Experience Unmatched Luxury at The Ritz-Carlton’s New Safari Camp in the Masai Mara

The Ritz-Carlton is set to redefine luxury in Kenya with the opening of its very first safari camp, scheduled for this August. Located in the heart of the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve, the camp promises an extraordinary blend of world-class service and elegant comfort amidst breathtaking wilderness.

Perched on the banks of the Sand River, just near the Kenya-Tanzania border, the camp offers a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring Great Migration. From July to October, millions of wildebeest and zebra journey between the Serengeti and Masai Mara, an extraordinary spectacle of survival. Outside of migration season, the reserve is teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo—as well as over 500 bird species, available for viewing year-round.

“At The Ritz-Carlton, we believe in the power of travel to transform—not just the places we visit, but also those who journey there. The Masai Mara is one of the most spectacular destinations in the world and we look forward to introducing The Ritz-Carlton's first safari experience and signature hospitality to this extraordinary setting,” said Helen Leighton, Vice President, Luxury Brands, EMEA. “Each guest will enjoy a bespoke adventure based on their ultimate safari. From breathtaking wildlife encounters to personalised service in the heart of the savannah, every moment is designed to inspire, leaving guests with a renewed sense of wonder that will stay with them long after they leave.”

Design in Harmony with Nature
The camp will feature 20 spacious tented suites, starting at 163 square metres, perched among the treetops with panoramic views of the Sand River, savannahs, and distant acacia trees. Each suite boasts private decks, infinity plunge pools, sunken lounges, and indoor and outdoor showers, offering guests an intimate connection with nature. For families or groups, a luxurious four-bedroom Presidential Suite will include a spacious indoor-outdoor living area, private dining, and a kitchenette. Dedicated ‘Encholiek’ butlers will personalise every guest’s experience, walking alongside them throughout their stay.

Sustainability sits at the core of the camp’s ethos, with solar power, rainwater harvesting, and waste reduction initiatives aimed at minimising environmental impact. The furnishings and materials have been sourced from local artisans to support regional craftsmanship. The camp also seeks to honour Maasai heritage by collaborating with local guides, builders, and storytellers to create an immersive experience rooted in culture and tradition.

A Culinary Adventure in the Wilderness
Dining at the camp promises to be an immersive experience, celebrating flavours of Africa amid stunning landscapes. Menus, crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, will be tailored to each guest’s preferences. Guests can dine on the sky deck under a canopy of stars or in the camp’s private wine cellar featuring rare vintages. An authentic Maasai boma offers guests the chance to gather around open fires, enjoying slow-cooked meats and hearty stews while hearing stories of local culture.

For a more private experience, bush breakfasts and picnic lunches allow guests to dine surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Mara in complete tranquillity.

Beyond the Safari: Unforgettable Experiences
Guests can enjoy private game drives in open-top Land Cruisers with expert guides, nature walks exploring the surroundings, or hot air balloon rides over the plains. Cultural connections are woven throughout the stay, with opportunities to visit Maasai villages and learn about their traditions and way of life.

One of the camp’s highlights, ‘The Call of Dusk’, will immerse guests in the magic of the African sunset. As the Maasai horn sounds, a Maasai warrior in traditional dress welcomes guests to an evening of dance, storytelling, and Kenyan tea, amid the scents of burning olorienwood.

Photographers will appreciate the on-site studio equipped with professional Canon gear, complemented by expert advice to help you capture memories that will last a lifetime. The spa and wellness centre offers holistic treatments inspired by indigenous healing traditions, alongside a gym and pool with sweeping views of the savannah.

Located near Serena Airstrip, just a 45-minute flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, or a scenic five-hour drive, The Ritz-Carlton’s Masai Mara Safari Camp promises an unforgettable journey into Africa’s wild beauty.