Ekorian’sMugie Camp offers a wealth of activities – an itinerary for your stay can be designed based on what you want to do each day. And it’s casual – so you can decide that when you get here!
We are so lucky to have an exclusive location in the conservatory and such a prolific number of game. Whether seeing the elephants come down to drink and to swim by kayak or watching a herd of giraffe, gazelles, or zebra while sipping a ‘sundowner’ at the iconic Sundowner Tree – wildlife viewing is abundant and breathtaking. Many of the animals have become habituated to the presence of the cars over time and no longer see them as a threat and we have three game viewing vehicles from which guests can take in the varied flora and fauna of Mugie.
The hundreds of bird species that reside on Mugie – whether permanent or seasonal residents – mean that there is never a dull moment. Migratory species from the northern hemisphere flock here between November and April and there is an increasing number of water birds attracted to the dam. In addition to watching wagtails, weavers, sunbirds, and many, many more birds, we have four different species of owl in camp!
Game driving is just a small part of your safari adventure. Go for a walk through the bush with our experienced guides and get a full sensory experience; see the insects, smell the earth,touch the grass, hear the calls and savour being with nature.
BirdwatchingMugie has an abundance of bird life, with our birdcount stands at more than 280 species so far. There are some regular migratory birds, usually between November and April, and increasing populations of water birds attracted by the dam. We have four different types of owl in camp and hear their distinct calls at night. In camp we enjoy watching wagtails, weavers, sunbirds, rollers, and many, many more.
There is nothing quite like the peace and quiet of paddling a kayak up to or the unique view you get of game. Whether watching the sunrise over the water or the enormous herds of buffalo coming down to drink in the heat of the day or the elephants swimming and playing in the water or the Spoonbill Storks fishing at dusk, kayaking on the dam is always an adventure. The dam is free of crocodile and hippo and safe to swim in.
What better way to enjoy the bush than to eat a delicious, home-cooked meal as you sit and watch game? Breakfast under the shade of an acacia with zebra, gazelles, and giraffe wandering past in the distance or a picnic on the island watching the myriad species coming down to drink in the heat of the day – you really can’t beat a bush-meal.
Visits to local Samburu and Pokot village markets are a wonderful way to see and learn about the culture there. These are the weekly village markets so they’re the ‘real’ thing – be careful or you might come home with a goat, cow, or a camel!
Spend a night in the bush – sleeping in a cozy tent or under the stars by the fire. Arrive to a campsite lit all around by solar lanterns and with a dancing campfire in the center – a welcoming sight to say the least! A bush-dinner awaits and wake up to the sun-rising and a delicious bush-breakfast.
The working ranch side of Mugie is about 27,000 acres and for those interested in farming or livestock management, a visit with the ranch supervisor to the scheduled work of the day or to the cattle boma can be arranged. There is also a vegetable garden and a Marah plantation that are worth a visit. Learn about the relationship between ranching, livestock, and conservation.
Mugie has three bloodhounds, specifically trained for scent tracking and used to track poachers or thieves on Mugie, neighboring ranches, and throughout Kenya. Local heroes, they are amazing dogs to watch work; guests can enjoy a walk with the hounds and demonstration of their skills.
Camel rides can be arranged upon request, at a nominal fee – can we recommend a night fly camping and returning to camp via a short camel trek?
MugieRanch is home to Kenya’s northern-most golf course – set amongst African Olive Trees, a beautifully designed and landscaped course that challenges even the experienced golfer. Whether to play a round or simply to visit for the panoramic views a visit is always worthwhile. It’s also fenced from wildlife so guests can enjoy a walk or a jog around the grounds.Included in the Green Fee is a club and ball rental, though you are welcome to bring your own.
Take a bedroll and spend the night out under that stars, either on the deck or next to a nice campfire, as you listen to the lions roar as they go about their nighttime activities.
