Set amongst the forest at the foot of the scenic Oloololo escarpment (the rim of the Great Rift Valley) in Kenya’s iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, is the classic and elegant Bateleur Camp.
Here, amidst the reserve’s astounding year-round concentration of animals, including the seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration, guests can have an unsurpassed wildlife experience. Guests can almost exclusively explore this area on a game drive or on foot, enjoying access to pristine outdoor dining locations.
Comprised of just two intimate camps of nine tented suites each and a family tent; each elegant tent, with its own private butler and housekeeper reflects the ambiance and glamour of Kenyan explorers of old. Slip into a world of hardwood floors, polished silver and copper bathtubs juxtaposed against the romance of the open Mara plains, with their abundant herds of wildlife. Beautifully handcrafted artefacts, fine antiques, leather buttoned Chesterfield sofas, books, and crystal and candlelight adorn the comfortable sitting and dining areas.
Refreshing lap pools in each camp provide cool comfort in between captivating game drives. Delectable cuisine is served in a memorable setting beneath the stars and bush breakfasts and romantic sundowners offer an unforgettable African experience. Adventures at Bateleur Camp include twice-daily game drives, including spot-lit night drives. The camp also offers a range of additional activities such as bush walks, hot air balloon safaris, community excursions, a well- equipped gym and wellness treatments in our massage sala.
Tented Suites
Set among the forests on the edge of the Masai Mara, the elegant tents, with their own private butlers, reflect the style and glamour of vintage Africa. The spacious tented suites have shingle roofs, wooden doors and a private deck. Step out of your elegant tented suited onto the private deck outside and watch the bush around you come to life. The en suite bathroom with its stone shower and warm wood furnishings prepares you for the day’s adventure. While away an hour or two in the deep leather chairs on the veranda, looking out onto the endless African plains.
Family Tent
Two tents joined by a canvas corridor, which can be opened or closed depending on the need of the guests. Thus, the rooms can be sold separately, (with the corridor closed) or together (with the corridor opened).
Game Drives
Set out in an open 4x4 safari vehicle in the company of your guide in search of the incredible wildlife in the Masai Mara. &Beyond’s professionally trained guides will ask you about your favorite wildlife and will do their best to ensure that your preferences are met, whether it is tracking a particular species or spending more time enjoying each sighting, getting to know the habits of the animals. They will also tell you about the vegetation of the region and will explain the behavior of the animals that you come across. In some cases, the guides will be able to identify individual animals and let you know about their history and habits. If the Great Migration is passing through the area, your guide will attempt to catch up with it and spend some time in the midst of the massed herds.
Night Game Drives
The andBeyond Kichwa Tembo concession is the only place where guests can experience night game drives in the Masai Mara. As the sun sinks over the vast horizon, the African bush comes to life with predators and other nocturnal creatures. Guests may have the opportunity to observe fascinating species not normally encountered in daylight.
Bush Breakfast
Enjoy a delicious breakfast in the bush, either on the banks of the Mara River or on the Oloololo Escarpment. Sip champagne (served on request) whilst enjoying the spectacular panoramic views of the plains below.
Bush Dinner
A delicious Pan African meal is served in a memorable setting under the stars, followed by fireside entertainment by our very own Sukuti band. Private dinners can be arranged on request for 2 or more guests within the camp grounds.
Sundowner Cocktails
Enjoy sundowner cocktails at a breathtaking location on the famous Oloololo Escarpment. Watch as the sun sinks over a spectacular classical safari landscape from a vantage point that commands views over the entire Masai Mara.
Guided Walks
Make the most the incredible scenery and views at andBeyond Bateleur Camp by enjoying a guided walk. There are three walking routes to choose from, each exploring different areas and lasting approximately two hours. The Kichwa Nature Trail winds through riverine forest and follows the perimeter of Sabaringo Creek, home to fantastic birdlife. The Mara Hippo Trail offers an exciting opportunity to explore the wilderness on foot, through the plains, riverine forest, savannah grasslands and bush land surrounding the camp and on to the Mara River. The Oloololo Escarpment Trail leads from the camp to the top of the escarpment and boasts breathtaking views of the Mara reserve, the Mara river and riverine forest.
Morning Balloon Safari (Additional cost)
Be a part of the Masai Mara by air. Enjoy breathtakingly beautiful views of the morning's sunrise. Marvel at the diverse habitats of the Masai Mara Reserve, the great Mara River, swamps, forests, wildlife and the African Savanna. Enjoy a delicious champagne breakfast served in the open plains of the Masai Mara upon landing.
Maasai Village Visit (Additional cost)
Guests will be guided through the village by an English-speaking Maasai, who lives in the village. He will introduce your guests to the authentic, daily hustle and bustle of Maasai living. Guests will also have the opportunity to browse through the Maasai Craft Centre and purchase artefacts and souvenirs, which are made in the village — all proceeds are given back to the community.
Maasai Dance (Additional cost)
Tall Maasai warriors in traditional dress form a guard of honour as guests arrive. Deep, haunting voice burst into song and soon the ground reverberates to the rhythm of their athletic traditional dances as the Maasai leap higher and higher, seeking to outperform each other.
Private Vehicle (Additional cost)
With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.
Wedding Ceremony (Additional cost)
At andBeyond, celebrating special occasions is our forte. And nothing is quite as magical as the testament of love between two people as they celebrate their wedding day. Africa’s breathtaking landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for a destination wedding and andBeyond’s lodges, situated within the continent’s most iconic safari landscapes, are capable of delivering a wedding celebration unlike any other.
WILDchild programme
andBeyond’s WILDchild programme, designed especially for children visiting our safari lodges and camps in Africa, is filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Deeply rooted in the love for the African bush, it not only creates a series of unforgettable moments for the whole family but forges strong bonds between our young guests, our planet and its people.
Healing Earth Massages (Additional cost)
&Beyond has partnered with Healing Earth, a leading natural, eco-friendly and holistic spa & skincare company, to produce a truly authentic African spa experience for the mind, body and soul. Therapeutic in its approach,Healing Earth only uses all-natural ingredients and essential oils. The luxuriant spa products & soothing treatments are inspired by the wisdom of Africa’s traditional healers & celebrate our continent’s vibrant heritage, communities and plant life.
For more information on Bateleur Camp click HERE
For a virtual tour of Bateleur Camp click HERE.
A Private Corner of the Mara
Honeymoon Special - 50% off for your honey
* Travel by Dec 31, 2023 - accommodation savings only.