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Welcome to JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

Experience a luxury african safari lodge in the masai mara.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge marks the debut of the first luxury safari lodge in the brand portfolio. Overlooking the Talek River and the Masai Mara National Reserve, this lodge features 20 luxurious and expansive ensuite tents (including an interconnecting family suite and accessible suite, all with their own private outdoor Jacuzzi tub and deck. Your experience includes meals (breakfast, lunch, high tea sundowner and dinner, both on property and bush meals, a selection of beverages, game drives, airstrip transfers, and many meaningful moments. Communal areas include a dining area, lounge bar, spa, gym, photographic studio, garden and a large outdoor viewing deck with a fire pit. Embark on a soul enriching journey with us, where every moment is destined to be unforgettable in one of the finest luxury tented camps and African safari lodges. For the safety and comfort of our guests we have age restrictions for children under six.

Rooms & Suites

Featured amenities on-site, hotel information.

Check-in: 2:00 pm

Check-out: 10:00 am

Pets Not Allowed

Service animals only

Complimentary On-Site Parking

Sarabi Restaurant

Savour diverse, locally-inspired cuisine freshly prepared to suit your own distinctive tastes in a breathtaking setting. A culinary journey awaits al fresco at the veranda. It's a wonderful place to experience breakfast or dinner during your Mara visit.

A nourishing and relaxing outdoor space that fosters authentic connections while striving to honor the surrounding natural environment.

Sarabi Breakfast

Indulge in a delightful spread of freshly baked pastries, hearty omelets, and gourmet coffee at Sarabi Restaurant.

Fig Tree Lounge and Deck

Be inspired by the simple beauty of the world around you as you sip on meticulously crafted drinks infused with fresh ingredients at our Fig Tree Lounge and Deck.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience at our luxury spa. We understand your need to regenerate holistically and offer locally rooted organic products and treatments for the Whole You experience.

Fitness Center

Enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness while still focusing on your fitness at our hotel gym.

GETTING HERE

Jw marriott masai mara lodge.

Talek River, Masai Mara Reserve, Masai Mara, Kenya, 00100

Safari land cruisers;on request

On-Property

Local Shuttle Complimentary

Property Details

Accepts: Credit Cards

Concierge desk service

Languages spoken by staff: English

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +254 797-222999

Accessible on-site parking

Van Accessible on-site parking

Accessible Entrance to On-Site Pool

Entrance to On-Site Fitness Center is Accessible

Entrance to On-Site Spa is Accessible

Main Entrance is Accessible

Meeting Spaces are Accessible

On-Site Restaurants are Accessible

Accessible Vanities

Adjustable Height Hand-Held Shower Wand

Bathtub Grab Rails

Bathtub Seat

Deadbolts on Guest Room and Suites Doors

Electronic Room Key

Guest Room and Suites Doors Self-Closing

Lever Handles on Guest Room Doors

Lowered Electrical Outlets

Mobility accessible rooms

Non-slip Grab Rails in the Bathroom

Roll-in Shower

Toilet Seat at Wheelchair Height - Toilet for Disabled

Transfer Showers in Guest Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

The check-in time at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is 2:00 pm and the check-out time is 10:00 am.

The pet policy at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is:

Pets Not Allowed (Service animals only)

The parking options at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are:

The property amenities at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are:

Yes, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge has free Wi-Fi available to hotel guests.

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JW MARRIOTT® MASAI MARA LODGE

Talek River, Masai Mara Reserve,

Masai Mara, Kenya, 00100

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The Best Luxury Safari Lodges In Kenya

 the ultimate in luxury safari accommodation.

Looking for the best luxury safari lodges in Kenya? There aren’t many travel experiences that come close to spending time in the African bush, spotting wildlife on safari. It is a bucket list item for so many people – and rightly so.

And if you’re looking for luxurious lodges and super-indulgent places from which to take it all in for a night or two, you could do a lot worse than check yourself into one of the luxury safari lodges in Kenya below.

There is no shortage of luxury safari lodges on offer across Africa, so we’ve asked travel bloggers from around the world to help us out, and nominate their favourite luxury Kenyan safari lodges.

The below list is made up of travel blogger nominations, plus lodges we’ve stayed at ourselves and can vouch for as providing ultimate safari luxury.

These lodges come with a high price tag. If they’re a little over budget, find out how to do a safari on a budget.

So read on below for our collection of the most indulgent luxury safari lodges in Kenya:

The best luxury safari lodges in Kenya

Angama mara, masai mara, kenya.

Contributed by Amanda of MarocMama

Angama Mara, Masai Mara

Angama Mara , overlooking the Great Rift Valley in Kenya’s Masai Mara , is truly a luxurious safari experience, and ideal for couples and families seeking an adventure.

Not only do they have beautiful, private accommodations that immediately put you at ease, but their robust activity list and doting staff make sure you’re taken care of from the moment you arrive.

Every guest has an itinerary that caters to their wants and desires and that can be discussed in advance, as well as a guide who remains with them throughout their stay.

Whether you want to be flying in a hot air balloon over the Masai Mara at sunrise, swimming laps in their pool, or on a bush walk there really is something for everyone.

The main lodge and rooms – all of which are tented suites – are set high on a ridge that overlooks the Mara below, giving you sweeping 360 views of nature.

Exceptional food and drinks can be expected and you can’t leave without taking at least one safari picnic. When it’s time to relax the private suites feature cozy beds, impeccable design, and every amenity you could want or need.

House In The Wild

Greater masai mara, kenya.

Contributed by Anna at Twins and Travel

House in the Wild, Kenya

House in the Wild is situated in a unique location, perched on the edge of the Mara River within the Enonkishu Conservancy in the Maasai Mara Nature Reserve in Kenya, East Africa.

House in the Wild was originally a family getaway on a family commercial farm but has been restored into this amazing boutique safari lodge offering 12-14 beds between 4 cottages, each consisting of 1 or 2 bedrooms.

The grounds also consist of a dining area and a swimming pool with a thatched gazebo and bar area.

The cottages offer the warmth and rustic charm of a family lodge, with all the home comforts you could ask for.

House in the Wild offers a fully catered for service whilst being on safari and the perfect luxury family-friendly safari lodge should you want to go to Kenya with kids .

From bush breakfasts and sundowners overlooking the African savanna to hot lunches with warthogs running around the lawns, before a dip in the pool.

After a long day on safari, treat yourself to a well deserved hot bubble bath with candles and a glass of champagne whilst admiring the hippos wallowing in the Mara River.

If you are travelling with children, House in the Wild offer a private safari vehicle and guide, allowing children of any age to experience this piece of paradise and immerse themselves in wild Kenya.

Loisaba Lodo Springs

Loisaba Conservancy, Kenya

Contributed by Jennifer & Tim at Luxe Adventure Traveler

Loisaba Lodo Springs, the latest in Elewana Collection’s portfolio of luxury safari camps situated around East Africa, sits in the heart of Loisaba Conservancy.

Offering an ultra-private and luxurious safari experience, the boutique lodge offers unparalleled views over the Laikipia plains, stretching to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya from its 12-room tented camp.

The absolute epitome of luxury,  Loisaba Lodo Springs is one of only three safari camps located inside Loisaba Conservancy.

Not only are guests treated to top-notch service and all the comforts one could wish for at camp, but guests can also expect exclusivity with no more than around 20 safari vehicles out and about at one time in the 57,000 acre private Loisaba Conservancy.

Quickly becoming one of East Africa’s top safari destinations, Loisaba Conservancy is teeming with all the classic safari wildlife you could hope to spot (with the exception of the rhino), as well as Kenya’s Northern Five.

Even the rare black panther has been spotted by conservationists inside the private game reserve.

