The Masai Mara is not just Kenya’s crown jewel of wildlife destinations, it’s a dreamscape for travellers seeking both adventure and indulgence. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, from the Big 5 to the awe-inspiring Great Migration, the Mara has captured the hearts of safari lovers around the globe. But there’s more to the Mara than just game drives and golden sunsets.
For those who crave a blend of luxury, privacy and an intimate connection with nature whether you’re a couple on honeymoon, a family on safari, or a solo traveller seeking serenity, the Masai Mara offers something extraordinary.
Today, we unveil the top five high-end lodges in the Masai Mara that not only provide opulent comfort but also feature private plunge pools, where you can unwind with views of the savannah, sip champagne under the stars, and feel at one with the wild.
Angama: A Haven of Luxury in the Heart of the Masai Mara
Perched on the edge of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, Angama Mara offers complete seclusion and privacy for each guest. Each of the 30 luxurious tented suites features a private wooden deck, often complemented by a personal plunge pool or soaking tub perfect for unwinding while taking in the sweeping views of the Masai Mara. For those seeking a more social experience, a shared infinity pool is located at the main pavilion. However, the in-suite pools remain entirely private and unshared, ensuring an intimate and exclusive retreat.
Other Activities to Enjoy at Angama Mara
- Game drives in the Mara Triangle
- Hot-air balloon safaris
- Walking safaris with Maasai guides
- Photography sessions & studio access
- Shamba (garden) experience & farm-to-table lunch
- Sundowners at the boma
- Forest BBQ dinners
- Spa treatments and wellness therapies
- Use of fitness center & running with a Kenyan
- Maasai cultural visits & beading workshops
- Visit to the Mara Conservancy canine unit
- Bird watching and nature walks
- Private dining and bush breakfasts
Ideal Travelers for Angama Mara
- Couples and honeymooners
- family
- Solo travellers
- Photographers
Mahali Mzuri
Mahali Mzuri is a 5-star luxury tented camp nestled in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy within Kenya’s Masai Mara. The camp features 12 uniquely designed tents, each offering a stylish and modern take on traditional safari living. Every tent is equipped with a private plunge pool, en-suite bathroom, and a spacious deck that provides uninterrupted views of the surrounding wilderness. Known for its privacy, elegance, and personalized service, Mahali Mzuri is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the wild without compromising on comfort. Guests enjoy luxury amenities, world-class dining, and front-row seats to incredible wildlife sightings including the Big 5 and seasonal Great Migration.
Other Activities to Enjoy at Mahali Mzuri
- Morning, afternoon and night game drives
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Guided bush walks
- Maasai village visits
- Traditional Maasai games
- Weekly Maasai market tours
- Spa treatments
- In-room or deck massages
- Heated infinity pool
- Bush breakfasts and Sundowners
- Sunset BBQs
- Private deck dining
- Lounge with bar and telescope
- Kids’ nature walks
- Wildlife tracking games for kids
- Bedtime storytelling
- Child-friendly spa treatments
Ideal Travelers for Mahali Mzuri
- Luxury safari seekers
- Couples and honeymooners
- Families with children
- Photographers
- Cultural experience seekers
- Small groups and private bookings
- First-time safari goers wanting premium comfort
Sala’s Camp
Sala’s camp offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience with only seven spacious tents, designed to provide both luxury and privacy in the heart of the wild. Among these are two family suites, ideal for guests traveling with children, and two secluded honeymoon tents, perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. Each tent is elegantly furnished and positioned to maximize views of the surrounding landscape. Private plunge pools are available in select tents, including the family suites and honeymoon tents, allowing guests to relax in complete seclusion while enjoying the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
Activities at Sala’s Camp in the Masai Mara
- Game drives (morning and evening)
- Guided bush walks
- Sundowners in the wild
- Star gazing
- Private bush breakfasts and picnics
- Maasai village cultural visits
- Family-friendly
- Photography safaris
- Hot air balloon safaris
- In-room or outdoor spa treatments
- Conservation and educational talks
Ideal Travelers for Sala’s Camp
- Honeymooners
- Couples seeking privacy
- Families with children
- Luxury safari enthusiasts
- Wildlife photographers
- Small private groups
- Repeat safari travellers
Sanctuary Olonana
Sanctuary Olonana offers a luxurious safari experience with 14 spacious, glass-sided suites, each featuring a private deck that opens up to stunning views of the Mara River. Unlike traditional canvas tents, these contemporary suites are built for comfort and elegance. While the camp has a main swimming pool available to all guests, only the exclusive Geoffrey Kent Suite includes its own private infinity pool, providing a heightened level of privacy and indulgence for those seeking a more exclusive stay.
Activities at Sanctuary Olonana
- Morning, afternoon and night game drives
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Guided walking safaris
- Maasai village visits
- Local school visits
- Spa treatments and massages
- Bush breakfasts and picnics
- Candlelit bush dinners
- Sundowners with scenic views
- Birdwatching
- Hippo watching along the Mara River
- Photography opportunities
- Family-friendly activities.
- Wildlife talks and storytelling sessions
- Tree planting with local guides
Ideal Travelers for Sanctuary Olonana
- Luxury Safari Seekers
- Honeymooners and Couples
- Families with Children
- First-Time Safari Travelers
- Photographers and Wildlife Enthusiasts
- Cultural Travelers
Olare Mara Kempinski
Olare Mara Kempinski offers an exclusive luxury escape with just 12 beautifully appointed tents and suites nestled in the heart of the Maasai Mara. The honeymoon suite stands out with its private plunge pool, perfect for romantic getaways. The remaining suites maintain the same high standards of comfort and elegance, though they do not include private pools. With its intimate setting and unmatched service, Olare Mara Kempinski delivers a truly unforgettable safari experience.
Activities at Olare Mara Kempinski
- Morning and evening game drives
- Night game drives
- Guided bush walks
- Birdwatching excursions
- Hot-air balloon safaris
- Sundowners in the bush
- Bush breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
- Horseback safaris (for experienced riders)
- Maasai village visits
- Conservation and tree-planting activities
- In-room spa and massage treatments
- Swimming in the riverfront pool
- Relaxing on private decks with savannah views
- Family-friendly nature activities
- Campfire storytelling and marshmallow roasting
Ideal Travelers for Olare Mara Kempinski:
- Honeymooners and romantic couples
- Luxury safari seekers
- Wildlife photographers
- Families with older children
- Nature and birding enthusiasts
- Cultural experience lovers
- Solo travellers
- Eco-conscious and conservation-minded guests
- Small groups or private safari parties