Saruni Mara Lodge: An In-depth Review

A Hidden Sanctuary in the Heart of Mara North Conservancy

Tucked away within a lush forest in the Mara North Conservancy, Saruni Mara Safari Lodge offers an exclusive retreat like no other. This intimate lodge features five beautifully crafted thatched cottages, a secluded private villa, and a spacious family villa, all seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Perched on a forested hillside, each accommodation is thoughtfully designed to offer sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness, with breathtaking sunsets painting the sky in vivid hues. As one of the few permanent lodges in the Mara North Conservancy, just north of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, it holds the distinction of being the smallest in the Masai Mara ecosystem. With golden savannahs stretching southward and dense greenery to the north, its prime location provides an unparalleled setting for game drives, guided walks, and front-row seats to the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration.

Every cottage at Saruni Mara is distinct in design and decor, exuding a refined yet authentic charm. Interiors feature rich wooden floors, hand-selected antique furnishings, African artwork, and intricate Persian rugs. Despite its deep wilderness setting, the lodge does not compromise on comfort- offering 220-volt electricity, elegant Italian-inspired bathrooms with running hot and cold water, and open-front canvas showers that blend luxury with nature. Below is a glimpse into the uniquely themed cottages and villas that define Saruni Mara’s charm:

The Observatory

A tribute to the vast African night sky, this cottage is a stargazer’s dream. A vintage brass telescope, celestial maps, and astronomy-inspired decor invite guests to explore the universe from their own private haven. Its spacious front deck provides the perfect setting for an evening under the stars.

The Photographer’s Studio

This cottage celebrates the captivating beauty of the Masai Mara through the lens of photography. Adorned with a vintage box Browning camera, an antique catalog of photographic equipment, and stunning black-and-white prints, it exudes a nostalgic charm. The private deck offers a breathtaking view—one worthy of any photographer’s collection.

The Artist’s Studio

Designed as an inspiring retreat for creatives, this cottage is ideal for capturing the beauty of the wilderness on canvas. Equipped with an easel, a selection of paints, and a well-stocked writing desk, it encourages guests to express their artistic vision. The open-concept bedroom leads to a wide front deck that overlooks a tranquil valley, with the endless Mara plains just beyond.

The Literary Room

A sanctuary for storytellers and book lovers, this cottage channels the spirit of literary greats. Featuring a vintage typewriter, plush leather reading chairs, and an inviting writing desk, it provides the ideal setting to craft the next great safari tale. Prefer reading over writing? The private deck, with its sweeping wilderness views, is the perfect place to lose yourself in a book.

The Love Shack

Saruni Mara’s romantic hideaway, also known as the honeymoon suite, is designed for couples seeking an intimate escape. Neutral tones and elegant decor create a serene ambiance, while the secluded deck offers a dreamy spot for a private dinner under the African sky. The panoramic views of the valley make it a truly enchanting retreat.

Saruni Mara’s Private Villa – Nyati House

For families or groups seeking an exclusive safari experience, Nyati House offers a two-bedroom, two-bathroom private villa with a dining room, lounge, and fully equipped kitchen. Situated in a secluded valley just five minutes from the main lodge, it provides a high level of privacy. Guests enjoy a private safari vehicle and private guide, ensuring a personalized adventure. Meals are served in the villa’s elegant dining area, where natural wooden accents complement the panoramic Masai Mara views.

The Natural History Suite / Family Villa

This spacious two-bedroom family villa, known as the Natural History Suite, is designed for those who appreciate both comfort and adventure. The warm and inviting living space includes a dining area, a cozy fireplace, and elegant vintage decor featuring antique prints and wildlife literature. Guests can immerse themselves in the wonders of nature from the expansive front deck, which overlooks the breathtaking landscapes of the Masai Mara.

At Saruni Mara Safari Lodge, every cottage and villa offers more than just a place to stay—it provides a journey into the heart of Kenya’s wilderness, where luxury, adventure, and nature exist in perfect harmony.

A Gourmet Experience at Saruni Mara

At Saruni Mara, dining is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors, culture, and community. The lodge’s chefs, deeply passionate about their craft, prepare exquisite dishes using fresh, organic ingredients sourced locally. A highlight of the menu is the authentic Italian cuisine, influenced by the heritage and cherished family recipes of the Italian owner.

The dining space itself is a blend of elegance and rustic charm, featuring a striking communal table crafted from reclaimed railway sleepers. Guests can gather around this long wooden table, fostering a warm and sociable atmosphere. However, for those seeking a more intimate setting, there are plenty of unforgettable dining options. A bush breakfast beneath towering acacia trees or along the scenic Mara River offers a serene start to the day, while an al fresco bush dinner beneath the vast, starlit sky creates an enchanting evening experience. For an extra touch of romance, guests can opt for a private candlelit dinner on their own cottage deck, immersing themselves in the magic of the wilderness.

Discover Unique Adventures at Saruni Mara

Saruni Mara offers an exciting mix of activities designed to immerse guests in the beauty and culture of the Masai Mara. Kickstart your morning with a guided game drive, accompanied by a skilled Maasai tracker who shares expert knowledge of the land and its wildlife. Alternatively, set out on thrilling guided bush walks through the rugged hills with a Maasai warrior, gaining firsthand insight into their deep-rooted connection with nature. For a cultural experience, guests can visit traditional Maasai manyattas (villages), providing a rare opportunity to engage with the local community and witness their way of life. The lodge also serves as a prime location for observing the world-famous wildebeest migration, offering a front-row seat to this extraordinary natural event.

For an unforgettable perspective of the Masai Mara, guests can take to the skies on a breathtaking hot-air balloon safari. While game drives and bush walks are included in the stay, hot-air ballooning is available as an optional experience at an additional cost.

After an adventure-filled day, relaxation awaits at Saruni Mara’s award-winning spa, the ‘Maasai Wellbeing Space.’ Tucked away among ancient olive trees and towering cedar forests, this tranquil retreat offers treatments based on time-honored Maasai healing traditions. Skilled Maasai therapists use natural, locally sourced ingredients to provide soothing massages and therapies. Each cottage stay includes a complimentary 30-minute back and neck massage, ensuring guests leave refreshed and rejuvenated.

For those eager to delve deeper into Maasai culture and wilderness survival, the lodge offers the engaging ‘Warriors Academy’ program. Designed for families and adventure seekers, this immersive experience teaches essential survival skills practiced by Maasai warriors, such as animal tracking and traditional tool-making. Over several days, participants gain a unique appreciation for the expertise and resilience that define life in the African wilderness.

Saruni Mara stay 4 pay 3 special offer

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Saruni Mara in the Masai Mara and enjoy an extra night free when you book a three-night safari adventure! This exclusive offer is available from 3 January to 30 June 2025, and again from 1 October to 19 December 2025.