Nestled in the heart of the Maasai Mara, Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp offers an authentic, community-driven safari experience that blends luxury, eco-tourism, and cultural immersion. As a Maasai-owned and operated camp, it stands out for its commitment to sustainable tourism, channeling profits into local schools, water projects, and conservation efforts within the Nashulai Maasai Conservancy. For travelers planning a visit in 2025, understanding the camp’s rates, accommodation options, and additional fees is crucial for budgeting and maximizing the experience. This comprehensive guide explores Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp’s pricing structure, to help you plan your dream getaway. With a focus on clarity, we break down the rates for both residents and non-residents, highlight child policies, and provide actionable tips to ensure a cost-effective and memorable stay.
Why Choose Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp?
Located just 3 km (10 minutes’ drive) from the Sekenani Gate of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Oldarpoi Wageni Camp combines proximity to the park with stunning views of the Siana Hill and the vast Mara plains. The camp’s unique selling points include:
- Maasai Community Ownership: Operated by the local Maasai community, profits support education, healthcare, and conservation projects, making your stay a contribution to social change.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Tents and cottages feature solar-powered water heating, flush toilets, and hot showers, blending luxury with sustainability.
- Prime Location: Situated on the wildebeest migration path, the camp offers easy access to game drives in the Maasai Mara and Nashulai Conservancy.
- Cultural Immersion: Guests can engage in Maasai-guided walking safaris, village visits, and learn about herbal medicine and local traditions.
- Luxury Amenities: Features an Africa-shaped pool, a restaurant serving African and international cuisine, and a bar with sundowner views.
With a 9.3 rating from recent guests on Booking.com, the camp is praised for its friendly staff, delicious meals, and proximity to the national park.
Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp Rates: Main Camp
The camp offers a variety of accommodation options, from superior tents to deluxe cottages, catering to solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. Rates are quoted per night for non-residents (in USD) and residents (in KES), with all prices subject to availability and seasonal supplements. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 2025 rack rates for the Main Camp.
Superior Tents and Cottages
- Single Superior Tent:
- Description: Single bed, private en-suite bathroom.
- Non-Resident Rate: $130 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 11,000 per night.
- Double Superior Tent:
- Description: One large double bed or twin beds (two single beds).
- Non-Resident Rate: $230 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 20,000 per night.
- Double Superior Cottage:
- Description: Double or twin beds, Mazara-stone floors, grass-thatched roofing for a traditional ambiance.
- Non-Resident Rate: $290 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 21,000 per night.
- Triple Superior Tent:
- Description: Three single beds, en-suite bathroom.
- Non-Resident Rate: $535 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 29,000 per night.
- Triple Superior Cottage:
- Description: Three single beds, spacious with traditional design.
- Non-Resident Rate: $570 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 28,000 per night.
- Deluxe Cottage (2 Pax):
- Description: One large double bed, ideal for couples.
- Non-Resident Rate: $360 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 23,000 per night.
- Deluxe Cottage (4 Pax):
- Description: Interconnecting unit with one double bed and one twin (two single beds), suitable for families (2 adults, 2 kids).
- Non-Resident Rate: $565 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 35,000 per night.
Luxury and Family Options
- Luxury Suite Tent (2 Pax):
- Description: Double bed, all-inclusive, wood-paneled en-suite bathroom.
- Non-Resident Rate: $250 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 32,000 per night.
- Self-Catering Deluxe Cottage:
- Description: Interconnecting double beds (two large beds), all-inclusive.
- Non-Resident Rate: $360 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 30,000 per night.
- Luxury Suite Tent (4 Pax):
- Description: Double beds (two large beds), all-inclusive.
- Non-Resident Rate: $565 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 60,000 per night.
- Family Tent (2 Pax):
- Description: One large double bed.
- Non-Resident Rate: $200 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 26,000 per night.
- Family Tent (2 Adults, 2 Kids):
- Description: One large double bed with an extra bed for children.
- Non-Resident Rate: $350 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 41,500 per night.
