WE ARE DIFFERENT socially conscious

At Olimba Mara Camp, we are dedicated to offering ethical and socially conscious safari experiences in the Masai Mara, with a strong focus on sustainable tourism.

Unlike many larger luxury camps and lodges that cater to mass tourism, we prioritize intimate, eco-friendly safaris that allow guests to immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of the Maasai (Maa) community. In addition to thrilling wildlife safaris and big five encounters, our guests have the unique opportunity to connect with the Olimba family, hear their inspiring stories, and witness their personal journeys, creating meaningful travel experiences that are both surprising and unforgettable.

Olimba

the word Olimba is of Zambian origin and means “strength and courage”. 

Our Vision

We wish to offer ethical and socially conscious safaris, providing our guests with an authentic wildlife and cultural experience in the Masai Mara.

We are one family

As our guest, you become part of the Olimba family. In the evening, our staff and guests gather around the bonfire to share stories and experiences from the day’s adventures.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve has long been a premier destination for safari enthusiasts, with camps and lodges generating significant revenue through Kenya’s thriving tourism industry. Unfortunately, much of this revenue in other camps does not directly benefit the local Maasai communities. Only a handful of camps offer true community integration, where Maasai people are not only employed but also serve as co-owners or founders. This is where Olimba Mara Camp is different. When Barbara and Julie Lovens chose to invest in a safari camp, they knew the key to creating a unique, sustainable, and eco-friendly destination in the Mara was through genuine community involvement. Their partner and co-owner, Amos Kipeen, is a respected Maasai leader who helped establish the first fully Maasai-owned camp in the Mara. A silver-level safari guide and a Maasai Mara University graduate, Amos brings a wealth of knowledge in wildlife management, responsible tourism, and sustainable development, while championing community and women empowerment initiatives.

At Olimba Mara Camp, we are dedicated to more than ethical tourism. We support eco-friendly safari practices and believe that local Maasai communities should benefit directly from their land by protecting it and allowing the ecosystem to flourish. We have partnered with neighboring landowners to safeguard a crucial wildlife corridor between the National Reserve, Nashulai Conservancy, and Naboisho Conservancy, ensuring free movement for wildlife. Over the last three years, we’ve planted hundreds of tree seedlings in protected areas to restore overgrazed land and create natural habitats for wildlife. Our ongoing conservation efforts give us the strength to continue our mission of promoting sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship in the Maasai Mara.

Olimba Mara Camp is a cozy retreat nestled along the Talek River, offering a comfortable and authentic experience for safari-goers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, an experienced wildlife photographer, a family on safari, or a seasoned traveler, you’ll enjoy an in-depth understanding of the balance between wildlife conservation and social welfare. At Olimba, we bring together responsible tourism, cultural engagement, and a deep respect for the natural environment.

What Our Guests Say About Their Safari Experience at Olimba Mara Camp

"For my husband’s 40th birthday, he wanted to fully immerse himself into the Maasai culture. Olimba provided an authentic cultural experience that no other camp could offer."
Sheena Gabriel
Guest
Where Olimba Mara really excels is in it’s Human Resources, aka the team. You can tell that Amos created a family atmosphere here and with his spirit and vision he has assembled a group of like-minded people.
Marion Payr
Travel Photographer and Storyteller
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