Sanctuary Olonana | Premier Safari Lodge in Kenya's Masai Mara
Table of Contents
Sanctuary Olonana, located in Kenya’s Masai Mara near the Mara Triangle, is renowned for its luxury safari experience. The lodge offers modern accommodations, stunning views along River Mara, and immersive wildlife activities. Managed by the Maasai community, it combines exceptional service with a profound cultural connection. This article covers everything you need to know about the lodge, from its luxurious suites to the unforgettable activities it offers.
Explore the Wilderness
Experience safari bush walks, available for an extra fee.
Thrilling Game Drives
Enjoy game drives, included in your nightly stay.
Luxurious Tent Suites
Governors' Il Moran Camp features just ten opulent tented suites.
Soar Above the Plains
Opt for hot air balloon rides, offered at an additional cost.
Family-Friendly Adventures
Children aged 8 and up are welcome at Governors' Camp.
Pamper Yourself
Treat yourself to a spa service, available for an extra charge.
Convenient Access
Reach the camp easily via Musiara Airstrip.
Engage with Locals
Partake in community experiences, available at an extra cost.
Exceptional Wildlife Encounters
Located in a prime area for viewing big cats.
Stay Connected
Wi-Fi is accessible at Governors Camp.
Key Takeaways
Sanctuary Olonana is a luxury lodge in the stunning Masai Mara National Reserve, offering top-notch accommodations and incredible wildlife experiences.
Guests can enjoy unique activities like exhilarating game drives, immersive cultural visits, and serene nature walks, ensuring a memorable safari adventure!
The lodge has received multiple awards for its eco-friendly practices and exceptional service, solidifying its reputation as a premier safari destination.
Sanctuary Olonana Lodge Overview
Sanctuary Olonana Lodge is a jewel in the heart of the Masai Mara, situated near the Mara Triangle and managed by the local Maasai community. This prime location along a private stretch of the Mara River offers guests not only beautiful views but also the chance to hear the symphony of nature, with hippos often heard grunting nearby.
The lodge is designed with modern, organic materials that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings, creating a luxurious setting that feels at one with nature. Wildlife enthusiasts are in for a treat, as the area is teeming with diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalos, hyenas, giraffes, gazelles, and, of course, the resident pod of hippos.
Guests consistently rate the cleanliness, service, and sleep quality at Sanctuary Olonana Camp incredibly high, making it a wonderful African safari retreat to unwind after a day of adventure. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the Mara River or listening to the calls of the wild from your private deck, Sanctuary Olonana offers an unparalleled safari experience.
As part of the prestigious Abercrombie Kent collection, Sanctuary Olonana is renowned for its exceptional service and luxurious accommodations, making it a top choice for those seeking a sanctuary retreat in the heart of the Masai Mara Reserve.
Accommodation Options at the Sanctuary Olonana Camp
Sanctuary Olonana Lodge offers a variety of luxurious accommodation options designed to provide comfort and breathtaking views. The lodge features 14 spacious glass-sided suites, each measuring 130 square meters and equipped with a private deck that offers stunning views of the Mara River. These suites are designed to blend modern amenities with the natural beauty of the surroundings, making every stay a memorable one.
Each suite boasts a king-sized bed, ceiling fans, air conditioning, and a daybed on the deck, ensuring guests can relax in comfort after a day of adventure. The spacious bathrooms feature double vanities and luxurious rain showers, adding to the sense of indulgence. For families or groups, the Geoffrey Kent Suite offers two ensuite bedrooms, a family room, and a private infinity pool, providing an even more exceptional safari lodge experience.
Guests frequently praise the spacious and well-designed rooms, highlighting the modern amenities and large outdoor spaces overlooking the river. Waking up to the sounds of nature and enjoying the breathtaking views from your private deck is an experience that stays with you long after you leave this fabulous lodge.
Activities and Experiences
Sanctuary Olonana offers a wide range of activities and experiences designed to immerse guests in the beauty and culture of the Masai Mara. From exhilarating game drives to cultural visits and serene nature walks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Each activity promises a unique and unforgettable experience, making your stay at this safari lodge truly special.
Game Drives
One of the highlights of staying at Sanctuary Olonana is the opportunity to embark on thrilling game drives. Guests can choose a private vehicle, providing a more personalized and up-close experience with the incredible wildlife of the Masai Mara. The knowledgeable game guides excel at spotting wildlife, ensuring you don’t miss a thing, whether it’s the majestic lions, towering giraffes, or the elusive leopards.
Witnessing the spectacular annual migration of wildebeests is a sight to behold and one of nature’s most incredible phenomena. Whether you opt for a morning, evening, or night drive, the game drives at Sanctuary Olonana promise an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure.
