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1920s Elegance on the Migration Route
An exceptional 1920s-style luxury tented camp situated directly inside the southern Maasai Mara reserve, standing right on the banks of the Sand River along the direct pathway of the Great Migration.
Sand River Masai Mara recreates the golden age of 1920s safari travel, with rich leathers, copper fixtures and polished hardwood decks set under canvas on a shaded bank of the Sand River. The five-star camp is split into two adjoining mini-camps, each with its own dining room, bar and lounge, preserving a boutique atmosphere rare at this level of comfort.
The camp lies inside the southern Masai Mara National Reserve near the Tanzania border, about 15 km from Keekorok airstrip; the scheduled flight from Nairobi Wilson takes around 45 minutes, followed by a 45-minute game-drive transfer. This corner of the reserve sits directly on a principal Great Migration pathway, with dramatic herd movements from July to October, while resident lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants provide outstanding viewing year-round away from the busier central Mara.
Sixteen luxury tents, arranged as camps of ten and six and including family options, carry the vintage campaign styling through to modern en-suite comforts, supported by a pool with savanna views and solar power. Dining runs from bush breakfasts to sundowners on the riverbank.
Set the scene with our Masai Mara National Reserve guide, or travel wider on the 8-day Kenya safari taking in Amboseli and the Rift Valley lakes.
Elewana Sand River Masai Mara, Masai mara National Reserve
Location
Masai mara National Reserve
Masai Mara National Reserve region
Property Type
Luxury Camp
5-star rated property
Destination
Masai Mara National Reserve
Kenya
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Located in the southern part of the Maasai Mara National Reserve along the banks of the Sand River near the Tanzania border, Sand River Masai Mara by Elewana offers a classic luxury safari experience in one of the Mara's prime wildlife viewing areas.
By Air: The fastest and most convenient option is a scheduled flight from Nairobi's Wilson Airport to Keekorok Airstrip, which takes approximately 45 minutes. Upon arrival, guests are met by the camp team for a scenic 45-minute game drive transfer to the camp. Daily scheduled flights are available from Nairobi, as well as selected connections from Samburu, Lewa, Nanyuki, Mombasa, and Diani.
By Road: Guests can drive from Nairobi through the Great Rift Valley and Narok Town to the Maasai Mara. The journey takes approximately 5–6 hours, depending on road conditions and weather. A 4x4 safari vehicle is highly recommended, especially during the rainy season.
Private Transfers & Fly-in Safaris: Private road transfers, charter flights, and tailor-made fly-in safari packages can be arranged for a seamless travel experience. The camp is also featured on several luxury Kenya safari circuits, making it easy to combine with other destinations.
Nearest Airstrip: Keekorok Airstrip is the primary gateway for guests arriving by air and is located approximately 15 km from the camp, with a transfer time of about 45 minutes.
Located on the banks of the Sand River near the Kenya–Tanzania border within the Maasai Mara National Reserve, this luxury tented camp is designed in the style of the classic 1920s safari era. Its location places it directly along one of the most important routes of the Great Wildebeest Migration, making it one of the Mara's premier safari camps.
This is the most sought-after period to visit Elewana Sand River. The camp sits close to migration crossing points, offering excellent opportunities to witness wildebeest herds moving between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. August and September are particularly famous for dramatic river crossings and intense predator action.
One of the best times for travelers seeking fewer crowds. The dry conditions create superb game-viewing opportunities, especially for lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and other resident wildlife. Shorter grass and clear skies make photography exceptional.
The short rains transform the Mara into lush green plains. Birdlife flourishes, landscapes become spectacular for photography, and visitor numbers are lower. Wildlife remains abundant thanks to the reserve's large resident populations.
These are generally the wettest months. While some roads can become challenging, guests enjoy lower rates, fewer vehicles, beautiful green scenery, and a much more exclusive safari experience.
Prime location near the Tanzania border and migration routes.
Elegant 1920s safari-themed luxury tents and classic safari atmosphere.
Excellent year-round game viewing with high concentrations of big cats.
One of the best camps for witnessing the Great Migration while avoiding some of the busier Mara areas.
Opportunities for hot-air balloon safaris, bush breakfasts, and exclusive game drives.
5 questions about Elewana Sand River Masai Mara
Everything you need to plan an unforgettable African adventure.
Property details reviewed by Imara Africa Safaris’ Nairobi-based safari specialists, who inspect and book Elewana Sand River Masai Mara for guests throughout the year. Rates, room configurations and seasonal access are confirmed with the property before travel. .