After days out surrounded by the endangered reticulated giraffe, herds of elephant, lions on the hunt, cheetahs chasing down prey on the plains and much more that can only be seen in Northern Kenya, guests can relax with sundowners at picturesque spots your dedicated guides find around the park.

With a focus on conservation and community education to help residents live in harmony with the big game wildlife, they share the Laikipia plains with, some of the activities guests won’t want to miss are the opportunity to meet the anti-poaching unit and their dogs.

It’s a unique opportunity to witness how these hounds help dwindling animal populations rebound with their anti-poaching efforts. And certainly, a highlight will be the bush breakfast, an exclusive experience no guest will soon forget.

Rekero Camp

Submitted by Jolene at Go Wander The World

In the heart of the famous Greater Masai Mara you’ll find Asilia Africa’s Rekero Camp. This camp has basically got it all: wonderful staff, great rangers, amazing tents and a view that’s one of a kind.

Upon arrival you’re welcomed with some cool drinks after which they’ll show you your luxurious tent. All tents overlook the Talek river so you can check out the wildlife right from your terrace.

Speaking about views, one of the prime features of this camp is the large deck in front of the main tent. This is where you’ll have a drink in the afternoon and where you’re meals are served.

The main deck overlooks an important crossing point of the Talek river when the Great Migration of wildebeests is at its best. This means theoretically you don’t even have to go on a game drive to see the spectacle that the migration is.

When you do go on a game drive you’ll have one of the expert rangers accompanying you. Since the camp is quite remote you’ve got the feeling of having the park to yourself.

The famous vast plains of the Mara are just outside the camp and attract grazers and thus predators.

Lions, leopards, cheetahs : you name it and the rangers will try to find them for you. It’s also good to mention that they don’t just focus on the big five since there’s so much more to see, learn, and explore in such an amazing park.

Saruni Samburu

Kalama Community Wildlife Conservancy, Samburu National Reserve, Kenya

Contributed by Heather at Conversant Traveller

Saruni Samburu is a high-end luxury safari lodge in the Kalama Wildlife Conservancy on the edge of Samburu National Reserve in northern Kenya.

Built high up on a ridge, this remote lodge overlooks the vast wilderness plains of the Kalama which are surrounded by the iconic dome-shaped hills of Samburu.

The views here are stunning, and animals can be seen moving about in the bush without even leaving the comfort of the lodge.

There are six private villas each with their own verandas, beautifully decorated communal dining and living areas, and two infinity pools that look out over the reserve.

With a stylish yet unpretentious feel, Saruni Samburu  is a luxurious and friendly safari experience.

Game drives in the Kalama and Samburu are with local warrior guides who know everything there is to know about the wildlife and landscapes of this remote area.

Bushwalks in the Kalama Conservancy are possible as well as night drives, because this is a private reserve rather than a national park.

Samburu is well-known for its elephants, and large herds can often be seen congregating around water holes during the dry season.

Bush breakfasts on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro river are a real treat too, with front-row seats as the animals come to drink. A safari up here is a real contrast to the ones in the Masai Mara and is far less crowded.

That’s your lot. What do you think – have you indulged in a luxury safari lodge that you think should be on this list? If so let us know by joining in on the comments section below.

You might also like to read about our pick of luxury safari lodges in South Africa or our guide to the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa .

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
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Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
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Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
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• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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Welcome to ">Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club

Step into a world of natural splendor and timeless elegance at Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club, where 100 acres of lush gardens, tranquil ponds teeming with trout, and majestic forest await your exploration amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kenya. Our collection of 100 meticulously designed rooms, suites, and cottages exudes refined country club charm, seamlessly blending classic opulence with modern sophistication.

Embark on an exhilarating horseback safari through the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, encounter orphaned wildlife at our local Animal Orphanage, or tee off on our pristine golf course.

With our recent certification as a premium Safe Hotel by Safe Hotels—an esteemed global authority on safety standards—you can rest assured of a secure and worry-free stay.

And let's not forget our crowning achievement: being recognized as Africa's leading hotel in 2023. Come and experience the pinnacle of luxury hospitality in the heart of Kenya's breathtaking landscapes.

In between adventures, sit back and enjoy the blissful setting of our 5-star hotel in Nanyuki. Indulgent treatments instill a sense of deep wellbeing at Riuki Spa and Wellness Center, while our two restaurants give you the opportunity to try the very best cuisine that Central Kenya has to offer against a stunning mountain backdrop. 

Unwind in a relaxed lounge atmosphere with scenic views, Zebar is also strategically located with stunning views of the second highest peak in Africa, Mount Kenya and the stunning landscapes of the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy. Curated wedding and event packages are also available upon request.

Accommodation

Equatorial suite.

138 sq.m / 1485 sq.ft.

One King bed. Stunning view of the majestic mountain.

Riverside Suites

73 sq.m / 786 sq.ft.

One King bed or Two Twin beds. Magnificent forest view.

Garden Suite

One King bed and one sofa bed. Private terrace overlooking the beautiful lawn gardens and coffee bushes.

Fairmont Suite

61 sq.m / 657 sq.ft.

One King bed. View of the Mount Kenya.

Manor Junior Suite

89 sq.m / 958 sq.ft.

One king bed. Unrivalled view of the mountain.

Information

Check-in 2 PM - Check-out 10 AM.

Distance is approximately 201 km from Nairobi-Thika Super Highway (3 h 30 min )

From Thika Super Highway join to Nanyuki-Nyeri highway then Proceed approximately 70km to Nanyuki town. On arrival to Nanyuki town turn right where there is golf petrol station and drive 10kms to the hotel.

Guest Services

Fairmont Savers- 15% off

Golfing in style.

Tee off with a picturesque landscape, our 9-hole, par 3 manicured golf course provides a serene atmosphere and ideal backdrop for a relaxing game of golf.

Discover a tranquil oasis, providing the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating round of golf.

Spa at Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club

The perfect venue for a luxurious retreat.

Find your perfect activities

Hotel activities, around the hotel, mount kenya destination guide.

From seasonally inspired menus to dining experiences that will satisfy any craving, see what our chefs are preparing just for you.

Restaurants

Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is an exclusive choice in Nanyuki for corporate and private events, up to 300 guests. Professional event planning and catering help make flawless memories.

Meetings and Conferences

Discover over 500 sq.m of versatile meeting space at the prestigious Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club.

Wedding of your dream

Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club sets the stage for unforgettable destination weddings, blending exclusive luxury with awe-inspiring vistas to create your dream celebration.

Social Events

Amidst breathtaking landscapes, our venue offers bespoke services, exquisite cuisine, and timeless charm, ensuring every gathering is truly extraordinary.

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Hotel Reviews

Reviewed 2024-04-03

Good Ambience

Very efficient and friendly staff. Keep up the good work

We had a long weekend at Mt Kenya Safari club. Beautiful setting, gardens, rooms and great food.

Disappointing

Disappointing stay at a hotel we have frequented several times and usually have a great experience. Being given no option than to book on full board, then the hotel realizing they can’t accommodate all guests in the restaurant and making a cheap make-shift tent outside is really not what you expect from a Fairmont.

Reviewed 2024-03-30

Room For Improvement

Reviewed 2024-03-27

well located, satisfactory stay

Good location..

Location and views are beautiful. Rooms are ok. Wasn’t happy being out in a room in the corner especially they they were not full occupancy. Asked to move and was again put in a room far away in the corner. Food at evening wasn’t great. Especially Indian selection was very poor and one night one dish was t available as they had run out.

David N. K.

