Guide to Sanctuary Olonana Safari Lodge Near the Masai Mara National Reserve

Mara River Greatest Show – Year-Round

Situated near the Mara Triangle, a protected area within the Greater Masai Mara, Sanctuary Olonana Lodge offers a unique experience managed by the local Maasai community. This area works to prevent poaching and improve infrastructure, ensuring a safe and sustainable ecosystem for both wildlife and the surrounding communities.

The lodge is nestled between the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Oloololo Escarpment, providing you with unparalleled views of the expansive savannah. Positioned next to the Mara River, you’ll find yourself in the heart of a game-rich region, where lions, elephants, hippos, gazelles, giraffes, and hyenas roam freely.

Inside the camp, there are 14 spacious suites, each covering 130 square meters. These permanent structures, designed with sleek, clean lines and organic materials, stand apart from traditional canvas safari camps, offering you a luxurious yet natural retreat. You’ll enjoy a king-size bed, a daybed on a private deck, and ample space to relax while you take in the stunning views. The suites also feature well-stocked mini-fridges, beautiful African art, and marble and slate en-suite bathrooms complete with a large bathtub, double vanity, and rain shower.

With floor-to-ceiling glass doors, you’ll have direct access to breathtaking views of the Mara landscape. From your suite, enjoy sweeping vistas of the Mara Triangle, including the river and surrounding forests that are rich in wildlife. The furnishings in each suite are carefully selected to create a connection to the natural beauty of the Mara.

For families, the Geoffrey Kent Suites offer additional space and privacy. These suites include an extra en-suite bedroom, a wraparound private deck with an infinity pool, and a private lounge with a dining area where a personal chef prepares delicious meals.

Olonana Lodge goes above and beyond when it comes to detail. You’ll savor meals crafted by expert chefs, dive into a well-stocked library, and unwind with soothing treatments at the mini-spa. At Olonana, you can truly escape the outside world and immerse yourself in a luxurious, nature-filled sanctuary.

Things to Do at Sanctuary Olonana Safari Lodge

Nestled in the heart of the Greater Masai Mara, Sanctuary Olonana Safari Lodge offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking thrilling excursions or indulging in soothing spa treatments, this lodge has something for everyone.

The lodge’s prime location by the river makes it an ideal spot for game viewing. A permanent pod of hippos calls the river home, so you don’t need to venture far to witness wildlife up close. The river also attracts various animals that come to quench their thirst, offering you fantastic opportunities to observe them from a safe and comfortable vantage point.

You’ll have the chance to embark on an exciting game drive, one of the highlights of your stay. Experienced guides will take you through hidden corners of the reserve in an open safari vehicle, where you can enjoy panoramic views and capture stunning photographs. As you journey through acacia-filled savannahs, riparian forests, and woodlands, you’ll encounter over 300 species of birds and diverse wildlife in the Mara Triangle.

A cultural visit to a nearby Maasai village is another memorable experience you can take part in. You’ll gain fascinating insights into the Maasai people’s traditions, such as the significance of cattle, medicinal plants, and their life stages. An expert Maasai guide will accompany you, and you’ll have the chance to engage in hands-on activities, like hut building, fire making, and warrior dancing. During school term, you can also visit a local school to learn about the educational system in the region.

For a truly unique perspective, consider soaring above the Mara Triangle in a hot-air balloon safari. From the sky, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Africa’s wildlife before landing to enjoy a sumptuous bush breakfast with fresh fruit, homemade pastries, and a glass of champagne – this experience is available at an additional cost.

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