Mara Serena Safari Lodge

A Room with a View

Since opening in the 1970s, Mara Serena Safari Lodge has remained a standout in Kenya’s safari scene, blending its retro charm with the country’s remarkable conservation efforts. As the only safari lodge of its scale in this part of the Masai Mara, it offers a distinctive experience where nostalgia meets modern-day luxury. If you’re drawn to 1970s aesthetics, with warm orange and earthy brown hues, this lodge is the ultimate safari destination for both adventure and design inspiration. Inspired by traditional mud-hut villages, the 74 uniquely shaped rooms transport guests to a simpler time, with their earthship-inspired decor adding a quirky, photogenic touch to every stay. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, the lodge’s exceptional service and attention to detail ensure an unforgettable experience.

Perched atop a bush cloaked hill- Ol Donyo Oseiya hill, Mara Serena blends seamlessly into the rolling landscape, with its rooms cascading down the slope. Due to this unique design, guests should anticipate navigating numerous staircases—those preferring easy access may opt for accommodations closer to the reception. Inside, the rooms prioritize both comfort and functionality, offering king-double or twin-bed setups, with an extra bed available upon request. Each features an en-suite bathroom complete with a shower, sink, and flushing toilet. From the private balconies, guests can take in uninterrupted river views, adding to the immersive safari experience. The combination of world-class amenities and breathtaking scenery cements Mara Serena Safari Lodge as a top choice in the famed Mara Triangle.

The communal spaces at the lodge exude local character, with the bar and dining areas adorned with intricate Maasai wood carvings. Guests can purchase similar handcrafted souvenirs from nearby artisan shops, ensuring they take home a piece of Kenya’s rich culture. The 2.4-meter-deep swimming pool provides the perfect spot to relax, with staff on hand to serve drinks and light snacks. Thanks to its spacious setting, the lodge fosters a lively, social atmosphere, making it an excellent place to connect with fellow travelers. Teen guests especially enjoy the freedom to meet new friends while still spending quality time with family. Ideal for multi-generational adventures, Mara Serena Safari Lodge delivers experiences that make every stay unforgettable. The on-site restaurant elevates the dining experience with chef-prepared dishes, while bush dining experiences under the open sky add an element of exclusivity and excitement.

Activities at Mara Serena Safari Lodge

Guests at Mara Serena Safari Lodge can enjoy exhilarating excursions deep into the heart of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, where the lodge arranges thrilling game drives led by expert driver-guides. Well-versed in the reserve’s landscape, these guides take guests to prime wildlife hotspots, ensuring close encounters with black rhinos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and lions in their natural habitat. Witnessing the dynamic interactions between predators and prey offers an unforgettable spectacle, making every game drive a captivating experience.

For those seeking a more elevated perspective, a sunrise hot air balloon safari (available at an extra cost) presents a breathtaking way to take in the Mara’s vast expanse. With its own dedicated balloon and launch site, the lodge offers guests a seamless opportunity to glide over the golden plains as the sun rises and wildlife stirs below. The best time to visit is from July to October, during the Great Migration, when immense herds of wildebeest navigate the Mara Triangle’s rivers, dodging lurking crocodiles in a dramatic battle for survival.

Beyond wildlife encounters, the lodge provides opportunities to immerse in authentic Maasai culture. Guided village visits allow guests to experience the rhythms of daily Maasai life, observe time-honored traditions, and even witness ceremonial rituals firsthand. Complementing these cultural experiences, Mara Serena Safari Lodge also offers exceptional dining events. Guests can savor a Hippo Pool Breakfast, a unique dining experience set on the shady banks of the Mara River, where chefs prepare a delightful meal against a stunning natural backdrop. As night falls, the lodge hosts a lantern-lit poolside barbecue, delivering a magical end to an adventure-filled day in the Mara.