Reviewed 2024-03-26

We enjoyed our stay, especially the rooms

The staff were very friendly and the facilities were up to our expectations. We were however disppointed to find that there was no baby pool. The Smart TV also had issue in accessing Neflix & youtube

Reviewed 2024-03-20

Perfect Getaway

Every detail was met with professionalism and hospitality. My partner and I always had an activity for the day, and each came with its own reward. The food was well done and reminded me of home while also whetting my exploration appetite. I definitely found my go-to hotel in Fairmont.

Reviewed 2024-03-18

Thank you so much for helping me to make my parents birthday very special and one to remember.

Lovely ambiance

It was very restful and I enjoyed the golf

Stay up to date on the Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club

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Top 14 Safari Lodges In Kenya 2023

Kenya is one of the most renown countries for an African safari – best known for the Great Migration and the Maasai Mara National Park, it has other amazing game parks including the Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, and Lake Nakuru National Park. Kenya is also home to Mount Kenya which can be found in the Mount Kenya National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Safaris in Kenya consist of a guided excursion, either by safri vehicle or on foot. Professional guides will lead you through the parks, pointing out animals and plants explaining the various relationships between the animals and their habitats. You might even be able to take a hot air balloon flight over a park to get a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife below.

A safari in Kenya allows you to explore the local culture as well as view beautiful wildlife. Many safaris include trips to Maasai settlements, where you can learn about these legendary warriors and cattle herders’ traditional way of life.

When deciding where to stay on a Safari in Kenya it is important to consider which areas you want to visit and the kind of experiences you wish to have.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a wildlife reserve in southwestern Kenya that borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The reserve is named after the Maasai people who live in the area and comprises 1,510 square kilometers (580 square miles).

The Maasai Mara is famous for its spectacular wildlife, and it is regarded as one of the greatest places in Africa to observe the “Big Five” – elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Many other species live there, including cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and many varieties of antelope.

The reserve is well-known for its annual wildebeest migration, which occurs from July to October each year known as the Great Migration. Millions of wildebeests, zebras, and antelope migrate from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara at this time in search of fresh grazing and water. The migration is a breathtaking spectacle that draws thousands of people each year.

Cultural activities are also a fantastic highlight of visiting the Maasai Mara. Visitors can experience how the Maasai live during a cultural tour, including their traditional home, diet, and everyday activities. Students can also learn about the Maasai’s close relationship with cattle, which are seen as a sign of prosperity and prestige.

Traditional Maasai activities such as spear throwing, leaping competitions, and dancing are also available to visitors. These activities, which are accompanied by singing and chanting, offer a unique glimpse into the Maasai’s rich cultural legacy.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli is well-known for its vast elephant herds, which can be viewed throughout the park. Other wildlife species found there include lions, cheetahs, leopards, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and a variety of birds.

The sight of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, is one of the delights of Amboseli National Park. On clear days, visitors may view the mountain’s snow-capped peak towering over the park’s plains. The combination of wildlife and mountain views creates an amazing experience.

Visitors to Amboseli can enjoy a variety of activities such as game drives, guided nature walks, and bird watching. Photographers visit the park to capture the breathtaking beauty and wildlife on film.

You can also take part in cultural tours from the Amboseli National Park.

Tsavo National Park

Mzima Springs, a series of natural springs that provides fresh water to the park’s wildlife, is one of Tsavo National Park’s highlights. Visitors to the springs can take a guided tour and see the crystal-clear water as well as the hippos, crocodiles, and other creatures that reside there.

Tsavo is also known for its breathtaking landscape, which includes rough hills, vast plains, and volcanic landscapes. The landscapes of the park make for a spectacular backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography.

Tsavo National Park visitors can engage in a variety of activities such as game drives, guided nature walks, and bird viewing. The park also includes a tour to a typical Maasai village where visitors may learn about their culture and way of life.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is located in central Kenya, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Nairobi. It is named after the alkaline lake that dominates the park and has an area of 188 square kilometers (73 square miles).

Lake Nakuru National Park is well-known for its diverse birdlife, particularly its resident flamingo population. Millions of flamingos live in the lake and feed on the algae that blooms in the alkaline water. Other bird species that can be found in the park include pelicans, cormorants, and storks.

Our Top 14 Luxury Safari Lodges In Kenya

There are a number of fantastic luxury safari lodges in Kenya, each lodge offers its own unique experiences, tastes and style. Here are our top 14 lodges to stay at while on safari in Kenya.

1. Angama Mara

Angama Mara is perched on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding plains.

The lodge is divided into two camps, each with 15 luxurious tented suites. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern facilities and are designed to optimize the views.

Angama Mara is inspired by the Swahili phrase that means “suspended in mid-air.” Angama Mara is a spectacular safari lodge overlooking Kenya’s Maasai Mara, regarded by many to be the most beautiful game reserve on the continent.

The lodge is divided into two camps, each with 15 luxurious tented suites. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern facilities and are designed to optimize the views. The lodge also has a private airfield with access to the Mara below, tailor-made safari days, and a notably warm Kenyan welcome.

Angama Safari Camp, an exclusive-use movable tented camp located deep in the Mara Triangle and amidst the giant herds during the Great Migration, complements the lodge superbly.

2. Mara Plains Camp

Mara Plains Camp is a luxury tented camp in Kenya’s Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The camp provides a luxurious safari experience with first-rate service and amenities.

The camp is made up of seven luxury tents, each with its own balcony and en-suite bathroom. The tents are decorated in an exquisite, safari-style with modern facilities and are designed to fit into the surrounding nature.

Mara Plains Camp is well-known for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. In addition, the camp provides a variety of activities such as game drives, guided hikes, and cultural trips to Maasai villages.

No other Maasai Mara camp provides the enormous traversing area that Mara Plains Camp does, with access to 40,000 hectares of private conservancy land and the world-renowned Maasai Mara, home of the Great Migration.

3. Porini Lion Camp

Porini Lion Camp is a luxury safari camp in Kenya’s Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The camp is located in a private conservancy, making for a more private and intimate safari experience.

The camp is made up of ten spacious and exquisite tents, each with its own private veranda and bathroom. The tents are designed to blend in with the surrounding wilderness and have solar-powered lights and hot water.

While picking your Maasai Mara Hotel, avoid the tourist hotspots and go for a more authentic safari experience. The award-winning, eco-friendly Porini Lion Camp provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to go on guided walks with Maasai Warriors and enjoy day and night safari game drives within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy.

4. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is a safari camp located in central Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The camp provides a one-of-a-kind and authentic safari experience, with an emphasis on sustainable tourism and conservation. Ol Pejeta is located in Laikipia County in central Kenya, overlooking the ragged slopes of Mount Kenya. The environment varies from wetlands and savannah to acacia and yellow-green fever tree thickets.

The camp is made up of six luxurious tents, each with its own bathroom and balcony. The tents are designed to fit with the surrounding bush, providing a private and personal safari experience.

The conservancy is noted for its innovative conservation activities, such as efforts to protect and conserve endangered species such as the northern white rhino.

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is open June – April and closed in May, and it welcomes families and children of all ages.

5. Ol Seki Hemingways Mara

The Ol Seki Hemingways Mara is in the Naboisho Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara Reserve. The conservancy restricts access to clients staying in the region and provides an extremely exclusive safari experience. The lodge is made up of nine exclusive tents that provide amazing views as well as the best Kenyan hospitality anyone could ask for. There is no such thing as a typical day in Ol Seki Hemingways Mara. The lodge is tiny and attempts to personalize every day to your preferences, making your time in the Mara an unforgettable safari encounter.

In the Maasai Mara, wildlife is abundant all year, and game viewing is feasible at any time. The weather and accessibility of particular regions, however, vary according on the rains, which often arrive between May and June and in November.

