Kichwa Tembo, Karen Blixen, or Mara Serena?
Jan 28th, 2011, 02:36 PM
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Kichwa Tembo, Karen Blixen, or Mara Serena?
My husband and I will be in the Masai Mara for six nights in the end of August/beginning of September. We've already got some great advice from the experts on this forum for our overall itinerary, and are just trying to finalize accommodations plans for the grand finale in the Mara.
Originally, it was proposed we spend half the time in Ashnil Mara, and half in Mara Sarova. We want to find alternatives for both (because of the controversy about Ashnil's location, and because Sarova doesn't look so great to us).
Kichwa Tembo, Karen Blixen, and Serena all appear to be in our budget, and like good options for seeing the northern/western part of the reserve. Advice from folks who have stayed there, or visited, on their relative merits? Serena, of course, is larger, but it's also the least expensive, and has a lovely view. Are the game drives high quality? How about the food? Same questions for KT and KB.
And, if we choose one of those, can you recommend an alternative to Ashnil that would give us a chance to experience a different part of the park? I think Ashnil was offering a fantastic rate because of the controversy, so I'm worried this change might jack up our budget. But, we want to be mindful of what kind of companies we support! Is it even worth changing camps midway through our Mara time to see another landscape and possibly some different wildlife?
Thanks so much!
Originally, it was proposed we spend half the time in Ashnil Mara, and half in Mara Sarova. We want to find alternatives for both (because of the controversy about Ashnil's location, and because Sarova doesn't look so great to us).
Kichwa Tembo, Karen Blixen, and Serena all appear to be in our budget, and like good options for seeing the northern/western part of the reserve. Advice from folks who have stayed there, or visited, on their relative merits? Serena, of course, is larger, but it's also the least expensive, and has a lovely view. Are the game drives high quality? How about the food? Same questions for KT and KB.
And, if we choose one of those, can you recommend an alternative to Ashnil that would give us a chance to experience a different part of the park? I think Ashnil was offering a fantastic rate because of the controversy, so I'm worried this change might jack up our budget. But, we want to be mindful of what kind of companies we support! Is it even worth changing camps midway through our Mara time to see another landscape and possibly some different wildlife?
Thanks so much!
Jan 28th, 2011, 04:58 PM
#2
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 53
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Out of the 3 camps you're considering, I've only stayed at Kichwa Tembo and I can definitely recommend as I had a great time and fond memories of my time at this camp.
During my safari last August, prior to Kichwa Tembo, I'd previously been to 2 smaller camps (17 tents and 6 tents) and was concerned that with 40 tents it might not be as great of an experience, but I couldn’t be more wrong. Even though I'd stayed at other very nice camps, the larger Kichwa Tembo was one of my favorites. The staff was extremely warm, humorous and welcoming and took care to make certain my every need was met. The food was amazing and as I write this I'm craving the incredible stir fried vegetables with grilled shrimp and many other delicious items that were served at the lunch buffet which was set-up outside overlooking the beautiful pool and plains. They also have a very nice restaurant for dinner and a large bar area as well as a good gift shop. I didn't have breakfast at the camp as we had the bush breakfast (which was terrific) by the Mara river during our early morning game drive, and then I had the champagne brunch after the balloon ride.
Our guide Albert was truly wonderful and very charming. He was quite passionate and informative and always happy to share his vast knowledge. He was as excited as we were when spotting Black Rhino (which no other guests had seen during my stay in the Mara) as well as a Wildebeest river crossing along with many Cheetah and Lion sightings. Also, when planning my safari it was important to me to select camps with open 4x4 vehicles since this was important to my game viewing experience, and the Kichwa Tembo vehicles were very nice with open tiered seating.
I split my time in the Mara between Kichwa Tembo and Porini Lion Camp. On my last night at Kichwa Tembo I was regretting my decision to split my time as I was thoroughly enjoying the game drives and staff during my stay at Kichwa Tembo. I ended up also loving Porini Lion Camp which is a very different experience than Kichwa Tembo(and I highly recommend this camp as well) as it is a much smaller more intimate and authentic experience and I love their involvement with the community. However if I'd only been able to stay at Kichwa Tembo I would've still been very happy as the location next to the Triangle, great game viewing and the incredible staff made my stay at Kichwa Tembo very special.
During my safari last August, prior to Kichwa Tembo, I'd previously been to 2 smaller camps (17 tents and 6 tents) and was concerned that with 40 tents it might not be as great of an experience, but I couldn’t be more wrong. Even though I'd stayed at other very nice camps, the larger Kichwa Tembo was one of my favorites. The staff was extremely warm, humorous and welcoming and took care to make certain my every need was met. The food was amazing and as I write this I'm craving the incredible stir fried vegetables with grilled shrimp and many other delicious items that were served at the lunch buffet which was set-up outside overlooking the beautiful pool and plains. They also have a very nice restaurant for dinner and a large bar area as well as a good gift shop. I didn't have breakfast at the camp as we had the bush breakfast (which was terrific) by the Mara river during our early morning game drive, and then I had the champagne brunch after the balloon ride.
