Running with Woolf

View Original

Hotel Review: Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Kenya

Welcome to Kichwa Tembo safari camp, a stunning property situated in the heart of the Masai Mara plains. With its breathtaking views, personalized service, and attention to detail, Kichwa Tembo offers a truly unforgettable luxury safari experience. From the expertly cooked meals served in the open-plan dining room to the locally sourced decor and accessories, every aspect of the property has been carefully curated to provide guests with an authentic and immersive experience. Keep reading to take a closer look at the food and drinks, the aesthetic and interiors, and the facilities and small touches that make Kichwa Tembo a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the Masai Mara.

The property features 12 Classic tents, 20 Superior tents, and 8 Superior View tents, all laid out on immaculate grounds, with leisurely groups of warthogs feeding right outside the tent doors. The tents are spacious, light, and comfortable, with a flexible design that allows for full movement around the bed. One of our favorite features in the Superior Tent that we stayed in was the shower that offered uninterrupted views over the Masai Mara.

The tents have plenty of space to hang clothes, an open bathroom with double sinks, and a large king-size bed that faces the Mara, making it an incredible place to wake up to the sunrise. While the entire property is beautiful, the highlight is the rim-flow swimming pool, literally on the edge of the Mara, boasting one of the world’s most extraordinary views.

Don’t miss Gorilla Trekking in Uganda! A bucket list experience

If you are planning to head out for a game drive, the camp offers a few options for providing you with lunch on the go. However, most game drives get guests back to the camp just in time for a shower so you can enjoy lunch at the restaurant. When it comes to lunch and dinner, the restaurant focuses on different countries' cuisines every day, allowing you to try various foods from around the world. With the menu ever-changing, you will never get bored during your stay. I was a little apprehensive of only one food option, but the selection, freshness, and quality of cooking was always been exceptional at the camp. Our favourite meals were the Mexican night and the surf and turf lunch.

During your stay, you will have access to beers, wine, and locally branded spirits without any extra cost. However, if you prefer premium options, you can opt for them as well. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the delicious food while immersing yourself in the camp's surroundings.

First time safari? Don’t miss my top 10 Tips

Service + Atmosphere 5/5

Kichwa Tembo is a spacious safari camp that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Every morning, as you get ready to explore, a sense of excitement fills the air and casts a warm glow over the Mara. The camp is run smoothly, and all the staff members are attentive and friendly, without being too pushy. Exploring the Mara every day will create memories that will last a lifetime.

For a unique experience, you can take a hot air balloon safari, which offers a bird's-eye view of the Maasai Mara. As you take to the dawn skies and float soundlessly over the boundless plains, you will be filled with awe and wonder. The flight lasts about an hour and is followed by champagne and a full English bush breakfast.

As this was our first safari experience, we were amazed by the game drives and felt content with not needing to add any additional experiences. However, we were lucky enough to meet some incredible couples also on their honeymoon and decided to indulge in private sundowners and a BBQ within the stunning landscape. We gathered around a campsite, sipping on wine, chatting and watching the sun slowly set behind the clouds. This experience was truly unforgettable and made our trip to Kicha Tembo even more magical.

Kichwa Tembo safari camp is a remarkable property that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From its delicious food and stunning views to its beautiful aesthetics and attention to detail, the camp provides a perfect balance of luxury and wilderness. With the personal touches and small gestures of the staff, guests can feel at home while immersing themselves in the wild beauty of the Masai Mara. Whether you're a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, Kichwa Tembo is a must-visit destination that will leave you with cherished memories for a lifetime.

You may also like Berber Lodge Morocco or Spicers Guesthouse Australia for another experience stay.

Planning a trip to Kenya? Pin this for later…