Camping Site
- Own Gear:
- Non-Resident Rate: $30 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 2,500 per night.
- Camp Gear Provided:
- Non-Resident Rate: $65 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 4,500 per night.
All-Inclusive Additional Rate
- Per Person Per Night: $90 (non-residents) or KES 3,000 (residents).
- Covers meals, drinks, and select activities (e.g., game drives, bush dinners).
Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp Rates: Mount View (Mt. Suite)
The Mount View section offers premium accommodations with panoramic views of the Mara plains and Siana Hill, ideal for those seeking luxury and exclusivity.
- Single Luxury Tent:
- Description: Single bed, en-suite bathroom.
- Non-Resident Rate: $210 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 17,500 per night.
- Double Deluxe Luxury Tent:
- Description: One double bed or twin beds.
- Non-Resident Rate: $500 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 26,000 per night.
- Double Honeymoon Suite (Nina Tent):
- Description: One large double bed, designed for romantic getaways.
- Non-Resident Rate: $415 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 31,000 per night.
- Mount View Luxury Cottage (2 Pax):
- Description: One large double bed.
- Non-Resident Rate: $460 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 33,500 per night.
- Mount View Luxury Cottage (2 Adults, 2 Kids):
- Description: One double bed and one twin (two single beds).
- Non-Resident Rate: $575 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 48,500 per night.
- Family Tent (4 Pax):
- Description: One double bed and two single beds.
- Non-Resident Rate: $510 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 41,000 per night.
- 3 Bedroom Pool House:
- Description: One double bed and two twins (four single beds), all-inclusive.
- Non-Resident Rate: $920 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 70,000 per night.
- Self-Catering 3 Bedroom Pool House:
- Description: One double bed and two twins (four single beds).
- Non-Resident Rate: $460 per night.
- Resident Rate: KES 32,500 per night.
Meals and Picnic Lunch
- Per Person Per Meal: $25 (non-residents) or KES 2,000 (residents).
- All-Inclusive Additional Rate: $50 (non-residents) or KES 3,000 (residents) per person per night.
Seasonal Supplements
- Easter Holidays (Good Friday to Easter Monday): $25 (non-residents) or KES 2,000 (residents) per night.
- Christmas & New Year (Dec 24th–26th, 31st, and New Year): $25 (non-residents) or KES 2,000 (residents) per night.
Nashulai Conservancy Fees
- January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024: $60 (non-residents) or KES 5,000 (residents) per person per day.
- From July 1, 2024: $100 (non-residents) or KES 3,000 (residents) per person per day.
Child Policy
Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp welcomes children of all ages, with specific rates for extra beds:
- Children up to 12 years: $40 per night (non-residents) or equivalent in KES, when using an available extra bed.
- Extra Beds: Subject to availability, not included in the total price, and must be paid separately during the stay.
- Cots: Not available; all extra beds require confirmation by management.
Comparing Rates: Oldarpoi vs. Other Maasai Mara Camps
To provide context, let’s compare Oldarpoi Wageni Camp’s rates with other mid-range and luxury options in the Maasai Mara, based on 2025 pricing from sources like MakeMyTrip:
- Mara Intrepids Tented Camp: $420 per night (National Reserve, luxury tents).
- Kilima Camp: $448 per night (Masai Mara, safari tents).
- Governors’ IL Moran Camp: $515 per night (Mara Triangle, premium luxury).
- Mara Leisure Camp: $114 per night (Olerai Conservancy, budget-friendly).
- Oldarpoi Wageni Camp: $130–$920 (Main Camp and Mount View, mid-range to luxury).
Oldarpoi’s rates are competitive, offering a range from budget-friendly camping ($30–$65) to high-end options like the 3 Bedroom Pool House ($920). Its community-driven model and proximity to the Sekenani Gate make it a standout choice for value and impact.
Additional Costs to Budget For
Beyond accommodation, several fees and services can impact your total cost:
- Maasai Mara National Reserve Fees: $70–$100 per adult per day (non-residents), KES 1,000–1,500 for residents, depending on the season.
