If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable safari in Masai Mara but want something more exclusive and less crowded than the main reserve, then conservancies are the way to go. These private, community-run areas not only protect wildlife but also support local people—and they offer some of the best safari experiences in Kenya. Here are the top 5 conservancies you should know about.
Mara North Conservancy
Mara North is one of the most established and respected conservancies in Masai Mara. Located on the northwestern border of the main reserve, it’s home to classic savannah landscapes, high wildlife density, and a solid reputation for ethical tourism. You’ll get the chance to enjoy thrilling sightings without the safari traffic you’d find in the main reserve.
- Founded: 2009
- Area: Around 74,000 acres
- Famous for: Big cats, elephants, and dramatic landscapes
- Density: Low vehicle density (only 1 guest bed per 350 acres)
Unique Features
- Home to the famous Leopard Gorge, featured in BBC and NatGeo films
- Offers exclusive access to guests of member camps only
- Strong community partnerships with over 800 local landowners
- Prime location for wildebeest migration from July to October
If you want classic Mara views with real privacy, Mara North delivers every time.
Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Olare Motorogi sets the bar high for luxury safaris and predator sightings. Located just north of the reserve, it’s packed with wildlife and offers some of the most private game viewing in the region. It’s a hotspot for photographers and big cat lovers.
- Founded: 2006
- Area: About 35,000 acres
- Famous for: High concentration of lions and cheetahs
- Density: Extremely low—just 94 beds total in the entire conservancy
Unique Features
- Night drives and walking safaris allowed—something not permitted in the national reserve
- Unmatched predator density, including several lion prides
- Home to some of the Mara’s most luxurious camps
- Strict tourism controls to protect the environment
For unmatched predator action and top-end camps, Olare Motorogi is hard to beat.
Naboisho Conservancy
Naboisho blends incredible wildlife viewing with a strong commitment to community welfare. The name means “coming together” in the local Maa language, reflecting the partnership between landowners and tourism operators. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and full of life.
- Founded: 2010
- Area: Around 55,000 acres
- Famous for: Huge lion prides and eco-conscious safaris
- Density: Controlled tourism—low number of camps and guests
Unique Features
- One of the best spots in Africa for seeing lions in large numbers
- Supports over 500 Maasai landowners directly
- Perfect for walking safaris and off-road game drives
- Excellent mix of habitats—grasslands, woodlands, and seasonal rivers
Naboisho is perfect if you’re looking for big cats and a safari that gives back.
Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Ol Kinyei was one of the first conservancies established in the Mara ecosystem, and it’s still one of the most authentic. It’s Maasai-owned and offers a raw, untamed safari vibe with fewer crowds and top-tier wildlife action.
- Founded: 2005
- Area: About 18,700 acres
- Famous for: Pristine landscapes and pioneering conservancy model
- Density: Very low—only two small eco-camps operate here
Unique Features
- First conservancy set up on land exclusively leased from Maasai families
- Offers walking safaris with Maasai guides
- Fantastic birdlife, including raptors and ground hornbills
- Uninterrupted views of the Loita Hills and open plains
Go with Ol Kinyei if you want raw nature, fewer crowds, and real Maasai-guided adventure.
Enonkishu Conservancy
Enonkishu is a bit off the beaten track, but it’s doing some amazing work with land restoration and sustainable tourism. Located on the northern edge of the Mara ecosystem, it offers something a little different—perfect for travelers looking for culture, conservation, and fewer safari vehicles.
- Founded: 2009
- Area: Around 6,000 acres
- Famous for: Rewilding and eco-conscious tourism
- Density: Low visitor numbers, more focused on sustainability
Unique Features
- Actively working to restore overgrazed land back into healthy savannah
- Hosts the Mara Training Centre for community-based conservation
- Mix of cultural experiences, including visits to local homesteads
- Ideal for longer stays and travelers who want to get involved
If you’re after sustainability and cultural depth, Enonkishu offers a unique twist on the safari experience.
Which Conservancy Should You Choose?
Each conservancy has its own charm. If you’re after big cats and luxury, go for Olare Motorogi. Want something more off-grid and nature-focused? Ol Kinyei or Enonkishu might be perfect. Families and eco-conscious travelers will love Naboisho, while Mara North offers a balanced, classic safari vibe with a strong conservation ethos.
Wherever you go, you’re in for a wild, respectful, and unforgettable experience.
