ELEWANA SAND RIVER MASAI MARA - Reviews, Photos, Rate Comparison & More.
Imagine stepping into a world of adventure at Elewana Sand River Masai Mara, a fancy safari camp right in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. This place mixes the old-school charm of a 1920s safari camp with the amazing sights of the Sand River. Tucked away in the peaceful South-eastern corner of the Masai Mara National Reserve, Elewana Sand River Masai Mara is like a secret hideaway, just for you.
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Elewana Sand River Masai Mara Video Overview
From the moment you arrive, the friendly staff makes you feel at home, promising a stay filled with comfort, great service, and the stunning beauty of the Masai Mara. The moment you arrive, the friendly staff makes you feel at home, promising a stay filled with comfort, great service, and the stunning beauty of the Masai Mara.
Activities at Elewana Sand River Camp

The Sand River Masai Mara is situated directly on the migration route, allowing guests to witness spectacular wildlife events, such as wildebeest and zebra crossings. You can choose full-day safaris with picnic lunches or separate morning and afternoon game drives, coming back to camp for lunch.
The wildlife watching is fantastic, with shared drives included in your stay and private safaris available for extra cost. This part of the Masai Mara is full of big cats and stunning views. On your game drive, explore the grassy plains and river forests, spotting elephants, lions, zebras, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, wildebeest, impalas, mongoose, jackals, warthogs, and baboons.
Guided Game Drives at Sand River

Experience the thrill of guided game drives at Elewana Sand River Camp, located in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Our expert local Masai guides and trackers will take you on an unforgettable journey through the African savannah in comfortable 4WD Toyota Land Cruisers. With their extensive knowledge of the terrain and wildlife, they will help you spot an incredible array of animals, including the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros.
During your game drive, you’ll explore the grassy plains and riverine forests of the Masai Mara, home to an abundance of wildlife, including cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, wildebeest, impalas, and baboons.
The guides will also point out the fascinating birdlife, with over 470 species documented in the area. With the camp’s location on the Sand River, you’ll have optimal access to the wildlife, and the guides will ensure that you get up close and personal with the animals in their natural habitat.
Whether you choose to embark on a full-day safari with a picnic lunch or opt for separate morning and afternoon game drives, the guided game drives at Elewana Sand River Camp are an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lifelong memories.

While the animals on the ground are amazing, don’t forget to look up at the colorful birds in the trees and sky. Birdwatching here is awesome. If you visit during the great migration, you might see wildebeest herds crossing the Sand River right by the camp. It’s a sight to see, though not as dramatic as the Mara River crossings. The Sand River is easier for the herds to cross.
Besides wildlife, the Sand River Camp offers visits to a local Maasai village and school, giving you a peek into the rich traditions of the local people. With lots of activities at the camp, there’s always something fun to do. Whether you’re exploring the wild or learning about local culture, your stay will be full of exciting experiences.
Sand River Masai Mara Map
Hot Air Balloon Rides over the Masai Mara

Take to the skies and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Masai Mara National Reserve from a unique perspective with a hot air balloon ride at Elewana Sand River Camp. As the sun rises over the savannah, you’ll soar above the treetops and witness the majestic landscape unfold below you.
With the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, you’ll feel a sense of freedom and exhilaration as you float above the grasslands, watching the wildlife roam freely beneath you. The hot air balloon ride offers a bird’s-eye view of the Masai Mara, with the Sand River snaking its way through the landscape and the distant hills of Tanzania rising up in the distance.
After the flight, you’ll enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush, complete with delicious pastries, fresh fruit, and a glass of bubbly to toast your unforgettable experience. The hot air balloon ride is a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and majesty of the African savannah.
Sundowners at Sand River

As the sun sets over the Masai Mara National Reserve, the sky is painted with hues of pink, orange, and purple, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a truly unforgettable experience: sundowners at Elewana Sand River Camp. As the day comes to a close, gather around the campfire and enjoy a refreshing cocktail or glass of wine, accompanied by delicious snacks and canapés.
As you sip your drink and savor the flavors, take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with the Sand River flowing gently in the distance. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, with the sound of laughter and conversation mingling with the calls of the birds and the rustling of the leaves in the breeze.
As the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky, the sundowners at Elewana Sand River Camp become even more magical, with the campfire crackling and spitting, casting a warm glow over the proceedings. It’s the perfect way to unwind and relax after a day of exploring the Masai Mara, and a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with lifelong memories.
Accommodations and Amenities

