What Are the Best Lodges in the Maasai Mara?

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations—a place where golden plains stretch endlessly under vast blue skies, where lions rule the grasslands, and where herds of wildebeests thunder across the savannah during the Great Migration. It’s a landscape that has inspired filmmakers, photographers, and adventurers for generations.

But while the wildlife is undoubtedly the star of the show, where you stay in the Maasai Mara can elevate your experience from memorable to truly magical. Whether you’re seeking ultra-luxury with private plunge pools overlooking the plains, intimate eco-lodges blending seamlessly with nature, or romantic tented camps echoing the spirit of old Africa, the Maasai Mara offers an incredible array of accommodations for every taste and budget.

In this guide, we explore the best lodges in the Maasai Mara, highlighting their unique features, locations, and the experiences that make them stand out. At the end, we’ll recommend how you can plan your dream stay with Muhiga Safaris, experts in crafting unforgettable East African journeys.

Why the Choice of Lodge Matters

The Maasai Mara is more than just a park—it’s an ecosystem made up of the main reserve and several private conservancies such as Olare Motorogi, Naboisho, Mara North, and Ol Kinyei. Each area offers different experiences, from bustling wildlife-rich plains to secluded, exclusive territories where only a handful of guests are allowed at a time.

Choosing the right lodge affects not only your comfort but also your access to wildlife, crowd levels, and the type of safari activities available. For instance:

• Lodges inside the main reserve offer immediate access to iconic areas like the Mara River, perfect for Great Migration sightings.

• Lodges in private conservancies provide exclusivity, night drives, walking safaris, and fewer vehicles around animal sightings.

Whether you’re a photographer, honeymooner, family traveler, or first-time safari-goer, there’s a perfect lodge waiting for you in the Maasai Mara.

1. Angama Mara – Elevated Elegance on the Edge of Paradise

Perched dramatically on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment, Angama Mara is arguably the most visually stunning lodge in the Maasai Mara. Its name means “suspended in mid-air” in Swahili, a fitting description for a place that literally floats above the plains, offering panoramic views that stretch for miles.

Each of the spacious tented suites features floor-to-ceiling glass windows, letting you wake up to sunrises that paint the Mara gold. The interiors blend modern design with classic safari romance—think polished hardwood floors, vintage decor, and soaking tubs with endless views.

Angama Mara is also famous for its location above the very spot where “Out of Africa” was filmed, giving it a cinematic feel that’s hard to match. Guests can enjoy picnics on the escarpment, hot air balloon safaris, or intimate bush dinners under the stars. Service is personalized and heartfelt, making it one of the finest luxury lodges not just in Kenya, but in all of Africa.

2. Mahali Mzuri – Sir Richard Branson’s Safari Masterpiece

Owned by the Virgin Limited Edition collection, Mahali Mzuri redefines contemporary safari luxury. Located in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, this 12-tented camp combines modern architecture with a deep respect for nature.

The design is sleek and futuristic, with sweeping tented suites that offer full panoramic views of the wilderness. Each tent features a private deck, plush interiors, and a sense of refined serenity.

What makes Mahali Mzuri special is its commitment to conservation and community. The Olare Motorogi Conservancy is home to high densities of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and leopards, yet only a few vehicles are allowed in at a time. This means guests enjoy exclusive game drives without the crowds.

With a world-class infinity pool, spa treatments, fine dining, and outstanding guides, Mahali Mzuri is perfect for travelers who want ultra-luxury paired with sustainability.

3. Mara Plains Camp – Intimate Luxury in the Heart of the Wild

If you’re seeking a lodge that captures the raw beauty of the Maasai Mara while offering uncompromising luxury, Mara Plains Camp is the ideal choice. Nestled in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, this camp offers just seven lavish tents, ensuring a deeply private and personalized experience.

Each suite is crafted from recycled hardwood and canvas, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The interiors feature brass fittings, hand-carved furnishings, and open-air bathrooms with views of the plains.

The camp’s location near the Mara River means you’re never far from action—whether it’s lion prides on the hunt or elephants crossing at sunset. Mara Plains Camp also offers exclusive access to both the private conservancy and the main reserve, giving guests the best of both worlds.

For photographers, it’s a dream come true: each tent comes with professional Canon cameras and lenses for guest use.

4. Sanctuary Olonana – A Haven of Tranquility on the Mara River

Located along the banks of the Mara River, Sanctuary Olonana blends eco-conscious design with elegant luxury. The lodge’s glass-fronted suites allow you to watch hippos and crocodiles right from your private deck, creating a constant connection to the river’s rhythm.

The contemporary design features organic materials, solar energy, and local craftsmanship. Each suite has a freestanding tub, rain shower, and spacious terrace with panoramic river views.

Guests can enjoy daily game drives, cultural visits to Maasai villages, and guided nature walks. Sanctuary Olonana also offers family-friendly options, making it a great choice for multi-generational travel.

It’s luxurious, sustainable, and deeply connected to the land—a hallmark of the Sanctuary Retreats brand.

