How does Emboo River Camp compare to other luxury options in the Maasai Mara?
Emboo River Camp stands out as the world's first carbon-neutral safari camp and the only one using 100% electric safari vehicles in the Maasai Mara. While many camps talk about sustainability, this one actually walks the walk - they're completely solar-powered, plastic-free, and recycle 100% of their wastewater.
The experience feels more intimate than the larger camps since there are only 8 accommodations total. You'll get a dedicated guide and electric vehicle for your group, which means silent game drives that don't disturb the wildlife. The guides are particularly special here - they employ certified female Maasai guides, which is pretty rare in the industry.
It's positioned as a high-end eco-luxury experience, so you're looking at rates around $650-900+ per person per night depending on the season. That puts it in the premium category, but the combination of sustainability, intimacy, and innovative approach makes it unique in the area.
Embu River Camp Photos
On a sustainable safari with Emboo River
Room Types
Emboo River Camp features 8 luxury tented suites along the Talek River, with 6 standard River Rooms and 2 larger River Suites that can accommodate up to four guests.
Each suite includes a private deck or terrace with river views and locally crafted furnishings that blend luxury with natural materials. The River Suites offer the added luxury of indoor or outdoor bathrooms with rain showers overlooking the river.
Two suites are wheelchair accessible with no stairs, and the entire camp operates on 100% solar power for an eco-conscious safari experience.
Room Rates
Prices at this safari lodge start from $650 per adult sharing, and $295 per child sharing.
River Suite (Double)
- Peak Season (Jul-Oct, Dec): from $900 per adult sharing
- High Season (Dec-Mar): from $850 per adult sharing
- Shoulder Season (Jun, Nov-Dec): from $750 per adult sharing
- Low Season (Apr-May): from $650 per adult sharing
- Single supplement: 25-50% additional depending on season
River Rooms
- Seasonal rates: from $650-900 per adult sharing
Child Rate
- Per child sharing: $295 per night
*Prices are variable and subject to change. Please contact us for the latest rates.
Activities at Emboo River Camp
The camp offers twice-daily game drives in their pioneering electric safari vehicles, walking safaris around the immediate area, and the option to soar above the savanna on hot air balloon safaris. The educational conservation talks provide deeper insights into the local ecosystem and wildlife protection efforts.
For those seeking cultural immersion, you can visit local Maasai communities to learn about their traditions, or join the unique Maasai Warrior Run where you'll experience the physical and mental discipline of these remarkable people.
The camp also features a private photographic studio with professional-grade equipment, perfect for editing your safari captures, and various dining experiences including bush breakfasts and dinners under the African stars.
On a sustainable safari with Emboo River
Emboo River Camp FAQs
-
What types of rooms are available at Emboo River Camp?
You'll have three main options to choose from. The camp has 6 River Rooms, which are luxury tents perfect for couples with private decks, en-suite bathrooms featuring outdoor showers, and beautiful river views.
If you need more space, there are 2 River Suites that include separate sleeping and lounge areas and can accommodate up to 4 people. One of these suites is specially designed for guests with mobility challenges - it's completely accessible with no stairs to navigate.
There's also a unique Photo Studio Suite that's perfect if you're serious about photography and want a dedicated space to edit your safari shots. All the accommodations feature locally crafted furniture and private terraces where you can relax and take in the surroundings.
-
What's included in my stay at Emboo River Camp?
Your stay covers pretty much everything you'll need for an amazing safari experience. All your meals are included along with local drinks like water, soft drinks, juices, beers, and house wines. You'll get two game drives daily in those silent electric vehicles with your dedicated guide, plus laundry service.
The main extras you'll pay for separately are park fees, community fees, premium alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and optional activities like hot air balloon safaris. Gratuities aren't included either, but everything else is taken care of.
When you book with us, all these details and costs are bundled into your package, so you won't need to worry about sorting out park fees or transfers - we handle all of that for you.
-
What are the game drives like at Emboo River Camp?
You'll head out twice daily in completely silent electric Land Rovers and Land Cruisers, which is a game-changer for wildlife viewing. The morning drives start around 6:00 AM and run for 3-4 hours, while afternoon drives begin around 3:30 PM and continue until sunset.
The electric vehicles mean you can get much closer to animals without disturbing them, and you'll be amazed at how much more wildlife behavior you can observe when there's no engine noise. You're in prime territory for the Big 5 - lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos - plus cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest.
Beyond the drives, you can also do guided walking safaris near camp, visit the local Maasai community, and participate in the unique Maasai Warrior Run cultural experience. Hot air balloon safaris are available but cost extra and need to be booked in advance.
-
Is Wi-Fi available at Emboo River Camp?
Yes, you'll have Wi-Fi access in the main lounge and dining areas through their Starlink satellite connection. The connection is reliable enough for staying in touch and sharing photos, though like most remote safari camps, it's not designed for heavy streaming or video calls.
The idea is to help you disconnect from the digital world and connect with nature, but we know staying completely offline isn't always realistic. You'll have enough connectivity to handle essentials while still getting that authentic safari experience.
-
How do I get to Emboo River Camp?
Most people fly from Nairobi's Wilson Airport to Olkiombo Airstrip, which is about a 30-minute drive from camp. The flight takes around 45 minutes and gives you amazing aerial views of the landscape.
Your transfer from the airstrip to camp is included and you'll ride in one of their electric safari vehicles - it's actually a nice introduction to what makes this place special. If you prefer to drive, it's about 5-6 hours from Nairobi, though most people find the flight much more convenient.
If you book with us, we'll arrange all your transfers and flights as part of your package, so you won't need to coordinate any of these logistics yourself.
-
Is Emboo River Camp suitable for families with children?
Absolutely - they welcome children of all ages and can tailor activities and meals for younger family members. Kids aged 5-11 pay around $295 per night, which is significantly less than adult rates.
The River Suites work well for families since they have separate sleeping and lounge areas for up to 4 people. The camp's pathways are flat and easy to navigate, and the guides are great at engaging kids with age-appropriate wildlife education.
The electric vehicles are also perfect for families since they're quieter and less intimidating for children than traditional safari vehicles.
Popular Kenya Trips
The tours below showcase just some of what is possible. Use these itineraries as starting points, or to draw inspiration. Then get in touch, and let our expert team help craft the perfect itinerary for you.
3 reasons to book with Brilliant
1. Highest-rated safari company on Trustpilot
So you can book with confidence knowing you're in safe hands.
2. A fully bespoke service and expert impartial advice
Planning a trip to East Africa is complicated. Brilliant makes it easy. Our team have spent decades in the region so we can help you find the right trip - and we don't charge a fee.
3. Exclusive access at the best rates
We have exclusive access to the best value-for-money camps and lodges at rates you won't get anywhere else.
Melissa and team ready for safari
Travel with Brilliant Africa
Every year, we help hundreds of travellers explore East Africa.
Our team can help you find the trip to match your dreams, budget, and appetite for adventure.
Ready to plan your African adventure?
Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
Reserve
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
Whatever your budget, group size, length of stay, preferred activity or appetite for adventure, we can help.