6. Mara Nyika Camp

Mara Nyika Camp, which means “Great Plains,” is an intimate Great Plains Conservation Réserve-Collection safari tented camp nestled in a valley and is an ideal setting for your Kenya safari. The camp is hidden beneath the treetop canopy on the western edge of the Naboisho Conservancy, bordering the Maasai Mara.

All of the suites provide guests with breathtaking views of the plains. The walkways connecting the guest suites to the main area have the feel of a treehouse under canvas. The ethos and motivation of the camp are one of exploration and adventure. Mara Nyika Camp values privacy. Privacy to live, think, explore, be passionate, and be pampered – all with one of Africa’s most magnificent landscapes.

7. Saruni Mara Camp

Saruni Mara is a luxury safari lodge in Kenya’s Lemek Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The lodge provides a luxurious safari experience with first-rate service and amenities.

Each of the lodge’s six exquisite suites and one family home has a private veranda and an en-suite toilet. The cottages are decorated in a contemporary African style with modern conveniences and are designed to integrate with the surrounding nature.

Saruni Mara is well-known for its excellent wildlife viewing chances, especially for big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. In addition, the resort provides a variety of activities such as game drives, guided walks, and cultural trips to Maasai settlements.

8. Sasaab Lodge

Sasaab’s architecture, perched on the edge of a river valley, combines Swahili and Moroccan design principles, with the African heat as the key issue. Each of the nine canvas-sided rooms exceeds 100m2, with private plunge pools and breathtaking views across the Laikipia Plateau and Mount Kenya’s jagged peaks. Its elevated position over the river allows it to observe the elephant herds that come to bathe below, as well as a variety of other animals.

Sasaab Lodge is well-known for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, notably for Samburu-specific species such as the gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and Grevy’s zebra. In addition, the lodge provides a variety of activities such as game drives, guided walks, and cultural trips to surrounding Samburu villages.

9. Ololo Safari Lodge

A small safari lodge on the outskirts of Nairobi National Park in Kenya. The warmth and comfort of a home are combined with seamless style and personalized care at Ololo Safari Lodge. Ololo, a historic Kenyan homestead that has been turned into a modest lodge, is wonderfully positioned on the lovely banks of the Mbagathi River, which forms the Nairobi National Park’s southern border.

The resort is only a 45-minute drive through the park from Nairobi and both major airports, but its remote position feels a world apart. Ololo brings you the pleasures of excellent ‘paddock to plate’ fresh food. Our established and isolated gardens allow guests to settle in and enjoy a one-of-a-kind safari experience.

10. Finch Hattons

Finch Hattons is a luxurious tented camp in Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park. Denys Finch Hatton, a great big-game hunter and explorer who was famously linked with Karen Blixen, the author of Out of Africa, inspired the camp’s name.

The camp has 17 beautiful tented suites, each with its own private veranda and shower. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern comforts and are designed to fit into the surrounding wilderness.

Finch Hattons is well-known for its outstanding service and customized attention to visitors.

11. Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge in Tsavo West National Park is a tranquil, hushed, and cool refuge framed by Mount Kilimanjaro and the rolling, volcanic landscapes of the deep green Chyulu Hills. It immerses you in stunning beauty and exhilarating adventures while surrounding you with every modern comfort. Our classic stone style enchants arriving guests, as do views of elephants, buffalo, and other plains animals drinking and cooling off in our water hole.

Tsavo West National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and other antelope species. The park is also famous for its breathtaking scenery, which includes spectacular hills, volcanic cones, and the Mzima Springs.

12. Elewana Tortilis Camp

Tortilis Camp is a luxury safari camp in southern Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. The camp is located on a hill overlooking the park, with breathtaking views of the surrounding environment and Mount Kilimanjaro.

The camp is made up of 16 spacious and exquisite tents, each with its own private veranda and shower. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern comforts and are designed to blend into the surrounding nature.

Tortilis Camp is named after the Acacia Tortilis, a flat-topped umbrella thorn tree, and embraces a hill in one of Amboseli’s Acacia Tortilis woodland regions. Situated in a private conservancy abutting the national park, guests can enjoy wildlife drives, walks, sundowners, and bush lunches both inside and outside the national park.

13. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge was designed for those with an African dream and a desire for adventure. The safari lodge offers an elegant blend of stark beauty and sumptuous comfort in the heart of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park, with Mount Kilimanjaro standing majestically just beyond the golden, acacia-specked grassland.

The two-bedroom family rooms features a bedroom with one king bed, a second bedroom with two twin beds, a common bathroom, and a private terrace overlooking the spectacular grasslands of Amboseli National Park.

14. Porini Amboseli Camp

Porini Amboseli Camp is an eco-friendly safari camp in southern Kenya’s Selenkay Conservation Area, next to the Amboseli National Park. The camp is located in a private conservancy, making for a more private and intimate safari experience.

The camp is made up of nine spacious and exquisite tents, each with its own own veranda and shower. The tents are designed to blend in with the surrounding wilderness and have solar-powered lights and hot water.

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LUXURY KENYA SAFARI

Join us on a luxury Kenya safari for the journey of a lifetime. Let us guide you to some of the most epic wildlife locations on earth. Experience close encounters with Africa’s ‘big five’ – lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo – and feel the essence of the continent running through your veins.

The Safari Collection will immerse you in some of the most unique and unforgettable experiences. Begin your Kenya safari by sharing breakfast with the rare Rothschild’s giraffe. Afterwards, journey to see rhino in numbers found nowhere else in East Africa. Next, a sunset Samburu dance as elephant gather in the river beyond. Then onto the great wildebeest migration in one of the quietest corners of the Masai Mara. As you journey with us on safari, prepare to feel exhilarated by the things you will see and the people you’ll meet.

The Safari Collection operates a collection of luxury lodges and camps in Kenya’s finest locations. We own Giraffe Manor and The Retreat in Nairobi, Sasaab in Samburu, Solio Lodge in Laikipia and Sala’s Camp in the Masai Mara. In addition, we are experts in creating the ultimate bucket-list adventures throughout Kenya and East Africa. So dream big, because whatever your vision, we would love to make it happen. Our passionate and energetic team are waiting to welcome you on your Kenya luxury safari.

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WHAT   MAKES US DIFFERENT

Our journeys are about so much more than simply seeing the big five. Whether it’s a short stay in one of our properties or a bespoke tour through the entire region, we offer a unique travel experience. If you really want to get under the skin of the country, then The Safari Collection is the right choice for you. We pride ourselves on sharing Kenya’s hidden gems and creating opportunities to make meaningful connections along the way. Ultimately, our personally hosted stays enable you to discover the true meaning of the word safari and discover why we are so passionate about making a difference. Our dedicated team are always on hand to share their first-hand knowledge of the region, which is part of what makes The Safari Collection so authentic.

EXPLORE   OUR PROPERTIES

The Safari Collection manages a portfolio of luxury camps and lodges in some of the finest locations throughout Kenya. Each of our properties are unique and outstanding in their own way. So much so that many of our guests have remarked that it is impossible for them to choose a favourite. Located in different parts of Kenya’s diverse landscape, our properties showcase some of the best that Kenya has to offer. Get ready for close encounters with the world’s tallest animal at Giraffe Manor. Prepare for rhino-packed plains at Solio Lodge, unlike anything else you will ever see. Travel by air onboard our Sasaab helicopter to explore some of the furthest corners left on earth. Embrace the legendary sunsets and the roaring of pride lions at Sala’s Camp. Come and discover Kenya for yourself, but be warned, its magic will pull you in and capture your soul.

EXPERIENCES IN EAST AFRICA

Luxury safari in kenya.

