Masai Mara
Saruni Mara Camp and its sister tented camp, Saruni Wild, lie in the Mara North Conservancy, a private wilderness covering more than 30,000 hectares outside the Masai Mara Reserve. The sanctuary is a partnership between conservationists, investors and 800-plus Masai landowners, for whom this is the first time they have received income from wildlife. The camps lie in the path of the Great Migration (July to November) and the less well-known Loita Hills migration (December to May), which sees thousands of wildebeest arriving at the conservancy. So there's plenty to see and, to top it all, this boutique lodge offers top-quality service.
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Saruni Mara is the only small boutique lodge in the Mara. Its thatched central area is a serene space, with traditional-style furniture comfortably cushioned in African fabrics, colonial antiques, Persian carpets and local art. The cuisine has a strong Italian theme, and the meals are truly gourmet quality. Eat at individual tables inside or on the deck. Soft drinks, beer, house wines and non-luxury spirits are included in the room rates. There's also an award-winning spa, the Maasai Wellbeing Space.
The lodge has five cottages, a family villa and a private villa. Each is stylishly themed – the Observatory has a brass telescope and other items of cosmic interest; the Literary Room is inspired by great stories of African adventures; and the Love Shack is a secluded retreat perfect for honeymooners. The family villa, with a natural history theme, has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large dining and sitting area. All have verandas and bathrooms that can be opened for a shower with a view.
Animals cover the landscape, so drives across the savanna are hugely rewarding. Take night drives through the Mara Conservancy, investigate the surrounding forest and valleys on foot, with a guide, to see the smaller creatures and some of the Masai Mara's 550-plus bird species. Hike up Kilelioni, the highest peak in the Mara–Serengeti ecosystem and visit the local Masai market, held every Thursday.
The staff at this intimate lodge who treat you like a dear family member from beginning to end.
If you're travelling with your children, the Maasai-run Warriors Academy offers special courses in bush skills and animal tracking.
Intimate in size and very popular, booking well in advance is vital for securing a spot at this boutique Mara lodge.
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A safari classic filled with the Big Five, wildlife-dotted landscapes and vibrant Maasai warriors.
