Marriott International Expands Luxury Safari Portfolio in Kenya with Two New Stunning Camps
Nairobi, Kenya – Marriott International is significantly expanding its presence in the luxury safari sector with the addition of two new properties in Kenya: the Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp and the JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp. These highly anticipated openings underscore the company's commitment to providing world-class luxury experiences in Africa's most sought-after destinations .
"Building off of the incredible success we have seen thus far in our luxury safari portfolio in Africa and the growing appetite for outdoor lodging and nontraditional hospitality experiences, the signing of these agreements with Lazizi Group of Companies marks another milestone in Marriott International’s growth,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa at Marriott International. “The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will offer opportunities for wildlife encounters, elegant designs, and exemplary service that promise to create lasting memories” .
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp
Expected to open in August 2025 , the Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp will be the first Ritz-Carlton branded safari camp in the Sub-Saharan Africa region . Located within the Masai Mara National Reserve, famous for its abundant wildlife and the annual Great Migration, the camp promises an unparalleled safari experience .
Elevated amongst the trees on a secluded island on the Sand River, this "treetop retreat" will offer guests breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Great Migration . The camp is expected to feature 20 elegantly appointed tented suites, including a four-bedroom presidential suite, each with a private plunge pool, separate living area, and indoor and outdoor showers .
Guests can anticipate refined dining experiences at the camp's restaurant, which will boast a curated wine cellar, a stargazing sky deck, and a traditional boma . A spa and wellness center, outdoor gym, swimming pool, and photography studio will also be available . Exclusively curated game drives and bespoke cultural experiences will further enhance the guest experience .
JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp
The JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp is expected to open in early 2026 . Nestled between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains within the Solio Game Reserve, the camp will offer a tranquil retreat for those seeking rejuvenation and connection with nature .
The Solio Game Reserve is renowned for its successful rhino breeding program, providing guests with a unique opportunity to observe both black and white rhinos in their natural habitat . The camp is expected to feature 20 luxurious tented units, including two two-bedroom suites, each with a private plunge pool .
Guests can enjoy multiple wellness spaces, including the signature JW Garden, and four distinct dining experiences, including a sky deck venue . A Spa by JW, swimming pool, fitness center, and conservation house will also be available . A wide range of activities will be offered, including guided horseback riding safaris, night game drives, guided nature walks, quad biking, and visits to a private rhino orphanage .
Commitment to Sustainability and Community Engagement
Both properties are committed to sustainable practices and minimizing their environmental impact. They will be constructed using sustainable materials and prioritize energy-efficient infrastructure to preserve the natural beauty of their surroundings . Furthermore, the properties will engage with local communities through job creation, education programs, and wildlife conservation initiatives .
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will be Marriott's second and third luxury safari camps in Kenya, following the successful opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in 2023 .
Proposed Lodge
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp will be Marriott's second luxury safari camp in Kenya