Our guide Albert was truly wonderful and very charming. He was quite passionate and informative and always happy to share his vast knowledge. He was as excited as we were when spotting Black Rhino (which no other guests had seen during my stay in the Mara) as well as a Wildebeest river crossing along with many Cheetah and Lion sightings. Also, when planning my safari it was important to me to select camps with open 4x4 vehicles since this was important to my game viewing experience, and the Kichwa Tembo vehicles were very nice with open tiered seating.
I split my time in the Mara between Kichwa Tembo and Porini Lion Camp. On my last night at Kichwa Tembo I was regretting my decision to split my time as I was thoroughly enjoying the game drives and staff during my stay at Kichwa Tembo. I ended up also loving Porini Lion Camp which is a very different experience than Kichwa Tembo(and I highly recommend this camp as well) as it is a much smaller more intimate and authentic experience and I love their involvement with the community. However if I'd only been able to stay at Kichwa Tembo I would've still been very happy as the location next to the Triangle, great game viewing and the incredible staff made my stay at Kichwa Tembo very special.
Jan 28th, 2011, 05:06 PM
#3
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 8,675
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My choice would almost always go with a camp. That said, if you want to split your time, the Serena though a lodge and larger than the others... has the best location. Right smack in the middle of the Triangle. Set on a hill, with river crossing spots right down there, you can often see the wildies without having to leave the lodge. And, if you do leave the lodge you don't have far to go... that's if the wildies decide to cross there!
Kichwa Tembo is located immediately outside the Triangle thru the Olooloo (why can't I ever remember how to spell this?
gate to the West; Karen Blixen is located north of the Triangle on the Mara North Conservancy. Either of these would be good in combination with the Serena.
Kichwa Tembo is located immediately outside the Triangle thru the Olooloo (why can't I ever remember how to spell this?
gate to the West; Karen Blixen is located north of the Triangle on the Mara North Conservancy. Either of these would be good in combination with the Serena.
Jan 28th, 2011, 05:50 PM
#4
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I hadn't even considered doing Serena and Kichwa Tembo (instead of Ashnil and KT, as originally proposed by the safari company). I know they are reasonably close together, but we would still get to see a different area, and also save money by staying at Serena a couple nights. Thanks for the input, Sandi and for the recommendation, nycjv. unfortunately, Porini is a bit beyond our means at the moment.
Jan 28th, 2011, 05:51 PM
#5
I can only speak for Serena Lodge,and like sandi said it is located in a nice spot.
You can sit on your little balcony and see :
Zebras, Giraffes,Buffaloes,Impalas, Topi (some Impalas were grassing right beside out lodge room..I took some pictures of them from our room .. glad it was not a lion
).
I was very lucky in that I saw the Migration Crosssing and yes the Mara River is very close by.
You can sit on your little balcony and see :
Zebras, Giraffes,Buffaloes,Impalas, Topi (some Impalas were grassing right beside out lodge room..I took some pictures of them from our room .. glad it was not a lion
).I was very lucky in that I saw the Migration Crosssing and yes the Mara River is very close by.
Jan 28th, 2011, 06:08 PM
#6
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 53
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Sandi's idea to split with Serena may be a good one with 3 at each. You mentioned the Serena was less expensive than Kichwa Tembo or Karen Blixen, could the price difference allow you to split with Porini Lion or Kicheche Bush (also in Olare Orok conservancy) as this would definitely give you two completely different and amazing experiences. Again, I still recommend Kichwa Tembo but if you can stay at both a larger lodge in a great location and combine with a more intimate and authentic camp experience such as Porini Lion or Kicheche that may be ideal, especially if your budget can afford or be stretched just a little.
Jan 29th, 2011, 10:48 AM
#7
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 8,675
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
nicole -
Not to put you into panic mode, but space is booking very quickly this year for both Kenya and Tanzania. I would seriously suggest you come up with choice lodge/camps at all locations you plan to stop, along with the outfitter and have them verify whether the space is even available on the dates you need.
Remember, proposals are just that and unless your particular outfitter put an actual "hold" and those they are offering, you may find "there's no room at the inn."
Accommodations in East Africa are not Las Vegas, where you find 5,000/rooms; rather as you've found, small properties and in high demand during peak-season.
Not to put you into panic mode, but space is booking very quickly this year for both Kenya and Tanzania. I would seriously suggest you come up with choice lodge/camps at all locations you plan to stop, along with the outfitter and have them verify whether the space is even available on the dates you need.
Remember, proposals are just that and unless your particular outfitter put an actual "hold" and those they are offering, you may find "there's no room at the inn."
Accommodations in East Africa are not Las Vegas, where you find 5,000/rooms; rather as you've found, small properties and in high demand during peak-season.
Jan 29th, 2011, 12:55 PM
#8
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hi sandi, I have been anxious this whole time, but wanted to make sure we made smart choices, since this whole trip is such a big splurge for us. Have just paid our deposit, and bookings should go through on Monday for KT and Serena, as well as our lodges in Sweetwaters and Samburu.
