Mara Serena Safari Lodge in the Mara Triangle, Kenya.

Great Views of Mara Triangle from Mara Serena Lodge

Much has evolved since the 1970s in Kenya when Mara Serena Safari Lodge first opened its doors. The lodge retains the charm of its 1970s origins while celebrating the achievements of Kenya’s conservationists over the years. With its 1970s-inspired decor featuring orange and earthy brown tones, Mara Serena serena safari lodge is a masterclass in interior design. Modeled after the nearby mud-hut villages, the hotel’s 74 rooms are naturally crafted, reflecting a simpler era. The unique earthship decor will be as memorable in your vacation photos as the majestic wildlife in the reserve. The attentive service and personal care from the staff leave nothing to be desired. Nestled in a natural environment, it’s clear why this expansive hotel remains a top choice for visitors to the Masai Mara.

The hotel is strategically positioned atop Ol Donyo Oseiya hill, offering easy access and breathtaking vistas with rooms and suites seamlessly integrated into the hillside. There are numerous stairs throughout the hotel, so guests may prefer rooms closer to the main reception lobby. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, accommodating a king-size bed or twin-bed configuration, with the option for a third bed upon request. Each room features a basic en-suite bathroom with a shower, sink, and flushing toilet.

The communal bar and dining areas showcase traditional Maasai wood carvings, similar to those found in local communities and available as souvenirs in craft shops. Guests can enjoy the 2.4-meter deep swimming pool, where drinks and snacks are served in a relaxed setting. Thanks to the lodge’s larger size, there’s always a lively atmosphere, providing plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers and forge friendships from around the world. Teenage guests particularly enjoy the freedom and camaraderie that come with making new friends, as well as bonding with family members without feeling confined. Mara Serena is an ideal family destination for a multi-generational trip that will be a highlight of the year for everyone.

Things to Do at Mara Serena Safari Lodge

The main attraction for guests at Mara Serena is participating in the thrilling game drives organized by the safari lodge. With expert driver guides who know the reserve intimately, you’ll be taken to prime spots for observing wildlife, including popular grazing grounds and watering holes. In addition to the local population of black rhinos, you can expect to encounter lions, giraffes, elephants, and zebras in their natural settings. This dynamic interaction between predators and prey offers exhilarating glimpses of Africa’s majestic wildlife. For an unforgettable experience, consider booking a hot-air balloon safari at sunrise (additional charges apply). The safari lodge even boasts its own hot-air balloon and launch site conveniently located near the main safari lodge. Watching the sun rise over the reserve as the animals begin their day is an awe-inspiring sight you won’t soon forget. Plan your visit between July and October to witness the dramatic migration river crossings in the Mara Triangle, where crocodiles add to the spectacle as wildebeest navigate the shallow rivers.

To gain insight into the local culture, embark on the lodge’s Maasai village tour. This excursion provides a glimpse into the daily lives of villagers and may include witnessing a traditional ceremony. Blending cultural and natural experiences, the lodge offers special dining events, such as the Hippo Pool Breakfast, where you can enjoy a meal prepared by the hotel’s chefs on the serene banks of the Mara River. In the evening, savor a lantern-lit barbeque by the hippo pool and swimming pool along-side.

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