Mara Toto Tree Camp
Elevated
Elegance:
The Ultimate Safari Experience
KENYA
Celebrating the Visionaries of Conservation: The Launch of Mara Toto Tree Camp
It is with immense pride and profound admiration that I extend heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed Ambassadors and fellow members of the HoteliersGuild Academy of Hospitality Arts, Beverly and Dereck Joubert. Their tireless dedication to conservation and their visionary approach to sustainable luxury have once again culminated in a remarkable achievement: the opening of the Mara Toto Tree Camp in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This new chapter in the Great Plains narrative not only exemplifies the marriage of DEEPERLUXURY and sustainability but also redefines the very essence of what it means to experience Africa and in line with the Eco-Lux-Nature philosophy.
As one who has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of excellence in hospitality with a strong affinity to Kenya where my own career began to flourish, I am continually inspired by the Jouberts’ ability to blend their passion for wildlife with an unwavering commitment to conservation. The Mara Toto Tree Camp, which was officially launched only in July, is the latest gem in Great Plains’ RéserveCollection—a collection that stands as a testament to what can be achieved when love for the natural world meets the art of hospitality.
Nestled within the lush canopy of a forest and perched above the serene Ntiakitiak River, Mara Toto Tree Camp offers a secluded, intimate encounter with the African wilderness. The camp’s design, with its four luxurious tented suites, is a masterclass in thoughtful, sustainable architecture. Each suite, suspended in the treetops, offers an immersive experience that allows guests to feel at one
with their surroundings—an experience that is as much about comfort and style as it is about reverence for nature.
Dereck Joubert himself aptly described the camp as a place where “Tarzan meets Robinson Crusoe,” capturing the essence of an adventure that is both raw and refined. The camp is a sanctuary where the safari experience extends beyond the plains and into the very trees that have stood sentinel over this land for centuries. With every detail meticulously crafted—from the recycled wood of old Kenyan sailing dhows to the tree-integrated bathrooms—Mara Toto Tree Camp is a testament to the idea that luxury need not come at the expense of the environment.
The Jouberts have always understood that true luxury lies in the details, and this philosophy is evident in every aspect of Mara Toto Tree Camp. The camp’s design is a harmonious blend of airy greys and teals, with local fabrics and artisanal craftsmanship reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Kenya. The elevated walkways that wind through the camp, the weaver nest chairs that dangle invitingly from suite decks, and the woodpecker doorknobs that herald the dawn—all these elements speak to a deep respect for the environment and a commitment to creating a space that enhances, rather than detracts from, its natural beauty.
For those fortunate enough to visit Mara Toto Tree Camp, the opportunities for wildlife encounters are unparalleled. Situated in East Africa’s big cat territory, the camp offers guests the chance to witness leopards, lions, and the great migrations that have captivated the imaginations of travelers for generations. And for those who seek to capture these moments, the camp provides professional-grade photography equipment and expert guidance, ensuring that the memories made here will be as vivid in years to come as they are in the moment.
But beyond the luxury and the breathtaking wildlife, what makes Mara Toto Tree Camp truly special is its embodiment of the values that Beverly and Dereck Joubert hold dear. This is not just a place to stay; it is a place to learn, to reflect, and to contribute to the preservation of our planet’s most precious ecosystems. It is a place where guests are not mere spectators but active participants in the conservation efforts that are so vital to the future of our world.
As we celebrate the launch of Mara Toto Tree Camp, let us also celebrate the visionaries behind it. Beverly and Dereck Joubert have once again shown us that the future of travel lies in sustainability, in stewardship, and in the deep connection between luxury and the natural world. Their work is not just a contribution to the world of hospitality; it is a gift to the world itself.
In closing, I urge all of you—our esteemed members, our fellow travelers, and our partners in the pursuit of excellence—to explore this incredible new camp. Let it inspire you as it has inspired me, and let it serve as a reminder that the most meaningful journeys are those that lead us closer to nature, to each other, and to the best versions of ourselves.
On behalf of myself and our global membership, warmest regards and good luck dear Beverly and Dereck!
Frank M. Pfaller Founder President, HoteliersGuild | CHC-Alliance Partners
