Wild thing, you make our hearts sing! Say hello to the untamed plains of the Maasai Mara in Kenya, where a live-action "The Lion King" story unfolds right before your eyes. Whether you're looking for adventure and the Big 5 or to escape from reality, honey, do we have the best Maasai Mara lodges for you.
The ever-elusive leopard lazing in a tree
Private vs Public, That is The Question
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is the OG when it comes to Great Wildebeest Migration and luxury Big 5 safari experiences. But we would not be doing our jobs if we didn't tell you about the adjoining Mara conservancies...
Hot air balloon safari anyone?
The Maasai Mara National Reserve
During the Great Migration, the Maasai Mara's landscapes essentially act as a wildlife superhighway for hordes of wildebeest, zebra and other antelope. The savannah becomes the setting of a live-action telenovela, with all the usual suspects and a few new faces making an appearance.
Staying in the Maasai Mara National Reserve allows you to really immerse yourself in all the action of this annual wildlife spectacle.
Dra-dra-dra-drama on your doorstep!
The Maasai Mara's Private Conservancies
If you're more of a boujee babe, then the private conservancies might be just what you need. Here, they strictly limit the number of guests allowed, and no day visitors are permitted. Therefore, you can enjoy a more exclusive atmosphere and flexible approach to safari activities.
Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur
Top Lodges in The Maasai Mara National Reserve
1. Live Large in Bateleur – Maasai Mara National Reserve
For those of you who prefer a little more la-di-da luxury, you must try andBeyond Bateleur Camp! With a 1920s aesthetic complete with hardwood floors, leather-buttoned Chesterfield sofas, and polished silver and copper bathtubs, this little slice of paradise in the Maasai Mara National Reserve is practically calling your name.
Old-world luxury galore, Image Credit: Bataleur Camp
Why It's Dreamy
There's more to this camp than meets the eye, as Bateleur is all about sustainable tourism. So, you can rest easy knowing your trip helps support the Africa Foundation in education and healthcare initiatives.
Top Activities
Get your safari chic wardrobe out of the closet because it's time for some game drives, walking safaris and bush dining. If you open those purse strings just a little more, a hot air balloon safari and a community excursion could also be on the horizon.
Purrfect for
Some sweet lovin' quality time for you and your partner. It's also great for families and their cubs of all ages since the camp offers a WILDchild programme to keep little ones entertained.
Bataleur camp uplifts the community by employing locals, Image Credit: Bataleur Camp
2. Retro-chic with Rekoro Camp – Maasai Mara National Reserve
Location, location, location! Rekoro sits on some prime real estate right on the Talek River, a key crossing for the wildlife during the Great Migration. So sit back, relax – with some bubbles, of course – and watch the show from one of the most exclusive camps in the Maasai Mara.
Drinking in the views, Image Credit: Rekero Camp
Why It's Dreamy
Rekero Camp doesn't just look good but also does good by investing in vulnerable areas and working closely with non-profit organisations.
Top Activities
Game drives, photographic safaris and bush picnics are all a part of the fun during your stay. If you want to be a little extra, hot air balloon safaris and community excursions are also available.
Purrfect for
A little romance, or for photographers and families with kids five years and older.
A picnic in the bush? Yes please, Image Credit: Asilia Africa
3. Sexy Sala Camp – Maasai Mara National Reserve
Get hot and heavy "under the canvas" at Sala's Camp with plunge pools and glass-fronted tents. With stunning Sand River views and contemporary luxuries, this is one safari experience you won't soon forget.
Poolside is our best side, Image Credit: The Safari Collection
Why It's Dreamy
Sala isn't just for those looking to get steamy – it's for Good Samaritans, too. Under The Safari Collection's stewardship, Sala Camp helps in initiatives that directly protect wildlife, preserve habitats and empower local communities in the Maasai Mara.
Top Activities
Get ready for sandy toes and a sunkissed nose with riverbed games, guided bush walks, fine bush dining and, of course, game drives. Don't forget to arrange a hot air balloon safari for an aerial view of the Mara, as it's simply spectacular.
Purrfect for
Honeymooners, couples, "friendcations", and families with children of all ages.
Get your heart rate up with some volleyball, Image Credit: The Safari Collection
4. J’adore Angama Mara – Maasai Mara National Reserve
Combine the golden age of Hollywood and safaris, and what do you get? Anagama Mara, a camp built on the filming site of Meryl Streep's iconic film "Out of Africa." It's the perfect place for a little movie magic with cinematographic views of the valley below and gorgeous tented suits with floor-to-ceiling glass all along the front for the full dramatic effect.
