Julia's River Camp

Being right beside talek river meant we saw hippos and buffalos every morning and evening, and at night we heard lions roaring and hyenas laughing. Awesome experience! The safari tent was simple and authentic, with all the basic amenities. The three-course meals were good, and the staff were friendly and professional.

The staff were especially pleasant, and we enjoyed seeing the animals. The tents were good, and dinner offered two main courses, including a vegetarian choice. We’d recommend staying, but there are a few things to be aware of. We paid for two game packages for our two-night stay, which the website describes as including two daily Game Drives. That should have meant four drives, but we got three. They should explain the schedule better, or avoid adding a package on arrival day without making clear that you only get a drive if you arrive before 6 AM. Everywhere else we’ve done this, we’ve had an afternoon drive on arrival and a morning one before departure. At Julia’s, we paid for two and got one on the arrival day. Guests should be told clearly so they can book accordingly, or be able to buy a single drive. Otherwise it feels like being cheated. We were left at the airstrip two hours before our flight with just a wooden bench. Luckily it was hot rather than raining. Other hotels have brought us at a more reasonable time before flights without security or passport checks. If a more sensible transfer time isn’t possible, they could at least recommend when guests should arrive. It would also help to have a Kenyan dish as a dinner option, since making Western food without the right ingredients can be difficult. Management at Julia’s could consider these changes.

We felt genuinely welcomed and looked after by the exceptional staff, who were kind, attentive, and always ready to help. The lodge is well located, with comfortable rooms and a stunning view. It was unforgettable. Many thanks to Jackson, Kevin, and Sandra. The beds were hard, though, and there were no electrical outlets in the room.

We first came in 2019 and had an amazing safari, but when we returned in 2025, the service had unfortunately declined. Some tents now have bunk beds that didn’t fit our 190 cm son, yet are still called VIP. The guide quality also seemed lower, though perhaps we were just unlucky. I’m fine with cheaper options and understand that COVID and last year’s flooding have hit the sector hard. Still, with premium prices, I’d expect more effort from the staff and management. Our family really enjoyed the earlier visit, and I wish them well, but there’s a long way to go to get back to that standard.