Maasai Cultural Visits
Cultural visits to local Maasai villages offer guests a unique opportunity to connect with the local traditions and gain a deeper understanding of the Maasai community. These visits are more than just tours; they are immersive experiences where visitors can engage with locals, learn about traditional medicine, and witness the vibrant community life. You may even have the chance to meet a Masai warrior, learning about their role and significance within the community, which adds a fascinating layer to your cultural exploration.
Interacting with the Maasai people and learning about their customs and heritage enriches the overall travel experience, offering authenticity and a meaningful connection to the region. These cultural visits to local Masai villages are a highlight for many guests, providing memories that last a lifetime.
Nature Walks
Guided nature walks along the River Mara offer a serene and fun experience walking through the acacia studded savannah and the lush forest setting of Sanctuary Olonana. These walks allow guests to observe diverse wildlife and enjoy spectacular views, all while learning about the local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides.
The tranquility of the Maasai Mara River and the beauty of the landscape make these nature walks a wonderful addition to any safari adventure. Whether you’re looking to spot birds, identify plants, or simply enjoy the peaceful environment, these walks offer a personal and enriching experience.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Sanctuary Olonana offers breathtaking hot air balloon flights over the Masai Mara, providing an amazing experience that showcases the beautiful setting of this famous national reserve. These balloon flights offer a unique perspective of the annual wildebeest migration, allowing guests to witness this incredible natural phenomenon from above. The serene and majestic views from the balloon make for an unforgettable adventure, as you glide over the acacia-studded savannah and spot diverse wildlife below. This extraordinary experience is a highlight for many visitors, adding a magical touch to their safari adventure.
Dining and Beverages
Sanctuary Olonana offers a gourmet dining experience that rivals the best restaurants in the world, featuring fabulous food that delights every palate. Guests can savor a menu showcasing both local and international cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients and presented in a luxurious setting. Whether you’re enjoying a meal in the elegant dining area or under the stars during bush dinners, every dining experience is memorable and highlights the lodge’s commitment to exceptional culinary standards.
The lodge also caters to special dietary requests, ensuring all guests can enjoy their meals without any concerns. Sanctuary Olonana provides an extensive selection of premium wines and spirits, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, making every meal a delightful experience. Additionally, the lodge is equipped with advanced water filters to ensure the highest quality of drinking water, enhancing the overall comfort and satisfaction of your stay at this nice lodge.
Spa and Wellness
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the mini-spa at Sanctuary Olonana offers a variety of soothing treatments. Guests can enjoy facials, body massages, and traditional African massage therapies, all performed with natural and chemical-free products. Treatments can even be arranged in guest rooms, providing a private and luxurious spa experience.
Imagine enjoying a full-body sweet and savory scrub or a rejuvenating collagen velvet mask while taking in the scenic views of the Mara River and the local wildlife. The spa services at Sanctuary Olonana are designed to enhance your sense of well-being and ensure you leave feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Awards and Recognition
Sanctuary Olonana has garnered significant recognition for its commitment to excellence and eco-friendly practices. The lodge received the title of ‘Africa’s leading eco lodge’ at the World Travel Awards in 2015 and has been nominated for the 2023 award for World’s Leading Eco-Lodge. These accolades reflect the lodge’s dedication to providing an exceptional luxury safari lodge experience while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability.
The lodge’s eco-friendly initiatives have also earned it a Gold Eco-Rating from Ecotourism Kenya, highlighting its efforts to minimize its environmental impact. These awards and recognitions are a testament to the high standards and exceptional service that guests can expect at Sanctuary Olonana.
Guest Reviews and Testimonials
Sanctuary Olonana’s reputation for excellence is further reinforced by glowing guest reviews and testimonials. The lodge is included in the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame, reflecting consistent high ratings from guests over the years. Visitors frequently praise the friendly, attentive staff, noting how their warm hospitality enhances the overall experience.
Guests often highlight the excellent accommodation, luxurious setting, and the memorable activities and experiences offered by the lodge. A common sentiment is the fun experience waking up to the sounds of nature from your private deck, which adds to the charm and allure of staying at Sanctuary Olonana. These testimonials provide valuable insights for potential visitors, reassuring them of the quality and exceptional service they can expect during their stay.
Travel Tips and Logistics
Traveling to Sanctuary Olonana is made easy with several airstrips in the Masai Mara region facilitating access. Upon arrival at the nearby Kichwa Tembo airstrip, guests are greeted by the staff who assist with transfers to the lodge, ensuring a seamless start to their safari adventure. The personal nature of the service ensures that every guest feels welcomed and cared for from the moment they arrive.
Many travel packages include both international and domestic flights, as well as road transfers, providing a hassle-free travel experience. For those looking to enhance their journey, scenic flights over the epic Masai Mara offer breathtaking views and a unique perspective of this famous game reserve, including scenic flights gold eco.
Other Lodges in Mara Triangle:
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