10 Best luxury Maasai Mara safari lodges and camps.
Maasai Mara National Reserve and its surrounding conservancies in Kenya are wordily renowned as the ultimate theatre of the African wildlife, most famously for hosting the annual Great Wildebeest Migration. To experience this natural wonder in the perfect comfort, a selection of world class luxury lodges and camps are available for your safari. These lodges and camps mix the thrill of the wilderness with five star amenities, impeccable service and a commitment to conservation, offering an authentic yet indulgent safari. From clifftop retreats with perfect views to intimate tented camps on the riverbanks.
Angama Mara.
This is located on top of Oloololo Escarpment, the lodge offers 360 degree panoramic views of the plains below. The Swahili word for ‘’suspended in mid-air’’, Angama certainly lives up to its name, providing a romantic escape. Its thirty tented suites feature floor to ceiling glass fronts ensuring that the spectacular views are a constant backdrop. Beyond the lavish suites, guests benefit from expert guiding in Mara Triangle, private picnic spots from the film Out of Africa.
Cottar’s 1920’s Camp.
For those who dream of the golden age of safari, Cottar’s 1920s Camp offers an authentic step back in time without sacrificing modern luxury. This exclusive camp that is situated in tis won private conservancy bordering the Maasai Mara and Serengeti has been operating for over a century. Its large, white canvas tents are furnished with genuine antiques, vintage fabrics and colonial-era charm, complete with private butlers and original Kenya safari bath tubs.
Mara Plains Camp.
As one of only three Relais & Chateaux properties in Kenya, Mara Plains Camp epitomizes understated, eco-conscious luxury. This is located in Private Olare Motorogi Conservancy, it offers an exceptionally high quality safari experience with a vast traversing area. The intimate cam consists of only seven elegant, canvas and wood suites, each featuring a private viewing deck and a focus an open plan design that brings the sights and sounds of the Mara inside.
Mahali Mzuri.
This is owned by Sir Richard Branson, Mahali Mzuri (meaning ‘’beautiful place’’ in Swahili) is a uniquely designed and intimate luxury camp in the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy. The camp’s 12 futuristic looking tents are built on raised platforms, offering sensational views and positioned perfectly along a ridge. The interiors are vibrant contemporary, blending local art with chic, luxurious comfort. The camp prides itself on personalized service and exceptional cuisine.
&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp.
Combining a classic safari feel with elegant modern amenities, &Beyond Kichwa Tembo is set on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment, offering breathtaking views across the Mara plains, the camp provides a slightly larger, yet equally luxurious, experience with a variety of the tented suites. This is renowned for its superb service and family-friendly atmosphere, the camp offers a relaxing rim flow swimming pool overlooking the savannah.
Sanctuary Olonana.
This is located on the private stretch of the Mara River, Sanctuary Olonana offers a contemporary design, distinguishing it from traditional tented camps. Its 14 glass sided suites provide exquisite, uninterrupted views of the river, often with hippos and crocodiles. The lodge is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and its ultra-luxurious Geoffrey Kenya Suite, offering the ultimate in privacy and indulgence.
Governor’s II Moran Camp.
This is situated on the banks of the Mara River, Governor’s II Moran Camp is celebrated for its romantic, traditional atmosphere and then exceptionally high guiding standards. As one of the original and then most exclusive camps, it offers an intimate experience with 10 luxurious tents. The tents are furnished with enormous, hand-carved king size beds and have open plan bathrooms with bathtubs.
Mara Bushtops.
Mara Bushtops is located within its own private reserve, it offers an incredibly exclusive and secluded experience. It has 12 enormous luxury tents with 24 hour butler service, outdoor showers and private hot tubs and verandas. The camp’s unique location includes a substantial natural salt lick directly in front of the main area, providing guests with intimate wildlife spectacle.
Entim Mara Camp.
Entim Mara Camp has strategic location, in the central part of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, directly along Mara River. The camp’s design is minimalist, ensuring the focus remains on the incredible surroundings. With 10 luxury tents offers guests perfect wildlife viewing, with Great Migration often passing right by the camp.
Fairmont Mara Safari Club.
This is found in Olchoro Oirowua Conservancy, Fairmont Mara Safari Club exudes classic elegance and resort style amenities. Its 50 luxurious tented suites line the banks of the Mara River, with 4 poster beds, en-suite facilities and spacious private decks overlooking the river and resident hippos.
The club setting offers extensive facilities, with large swimming pool, spa treatments, and diverse dining options. It perfectly balances a traditional safari experience with the added comforts and services expected form worldly renowned luxury brand.
