For a truly unique stay, consider this private, art-filled estate in a tranquil forest setting in Karen. It’s an exclusive and creative haven for those seeking something different in the capital

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.

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

Richard’s River Camp Rates in US$

Rates and Seasons 2026

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

Terms & Conditions

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 Dinners 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

Included: 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 inquire); 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 traveling 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.