Fig Tree Camp: a tent camp on the banks of the Talek River

Situated on the banks of the Talek River, in the northeastern section of Masai Mara reserve, Fig Tree Camp combines tent accommodation and chalets spread throughout a tree-filled garden. The property serves as a base for travelers seeking to explore one of East Africa's most wildlife-dense zones without compromising on comfort.

Why stay here

The camp's uniqueness stems from its location: just minutes from Talek Gate, it offers direct reserve access without traveling along the busiest routes. Its capacity of 80 units makes it a mid-sized property—active enough to offer daily activities (naturalist talks, Masai dancer evenings) while maintaining an authentic bush camp atmosphere.

This suits travelers wanting to organize multiple daily game drives from a fixed base without constant transfers.

Atmosphere

The vibe is that of a classic Mara safari camp: tents and chalets scattered beneath trees, private terraces with thatched roofs, views over the Talek River where hippos and waterbirds regularly appear. Evenings revolve around the bar, restaurant, and presentations by a local naturalist. Masai dancers perform in the evening. Common areas—two bars, dining terrace, pool, and garden—remain open throughout the day.

Accommodation

The camp offers 80 units across three categories:

• 38 safari tents with private balcony, double or king-size beds
• 10 Ngamboli superior tents, also with private balcony
• 32 chalets with double or twin beds, mosquito nets and sitting area in cream and beige tones

All units feature an en-suite bathroom with shower, work space, and private furnished terrace with thatched roof.

Services and facilities

• Two bars, dining terrace, pool and garden
• Business center and two meeting rooms for corporate travels or groups
• Medical clinic with on-site nurse
• Complimentary talks by a local naturalist
• Evenings with Masai dancers
• Wi-Fi, luggage service, free parking
• Airport shuttle for a surcharge

For experiences, the camp offers a Champagne Bush dinner (night safari followed by a barbecue on the plains), hot air balloon safaris with champagne breakfast upon landing, and guided walks with Masai Morans for an additional fee.

Location and access

The camp is located in the northeastern section of the reserve, immediately adjacent to Talek Gate. Two options to get there:

• By road: allow 5 to 6 hours from central Nairobi (approximately 250 km).
• By air: Nairobi flight to Olkiombo airstrip (approximately 1 hour), followed by a road transfer of around 50 minutes to the camp.

Fly-in packages are also available from Nairobi and Mombasa.

When to visit

The region welcomes visitors year-round, but two windows stand out. The Great Migration (wildebeest, zebras, Thomson's gazelles, followed by their predators) typically crosses the Mara between July and October—the most sought-after and busiest period. The dry seasons from June to October and January to February offer the best viewing conditions, with thinner vegetation and animals concentrated around watering holes. The long rains (March-May) can make certain tracks challenging but reward with lush landscapes and few visitors.

Nearby

• Talek Gate (~2.6 km)
• Maasai Mara National Reserve (entrance ~2.6 km)
• Olare Orok Conservancy (~11.4 km)
• Mara Triangle (~18.2 km)
• Mara River (~21 km)
• Several private conservancies (Naboisho, Mara North, Motorogi) between 21 and 25 km

To compare with other Mara properties, see Crocodile Camp Masai Mara. If your itinerary includes other parks, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, Chui Lodge near Lake Naivasha, or Ashnil Samburu Camp to the north complement a circuit well.

FAQ

Plan your trip

Fig Tree Camp integrates easily into a safari circuit including other Kenyan parks. To build a tailor-made itinerary and choose the right seasons, explore our Kenya trips.