The Masai Mara in Kenya is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world. Excellent game viewing and being home to the annual wildebeest migration make it a popular reserve. As well as the lodges and camps in the main reserve, there are now a host of excellent lodges and camps in the Northern concessions, addition tracts of land that have been leased out from Masai tribes to camp owners.
An example of a new property is the Karen Blixen Camp. This lovely 22 tented camp is situated on the banks of the Mara River with excellent views of the escarpment beyond. Hippos live in the river below the lodge lawns, and elephants often drink here too. It has the feel of Bygone days – large tents built on mahogany floors with en suite bathrooms and large double beds. It is luxury itself while still sleeping under canvas. Being outside the main reserve it is able to offer night drives as well as visits to the Masai village nearby it works with and the cookery school it has established to train local tribesmen and women with skills to help them work in the safari industry.
The Mara Simba Lodge is located amidst the Masai Mara Safari in Kenya. One will find this particular lodge to provide a comfortable ambiance that integrates the culture of the native tribe that this lodge is based upon. The grounds are expansive, and actually extend to the Talek River. Along the banks of the Talek River, guests can observe unique birds and butterflies while they frolic in the home-grown plants and trees. The Mara Simba Lodge is well-lit throughout. There are 84 guest rooms which are situated in groups of 6. For the outdoorsmen, luxury tents are available. All rooms offer a scenic view of the Talek River. There is a top-quality restaurant onsite, as well as a bar. Cuisine includes meat dishes as well as vegetarian meals.
The Keekorok Lodge was the first lodge to be erected in Masai Mara. Guests will find animals naturally encompassing the lodge during migration seasons, thus creating a unique experience in itself. This lodge does not include fencing around the perimeter, thus guests can likely observe elephants roaming about the area. Guests can attend one of the onsite presentations on Masai living, and the surrounding wildlife. The lounge offers a log fire where guests congregate to relax from a hectic day of sightseeing. Guests take this opportunity to mingle and meet other guests from various places throughout the world. There is also the Hippo bar, raised on stilts over a waterhole and offering game-viewing as you drink your sundowner or tea.
The Mara Serena Lodge is based on traditional Masai huts that offer expansive views of the reserve. It is situated within the Mara Triangle which affords its guests the ultimate level of privacy as well as an abundance of natural wildlife observations. This lodge offers 74 guest huts. Dining experiences include international cuisine, barbeques, buffets, and original African cuisine. A bar is located in the main building. Being at the heart of the park it offers many game-viewing possibilities and is a good lodge to combine with another lodge.
The Kicheche Lodge is quite unique in that it accommodates guests in durable tents that are fully equipped with beds, linens, and tables. This lodge remains unfenced, so resident wildlife freely wander amongst the grounds providing guests with an ultimate viewing experience. With just 11 tents, the Kicheche Lodge prides itself on a unique and intimate atmosphere. Various tents are situated to provide private views of the plains and hills. However some tents are positioned relatively close to each other for groups or families. A centrally located, large tent serves as the lodge lounge where guests can read, congregate, create local crafts or just relax. The dining is experience is exquisite in that bread and pastries are baked every day, as well as authentic African cuisine and international meals. Guests have the option of dining al-fresco to optimize their experience. The Kicheche Lodge delivers a setting that is unmatched. It is somewhat hidden amongst various indigenous trees, creating endless opportunities to view birds, and animals in their natural state.
Masai Mara Lodges deliver the utmost unique experience that blends culture, nature, fun, beauty, and relaxation into each visit. Whatever lodge one chooses to stay in, they are guaranteed the experience of a lifetime, and many fond memories.