If you are looking for a luxury safari in Kenya, these carefully considered itineraries are designed to impress. From total tranquillity through to edge-of-the-seat excitement, we’ve got it covered. Kenya and its surrounding countries certainly offer an endless playground for adventure. Feel the thrill of trekking through lush rainforest in search of mountain gorillas. Experience the wonder of close encounters with a huge range of wildlife. Discover a new world by snorkelling the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Meet communities and cultures who will open your eyes to a different way of life. Whatever you choose, East Africa is a place to soothe the soul and make you feel totally alive. The giant landscapes, wide open spaces and abundant nature seem to have a calming effect on all who visit. Kenya is also considered to be a melting pot of cultures. As a result, you will encounter many different people, eager to welcome you with open arms along your journey. We’ll create the most perfect of family safari holidays and our safaris are by their very nature socially distant vacations , so let us share with you all that this magical part of the world has to offer.

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Find out what’s new in our world. Get inspired by our insider guides, videos and updates from our on the ground team in East Africa.

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KENYA’S BEAUTIFUL WATERWAYS

Discover how you can support our footprint initiatives and give back.

We aim to tread lightly on our planet. It is at the forefront of our minds. The Safari Collection are focused on minimising our environmental footprint. We are actively involved in projects that help to protect Kenya’s incredible landscape and wildlife for future generations.

GIVING BACK

We are committed to being sustainable. Giving back to the communities and the wildlife that support us is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that when the people, wildlife and landscape that surround our properties experience direct benefits from tourism, they become motivated to join us in our efforts. As a result, we are able to strengthen our sustainability efforts, protecting the environment and its wildlife for future generations. This is why The Safari Collection are heavily invested in a wide range of community and conservation projects across Kenya. For instance, our initial source of employment is usually from the local communities that surround our properties. This helps to ensure that we support as many local members of the community as possible to become part of our team. Find out more about our conservation , community and sustainability projects.

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Luxury Kenya Safaris

LUXURY KENYA SAFARIS SUMMED UP: Kenya is the land of variety, everywhere you go there are different tribes, elegant in their finery. The culture here is a real highlight but areas such as the Masai Mara , when combined with the North ( Samburu , Laikipia or Meru ) are so different you feel as if you’ve been in two different countries. Kenya’s coastline is also stunning with white sand and turquoise ocean, not to mention Lamu , one of the world’s most unique islands and a haven of tranquility. The Great Rift Valley also passes through Kenya and the lakes can provide a relaxing change to your safari. We’re lucky enough to still work with some of Kenya’s most remote and luxurious safari camps, so overcrowding isn’t an issue for our guests. It is the Kenyan people themselves that often make your safari here so special – they are charismatic, charming and have a fantastic sense of humour. Scroll down on this page for further information on Kenya.

GET INTO THE WILDS: Spend the day in a nomadic Samburu boma , sleep out under the stars , see George Adamson’s grave , take a mobile safari into remote parts of the Masai Mara , spend the day snorkelling off Wasini Island, take a helicopter up to Lake Turkana, fish on Lake Baringo, help collar a lion, track rhino in Laikipia.

BEACH EXTENSION: Zanzibar , Kenya Diani , Kenya Lamu , Mozambique , Seychelles , Mauritius , Madagascar

KENYA SAFARI LOCATION: Sub-Saharan country located in East Africa.

CLIMATE: Hot Dec-Mar, rains Apr-May, dry and warm Jun-Oct, rains Nov.

TYPICAL LANDSCAPE: Huge variety, from desert to lush rolling plains and Great Rift Valley Lakes.

We are in Kenya between three and four times a year updating our knowledge and discovering new camps in the best locations.

THE LUXURY SAFARI COMPANY’S TOP KENYA SAFARI IDEAS ( Click here to see other Kenya Safari Ideas )

Masai Mara Big Cats, Masai Warriors + Zanzibar Marine Life and Dolphins

Luxury Masai Mara Safari + Remote White Sandy Beaches of Mozambique

Your Kenya Safari can incorporate just about anything you want, from bush to beach and relaxation to adventure – travel to two different areas and feel as though you have travelled through two different countries. This magical country boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, with Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro casting a watchful eye over pristine wilderness. On your luxury Kenya safari explore true unchartered wilderness, by foot, by 4×4 or by horse. Stay in some of the world’s most luxurious and intimate safari lodges and camps. See the wildebeest migration as it takes its annual route through the eighth wonder of the world, the Masai Mara . Watch lions, leopards and cheetah hunt down unsuspecting prey. Learn the Masai and Samburu traditions, and dance around the campfire before retreating to the azure inviting waters of the Indian Ocean .

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8 of the Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Kenya

Along with Tanzania , Kenya is the archetypal African safari destination. It is synonymous with the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, and home to iconic parks like the Maasai Mara National Reserve as well as a slew of private conservancies. For those in search of a truly memorable safari experience, Kenya also offers some of the most luxurious lodges on the continent. In this article, we take a look at a few of our favorites; ranging from classic tented camps to unique private villas.

Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp

Michael Poliza / Getty Images

Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp  is located far from the crowds in the southeast corner of the Maasai Mara, near the Tanzanian border. Set in a stunning 6,000-acre private conservancy, the camp consists of just 10 luxury tents decorated in a nostalgic 1920s style that recreates the safari golden age. Each white canvas tent comes with an en-suite bathroom, while family rooms include a living room complete with a fireplace. Meet your fellow travelers for dinner and drinks in the communal mess tents; or seek post-game drive relaxation at the swimming pool and spa. Game drives, night drives, and walking safaris all take place in an area known for its abundant wildlife. 

Tortilis Safari Camp

Tortilis Camp

Surrounded by acacia woodland,  Tortilis Safari Camp is blessed with some of the best Kilimanjaro views in the business. Here, you can enjoy game drives, walking safaris and sundowners both in Amboseli National Park itself or in the camp's 30,000-acre private concession. There are 17 luxuriously furnished Makuti tents, that all come with one main bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and private verandah. For a little extra luxury, book a stay in the camp's exclusive safari house. An on-site garden provides fresh produce for delicious meals served in the main lodge, which in turn overlooks a waterhole frequented by elephants. Other highlights include a swimming pool and spa service.

Mara Bushtops

Orion Hotels

Located less than five kilometers from the main gate into the Maasai Mara National Park,  Mara Bushtops is a luxury tented camp set high on a hill within a private conservancy. Scenic valley views are a feature of the lodge's 12 5-star tents, as are private decks and hot tubs. The lounge and dining area includes a fine wine cellar, bar, and library; while the infinity pool doubles as an elevated game-viewing spot. Maasai guides accompany all game drives and walking safaris, and breakfasts can be enjoyed in the bush. When you want a change of scene, book a visit to a local school or Maasai village. Mara Bushtops is also renowned for its full-service Amani Spa. 

Campi ya Kanzi

Campi ya Kanzi is a unique camp built at the foot of the Chyulu Hills in southern Kenya, on communal land owned by the Maasai. Both socially and ecologically responsible, the lodge features six tented cottages and two suites, each with breathtaking views and a personal Maasai butler. If you're traveling as a group, consider booking the private Kanzi House. Meals are accompanied by spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro or enjoyed beneath a canopy of stars. On your safari, you will benefit from the knowledge of a native Maasai tracker. Special Campi ya Kanzi experiences include walking safaris into the Chyulu Hills cloud forest, horse riding and scenic Kilimanjaro flights. 

Sasaab Lodge

Sasaab Lodge is located on Samburu communal lands in northern Kenya, near the Buffalo Springs National Reserve. Perched above the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, it offers magical views across the Laikipia Plateau towards Mount Kenya; and nine luxurious, Moroccan-themed tents. All are very secluded and come with an open-air bathroom and private plunge pools. The communal area is perched upon a rocky ridge with incredible views of the river below. Samburu guides will take you on a walking safari, camel safari or traditional 4x4 game drive. Keep an eye out for regional specials including the gerenuk antelope, the Grévy's zebra, and the reticulated giraffe. 