Elewana Sand River Masai Mara offers a secluded retreat with 16 lavish safari tents, including a spacious family tent, each designed to blend comfort with elegance. Reflecting the nostalgic allure of the 1920s, these tents feature vintage decor and thoughtful amenities like private lounges, indoor bathrooms, and outdoor showers, inviting you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
The exclusivity and attention to detail of this camp are evident in every aspect, from the dining experience to the layout of the luxury safari tents. The camp is thoughtfully divided into two sections, each with its own dining and lounge areas, ensuring a personalized and exclusive experience. Culinary delights await, from sunset cocktails to gourmet bush meals, all prepared with meticulous care.

Imagine arriving at this elegant safari lodge, welcomed with warm smiles and exceptional service. As your luggage is taken to your luxurious tent, you relax in the lounge with plush leather chairs. With a refreshing drink in hand, you gaze at the breathtaking views of the wild, feeling like you’re in a classic 1920s safari film. Outside, dining under the trees offers a serene experience, and a short walk leads you to the tranquil banks of the Sand River Mara.
**With only 16 tents,**Elewana Sand River Camp is a unique haven. There’s a large family tent for those traveling with children. The tents are positioned along the north bank of the Sand River, providing peace and seclusion. The camp is divided into two parts: Little Sand River and Sand River property, with six tents on one side and ten on the other. Each section has its own dining and lounge areas, creating a private and cozy atmosphere.

The towering trees by the Sand River provide shade and add to the lodge’s lush appearance. Nestled among them is a stunning infinity pool with sun loungers, perfect for unwinding after thrilling safari adventures. The camp is situated on the renowned migration path of the Masai Mara National Reserve, offering incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s in the quiet south-eastern corner of the reserve, near the Serengeti border, one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.
Being among the first to witness the annual migration of wildebeest, gazelle, and zebra is a highlight for guests at Elewana Sand River Masai Mara. You get spectacular views of Tanzania’s plains teeming with wildlife. However, the camp is excellent year-round, with zebras, giraffes, and more always nearby. You might spot cheetahs, hyenas, and lions on your game drive, adding excitement to your adventure.

Renovated in 2019, the Sand River Camp combines modern comfort with classic safari style. Each luxury tent is set on wooden platforms, ensuring safety and comfort. Inside, there’s a separate lounge with plush seating, an antique writing desk, and a safe. A canvas flap separates the lounge from the bedroom for privacy. At night, a cozy wooden bed with a mosquito net ensures a restful sleep.
The bathroom in each tent features a copper bathtub, twin sinks, and a flushing toilet. A glass door leads to an outdoor shower for a unique experience under the stars. Complimentary toiletries enhance your stay. The front deck has lounge chairs for relaxing river views. Families can enjoy a spacious suite with double and twin rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and a central lounge. The camp is unfenced, offering a genuine wildlife experience, so it’s best suited for families with older children who require supervision.
Spa and Wellness at Elewana Sand River

After a day of exploring the Masai Mara National Reserve, unwind and rejuvenate at the spa and wellness center at Elewana Sand River Camp. Our expert therapists will pamper you with a range of treatments, from soothing massages to refreshing facials, all designed to ease your muscles and calm your mind.
The spa and wellness center is located in a secluded and peaceful area of the camp, surrounded by lush vegetation and the soothing sounds of nature. The treatments are inspired by traditional African and Asian techniques, using natural ingredients and essential oils to promote relaxation and well-being.
Choose from a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, all designed to leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the next day’s adventures. The spa and wellness center at Elewana Sand River Camp is the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate in the heart of the African savannah.
Elewana Sand River Camp food experience

Prepare for a culinary journey at this safari lodge, where every meal is a delight. Enjoy a sundowner with stunning views of the Masai Mara plains or indulge in a bush meal in the wild. The food is lovingly prepared and served with a smile. You can dine with others or enjoy a private meal, and everything is beautifully presented.
Wildlife and Conservation in Masai Mara

The Masai Mara National Reserve is renowned for its wildlife, and Elewana Sand River Masai Mara is ideally located for a safari. The camp is in an area abundant with big cats like leopards, cheetahs, and lions. You can witness the annual migration of wildebeest, gazelle, and zebra up close. Being near the Sand River enhances wildlife watching, with exhilarating game drives led by expert local Masai guides and trackers.