- Game Drives: Approximately $50–$100 per person, depending on duration and location (Mara or Nashulai Conservancy).
- Airport Transfers: Paid shuttle from Keekorok Airstrip (10 miles away) or Nairobi (4–5 hours by road).
- Activities: Walking safaris, village visits, or balloon rides (e.g., $400–$500 per person for a sunrise balloon ride with champagne breakfast).
- Meals: Non-inclusive rates require budgeting for breakfast, lunch, and dinner ($25 per meal).
Sample Cost Calculation: 3-Night Stay for a Family of Four
Let’s calculate the cost for a family of two adults and two children (under 12) staying in a Deluxe Cottage (4 Pax) during July 2025:
- Accommodation: $565 per night x 3 nights = $1,695 (non-residents).
- All-Inclusive Rate (2 Adults): $50 x 2 adults x 3 nights = $300.
- Child Rate (2 Kids): $40 x 2 kids x 3 nights = $240.
- Nashulai Conservancy Fees (July 2024): $100 x 2 adults x 3 days = $600; $60 x 2 kids x 3 days = $360.
- Game Drives: $75 x 4 people x 2 drives = $600.
- Total: $1,695 + $300 + $240 + $600 + $360 + $600 = $3,795 (approximately KES 490,000 for residents).
This estimate excludes transfers, additional activities, or park fees if entering the Maasai Mara Reserve.
Tips for Booking Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp
To optimize your stay and budget, consider these practical tips:
- Book Early: Secure lower rates and preferred tents/cottages, especially during peak migration season (July–October).
- Request Mount View: Tents on the hill offer better views and proximity to the restaurant and pool.
- Check Cancellation Policies: Some rates offer free cancellation up to a few days before check-in.
- Inform Arrival Time: Contact the camp 24 hours prior for check-in (1:00 PM–6:00 PM) or airport transfers.
- Leverage All-Inclusive Rates: Include meals and activities to simplify budgeting.
- Engage in Community Activities: Participate in Maasai village visits or walking safaris to support local initiatives.
- Avoid Peak Supplements: Travel outside Easter, Christmas, or New Year to skip the $25/KES 2,000 surcharge.
Why Oldarpoi Stands Out for Eco-Tourism
Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp is more than a safari lodge—it’s a social enterprise affiliated with the I See Maasai Development Initiative (ISMDI). Profits fund schools, libraries, and water projects, while the camp’s eco-friendly design minimizes environmental impact. Guests consistently praise the Maasai hospitality, with staff like guide Moses and manager Cynthia earning accolades for personalized service. The camp’s location in the Nashulai Conservancy also allows for exclusive game drives and walking safaris, offering a quieter alternative to the main Mara Reserve.
Challenges and Considerations
While Oldarpoi receives high praise (8.1–9.3 ratings on Booking.com and Tripadvisor), some guests note minor issues:
- Limited Pool Loungers: More sun loungers are needed during peak times.
- Construction Noise: Some tents near construction sites may experience disturbances.
- Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly if traveling with animals.
Future Trends in Maasai Mara Tourism
Kenya’s safari industry is evolving, with a growing emphasis on sustainable and community-based tourism. Oldarpoi is at the forefront, with plans to expand its training school for Maasai guides and enhance eco-friendly facilities. The rise of digital booking platforms and increased demand for authentic experiences are likely to boost Oldarpoi’s popularity, especially among eco-conscious travelers.
Contacts
Oldarpoi Mara Wageni Camp offers a unique blend of luxury, affordability, and social impact, making it an ideal choice for a Maasai Mara safari in 2025. With rates ranging from $30 for camping to $920 for a 3 Bedroom Pool House, the camp caters to diverse budgets while supporting the local Maasai community. By understanding the pricing structure, seasonal supplements, and additional costs like conservancy fees, travelers can plan a seamless and memorable stay. For bookings or inquiries, visit Oldarpoi Mara Camp’s official website or contact their Nairobi office at +254705927196.
