Julia's River Camp

I was traveling with my 6-year-old son, and staying at Julia’s River Camp was like stepping into a National Geographic documentary, except with better food! The camp is inside the Masai Mara Reserve, and trust me, that makes all the difference. From the moment we landed at the Ol Kiombi airstrip, the adventure began. The tents are spacious and luxurious, blending comfort with the raw beauty of nature. The Italian roots of the owner shine through in the food: delicious, abundant, and well beyond expectations. Think restaurant-quality meals with an African twist. The staff made the experience unforgettable, especially for my son. They taught him how to be a Masai warrior: complete with traditional attire, skills, and even a few words in Maa. When it was time to leave, he cried, heartbroken to say goodbye to his new friends. And then there’s Kantai, our guide: a legend in the Masai Mara. This man has the eyes of a hawk (or maybe a lion). He could spot a camouflaged predator from miles away. He was patient, knowledgeable, and had a great sense of humor. And let’s talk about the game drive vehicle: an open SUV that was by far the best we used anywhere in Kenya. Spacious, comfortable, and offering unbeatable views!!! Oh, and did I mention the hippos and crocodiles? You can see them in the river right from the camp! But don’t worry, it’s totally safe. And for those who need to stay connected, they have Starlink WiFi, which is a game-changer. If I ever return to the Masai Mara, this is where I’m staying.

This was our first trip to Africa, and Julia's River Camp gave us an authentic experience we truly enjoyed. We stayed in the VIP section, where there are only four tents. Then tents were clean, beds comfortable, and food was great. Staff were attentive, professional and welcoming. Would recommend this location if you are looking for an experience like no other. You could hear animals during the night, but always felt very safe. It was a great location to access the airport, and game drives from as well.

A Camp with personal touch. All the staff are very genuine, warm and kind. I misses them so much. No mosquitoes but hippos are just down the river beside the camp. Food is good, service excellent. Throughout the night, the guards are patrolling the site outside our camp as I saw light’s rays ( from their torch ) every now and then in our tent. Special thanks to Kelvin who escorted us in the nights. Bravo to all the staffs who work there.

What an exceptional place to stay at Masaii Mara. An incredible, beautiful setting on the Taleki River inside Masaii Mara. Hippos and hyenas to serenade you. Masaii warriors to escort you to your luxurious comfortable tented suites. The food is amazing. All of the staff are brilliant. Diana is an excellent cook. She made the best pan fried fish. Everything was yummy. Gideon the Julia’s camp manager is super attentive and always welcoming. Even had laundry done and they did amazing. Love this place.

We stayed at some 'luxury' hotels on our African trip but this was the best 3 nights we had while traveling in Kenya. The staff were friendly and cater to your every need and the food was outstanding. The best part was listening to the sounds of Africa as we slept--lions at a distance and hippos in the river. The whole experience was absolutely perfect! Thanks, Julia's!!!