amesoeur

Need recommendations. I am going on a trip to volunteer in Nairobi. Before, I would like to take my elderly father on about a 7-10 day photo safari trip to the masai mara. Can anyone recommend a lower priced option that is not filled with college aged backpackers? My father made many trips to Africa when he was younger, now he can't walk much but he likes the big 5 and birds. I am not sure about masai mara but have heard its a good option for Kenya. Also an inexpensive private ranch outside a park would be nice. Other ideas welcome! thanks, amy

climbhighsleeplow

Please read my Masai Mara Update posts for cheaper options in the Mara!

I have some information about public camps with bandas. I will soon post about other camps.

atravelynn

Here is the helpful link referred to in the previous post.

atravelynn

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34932659

Sometimes I post the wrong link. Sometimes I forget it altogether.

Patty

Not in the Mara but if you have time for a second location, I can recommend El Karama as an inexpensive private ranch option in Laikipia. El Karama offers the option of day and night game drives and is about a 4.5 hour drive north of Nairobi. You need to come with your own vehicle which can be arranged through a tour operator in Nairobi but they do provide a ranch guide who accompanies you on drives.

They have 4 simple ensuite stone/thatch/canvas bandas plus one more stone banda with detached bath plus a stone family cottage, total of 6 units. They also offer camping in a separate location away from the bandas. It has never been crowded when we've stayed there. Once we were the only guests and on this recent trip, there was only one other couple on our first night.

You can see what the area looks like in this album (photos 1-32) http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=...&y=-r5e7ji

I also have updated photos of the accomodations taken last month in this album (photos 183-207) http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=...&y=-cbpxy0

The camp is situated along the Ewaso Nyiro river. They also offer walks and horse rides which probably aren't for your father but just thought I'd mention the options available.

Their booking agent is JK Safaris in Nairobi but any other tour operator in Nairobi should also be able to book a stay there for you and provide you with a vehicle.