Jan 29th, 2011, 06:14 PM
#9
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 770
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Looks like you've made your decision. But here's what I had to say about KT back last Sept; hope it helps. I like the idea of the split you made. Steve
"KT was really great. The staff reflects other &Beyond properties, doting on you to make sure you’re comfortable and giving excellent service in all ways. I had a luxury tent, which costs about $100/person/night extra, but it was worth it to me to have electricity for charging my electronic gear without having to walk to the camp's charging station. (I toured the standard tents and would have no problem staying in one---they looked very good to me.) The tent was well-furnished, again typical of the great way &Beyond furnishes some other of their lodges. And finding a hot water bottle in bed when returning from dinner was a nice touch. The reception area at KT was really classy looking and comfortable with an area set aside for gift shopping. My tent was #39 and required a bit of a walk but the walk was good for some exercise. From my tent I faced right out to a fence, which no doubt would drive the purists crazy. But beyond the fence were zebra, buffalo, giraffe. For first-time visitors to Africa, the fence might actually feel comforting. The luxury tents are also situated in a fairly dense forest area, and I thought that was actually pretty cool. The food was very good as well, on par with the other camps I stayed at in the Mara.
"Game-viewing was very good while I was there. My guide was outstanding in explaining and identifying the animals I saw. Most important to me, the guide did his absolute best to try to satisfy my requests to see particular animals.
"Overall, I couldn't see how KT could have done a better job."
"KT was really great. The staff reflects other &Beyond properties, doting on you to make sure you’re comfortable and giving excellent service in all ways. I had a luxury tent, which costs about $100/person/night extra, but it was worth it to me to have electricity for charging my electronic gear without having to walk to the camp's charging station. (I toured the standard tents and would have no problem staying in one---they looked very good to me.) The tent was well-furnished, again typical of the great way &Beyond furnishes some other of their lodges. And finding a hot water bottle in bed when returning from dinner was a nice touch. The reception area at KT was really classy looking and comfortable with an area set aside for gift shopping. My tent was #39 and required a bit of a walk but the walk was good for some exercise. From my tent I faced right out to a fence, which no doubt would drive the purists crazy. But beyond the fence were zebra, buffalo, giraffe. For first-time visitors to Africa, the fence might actually feel comforting. The luxury tents are also situated in a fairly dense forest area, and I thought that was actually pretty cool. The food was very good as well, on par with the other camps I stayed at in the Mara.
"Game-viewing was very good while I was there. My guide was outstanding in explaining and identifying the animals I saw. Most important to me, the guide did his absolute best to try to satisfy my requests to see particular animals.
"Overall, I couldn't see how KT could have done a better job."
Feb 7th, 2011, 09:03 AM
#13
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 770
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
KathBC, I'm not familiar with the location of particular numbered tents. At least one guidebook suggested that the best-positioned tents are 'classic' tents arranged along the edge of the forest facing a wide lawn and the plains beyond (supposedly there are 14 such tents). If you had a classic tent without a view of the fence, you'd probably be in the forested area. It's kind of a trade-off: a fence, with some good looking animals to view or no fence, with trees and brush to look at. I think I'd try to get away from the bar area though. Although, it was quiet when I was at KT, my tent at Governors was near the bar area. During my stay there, a very large group stayed up late, drank and made lots of noise that kept me awake.
I'm not set with an itinerary for June, but if I firm it up and get to KT I'll ask for you.
I'm not set with an itinerary for June, but if I firm it up and get to KT I'll ask for you.
Feb 18th, 2011, 03:48 PM
#16
Join Date: Oct 2009
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Sorry for the late reply KathBC. Tents 1 - 10 are in a large semin circle around the lawn area which stretches to the pool and overlooks the mara plain. The higher number tents are in a more wooded area. After painstaking research - I would say tent 5 has the perfect view (others please feel free to disagree. I can devulge this highly sensative info now that I've requested this tent! In all seriousness, they are all are great - I'm very happy to be going back to KT.
Feb 18th, 2011, 04:39 PM
#17
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 14,440
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
TigerPhoto,
Somak built the Mara Ashnil camp in rhino habitat, further endangering this species. With so many choices on where to stay, it is best to avoid such blatant disregard for Mara wildlife.
Here is one site, but you can google others.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/i-w...ri-with-somak/
Somak built the Mara Ashnil camp in rhino habitat, further endangering this species. With so many choices on where to stay, it is best to avoid such blatant disregard for Mara wildlife.
Here is one site, but you can google others.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/i-w...ri-with-somak/
Feb 20th, 2011, 07:20 AM
#19
Join Date: Oct 2006
Posts: 91
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
@KathBC - Good choice on Tent #5 - That's the one I have been staying in for my last 6 trips out of 8 trips to Kichwa. Have it booked again this Sept. Don't be concerned about the 'fence' though - you hardly notice it - just about four thin electrified wires - you can see the plains perfectly - no obstructed views from Tent #5. Easy walk to the dining area and to car park area to start your safari drives. Wish I was going in June like you instead of September 
)
)