You can't go wrong with Angama Mara, Image Credit: Angama Mara
Why It's Dreamy
You can sleep like a baby knowing your visit supports the region's healthcare, education and conservation efforts.
Top Activities
Get down and dirty with Shamba (vegetable garden) visits, game drives, guided walks, a photographic studio and let your inner Coco Channel come out to play at the beading studio.
Purrfect for
Romantic getaways, photography excursions, wellness retreats, and family holidays with kids six years and older.
Imagine seeing the Maasai Mara from way up high, Image Credit: Angama Mara
Conservancies
5. Get Naughty with Naboisho Camp – Mara Naboisho Conservancy
Who's ready to get in touch with their wild side? Naboisho Camp is the perfect place to do just that! Seamlessly blending in with the surrounding landscape of the Maasai Mara, guests can have a dip in the pool while watching wildlife go by. Or, you can even opt for a "fly camping" experience.
What is fly camping, you ask? In the safari days of old, intrepid explorers had little more than a fly sheet to protect themselves from the elements and wildlife. Fly camping takes its name from this transition, and while the camps nowadays are a bit more luxurious, it's still the ultimate way to get back to basics and really immerse yourself in Africa.
G&Ts in the bush is a tale as old as time, Image Credit Asilia Africa
Why It's Dreamy
Naboisho is all about giving back as a founding member of the non-profit Mara Naboisho Conservancy, which supports the surrounding ecosystems and communities.
Top Activities
The classic game drive is paired with guided walks and activities for children. For a little extra something, hot air balloon safaris, community excursions and fly camping can also be arranged.
Purrfect for
Romantic getaways, photography trips, and family holidays with kids five years and older.
Africa screams romance, Image Credit: Naboisho Camp
6. Elegance in Elephant Pepper Camp – Mara North Conservancy
A little pepper goes a long way! Set in a forest of elephant pepper trees, its namesake camp is the perfect place to get in touch with nature. Overlooking the Maasai Mara Plains, put your feet up and watch as large herds of plains game, big cats and elephants roam past. And we left out the best part: it's far away from other lodges, giving you unlimited privacy and exclusivity.
Bean bags and booze with a view, Image Credit Elephant Pepper Camp
Why It's Dreamy
Get a gold star when staying at a lodge with a "Gold Level" Eco Rating, meaning it combines safari expertise with cutting-edge tech for a minimal environmental impact. The removable tents run solely on solar power. Isn't that just amazing?
Top Activities
Game drives, guided walks, and bush dining are all on offer here.
Purrfect for
Honeymooners, friends seeking fun, and families with kids of all ages.
Yes, this picture is real and it could be you, Image credit: Elephant Pepper Camp
7. Mad about Mahali Mzuri – Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Ever wondered what it's like to live like royalty? Wonder no further with Mhali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson's luxury tented camp. Literally named "beautiful place" in Swahili, the camp is set in a lush valley with stunning views as far as the eye can see. Talk about the royal treatment!
We can practically hear the opening of "The Lion King" playing in the background, Image Credit: Mahali Mzuri
Why It's Dreamy
A proud partner of Pack with a Purpose, the lodge supports a local school by providing solar lights, computers, and printers, and guests help provide stationary, books and dictionaries.
Top Activities
Game drives, bush dining and community excursions are all part of the fun!
Purrfect for
Honeymooners, groups, and families with children two years and older
Now this is the spot for a hot girl summer, Image Credit: Mahali Mzuri
Majestic Mara Plains Camp – Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Who needs a châteaux along the Seine when you can go to Mara Plains Camp along the Ntiakitiak River, one of Kenya's rare Relais & Châteaux establishments?
Imagine working from here, Image Credit: Mara Plains Camp
Why It's Dreamy
The camp conservation initiatives involve the local youth, introducing them to the wonders of their natural surroundings.
Top Activities
Game drives and cultural experiences, and hot air balloon safaris can be added to the mix at an extra cost.
Purrfect for
Romantic getaways, amateur photographers and families with kiddies eight years and older.
Soak in the views from the bath, Image Credit: Mara Plains Camp
Adventure is Calling!
So, really, what are you waiting for? Why simply watch National Geographic when our fabulous Travel Experts can help you live it? Get off your couch and onto a plane because adventure is calling, and this is one message you don't want to leave unread.
Answer Africa's call today, and let's start planning!