Ol Donyo Lodge

Nestled at the foot of the Chyulu Hills, the  Ol Donyo Lodge  is located in between Amboseli and Tsavo East National Parks. Its uniquely decorated guest suites and villas boast private plunge pools and dramatic views that stretch all the way to distant Mount Kilimanjaro. Each one also has a rooftop star bed accessed via a winding stone staircase. There's an infinity pool, a massage service and an elegant dining area with an impressive wine list. Spend your days exploring the lodge's stunning surroundings on a game drive, horseback safari or guided bush walk; or immerse yourself in local culture with a visit to a Maasai village. Fly-camping can also be arranged. 

Loisaba Tented Camp

Escarpment views and chic Africana furniture are defining features of  Loisaba Tented Camp . Located in a private conservancy on the edge of the Laikipia Plateau, the camp offers six tent suites and three family suites, all with polished wood floors, private verandahs, and rainfall showers. When you're not in your room or out on safari, spend time socializing at the infinity pool or in the open lounge and bar. Activities range from visits to Samburu villages to horse riding, camel trekking, and fishing. You can even visit the sniffer dogs used by the conservancy's anti-poaching patrol. For a truly unforgettable stay, book a night in one of the  Loisaba star beds , owned by the same company. 

Lewa Safari Camp

Lewa Safari Camp 

Famous as the place where Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge stayed ahead of their Kenyan engagement in 2010, Lewa Safari Camp has access to 65,000 acres of private game viewing. Each luxury safari tent has its own verandah and en-suite bathroom, while the camp's communal areas include a sparkling swimming pool and a sitting room with an open log fire. Gourmet meals include afternoon tea and evening canapés. Whether you choose to join a game drive, a guided walk or explore on horseback, keep an eye out for Lewa's black and white rhinos. The conservancy also boasts the world's largest concentration of endangered Grévy's zebras.

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Between Heaven and Earth

About Angama

More than a place, Angama is the simple belief in looking after one another — our guests, our team and our neighbours, both human and wild.

Swahili for ‘suspended in mid-air’, Angama offers high-touch safari experiences in one-of-a-kind locations across East Africa.

A Different Style of Safari

Breathtaking views, warm Kenyan service, contemporary African design and intuitive guiding are just some of Angama’s signatures. Meet our lovely properties below:

Angama Mara

The flagship lodge sitting 1,000 feet in the air overlooking the Maasai Mara, where days are spent exploring its incredible wildlife diversity and guests are always spoiled for choice. Each of the Tented Suites are perched along the Great Rift Valley’s edge, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls providing unparalleled views.

Angama Amboseli

An intimate lodge of just 10 suites in a private sanctuary, renown for its density and diversity of wildlife. Set in a Fever Tree forest against the famed backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, here is where some of the last Super Tusker elephants roam.

Angama Safari Camp

Find yourself amidst the action of the Great Migration and the Mara’s abundant wildlife in this light-footprint tented camp. With a 13-member private staff — a Camp Host, Butler, Chef, two Guides — including two private vehicles. Staying in the park means two hours of extra game drives at times when the animals are most active (before sunrise and just after sunset).

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Endless Ways to Spend Your Days

Days at Angama are as action-packed or as gentle as you prefer. Home to Africa’s great mammals, guests in the Mara can experience everything from hot-air ballooning to beading with the Maasai Mamas. In Amboseli, Kimana Sanctuary is yours to explore whether on foot, at night — or simply stare at the mountain and watch the clouds float by.

ANGAMA MARA & ANGAMA SAFARI CAMP

ANGAMA AMBOSELI

ANGAMA MARA

The Perfect Stay

We’re often asked, ‘How many days should one stay’? The truth is, there is never enough time, but the perfect stay might look something like this:

Touchdown at Angama Mara’s private airfield where a warm Kenyan welcome awaits you. Enjoy a delicious lunch out on the baraza while taking in the breath-taking view of the Mara below and the endless sky. After you settle into your tent, meet your Guide and descend into the Mara Triangle and begin your adventure.

Head out early on a full-day exploration of the Triangle. Enjoy a picnic breakfast or lunch — or both — under a desert date tree somewhere in the middle of nowhere, along the Tanzanian border. After an exciting day out, return to the lodge just in time for the sundowner Boma, as you sip on a gin and tonic while enjoying a Maasai warrior performance.

Join one of our Maasai naturalists and discover the Great Rift Valley on foot, learning about the flora, fauna through a traditional Maasai perspective. Back at your tent, enjoy a pampering massage on your private deck then spend the afternoon on a long lazy lunch in Shamba, or head out for a delightfully slow safari.

A very early start to catch a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the Mara plains. Toast the morning’s flight with bubbles and a delicious breakfast in the heart of the Triangle, before a gentle safari back to camp in time for lunch and an afternoon at your leisure by the swimming pool. Tonight, experience Angama Mara’s lantern-lit signature Forest BBQ.

Head off on a morning drive followed by breakfast on the deck of your tent. Lunch is a romantic affair, recreating the magical picnic scene from the classic movie, Out of Africa, on the very site it was filmed. Later, join the Maasai Mamas in the Beading Studio and try your hand at their craft or ask them to bead something for you.

How to Get Here

Both Angama Mara and Angama Safari Camp are just a short 45-minute flight from Kenya’s capital of Nairobi. Guests can travel on the multiple daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, or opt for a private charter straight to Angama’s airfield from Nairobi’s main airport, Jomo Kenyatta International.

Angama Amboseli is also reachable by daily scheduled 45-minute flights from Nairobi or by private charter directly to its airfield.

Various international airlines, as well as the national carrier, Kenya Airways, offer direct flights to Jomo Kenyatta International from hubs all over the world.

Guest Reviews

“out of africa“.

We stayed for 5 nights at Angama Mara and we were so sad to leave. Apart from the wonderful wildlife including predators, the ambience of the camp was remarkable. Most important, the staff here couldn’t have been more attentive. Our butler Caroline was a real sweetheart and couldn’t do enough for us. Our guide Jackson showed great skill in discovering elusive predators. I am writing t …

The most amazing place!

Where to begin? My Husband and I found ourselves out of words to describe how amazing our stay at Angama Mara was. It was truly the most amazing trip we have ever been on. Especially thanks to the staff! We just kept saying we couldn’t believe what we were experiencing. We booked a signature stay which included a hot air balloon ride, massages, an Out of Africa lunch & private saf …

Remarkable!

This place is incredibly special. Our group of 4 ladies visited over the summer and had a wonderful time. The property is exceptional, as are the views. We enjoyed every aspect of our stay, but our favorite part was the people. The staff go above and beyond to make the entire experience extraordinary. We made such special memories and I can’t wait to bring my family and kids bac …

Incredible honeymoon

Wow where to even begin…. We had the most incredible time at Angama for part of our honeymoon. From the moment we were picked up at the airstrip to the second we left on our plane, the service, hospitality, and every little detail of our trip far exceeded any of our wildest dreams or expectations. Truly the best trip we have ever been on, and my husband and I are pretty seasoned trave …

Absolutely Stunning, incredible experience

Not sure where to start, but this lodge is fantastic and the whole experience truly memorable, I couldn’t recommend enough. From getting picked up from the Mara airstrip by our Guide for the week Jeremy, who I can’t praise enough, nothing was too much and his knowledge was incredible, plus his obvious and clear love of nature was enduring…This is such a special place, we was planning …

This place is heaven on earth!!!

