top of page
Mara Major Camp - Masai - Mara - Kenya
Authentic Encounters.
"Guest Stories Experience the Mara through the eyes of our visitors"
"More than a Safari"
A Human Adventure with "Papa Chris" & "Antony".
By Victor Lamich, Professional Photographer.
"There is a part of this adventure that happens behind the scenes. Guided by Christophe (affectionately known as 'Papa Chris' by the local communities) and Antony, our Maasai expert, I voluntarily let myself be swept up in the magic of the road.
I suspect Christophe of keeping the suspense high, telling us just enough to let the excitement build. And my god, did he succeed. Christophe has been roaming this part of the planet for over 15 years, and the Maasai reward him with a respect that is rare and moving. Watching 'Papa Chris' receive hugs and accolades from the community, I realized this wasn't just a tour, it was a homecoming.
What has this Franco-Quebec-Kenyan done to earn such respect? He has built a bridge between two worlds. This deep-rooted relationship is the key to our access; it’s the reason we aren't just tourists, but guests in a sacred land.
Then there is Antony, our Maasai brother at the helm of the Land Cruiser. His knowledge of the terrain is instinctive, almost mystical. When he turns the wheel and says those magic words: 'Not bad for a first time, hey Vic! Want to see some more?', you know you are about to witness something few people ever see.
Antony doesn’t just drive; he anticipates. He positions the vehicle not just for a view, but for the perfect photographic angle, respecting the light and the animal's space. Between Christophe's technical expertise for photographers and Antony's ancestral knowledge of the Mara, you are in the best hands in Africa.
In the Masai Mara, we weren't just following tracks; we were sharing a life. We laughed, we shared stories despite the language barriers, and we lived at the rhythm of the savannah. This wasn't a standard 'game drive'—it was an immersion led by a duo that lives and breathes the Mara. If you are looking for the 'real' Africa, the one built on friendship and respect, this is where it happens."
Victor LAMICH
"Precision & Authenticity"
A Professional’s Vision of the Mara
By Jacques-André Dupont, Wildlife Photographer (Quebec, Canada).
"In June 2024, I spent 12 unforgettable days at Mara Major Camp for an intensive photo safari.
Several reasons led me to choose this camp. First of all, it was recently renovated by wildlife photographer Christophe Dandurand. Knowing Christophe personally, I was convinced that the project would be perfectly executed. He and his team of partners have a clear vision: to create an authentic safari experience tailored specifically for wildlife photographers. Importantly, they have also partnered with Antony, a talented and experienced Maasai guide, and operate the camp with a 100% Maasai team. This ensures that a significant portion of the economic benefits is returned directly to the local community.
Another reason is the camp's privileged location, offering quick and easy access to high-density wildlife areas of the Mara, minimizing travel time and maximizing observation opportunities. During my stay, I witnessed incredible wildlife moments, including thrilling lion and cheetah hunts, leopards, servals, and all the other usual and amazing animals.
I also trusted Christophe for the quality of his guides, and I was not disappointed. A huge thank you to Antony and Anelka! They knew the best photo spots, and their expertise made every outing productive and exciting.
The camp facilities are excellent: comfortable and clean tents with hot water, dedicated desks for photo editing, plenty of outlets for charging batteries, and each tent has its own Wi-Fi router. The camp runs on solar energy and manages its resources efficiently, including water and local products.
On the food side, I ate very well during my stay. The chef ensured my satisfaction, even offering me a non-alcoholic beer! Every meal was a true delight, made with fresh and delicious ingredients.
The common areas are welcoming and comfortable, with a beautiful fireplace and hammocks. These spaces were perfect for relaxing and sharing anecdotes with other guests after a day of adventure.
The Maasai team went above and beyond to ensure my happiness. Their hospitality and warmth were truly exceptional. Chapeau!
Although the camp is still undergoing landscaping work, I am convinced it will soon become a premier destination. Their commitment to sustainable development and community participation is commendable, and I look forward to discovering their future projects. Definitely one to add to your bucket list!"
Jacques-André DUPONT
bottom of page