Nestled along the banks of the Sand River, The Ritz-Carlton’s new Masai Mara Safari Camp is a luxury – and soulful – tented retreat that’s layered with discovery and an evocative sense of timelessness far away from the hectic world we live in.
The camp’s opening, scheduled for August 2025, marks the global hotel group’s first expansion into the luxury safari sector. It’s an answer to the call from today’s high-end travellers who seek more meaningful experiences from their hotel stays, but still want exclusivity and all the creature comforts.
A natural wonder
Designed by the award-winning firm LW Design Group, and drawing inspiration from its natural treetop surroundings, the Masai Mara Safari Camp is elevated three metres off the ground, blending biophilic principles such as filtered natural light and the sound of the river with modern conveniences. With roll-up canvas walls, each of the 20 lavish suites has a private deck, infinity plunge pool, and indoor-outdoor bathrooms so that you can cool off while spotting game or bath under the stars. Order drinks and your encholiek – personal butler – will happily bring them to you.
Journeying is the destination
From July to October, as millions of wildebeest and zebra thunder towards the treacherous Mara River crossing, the camp’s location has front-row access to the Great Migration. A bonus is that you can capture it with a complimentary Canon camera, available to use during your stay. Resident photographers are also on call to offer guidance, while a dedicated studio houses all the equipment and gear.
For some of Africa’s most breathtaking photo opportunities, sunrise drives meander across the vast savannah, or you could choose to glide silently over it in a hot-air balloon, celebrating with a champagne breakfast in the bush afterwards.
A soulful safari
Cultural craft and immersion are at the heart of the camp’s ethos and echo throughout – from the Masai sunset ritual known as ‘the call of dusk’ and age-old stories told around the fire through song and dance, to wellness treatments rooted in Masai healing practices. Locally made furnishings, fabrics, and Kenyan artistry are also showcased in the lodge, preserving artisanal techniques and heritage. An immersive visit takes you into the heart of local culture, where you can engage with the Masai people.
Elevated dining
A rooftop deck offers romantic star-gazing dinners while expert-led wine tastings accompany curated seasonal menus in the subterranean cellar. Private dining is offered in the four-bedroom Presidential Suite.
Produce and ingredients are grown and sourced locally, and in keeping with The Ritz-Carlton’s strong focus on the co-existence of luxury and sustainability, the camp is solar-powered and harvests rainwater.
