In-Depth Review of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in Kenya - AFAR
"This Marriott-branded safari lodge, opened in 2023 on the fringes of the Masai Mara National Reserve overlooking the Talek River, blends luxury, wellness and resort-style amenities with a bush experience designed for deep relaxation and connection to nature. The 20 spacious suites are finished in neutral hues with pan‑African patterns and each includes a private outdoor veranda with two lounge chairs, an outdoor shower and a solar‑heated outdoor whirlpool, where guests can watch hippos snort and crocodiles slink through the river. An extensive wellness offering features a spa with two treatment rooms, a cold plunge pool, sauna and steam room, plus a pool and gym; an on-site Canon studio run by photographer Moses Letura provides wildlife photography classes and edited images. Dining focuses on fresh, seasonal food—partly sourced from a 16,000‑sq‑ft organic garden—with rotating menus and themed nights (the reviewer praised a family‑style Indian feast), along with late‑night room snacks and drinks. Sustainability is emphasized: about 80% of the property’s energy comes from on‑site solar panels, harvested rainwater irrigates the garden, glass water bottles replace plastic, and 5,000 trees were planted on the 43‑acre site (guests can plant a tree during their stay). The lodge prioritizes local hiring (roughly 60% of staff from nearby communities), runs apprenticeship and guiding‑school programs, and includes accessibility features such as a one‑level layout, an ADA‑compliant suite, an accessible common washroom and safari vehicles with wider doors. The property was temporarily closed for repairs after nationwide flooding in May 2024 and reopened July 15; rates start around $2,475 per person per night and the lodge participates in the Marriott Bonvoy program. Though still working out a few early service kinks, attentive staff—particularly a standout female safari driver and guide—helped create memorable wildlife moments, from a cheetah hunt to sightings of the multicolored lilac‑breasted roller." - Sarika Bansal
