Instinct of the Mara

Nestled within a secluded corner of the 7,600-acre Olderkesi Conservancy, Instinct of the Mara offers an intimate and authentic safari experience. Located on the southeastern border of the Maasai Mara ecosystem, the lodge provides a sanctuary far from the more frequented safari circuits. This exclusive setting ensures a profound sense of privacy and connection to the wilderness, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the timeless Kenyan landscape. The camp celebrates a flexible, unhurried rhythm, where the day’s adventures are tailored entirely to individual preferences. The conservancy itself is a rich tapestry of hilly scrubland, riverine forest, and open plains, supporting a remarkable density of wildlife year-round. Game drives here are a rewarding affair, with frequent sightings of lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, and buffalo. The area’s healthy rhino population enhances the opportunity to spot all of the Big Five. During the Great Migration from late July to September, these private lands offer a prime vantage point. With only one other lodge in the vicinity, wildlife encounters are exceptionally private, often shared with no other vehicles. Experiences are thoughtfully curated and led by knowledgeable Maasai guides. Guests can embark on game drives in custom-built 4x4 vehicles, venturing into both the private conservancy and the Maasai Mara National Reserve. For a more tactile perspective, guided bush walks reveal the smaller wonders of the ecosystem, while night drives uncover the secrets of the nocturnal bush. Unique excursions include hikes to a scenic waterfall for a refreshing swim, and classic sundowners set up on a hillside with panoramic views. Cultural visits to a local Maasai community can also be arranged. Accommodation is designed for comfort and seclusion. The lodge features seven spacious Premium Safari Tents, a two-bedroom Forest Suite ideal for families, and an exclusive Private Villa complete with a plunge pool near a waterhole. Each canvas retreat is spaced far apart to guarantee privacy, featuring an en-suite bathroom and a furnished veranda for quiet observation. The heart of the camp is the stylish mess tent, which houses the dining area, bar, and a comfortable lounge. Evenings are spent around the fire pit, enjoying a drink while listening to the nocturnal sounds of the bush.