A Magical Safari Experience at Olare Mara Kempinski, Masai Mara, Kenya

No matter how many times you go on safari, each adventure feels utterly magical and completely unique. If a safari is on your bucket list, or you’re a keen wildlife photographer, this experience in the heart of Kenya’s Masai Mara is one not to miss.

On a trip home to Kenya, we treated ourselves to a luxury escape at Olare Mara Kempinski, a five-star eco-lodge set on the banks of the Ntiaktiak River in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, one of the most exclusive and wildlife-rich parts of the greater Masai Mara ecosystem

Getting There: Fly Over the Rift Valley

We opted to fly from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to the Mara, which took just under an hour and offered spectacular aerial views of the Great Rift Valley. Flying is highly recommended if you’re short on time, as the drive can take anywhere from 6–7 hours depending on road conditions.

Travel tip: Book flights with reputable local carriers like Safarilink or AirKenya. Soft duffel bags are preferred due to limited luggage space in small aircraft.

A Game Drive Before Check-In

Upon arrival at the conservancy’s airstrip, we were warmly greeted by our Olare Mara Kempinski guide in a private 4×4 safari vehicle. With open sides for uninterrupted views and photography, the drive to the lodge doubled as our first game drive — and it was an unforgettable start.

Within minutes, we spotted a majestic lion resting in the grass. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the ecosystem and wildlife behaviour. One of the standout features of this conservancy is its strict vehicle limit — only three vehicles are allowed per sighting — so you enjoy unspoiled views without the crowds.

The Lodge: Sustainable Luxury in the Wild

After a scenic drive through golden grasslands, we arrived at Olare Mara Kempinski, where we were welcomed by the friendly staff and some local Maasai community members. The conservancy operates on a community-based model, leasing land from local Maasai families, allowing them to earn sustainable income while retaining ownership of their ancestral land.

The lodge offers 12 luxury tents, including a Honeymoon Suite, which we chose — and it did not disappoint. Our suite featured:

• A private plunge pool overlooking the savannah

• King-sized bed with premium linens

• Indoor and outdoor showers

• Spacious bathroom with double vanity

• Panoramic windows perfect for spotting wildlife from the bathtub

It’s more “luxury villa under canvas” than traditional tent. With electricity throughout, sturdy canvas walls, and thoughtful touches of elegance, it’s glamping at its finest.

A Taste of the Wild

Olare Mara Kempinski grows much of its own produce on-site, and the food is exceptional. After freshening up, we enjoyed a delicious alfresco lunch on the lodge’s deck. Dining under the African sky with the sounds of nature all around is something I’ll never forget.

Travel tip: The lodge has excellent Wi-Fi — a bonus if you want to stay connected or share real-time snaps of your safari adventures.

Sunset Safari & Wildlife Encounters

Later that evening, we set off on our second game drive. With snacks and drinks packed by the lodge, we watched the sunset across the plains — a surreal moment made even better by a thrilling sighting of hyenas and vultures tussling over a recent kill.

Every drive is different, and we were lucky to also spot a lioness and her cubs, ostriches, and zebras, all in the space of just a few hours. The savannah scenery at dusk is absolutely magical, with golden light bathing the landscape.

Back at the lodge, the staff had arranged a surprise candlelit dinner in a private area upstairs — a truly romantic gesture. The food was exquisite, and the service was warm and attentive throughout.

Early Morning Safari & Breakfast in the Bush

Early morning safaris are best for spotting predators while they’re active, so we rose before sunrise for one final game drive — and were treated to one of the most exhilarating sights of the trip: a cheetah leaping onto the bonnet of a nearby vehicle! These curious cats are known for their bold behaviour in the Mara, and it was incredible to witness so close.

Afterwards, we returned to the lodge for breakfast — a generous spread of freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, cereals, hot dishes and juices, all enjoyed with views of the open plains.

After this exhilarating game drive, we headed back to the lodge for some breakfast, which was a wonderful spread of fruits, cereals, cold meats, sausages, bacon, eggs, beans, hash browns and grilled tomatoes and a choice of fresh juices. I love hotel breakfasts and this had an amazing plus point of being in the wilderness.

Relaxation & Creature Comforts

The rest of our morning was spent lounging by the plunge pool outside our tent. The lodge is unfenced, so it’s not uncommon to hear — or even see — wildlife wandering nearby. One night, we heard hippos splashing in the river, so close it felt like they were right outside!

The tranquillity, the views, the attentive staff (who even surprised us with a chilled bottle of white wine), and the wildlife made it a peaceful and luxurious retreat.

Leaving the Wild Behind — For Now

After two nights of unforgettable safari experiences, it was time to say goodbye. We were driven back to the airstrip for our return flight to Nairobi, filled with memories and a memory card full of incredible photos.

Final Thoughts & Travel Tips

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious and intimate safari experience, Olare Mara Kempinski is an outstanding choice. It combines responsible tourism, creature comforts, and unrivalled wildlife encounters in a pristine, crowd-free setting.

Best time to visit:

• July to October for the Great Migration and drier weather

• January to March for fewer crowds and lush landscapes

What to pack:

• Neutral-coloured clothing

• Binoculars & camera with zoom lens

• Sun hat, sunscreen & insect repellent

• A lightweight jacket for early mornings and evenings

Book in advance as the lodge has limited availability due to its exclusivity. More details can be found at: Olare Mara Kempinski

Have you been on safari? What were your highlights? Let us know in the comments — we’d love to hear your stories.