Mala Serena Safari Lodge - Video, Photos, Review & Rates

Nestled in the heart of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, Mara Serena Safari Lodge stands as a beacon of luxury and adventure. This safari lodge is uniquely positioned in the famed Mara Triangle, a protected area celebrated for its rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The lodge’s distinctive architecture harmonizes with the natural surroundings, offering guests panoramic views of the sweeping savannah and the meandering Mara River.

Mara Serena safari Lodge Photo Review

As the only safari lodge in the Mara Triangle, Mara Serena provides an exclusive and intimate experience, blending international sophistication with the raw beauty of Africa. Whether you’re gazing at the horizon from your private balcony or exploring the wild terrain, every moment at Mara Serena is designed to be unforgettable.

Scenic Views with Great Accommodation Options.

A lot has changed since the 1970s in Kenya when Mara Serena Safari Lodge first welcomed guests, yet the lodge retains the charm of its 1970s origins while embracing the advancements made by Kenya’s conservationists over the years. If you like the 1970s and prefer orange and earthy brown tones, Mara Serena Lodge is your perfect lesson in interior design.

Inspired by the traditional Maasai manyatta villages nearby, the hotel’s 74 rooms are naturally crafted, evoking a sense of nostalgia for simpler times. The quirky earth ship decor will appear in as many of your vacation photos as the magnificent wildlife in the Masai Mara Game Reserve, and the attentive service and personal care from the staff are impeccable.

The natural surroundings of the hotel make it clear why this large hotel remains a top choice for visitors to the Masai Mara National Reserve. With the acacia-specked grasslands darkened by the setting sun and the meandering shoreline of the Mara River, the lodge offers sweeping views that are nothing short of dramatic sights, perfect for a Kenya safari adventure.

The lodge itself is situated atop Ol Donyo Oseiya hill, with rooms seamlessly integrated into the hillside – there are numerous stairs leading up and down small hills throughout the hotel, so some guests may prefer to request rooms closer to the main reception lobby. The rooms are straightforward and unpretentious, accommodating either a king-double bed or arranged as twin beds. A third bed can be provided upon request. Rooms are equipped with a basic en-suite bathroom, featuring a shower cubicle, sink, and flushing toilet.

The communal bar and dining areas showcase traditional Maasai wood carvings, which are also visible in local communities and available for purchase as souvenirs from craft shops. Guests can enjoy the 2.4m deep swimming pool, where staff serve drinks and snacks in a laid-back atmosphere.

Thanks to the lodge’s larger-than-average size, there’s always a vibrant atmosphere around the site, with ample opportunities to meet fellow travelers and forge friendships from around the world. Teenage guests, who relish the freedom that new friendships bring, particularly appreciate this, along with the space to bond with family members without feeling confined. Mara Serena is thus an ideal family destination for a multi-generational trip that will be a highlight of the year for everyone.

Activities at Mara Serena Safari Lodge

Guests primarily visit Mara Serena to engage in the game drives organized by the lodge. The expert driver guides know the reserve well and will take you to popular animal grazing grounds and watering holes. In addition to the local population of black rhinos, you’ll also encounter lions, giraffes, elephants, and zebras in their natural environment. The coexistence of predators and prey can lead to some thrilling scenes of Africa’s great wildlife in action.

For an unforgettable experience, consider arranging a hot-air balloon flight at dawn (available at an additional cost). The lodge has its own hot-air balloon and launch site near the main lodge, and witnessing the hazy orange sun rise over the reserve as animals emerge for their first drink of the day is an experience you will cherish forever. Visit during the dry season from July to October to witness some of the spectacular migration river crossings in the famed Mara Triangle. Beware of the crocodiles, which put on a thrilling show as migrating wildebeest herds trample through the low-water rivers.

To gain insight into the local culture, take the lodge’s Maasai village visit tour, where you’ll learn about the daily life of villagers and may even witness a traditional ceremony. Combining the allure of cultural and natural excursions, the lodge also offers special meal experiences, including a Hippo Pool Breakfast – served by the lodge’s chefs on the shaded banks of the Mara River – and in the evening, enjoy a lantern-lit poolside barbecue. Additionally, experience bush dining, a unique culinary experience where guests can enjoy meals prepared by chefs in the outdoor wilderness setting.

The authentic Maasai village experience provides an exquisite welcome, blending seamlessly with the gently rolling landscape that surrounds the Serena Safari Lodge, ensuring a stay enriched with five-star amenities and unforgettable memories, unmatched by few other hotels.

Wildlife and Game Viewing

The Masai Mara Game Reserve is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, and Mara Serena Safari Lodge places you right in the heart of the action. With expert driver guides at the helm, guests embark on thrilling game drives to discover the reserve’s most popular animal grazing grounds and watering holes. Here, you can witness the majestic black rhinos, the regal lions, the towering giraffes, the gentle elephants, and the striped zebras in their natural habitat.

The dynamic interplay between predators and prey offers a front-row seat to some of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife spectacles. For an elevated experience, consider a dawn hot-air balloon flight, where you’ll float above the reserve and watch the sun rise over the Masai Mara, casting a golden glow on the awakening wildlife below.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Maasai people with the unique experiences offered at Mara Serena Safari Lodge. The Maasai village visit tour is a window into the daily lives of the villagers, where you can learn about their traditions, customs, and perhaps even witness a vibrant traditional ceremony.

The lodge also provides an opportunity to visit an authentic Maasai village, offering deeper insights into the history and heritage of the Maasai community. The lodge itself is a tribute to Maasai culture, with its design inspired by traditional Maasai manyattas, creating a seamless blend of cultural immersion and luxurious comfort. These experiences not only enrich your stay but also foster a deeper appreciation for the Maasai way of life.

Relaxation and Leisure

After a day of adventure in the bush, Mara Serena Safari Lodge offers a sanctuary of relaxation and leisure. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the lodge’s spa, where massages and steam showers await to soothe your senses. The rock-enclosed swimming pool provides a serene spot to unwind, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Mara. For those looking to stay active, the lodge’s gym is equipped to meet your fitness needs.

Eating at Mara Serena Safari Lodge is a real treat! The chefs whip up amazing dishes that you can enjoy while looking out at the beautiful savannah and the Mara River.Dining at Mara Serena is an experience in itself, with superb chef-prepared cuisine served against the backdrop of the stunning savannah and the Mara River. Don’t miss the unique Hippo Pool Breakfast, where you can enjoy a delicious meal on the shaded banks of the river, watching hippos.

Soaking in the morning sun. Every aspect of your stay is designed to offer relaxation, luxury, and unforgettable m ., emories.