Guide to Mara Serena Safari Lodge in the Mara Triangle

Great Views of Mara Triangle from Mara Serena Lodge

When you visit Mara Serena Safari Lodge, you’re stepping into a space that combines the charm of the 1970s with the strides made by Kenya’s conservationists over the years. The lodge, which opened in that iconic era, beautifully merges the old with the new, giving you an authentic glimpse of both past and present. If you’re drawn to earthy orange and brown tones, you’ll find the hotel’s design to be a true reflection of your aesthetic tastes. Inspired by the nearby mud-hut villages, the 74 rooms are thoughtfully designed, with a nod to simpler times.

The earthy, unique decor of the lodge is sure to stand out in your vacation photos, perhaps even more than the incredible wildlife in the Masai Mara. Throughout your stay, you’ll experience excellent service and personal attention from the staff, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. Set atop Ol Donyo Oseiya hill, the hotel’s location offers breathtaking views and a natural environment that reinforces why it remains a top choice for travelers.

Moving around the lodge, you’ll notice plenty of stairs and hills, as the rooms are nestled into the hillside in a flowing layout. If you prefer more convenience, you might want to request a room closer to the main reception area. Inside, the rooms are simple but comfortable, offering options like a king-sized bed or twin beds, with space for an additional bed upon request. The en-suite bathrooms are basic but functional, featuring a shower, sink, and flushing toilet.

Traditional Maasai wood carvings adorn the communal bar and dining areas, giving you a sense of local culture, with many pieces available as souvenirs from nearby craft shops. The lodge also boasts a 2.4-meter deep swimming pool where you can unwind and enjoy drinks and snacks in a relaxed atmosphere. Given the size of Mara Serena, you’ll find a vibrant and lively atmosphere, offering ample opportunities to connect with other travelers from all corners of the world. Families, especially those with teenagers, will find this to be an ideal spot to bond, enjoy new friendships, and create lasting memories. For multi-generational families, this is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Things to Do at Mara Serena Safari Lodge

At Mara Serena, your main attraction is the exhilarating game drives led by expert guides who know the reserve inside and out. These guides will take you to prime spots where animals gather, including grazing fields and watering holes. You’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, such as lions, giraffes, elephants, zebras, and a notable concentration of black rhinos. 

The thrilling coexistence of predators and prey provides exciting opportunities to witness the raw drama of nature. For an unforgettable experience, consider booking a dawn hot-air balloon ride (for an extra fee). You’ll be able to take in the breathtaking sight of the sun rising over the reserve, casting an orange glow as animals begin their day. If you’re lucky enough to visit between July and October, you’ll witness the impressive migration river crossings in the Mara Triangle, where the dramatic scenes are often punctuated by crocodiles hunting wildebeest as they cross the low-water rivers.

For a deeper connection with the local culture, you can explore a Maasai village through the lodge’s guided tour. This immersive experience gives you a glimpse into the daily life of the villagers, and you might even be lucky enough to witness a traditional Maasai ceremony. To further enhance your stay, the lodge offers memorable dining experiences, such as the Hippo Pool Breakfast, served right on the banks of the Mara River under the shade of the trees. In the evening, enjoy a lantern-lit barbeque by the pool, making for a magical, unique dining experience.

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