It is hard to find words to convey the beauty of Angama Mara. High up on the escarpment overlooking the Mara, the views are just incredible. Add to that the warmth of welcome and care from all of the Angama staff, slick modern dining spaces, beautiful luxury tented rooms, amazing food and all the delights of the Mara on the doorstep, it really is a taste of heaven on earth. The highli …

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The most revered of Africa’s safari destinations, Kenya is located in East Africa and boasts the Masai Mara National Park, renowned for its abundant wildlife and annual Great Migration.

It is a country brimming with romance, thrill and adventure – nothing says “classic safari” quite like a Kenyan safari.

A Kenyan safari not only boasts spectacular natural beauty in one of the most unspoiled places on earth, but it also brings you up close and personal with Africa’s most sought-after wildlife.

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Mahali Mzuri

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• Necker Island - British Virgin Islands
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Welcome to Mahali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson’s Kenyan safari camp. Located in the world-famous Maasai Mara ecosystem in the path of the annual Great Migration, the camp is within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. With endless opportunities for game viewing, you can sit back and let the wildlife come to you.

Discover the highlights.

Your tent is your window onto some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. Sleeping up to 24 guests across 12 luxurious tents, each is designed to be your home away from home, and unlike any you’ve ever experienced.

Game drives

Every game drive is different and exciting. Safaris in Kenya are filled with wildlife sightings, romantic scenery and dramatic views.

Where we are

Mahali Mzuri is located within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. The camp is perched on the side of a lush valley overlooking rolling plains.

Mahali Mzuri, Maasai Mara

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Kenya Luxury Safari Lodges & Resorts

A selection of our favourite places to stay whilst on a luxury Kenya safari

Accommodation Type: Tented Camps

Eagle view camp, location: masai mara.

Our Luxury Rating

An award-winning eco-lodge with breathtaking views over Mara grasslands

Elewana Sand River Masai Mara

Secluded camp with tents strung along a leafy river bank, and views into Tanzania.

Mahali Mzuri

Elegant tented safari camp with a location that justifies its name - ‘beautiful place’’.

Sala's Camp

Stylish and luxurious tented camp on a bend in the Sand river, looking out over the border with Tanzania.

Accommodation Type: Safari Lodges

House in the wild.

Boutique, family-run lodge by the Mara river, on a private conservancy.

Accommodation Type: Beach Resorts

Hemingways watamu, location: kenya coast.

Iconic hotel, bright and airy, on one of Kenya’s finest beaches.

Alfajiri Villas

Exclusive clifftop beach retreat by the Indian Ocean.

Kinondo Kwetu

A family-owned, boutique beach lodge, found on a private beach close to Diani.

The Emakoko

Location: nairobi.

Boutique lodge on the edge of beautiful Nairobi National Park.

Loldia House

Location: rift valley lakes.

Great Rift Valley farmhouse on the picturesque shores of Lake Naivasha.

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THE 10 BEST Luxury Lodges in Kenya

Kenya Luxury Lodges

Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Mara Intrepids Tented Camp

2. Soroi Lions Bluff Lodge

3. Sentinel Mara Camp

4. Olare Mara Kempinski

5. Giraffe Manor

6. Entumoto Safari Camp

7. JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

8. Ololo Safari Lodge & Farm

9. Mara Serena Safari Lodge

10. Offbeat Mara Camp

11. amboseli serena safari lodge, 12. lake nakuru sopa lodge, 14. solio lodge, 15. sala's camp, 16. chui lodge, 17. lewa house, 18. great plains conservation ol donyo lodge, 19. great plains conservation mara plains camp, 20. kicheche laikipia, 21. sosian lodge, 22. mara ngeche safari camp, 23. spirit of the masai mara, 24. tawi lodge, 25. the emakoko, 26. amani mara, 27. mara engai wilderness lodge, 28. olarro lodges, 29. osero lodge, 30. elewana loisaba lodo springs, luxury lodges nearby destinations.

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In Kenya, Seeing the Sites by Dhow

The wooden boats, whose triangular sails create a distinctive silhouette, are used up and down the East African coast.

By Ginanne Brownell

Reporting from Lamu, Kenya

There’s just something about a lager at sunset.

As we headed toward Pate Island by dhow, the traditional sailboat that is ubiquitous up and down the East African coast, the captain popped open my Tusker, a Kenyan beer, and passed around beef and vegetarian samosas. I settled back on large overstuffed white cushions, munched on the savory treats and reflected that life was always better with a sundowner.

Just about a half hour earlier at Manda Bay , the posh rustic resort on Manda Island where we were staying, I had donned the colorful plaid kikoy wrap I had bought the day before and my partner put on his swim trunks so we could wade out into the Indian Ocean and climb aboard the dhow, which comfortably carried the captain, his mate and the two of us.

Dhows have sailed the Indian Ocean for thousands of years, their triangular sails creating distinctive silhouettes. Made of woods such as teak and mahogany, the vessels vary in size from small fishing boats to spacious versions more than 100 feet long.

As for Manda Bay, the Italian musician Bruno Brighetti originally opened it in the 1960s as the Blue Safari Club. It was sold to Kenyans more than two decades ago. Now its thatched roof bungalows, with wooden bed swings on the porches, line a vast, private sandy beach (beachside rooms are $540 a night for single occupancy).

It takes about an hour to fly from Nairobi to the tiny Manda Island airport, then porters carry your bags out to the dock for a 30-minute boat ride to the resort on the island’s northern shore. Everyone from wealthy South African tech executives to members of the British aristocracy have stayed here over the years. (Lady Viola Grosvenor, a sister of the Duke of Westminster — who owns a good portion of London’s Mayfair neighborhood — married the son of the Kenyan owners in 2022, and part of their wedding celebrations were held at Manda Bay).

Mention a trip to Kenya and most people probably think “safari.” But staying at Manda Bay has a whole different vibe. In addition to dhow cruises around the mangrove-studded archipelago — which includes Manda Island, Lamu Island, Pate Island and the smaller islands of Kiwayu and Manda Toto — there are relaxed days by the pool; snorkeling on a nearby reef; day trips to Lamu Town and the village of Shela, both on Lamu Island; sailboats and kayaks to borrow; and offers of inshore and deep-sea fishing expeditions.

Aside from the fishing, we had just about done everything else during our week here when we decided to take a sunset cruise. During it, we asked to visit Pate Island, home to the ruins of the village of Shanga, which archaeologists say was first established in the eighth century.

Our boat captain explained that the island is most accessible at high tide, which we would miss. Plus, by the time we arrived, the sun would have set, and finding the village in the dark would be very difficult.

But as we sailed near, he pointed out some features and regaled us with tales about the island. One was the story of a Chinese ship , filled with goods including porcelain, that was wrecked off the coast of Pate in the 1400s. Descendants of the survivors are said to still inhabit parts of the island, and the silversmiths in Lamu Town insist that the porcelain set into their necklaces and earrings are fragments that still wash ashore today.

As we watched the pinks and oranges of sunset dance across the shifting cerulean blue sky, we admitted we weren’t heartbroken to miss the Shanga site because we already had seen some ruins the previous evening.

On the way to a hilltop sundowner on the resort’s property, our guide, a gap year student whose paternal great-grandfather was the renowned Kenyan paleontologist Louis Leakey, had taken us past the remains of Manda Town, a settlement said to have been founded in the ninth century. (There are historic ruins up and down this Swahili coast archipelago, including what remains of the village of Takwa, on the island’s southern side.)

Manda Town now is filled with the remains of stone and lime-mortar buildings, including a mosque’s ornate mihrab, the wall niche that indicates the direction of Mecca. In the 1960s, archaeologists determined that some of the structures included bricks likely brought to the area as ballast in ships from Oman.

Walking around the ruins covered in overgrown prickly vegetation, not far from what our guide said was a 1,000-year-old baobab tree, I imagined what this town had been like at its peak in the 13th century, when about 3,500 people are believed to have lived there.

