The JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is set to open in 2023 as Marriott International’s first safari lodge, inviting guests to connect with nature and wellbeing through sustainably crafted experiences. The lodging will be locating within the Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife conservation and wilderness regions, and overlook the banks of the River Talek on the edge of the reserve.
“As a brand rooted in mindfulness, we cannot think of a more perfect retreat for the mind, body, and soul than the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya,” said Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Brand Leader, JW Marriott, Marriott International. “JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will offer guests a luxurious backdrop to make once-in-a-lifetime memories as they connect with nature and wildlife as never before. We are thrilled that the JW Marriott brand will be welcoming adventure travellers, including families, to this breath-taking part of the world.”
The distinct location will feature 20 private tents, including one presidential pavilion with two interconnected canopied suites to overlook the endless plains. The special suites will have their own private canopies to overlook exclusive sections of the river and the untamed landscape below. Guests will be able to view lions, leopard, buffalos, rhinoceros and elephants. The reserve is also home of the annual Great Wildebeast Migration.
With the lodge’s tremendous focus on the natural landscape, conservation of the land and its inhabitants will be at the heart of JW Marriott Masai Mara’s programming. The safari lodge aims to employ up to 50 locals from the Masai community and will offer robust learning opportunities for guests looking to immersive themselves in the destination.
Guests can also expect a profundity of artful placemaking in the design, with interior design being led by Kristina Zanic. The design will draw heavy inspiration from the four natural elements of earth, wind, fire and water with warm touches of neutrals and natural materials reflecting the surrounding landscape. Shared spaces will include a restaurant, lounge bar, spa and outdoor terrace with fire pits that will be the home to cultural performances.
