Field Guide Training Kenya: Camp Wild Bandas

Field Guide Training Kenya: Camp Wild Bandas

Nestled between local communities and wildlife conservancies, “Bandas in the Wild” is part of the Mara Training Centre, located in Kenya’s iconic Enonkishu Conservancy. The camp developed from informal community meetings under an acacia tree into a hub for conservation learning and community collaboration.

Here, students and nature lovers gain first-hand insight into the delicate balance between local livelihoods and wildlife conservation — a setting shaped by the daily reality of human-wildlife coexistence. With sweeping views over the Mara River and access to multiple conservancies, this is a place where immersive education meets authentic African wilderness.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of East Africa’s ecosystems or simply immerse yourself in the magic of the Masai Mara, Bandas in the Wild offers an unforgettable setting for exploration, reflection, and learning.

Camp Wild Bandas in detail

Location of the Camp

“Bandas in the Wild” is located in the Enonkishu Conservancy, part of the Greater Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem in southwestern Kenya. The camp sits directly on the banks of the Mara River and provides access to Enonkishu, Ol Choro Oiroua, and Lemek Conservancies — offering excellent wildlife viewing in an area shaped by sustainable land use and eco-tourism.

Nearby wildlife includes wildebeest, zebra, topi, gazelles,. Hippos and crocodiles populate the rivers, while cheetahs, jackals, and bat-eared foxes can also roam the plains.

Wildlife in the Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife regions. From July to October, herds of wildebeest, topi, zebra, and gazelle move into the area from the Serengeti plains and Loita Hills. With some luck and timing, you might witness parts of the Great Migration. Many animals, including these herbivores, are also found here year-round.

Predators such as lion, leopard, and cheetah are present in the region, along with African elephant, Cape buffalo, and the elusive black rhino. You may also encounter hyenas, jackals, bat-eared foxes, and a wide variety of birdlife. Pods of hippos and crocodiles inhabit the Mara and Talek Rivers, and the surrounding open plains offer good opportunities for spotting wildlife.

Please note: The wilderness is unpredictable, and wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed.

Arrival at the camp

Airport: Nairobi

Transfer: The nearest airlink is the Fairmont airstrip, with overland transfers available from Nairobi. All travel before and after the course must be arranged independently.

Life in the camp

The camp has six comfortable Meru tents in walk-in style - each with two single beds, so that two people always share a unit. There is space for up to 12 people, which can be extended to up to 20 with additional tents if required.

The tents are positioned along the river, with large lawns, a swimming pool, and a gazebo-style bar and pool house. A formal dining area doubles as a meeting or event space, and a natural amphitheatre by the river sets the scene for unforgettable bush dinners.

Laundry: Done daily by hand; rooms are cleaned twice a day.

Beverages: Tea, coffee, and still water are available all day.

Electricity: Limited – solar lights are used; emergency satellite phones available.

Internet/Mobile: Coverage varies; local SIM cards (e.g. Safaricom) can be used.

Practical tips at Camp Wild Bandas

Climate: Warm days and cool nights year-round. Night temperatures can drop below 10°C, especially from June to August.

Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES). No ATM or card facilities at camp (cards accepted for drinks only). Bring sufficient cash in KES or USD.

Medical: Camp is in a low-risk malaria zone. Yellow Fever vaccination required. Travel insurance and Flying Doctor cover are highly recommended.

Visa: Must be obtained in advance via evisa.go.ke (single-entry visa).

On-site support

At least one contact person is always available at the camp to support participants.

Camp Wild Bandas

In summary, Camp Wild Bandas is a nature-based camp on the banks of the Mara River in the Enonkishu Conservancy, combining comfortable tented accommodation with direct access to wildlife and a strong focus on community and conservation - ideal for nature enthusiasts, students and anyone who wants to travel responsibly.

Experience the beauty, wilderness and warmth of the Kenyan bush – pristine, authentic and unforgettable!

Photo Credits: Kim Paffen