JW Marriott has this week raised the curtain of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, marking the company’s highly anticipated debut in the luxury safari segment.
Located within the Masai Mara National Reserve in Southwestern Kenya, the lodge is a sophisticated base to discover animals and stunning vistas in harmony. The Maasai Mara is home to an amazing variety of game, including the Big Five – lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants – and between June and September, the reserve is perfectly poised to welcome guests for the annual great wildebeest migration through the neighbouring Serengeti.
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“Fostering meaningful connections and nourishing the soul is at the heart of the JW Marriott brand, so entering the luxury safari segment is a natural next step,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Offering our guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a deep connection to place, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge balances the thrill of a game drive with thoughtful opportunities to switch off and take it all in. We are excited to welcome travelers to a transformative and wellness-forward stay delivered with JW Marriott’s legacy of extraordinary hospitality.”
The lodge’s elegant interiors, designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, seamlessly blend the savannah inwards, drawing inspiration from the elements with soft, warm tones, natural materials and textures, and native colors thread through its design.
Each of the lodge’s 20 private tents provide a peaceful sanctuary to recharge and reset, and feature terraces overlooking the River Talek, a water source and habitat for many wildlife. The tented honeymoon suite offers a private plunge pool, while two interconnecting king and twin suites are ideal for families with children over the age of six).
The Spa by JW emulates the serenity of the reserve and offers tailored experiences and signature treatments that blend locally-inspired techniques and therapies. These are complemented by natural and organic products by renowned African skincare brand, Healing Earth, also available as in-room amenities. Guests can enjoy spa treatments from the comfort of their tented suite, accompanied by the sounds of the wilderness. Extending beyond body to mind and spirit with guided yoga, treatments include a ‘Masai Celebration’ incorporating local botanicals and therapies.
Connection to the Locale
The lodge’s community programming provides an authentic insight into meaningful local projects, including The Maa Trust, an organization empowering local people by promoting small business start-ups. The lodge donates a percentage of the nightly rate per person to the organization and provides a space for craftspeople to retail Maa Beadwork and produce. Guests can visit The Maa Trust to meet with local artisans and forge a deeper connection to the people in the area.
Currently, 60 percent of the lodge’s team are locals, with plans to reach 70 percent, ensuring the hotel’s contribution to the socio-economic development of the region. As an ongoing initiative, JW Marriott Masai Mara’s Apprenticeship Program invites young women from the community to diversify their skills and broaden their experience to kick-start their careers in the hospitality industry. Partnership with the community began during the early development process of the lodge.
By supporting local organisations such as The Mara Elephant Project and The Mara Protector Conservation Program, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge contributes to protecting animals and their habitat across the greater Mara ecosystem.
JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a 30-minute drive from Keekorok Airstrip and a 25-minute drive from Sekenani Main Gate.
Bookings for JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are now open with prices from US$1,450 per person, per night (all-inclusive board basis).
More details here.