Mara Training Centre
Kenya
The Mara Training Centre evolved from informal community meetings under an acacia tree within the Enonkishu Conservancy to what it has become today.
Experience Mara with EcoTraining
Located on the banks of the Mara river, the camp is nestled between communities and wildlife conservancies. The courses provide insight into the issues of cohabitation and conflict between the community herdsmen and their livestock, crops, and wildlife.
Enonkishu Conservancy is a world-class wildlife-viewing conservancy located on the banks of the Mara River and secured by the resident community. It covers 2428 hectares of wildlife grazing rangelands and has access to two other conservancies, Ol Choro Oiroua and Lemek. Ol Choro Oiroua covers 6879 hectares while Lemek has reduced in size to around 7689 hectares due to its merger with Mara North.
Call me back
Fill out the following form and get a call back from our friendly team.
"*" indicates required fields
Where is the Mara training centre located?
Traversing is not limited to Enonkishu alone. We also have access to two other conservancies in close proximity. Ol Choro Oiroua Conservancy covers 6879 hectares (17,000 acres) of a group ranch in the most northern section of Masai Mara wilderness. The conservancy logistics and land are managed by Seiya Limited under the guardianship of Fairmont Kenya, and the Fairmont airstrip is also the closest air link to our camp.
Lemek Conservancy is another of Kenya’s wildlife management success stories though with a twist. Most part of Lemek-Koiyaki has now merged with the adjoining Mara North thus reducing Lemek’s size to around 7689 hectares (19,000 acres).
The climate is pleasantly warm, with cool nights, all year round.
The area is located just south of the Equator, but at an altitude between 1,500 and 1,900 metres. The temperatures are slightly higher from October to March, while they are slightly cooler from June to August. At night it can be a little cold, and the temperature can drop below 10 °C, especially from June to August.
Activities at the Mara Training Centre
Wildlife Sightings
Our EcoTraining camp in Kenya is home to Thomson’s gazelle, wildebeest, Cape buffalo, black rhinoceros, elephants, lions, jackal, hyenas, crocodiles, bat-eared foxes and hippopotami. Thomson’s gazelle migrate into and occupy the Masai Mara National Reserve, from the Serengeti plains to the south and Loita Plains in the pastoral ranches to the northeast, from July to October or later.
Conservation projects
In our program, participants engage in conservation activities and gain insights into the interconnected relationship between local communities, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Through real-life examples and transformative experiences, they witness the positive impact of restoring wildlife habitats and improving people’s lives near the Mara Training Centre. This reciprocal learning process fosters a dynamic knowledge exchange, allowing participants to learn from local communities while sharing their expertise. It comprehensively explains the region’s interconnectedness between communities, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development.
Daily walks & drives
A highlight of your stay will be the daily game walks and game drives that we offer. Led by experienced guides, you will have the chance to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the African bush up close. With each step, you’ll be amazed by the incredible diversity of wildlife that surrounds you.
Additional activities
The place is absolutely stunning for bird-watching enthusiasts. There are plenty of green areas and lawns perfect for reading and relaxing. Plus, you can take the occasional dip in the swimming pool. It’s a great place to unwind and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Staying at the camp
Tents
Six bungalow styled tented camp. Sleep up to 16 people.
Bedding
Comfortable framed beds, sheets, duvet and a pillow.
Ablutions
Shared ablutions and communal area.
Mosquitoes
No mosquito nets are provided in camp.
What to bring
An additional blanket and an additional pillow, should you require it.
Start your wildlife career
Accredited by leading associations such as FGASA and official training entities such as CATHSSETA, our career courses and programmes offer individuals an opportunity to turn a passion for wildlife and nature into a career.
Higher Certificate: Ecotourism Field Guide
This course is designed to equip learners with the relevant knowledge and experience needed to specialize in nature guiding.
55-day Field Guide ONE Course
The EcoTraining Field Guide ONE course is industry-tailored, mainly aimed at giving South Africans their first steps towards their field guide career. It is the number ONE course to consider when becoming a qualified Field Guide.
1-year Professional Field Guide Course
The all-inclusive course for adventurers who want to turn their love of wildlife and animals into a career educating others.
Our Wildlife programmes and courses are designed for everyone who is interested in nature, whether they intend to pursue a career in conservation or simply love being in the bush.
7/14-day Masai Mara EcoQuest
This EcoQuest program is based in South Africa and Botswana, it includes unique elements which reflect the fascinating dynamics occurring in the wildlife areas of the Mara.
7-day Birding in the Bush Course
Learn to identify a great variety of species of birds by sight and sound while also learning about their fascinating biology and ecology.
6-day Wilderness Trails Skills Course
Experience meaningful wilderness encounters with this inspiring cornerstone course that develops a lifetime conservation culture in those who love nature.
Connect with like-minded people from all over the world with our live and interactive online sessions. Study conservation online in this adventure-packed learning experience.
On-demand Field Guide Course
This on-demand Field Guide course is a tailor-made solution for individuals with busy schedules who yearn to pursue their passion for field guiding at their preferred pace.
Online Trails Guide Course
A chance to learn how to interact safely with wild animals from the comfort of your home.
Online Field Guide Course
This online FGASA course offers a comprehensive introduction to field guiding from the comfort of your own home.
Take a gap year and experience an immersive wildlife experience or customise a course for small groups, university study programmes or private travel with EcoTraining.
Gap Year
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our unique wildlife gap year programs, immersing yourself in breathtaking habitats, learning, discovering, and making a meaningful impact. Whether you’re a school leaver unsure of your future path or a nature enthusiast, step into an exciting world of adventure with our wildlife gap year programme.
Customised Wildlife Programmes
Customised courses for agents and tour operators to assist with the planning of educational safari itineraries catered for small group departures, alumni travel, private celebrity travel, summer schools, and university study abroad programmes.