5. Mara Bushtops – Safari Chic Meets Five-Star Indulgence

If you love luxury without limits, Mara Bushtops delivers an experience that’s both opulent and adventurous. Set in its own Bushtops Conservancy, adjacent to the main Maasai Mara Reserve, the camp offers 12 lavish tents with private hot tubs, 24-hour butler service, and panoramic decks.

Here, you can enjoy sundowners while watching elephants at the waterhole or indulge in spa treatments after an exhilarating day of game drives.

Mara Bushtops is also known for its exceptional food and wine, featuring fine-dining menus paired with premium South African vintages. It’s safari glam at its finest—a favorite among honeymooners and luxury travelers seeking something unforgettable.

6. Governor’s Camp Collection – A Classic Safari Legacy

Few lodges carry as much history as the Governor’s Camp Collection. Established in 1972, Governor’s Camp was the first permanent tented camp inside the Maasai Mara, and it remains one of the best places for traditional safari charm.

The collection includes Governor’s Camp, Little Governor’s Camp, and Il Moran Camp, each offering a slightly different atmosphere. Little Governor’s, for instance, sits beside a marsh frequented by elephants, while Il Moran provides a more exclusive and romantic ambiance.

These camps are renowned for their authenticity, exceptional guiding, and prime location along the Mara River—perfect for spotting lions, leopards, and hippos. It’s a classic safari experience that blends comfort, history, and unbeatable wildlife viewing.

7. Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp – Timeless Views and Timeless Style

For travelers who want a taste of luxury without the sky-high price tag, Kichwa Tembo is a perfect fit. Operated by &Beyond, this iconic lodge lies on a private concession bordering the Maasai Mara Reserve, with spectacular views of the Oloololo Escarpment.

The camp’s 40 tents range from classic to superior and luxury categories, each elegantly designed with wooden decks and en-suite bathrooms. The atmosphere here feels vibrant yet serene, with manicured lawns that often attract grazing warthogs and gazelles.

Game drives are exceptional, and the location provides easy access to the Great Migration routes, making it a popular choice during July–October. Kichwa Tembo is ideal for families, couples, and first-time safari-goers looking for value and quality combined.

8. Elephant Pepper Camp – Authentic, Eco-Friendly Adventure

If you long for an authentic, off-grid safari experience without sacrificing comfort, Elephant Pepper Camp offers the best of both worlds. Set within the Mara North Conservancy, this camp focuses on simplicity, sustainability, and intimacy.

With just 10 spacious canvas tents, the camp feels like a nostalgic nod to the early explorers of East Africa. The tents feature large verandas, hammocks, and eco-friendly amenities powered by solar energy.

What sets Elephant Pepper apart is its guiding quality and emphasis on conservation. The camp’s eco-credentials are exceptional—it’s completely plastic-free and supports local Maasai communities.

You’ll enjoy day and night drives, walking safaris, and even stargazing around a cozy campfire. This is where nature feels close, raw, and real—without losing the comfort of luxury hospitality.

9. Entim Mara Camp – Front-Row Seats to the Great Migration

Entim Mara is perfectly positioned along the banks of the Mara River, giving guests a ringside seat to one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth—the Great Migration river crossings.

The camp features 12 elegant tents with views of the river and open plains, ensuring constant immersion in nature. During migration season (July–October), you can witness wildebeests crossing the river right from your tent deck.

Entim Mara offers a perfect blend of authenticity and comfort, with gourmet cuisine, warm hospitality, and exceptional guiding. It’s ideal for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action without the crowds of larger lodges.

Choosing the Right Lodge for You

When selecting the best lodge for your Maasai Mara safari, consider the following factors:

• Budget: Luxury lodges like Angama Mara and Mahali Mzuri offer top-tier comfort, while mid-range options like Kichwa Tembo provide great value.

• Location: Stay near the Mara River for migration sightings, or in private conservancies for exclusivity.

• Travel Goals: Honeymooners may prefer intimate camps, while families might enjoy lodges with larger tents and child-friendly amenities.

• Season: During migration (July–October), book well in advance as top lodges fill quickly.

Experience the Maasai Mara with Muhiga Safaris

No matter which lodge you choose, the key to an unforgettable Maasai Mara experience is traveling with a trusted operator who understands the land, the lodges, and your unique preferences. That’s where Muhiga Safaris comes in.

Muhiga Safaris specializes in tailor-made, luxury, and mid-range safari experiences across East Africa. Their expert team will help you choose the perfect lodge based on your budget, interests, and travel style—whether you dream of watching lions at dawn, floating over the plains in a hot-air balloon, or savoring a candlelit dinner under the stars.

With Muhiga Safaris, every detail is handled seamlessly—from your lodge booking and park permits to expert-guided game drives and transfers. Their commitment to personalized service, authentic experiences, and conservation makes them one of Kenya’s most trusted safari partners.

If you’re ready to discover the best of the Maasai Mara, travel with Muhiga Safaris—and let the plains, the wildlife, and the people of Kenya capture your heart forever.