Mara Serena Safari Lodge sits on a high mesa in the Mara Triangle, the western sector of the Maasai Mara, and its main appeal is the view. From the terraces and many of the rooms you look out over a sweep of grassland, with the Mara River and the Oloololo Escarpment as a backdrop, and it is easy to spot elephants, giraffes and buffalo from your balcony. The lodge is a full-service property, with an outdoor swimming pool, a children’s pool, a spa offering in-room and couples massages, a gym and a restaurant with a terrace. Rooms and suites are furnished with a safari feel, with designer toiletries, bathrobes and in the suites separate living areas, balconies and deep soaking tubs. It is one of the more established lodges in the Triangle, and it appeals to visitors who want comfort and scenery combined with quick access to game drives in the western reserve.
Location and getting around
The lodge is about a mile from the Maasai Mara airstrip serving the western reserve, which makes it convenient for fly-in guests, and it sits right on the edge of the Triangle, so game drives start almost at the door. The Triangle is run by the Mara Conservancy, with well-kept tracks and managed vehicle numbers, and the Mara River crossing points used during the migration are within reach on a morning or afternoon drive. Nairobi is a long road journey away, so many guests arrive by light aircraft from Wilson Airport.
Rooms and facilities
Expect comfortable rooms with a safari style rather than extreme luxury, with a choice of standard rooms and suites. The suites add a balcony and a separate lounge, and the bathrooms are generous. Meals are usually taken in the main restaurant, and the terrace is a popular place to watch the sunset with a drink. Spa treatments, including massages and hot stone sessions, can be booked in advance. Free parking is available for those who drive.
Who it suits
Couples, families and first-time safari-goers who value comfort and a view, as well as photographers who like to start the day with a balloon flight or an early drive in the Triangle. Rates are normally quoted on a full-board or game-drive-inclusive basis, but this varies, so check what is included before you book. Book early for the July to October migration season, when the lodge fills up, and ask for a room facing the plains. Dress in layers, since the ridge can be windy and cool in the mornings.
Why stay here
- ✓Hilltop location with plains views
- ✓Outdoor swimming pool
- ✓Children’s pool
- ✓Spa with massages
- ✓Suites with balconies
- ✓Deep soaking tubs in suites
- ✓Terrace restaurant
- ✓Free parking
Good questions
Where is Mara Serena Safari Lodge?+
It is in the Mara Triangle, on a mesa overlooking the plains and the Mara River, about a mile from the nearby airstrip.
Does it have a swimming pool?+
Yes, there is an outdoor pool and a separate children’s pool.
Is it good for the migration?+
Its position in the Triangle puts you close to the Mara River crossing points used from roughly July to October.