This stay at Manda Bay was my third trip to the archipelago — and my second time traversing its waters by dhow. On my first visit here, in 2019, I stayed at the Italian-owned Majlis Resort , a property on Manda Island designed in the Swahili architectural vernacular and featuring intricately carved wooden doors and beds (a junior suite starts around $530 a night, depending on the season).

I had taken a day cruise on the hotel’s dhow and had been fascinated to watch the junior captain climbing onto a wooden part of the mast to hoist the sail, which had a woman’s portrait painted on one side, and watched as it unfurled and instantly caught a gust of wind. As I lounged at the boat’s bow — this one had red pillows — we passed jovial fishermen on brightly painted boats who showed off their catch.

After we had rounded the southernmost tip of Lamu Island, we stopped by a secluded beach where I snorkeled, and then had a seafood lunch on a beach dotted with a handful of luxury vacation villas . Since the area first became popular with the expat crowd in the 1960s, Princess Caroline of Monaco , Sting, the actor Dominic West , the Dutch filmmaker Anton Corbijn and the makeup entrepreneur Charlotte Tilbury all have owned or rented properties on the island.

After lunch, we spent the afternoon sailing around the rest of the island, passing the small, serene fishing village of Matondoni, which is known as a center of dhow construction and where both of the dhows I have been on were crafted. Soon enough, as we got near Lamu Town, our tranquillity was interrupted by the hustle and bustle of boats dropping off supplies and passengers at the docks and local children jumping in the water for a late afternoon dip.

The day before, the hotel had arranged a guide for my walking tour of Lamu Town. This community of about 15,000 is the best maintained of the Swahili towns along the East African coast, and includes an Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After visiting Lamu Museum and the Donkey Sanctuary (which cares for donkeys that are ill or too old to work), we headed into the maze of alleyways lined with shops selling goods from locally made fabrics to kiti cha jeuri chairs, wooden seats accented with panels of woven string. We ended our tour in the small market square where fruit and vegetable sellers hawked fresh mangos and avocados while local men in bright sarongs and kufi caps caught up on the day’s gossip.

Shela, a small village on Lamu, is less hectic than Lamu Town and has a more cleaned up feel, with a number of small art galleries, a few upscale boutiques like Aman , which sells hand loomed cotton clothing at European prices, and private homes owned by wealthy Kenyans and foreigners that have been lovingly — and expensively — renovated.

It is also home to the storied Peponi Hotel . Opened in the late 1960s by Wera and Aage Korschen, over the decades that hotel has gained something of a bohemian reputation and its cocktail hour is the place to see and be seen. (After my dhow excursion, I enjoyed a cocktail named dawa — Swahili for medicine — made with vodka, honey and lime.) Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall visited in the 1970s and since then Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and the Obamas have been among those who popped by for a visit.

On New Year’s Day every year, the hotel hosts a dhow race that is a social highlight for both holidaymakers and locals. Our dhow captain on my most recent sail told us he came in third among the 11 locally made boats.

We missed the race though, as we were too busy lazily lounging poolside in wooden swings, watching the world go by.

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This 7-night Safari in Botswana Is All About Wildlife, Water, and Sustainability — Here's What It Was Like to Visit

The Okavango Delta creates a safari landscape like no other.

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

Less than an hour after landing at a remote airstrip, we're having sundowners en route to the lodge. A troop of dozens — perhaps a hundred — baboons returns to the trees around us to roost for the night. A nosy kudu slowly circles our makeshift camp. Chatty squirrels chitter away in the branches above our heads. We sip our gin and tonics and watch as the Okavango Delta settles into dusk. So it goes on safari in Botswana.

We hop back into the jeep and make for Vumbura Plains, our home for the next few nights, passing elephants under trees and lechwe antelope spread across the flooded plains. But interestingly, it's not the wildlife that captivates me on the ride. It's the water.

The Okavango Delta is a sprawling inland delta, and each winter, floodwaters from the Okavango River inundate some three million acres of grassland and desert. It creates a vast waterscape that not only draws human visitors like me but plenty of animal ones, too. So as we're driving to the lodge, my heart stops as the road disappears into the waters — and I hold my breath as we plunge right in. "You might want to pick up that bag," our Wilderness guide Dave Luck says to me as the water gurgles beneath the floor of the jeep, seeping in through the crevices.

The floodwaters aren't very deep, though, and the local guides know where the roads twist and turn, even if I can't see anything through the murk. It's a surreal feeling to be navigating these waters in a jeep rather than on a boat.

We arrive at Vumbura Plains , and there's plenty more water to be found here. The camp was newly rebuilt in 2022 and now has a series of 14 open-air suites connected by elevated wooden walkways. I sit in my sunken living room adorned with water-lily motifs, and even though it's after dark, I can hear wildlife wading through the water all around me.

The water remains a source of intrigue for me during our stay at Vumbura Plains, perhaps even more so as we take to the skies in a helicopter. From our aerial vantage point, I can see just how expansive the floodwaters are — and how filled they are with wildlife. Water-loving hippos and crocodiles are spread across the saturated plains, while elephants march single-file through the reeds, creating meandering pathways visible from the air. 

Our next adventure takes us away from the floods, in the Linyanti Concession, where the eight-room DumaTau camp becomes our next home. There is water here, too, as the lodge sits on a riverfront that's very popular with elephants. In fact, one waltzes right past my tented suite as I'm reclining for an afternoon nap.

On one of our game drives across the dry terrain, we see dozens of vultures perched on every tree within eyesight. And that means one thing: dinner is served. (Not ours, of course, but lions'.)

As we make our way through the tall, rustling grass, we spot a few lounging lionesses and their playful cubs. Then the smell hits us: it's a slightly putrid buffalo, one that the lions have been feasting on for some time. One lioness is polishing off its exposed ribs, her strong teeth tearing into the flesh and peeling it straight off the bone. Dave hands me a small tin filled with a fragrant salve. "For the smell," he notes, rubbing some under his nose. The trick works wonders, and we continue our observations of the feast.

You might think such a sight (and odor) might deter us from our own dinner back at DumaTau, but the cuisine at this camp is too delectable to pass up. The food system, as the printed menu tells me, is responsible for some 30 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. So Wilderness designs "mindful menus" here, incorporating locally sourced, sustainable ingredients into its dishes to reduce its "foodprint." What's more, food waste is minimized by the kitchen's upcycling team, which turns scraps into preserves, pickles, and stocks. Nothing goes to waste in nature, and so it shall be at Wilderness camps, too.

Our final leg of the safari takes us back to the Okavango Delta, this time to the camp Jao. And here, I'm awestruck at the architecture. Jao feels like a movie set. It's a series of striking, modern tree houses that blend natural elements with high design and sustainable engineering. (The thatch, for instance, is actually made from recycled plastic.)

The room that really takes my breath away is the double-height library and wine room, at the center of which is a giraffe skeleton. Jao is equal parts futuristic and classic safari, and it's certainly a feast for the eyes.

We return to watery adventures in the delta, but not in jeeps. One afternoon, we take a more traditional form of transportation: a hand-carved mokoro canoe. Skilled gondoliers use long poles to propel us through the floodwaters, pausing at points to teach us about the flora of the region. We make necklaces out of water lilies and wear them proudly as we glide through the reeds.

On our last night in Botswana, the staff prepares us a beautiful sundowner send-off — a massive spread arranged on my suite's terrace surrounding a fire pit. As we watch the light fade over the water, we once more sip on our gin and tonics, the sights and sounds of our trip shining brightly in our memories.

A seven-night, three-camp Bucket List Botswana safari with Wilderness starts at $12,120 per person; book your trip at wildernessdestinations.com .