Reviews of Leleshwa

The Mara without the 'madding crowd'

When EA first suggested a camp near the Masai Mara to us, it is fair to say that we were very cautious as we have largely avoided the more popular corners of Africa while we have been travelling with the firm over the past seven years or so. However, Leleshwa proved to be an excellent proposal, not only for the Loita Hills Mobile (see separate crit) but also for the camp and the Mara experience itself.

Leleshwa is situated on its own concession just outside the Mara which is contiguous with a a number of similar concessions. The wildlife there is prolific, our night-drive proving particularly fruitful.

Needless to say, we did venture into the Mara itself for a day. Thanks to the expert knowledge of our chief guide, David, and his tracker, Rinka, we were able to enjoy a day of excellent wildlife spotting, mammals and birds, largely without being mobbed by minibuses (and we were left in no doubt about what could have been when we saw as we were leaving the park the crowd of vehicles around a leopard - more minibuses than Bree Street bus station!). As David remarked that evening, making no effort at all (we had mainly been bird spotting) we had managed to see four of the 'big five' in about eight hours - plus cheetah and a range of herbivores.

The camp itself is excellent - and we would single out for particular praise the bed which was probably the most comfortable we have slept in on safari. We were extremely well looked after by David, William and the team. Meals were very good (though, to be a little 'picky', we felt that a little more effort on desserts would not go amiss for those who like their sweets).

All in all, and including our foray into the Loita Hills, Leleshwa was a top-notch experience which we would strongly recommend to anyone looking to enjoy the Mara without the 'madding crowd'.