Mara Serena Safari Lodge — Hotel in Narok

Our family's journey to the heart of Kenya's majestic Maasai Mara National Reserve was not just a vacation; it was an experience etched in our hearts, thanks to the unparalleled hospitality of Mara Serena Safari Lodge. With my wife and our five children in tow, our two-night stay at this enchanting lodge was nothing short of spectacular, offering a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and culinary delight.

Accommodation: A Haven of Comfort Amidst Wilderness

The rooms at Mara Serena are designed to merge seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering breathtaking views of the reserve. Our family's accommodation was spacious, impeccably clean, and adorned with Maasai-inspired decor that added an authentic touch to our stay. The rooms provided a serene retreat after our day-long safaris, with comfortable beds and modern amenities that catered to our family's needs. The lodge's commitment to providing a family-friendly environment was evident, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay for guests of all ages.

Culinary Experience: A Taste of Excellence

Dining at Mara Serena was an epicurean journey that delighted our palates with a variety of flavors. The lodge's dining area, overlooking the vast plains of the Maasai Mara, provided a mesmerizing backdrop for our meals. Breakfasts were hearty, with a range of options to kickstart our day of adventure. Dinners were a gourmet affair, featuring a fusion of local and international cuisine, meticulously prepared with fresh ingredients. The chefs at Mara Serena went above and beyond to cater to our dietary preferences, ensuring each family member enjoyed their meal. The attentive and friendly staff made our dining experience even more memorable, with their warm hospitality and impeccable service.

Family-Friendly Adventures and Activities

Mara Serena Safari Lodge stands out for its family-oriented approach to safari experiences. The game drives were the highlight of our stay, offering us up-close encounters with the reserve's diverse wildlife. Our knowledgeable guide was adept at engaging the kids, sharing fascinating insights about the animals and the ecosystem. The lodge also offered a range of activities suitable for children, ensuring they were entertained and educated about conservation and the local culture. Whether it was the traditional Maasai dance performances or the guided nature walks, each activity was designed to provide a holistic and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Conclusion: A Family Getaway Like No Other

Our stay at Mara Serena Safari Lodge was a perfect amalgamation of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion. It provided our family with a unique opportunity to connect with nature and each other, creating memories that will last a lifetime. For families seeking an unforgettable safari experience, Mara Serena offers an exceptional blend of comfort, culinary excellence, and engaging activities that cater to all ages. Our hearts left full, and our spirits enriched, making our family's journey to Mara Serena a cherished chapter in our...

What a wonderful trip we had! We stayed at the Mara Serena Safari Lodge for 4 nights. The hotel was located in a beautiful setting with a spectacular view of the Maasai Mara. The staff were exceptional – so friendly and helpful; nothing was ever too much trouble. Our driver, Job, who we had for the entire trip, was absolutely incredible. He was very experienced and ensured we saw every animal we wanted to see, including the “Big Five.” He also had a wealth of knowledge about the Maasai Mara, which he shared throughout the trip.

The maids cleaned our room, delivered fresh bottled water, and changed the bed sheets and towels every day. They even prepared our room in the evening by placing the mosquito netting around the bed. The waiters and kitchen staff were very responsive. The food was always so fresh and delicious. They had an egg chef in the morning and offered a variety of different foods to choose from at every meal.

The facilities were superb. There was a pool to relax by between safari outings, with sunbeds and clean towels. There was also a spa with a sauna and gym, and the hotel had stable wifi connection. Several excursions were available to add to our trip, including a visit to a Maasai village, an evening watching the sunset, and breakfast by the hippos. The sunset and breakfast were highlights of the trip. The hotel staff had set up a BBQ at the sundowner and a working kitchen at the hippo breakfast, supplying a range of food and drinks. There was even a guitarist playing live music.

The only criticism we had was that after a brilliant tour led by people from the Maasai village, the souvenirs they were selling were extremely overpriced. For two small bowls, a bracelet, and a keyring, they wanted to charge us 25,500 Kenyan shillings (equivalent to £146 or $197 USD) and were not open to any lower prices. The same keyring was available in the hotel gift shop for 800 Kenyan shillings (equivalent to £5 or $6 USD), which was far...

We spent three nights at Mara Serena Safari Lodge as a family of five, and it was honestly one of the highlights of our trip to Kenya. The lodge sits right on a ridge overlooking the Mara Triangle, so you’re waking up to these endless, jaw-dropping views. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the migration—or a pride of lions—from your room. A bit of history: the lodge was built back in 1973 as a model of sustainable tourism by the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development. The architecture is inspired by Maasai huts, and it has this earthy, timeless feel that fits the setting perfectly. Our rooms were along a shady, tree-lined path, quiet and comfortable, with balconies that opened onto the savannah. We had adjoining rooms which worked great for the kids. Heads up though—monkeys like to hang out nearby, so keep your doors closed!

The game drives were unforgettable. Huge thanks to Victoria, our guide, who somehow always knew where to go at just the right time. We saw a thousand zebras crossing the Mara River—some taken down by massive crocs. It was raw, real, and felt like something straight out of National Geographic.

The food was great—fresh fruit, Kenyan dishes, and familiar options for picky eaters—and the pool was a perfect cool-down after a day out, albeit quite deep. But what really stood out was the staff. Everyone, from the front desk to the dining room to the bar and safari team, was so warm and welcoming. You can tell they love what they do and take pride in sharing this place with you.

And if you have time, definitely visit the nearby Maasai village. It’s a humbling and memorable way to learn more about life in the Mara before the safari crowds came through.

We’d go back in a heartbeat. One of those rare places that gets...