JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

Your Next Safari Lodge Could Be a Marriott—We Took a Closer Look - AFAR

"Opening in early 2023, the lodge sits on the fringes of the Masai Mara National Reserve near the Talek River, where hippos sunbathe and the wildebeest migration passes every August. The property will feature 20 modern tents made from natural materials, including two connected tents for groups or families and one tent designed to meet Marriott’s global physical-accessibility standards; all common areas will be wheelchair accessible. Amenities include a dining area, gym, an extensive spa with two spa tents and a whirlpool, and a two-acre organic garden that will supply much of the kitchen’s produce. The design follows mindful JW Marriott principles—incorporating earth, wind, fire, and water with Masai-inspired fabrics and decor—and the build prioritized existing vegetation (building around trees and planting more). Eco-friendly measures include on-site bottling of purified water, minimal single-use plastics, solar power, and biodigesters for waste. The property aims to employ roughly 70% staff from the local Masai community, with staff housing that offers recreational facilities, a dining room, football pitches, and a health clinic. Guests can arrive by a five- to six-hour road transfer from Nairobi or a short flight to a nearby airstrip followed by a 25-minute game drive; open-air Toyota Land Cruisers driven by experienced guides will include binoculars and chilled sundowner provisions. Activities extend beyond game drives to bird-watching, nature walks, balloon safaris, and visits to Masai villages, and rates are expected to range from $1,500 to $2,500 per person per night, all inclusive; the property will join the Marriott Bonvoy program (category TBD)." - Sarika Bansal