Mara Bushtops: Visiting Private Conservancy Luxury
Siana Airstrip welcome set up
For the final stop on the Kenya Trilogy Fam Trip earlier this year, the group ended their journey in complete luxury and calm of the Isaaten Private Conservancy. Leanne shares her stay with us.
Beautiful Mara - From even before we arrived - the experience felt elevated - landing at Siana Airstrip to a beautifully set‑up tent with sofas, drinks, snacks and spotless facilities. Three vehicles were allocated to the group, each with a driver and spotter, and the drive to camp doubled as a game drive.
The lodge feels more established than its Serengeti counterpart. Tents are closer together, but the views remain wide and open. The salt lick is a focal point, drawing wildlife throughout the day. Lawrence welcomed us with champagne and snacks, and lunch under the tree overlooking the salt lick — complete with a live camera feed — was a fun touch that the group loved.
A tour of the garden with Alfred was wonderful. His pride in the mangoes, pawpaws and granadilla vines was great to witness, and the garden itself was neat, colourful and beautifully maintained.
Despite heavy rains and a few change in plans, the wildlife delivered. The conservancy is rich in giraffe and zebra thanks to its trees, while the Mara Reserve offered classic big‑game viewing. The guiding team was exceptional — knowledgeable, intuitive and calm. Rain prevented a night drive, but sundowners with Maasai dancers overlooking camp were a highlight before the weather turned.
Food at Mara Bushtops was generous and varied. The “Tastes of Home” menu offered comfort, while the main menu provided an extensive restaurant‑style selection. The group loved the choice. Snacks on drives — especially the nuts — were a hit.
The spa was a welcome retreat. A quick facial proved excellent, and drinks at the spa on the final night were memorable, with Orion constellation lights shimmering in the pool before the rain returned once again.
Isaaten Conservancy works well as a base. It offers privacy, greenery, and the option to walk or drive within the conservancy. With strong lion activity, a resident leopard and plenty of plains game, it compliments the Mara Reserve perfectly. One full day in the reserve is often enough during peak season.
Claudia and Andy joining us for dinner on the final night added a personal touch to the stay.
Accommodation was luxurious, comfortable and well‑appointed.
Mara Bushtops delivered a refined, wildlife‑rich end to the journey, balancing luxury with a strong sense of place.