Sanctuary Olonana Safari Lodge near Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya.

A Front-Row Seat to the Epic Masai Mara

Tucked in a private stretch within the pristine Mara Triangle, Sanctuary Olonana Lodge offers an immersive safari experience in one of Africa’s most celebrated landscapes. This exclusive part of the Greater Masai Mara is managed by the local Maasai community and prioritizes conservation efforts, combatting poaching, and improving infrastructure to sustain both the environment and the surrounding people.

Breaking away from the conventional canvas-style safari camp, Sanctuary Olonana introduces 14 contemporary glass-sided suites, each covering an expansive 130 square meters. Thoughtfully designed with natural elements, these modern retreats feature a king-sized bed and an inviting daybed on a private deck, allowing guests to soak in breathtaking views of the Mara’s sweeping plains. Elegance meets functionality in every detail, with a fully stocked mini-fridge, exquisite African artwork, and high-end en-suite bathrooms adorned with marble and slate. Double vanities, rain showers, and deep soaking tubs elevate the experience, while select suites offer two queen-sized beds for added flexibility.

With floor-to-ceiling glass doors framing the lush landscape, guests are treated to uninterrupted views of the Mara’s untamed beauty. The Geoffrey Kent Suites—two of the 14 accommodations—are perfect for families, featuring an additional en-suite bedroom, an infinity pool with a riverfront deck, and a private lounge and dining space. Here, a personal chef curates unforgettable bush dinners, crafting exquisite meals in the comfort of a secluded oasis.

Every aspect of Sanctuary Olonana is curated for indulgence and relaxation. Whether unwinding with a rejuvenating spa treatment, exploring the lodge’s well-stocked library, or savoring chef-prepared gourmet dishes beneath the African sky, guests are guaranteed a refined escape. A selection of refreshing non-alcoholic beverages is always available, ensuring that every moment is met with thoughtful hospitality and effortless luxury.

Activities at Sanctuary Olonana Safari Lodge

Hidden in the heart of the Greater Maasai Mara, Sanctuary Olonana Safari Lodge is an unparalleled retreat for both adventure enthusiasts and those craving serenity. Whether craving the rush of wildlife encounters or the indulgence of a soothing spa treatment, this exclusive lodge strikes a seamless balance between adventure and relaxation in one of Africa’s most famous game reserves.

Positioned along a picturesque section of the Mara River, Sanctuary Olonana offers front-row seats to nature’s daily drama. A resident pod of hippos ensures endless entertainment as they bask and bellow in the water, while other wildlife frequent the riverbank for a much-needed drink. From the comfort of the lodge, guests can marvel at this spectacle without ever leaving their vantage point. For those who wish to dive deeper into the wilderness, private night drives provide a rare chance to encounter nocturnal creatures such as the elusive black rhino. Led by seasoned guides, these after-dark excursions add an extra layer of mystery to the safari experience.

Game drives remain one of the highlights at Sanctuary Olonana, offering guests an intimate look at Africa’s diverse wildlife. With skilled guides at the helm, each excursion reveals hidden pockets of the Mara Triangle, where open safari vehicles allow for panoramic views and unparalleled photography opportunities. Traversing vast savannahs, lush riverine forests, and acacia-dotted plains, guests will encounter a thriving ecosystem that supports over 300 bird species and an array of iconic wildlife. Every drive is a new chapter in the untamed story of the Maasai Mara.

Beyond wildlife encounters, Sanctuary Olonana invites guests to connect with Maasai culture through immersive Maasai cultural visits that highlight local traditions. Led by Maasai guides, visitors gain insight into the significance of cattle, the use of medicinal plants, and the community’s unique way of life. Engaging in hands-on activities such as warrior dancing, fire-making, and traditional hut building, guests experience an authentic side of Kenya rarely seen by outsiders. During the school term, visits to a local school offer a meaningful look at education in Maasai communities. These cultural exchanges coincide with the world-famous wildebeest migration, providing a remarkable fusion of nature and heritage. Recognized with world travel awards for its commitment to ecotourism, the lodge also offers guided walks for a more personal connection to the landscape.

For those in search of a wonderful African safari safari moment, a hot air balloon ride over the Mara Triangle is the ultimate indulgence. As the sun paints the horizon, guests float above the plains, witnessing Africa’s wildlife from an unrivaled perspective. This breathtaking experience is followed by a gourmet bush breakfast, featuring freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, and a celebratory glass of champagne—available at an additional charge. For an even more exclusive adventure, scenic flights gold eco tours provide a stunning aerial view of this legendary wilderness, making every journey at Sanctuary Olonana a story worth telling.