Marriott International has announced plans to open two luxurious tent safari camps in Kenya following the signatures of the Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and the JW Marriott Mount Kenya Saisa Safari Safari Camp. Emphasizing the company’s commitment to expanding its offering for world-class luxury portfolio and unique travel experiences, the expected property aims to set new standards for high-end luxury hospitality in some of Africa’s most breathtaking safari fates.
“Building the incredible success we’ve seen in our luxury African safari portfolio, growing appetite for outdoor accommodation and non-traditional hospitality experiences, and signing these agreements with the Rajiji Group marks another milestone in the growth of Marriott International.” “The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Sy Reserve Safari Camp offer opportunities for wildlife encounters, elegant design and exemplary service that promise to create lasting memories.”
Shivan Patel, director of the Lazizi Group of Companies, commented: “Kenya is synonymous with the ultimate safari experience. These projects are set to redefine Kenya’s gorgeous safari segment while promoting conservation and community development. Our continued collaboration with Marriott International highlights our shared commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience celebrating the region’s natural and cultural heritage.”
Image credit: Marriott International
Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp
The Ritz-Carlton at the Masai Mara Safari Camp, scheduled to open in August 2025, will showcase the brand’s legendary service and elegant designs in the sub-Saharan Africa region. The facility is located in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve and is renowned for its abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery and large migrations where millions of Wild Tee Beasts, Zebras and Gazelles travel to the Masai Mara every year. Rising among the trees on a secluded island surrounded by famous sandy rivers near the Tanzanian border, this treetop retreat offers picturesque views of the riverbanks and forests, offering guests the front row seating to experience the dignity of a major migration.
The project will include 20 elegantly appointed tent suites, each with separate living areas, a private Sunken lounge, an infinity plunge pool and indoor and outdoor showers, including a four-bedroom presidential suite. The plans include sophisticated dining experiences at multiple venues, including a curated wine cellar, a Stargazing Sky Deck and multiple cooking restaurants with authentic Bomas. Additional leisure facilities include a spa and wellness centre, an outdoor gym, swimming pool, Discovery Hub, map rooms and photography studios.
“These projects are poised to enhance the luxurious safari experience and create an entirely new standard for discerning travelers,” added Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer of the Middle East & Luxury, Europe, Middle East & Africa. “The growth of the luxury safari portfolio and the Ritz-Carlton debut in the segment represent a critical moment for the brand. The project seamlessly blends the beauty of the legendary refined Masai Mara of the Ritz-Carlton, offering transformative escapes and innovative first-time offerings, shaping the future of luxurious safari trips.”
Image credit: Marriott International
JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp
Expected to open in early 2026, JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp is ready to offer the perfect hideaway for your mind, body and soul, bringing the brand’s exceptional service and sophisticated design to the heart of Solio Game Reserve. Located between the majestic slopes of Mount Kenya and the peaks of the Abadare Mountains, this sanctuary offers an immersive wildlife experience within the 45,000-acre gaming sanctuary and the 19,000-acre Solio Ranch Conservancy. Internationally recognized for its success programme of history, the conservancy offers an unparalleled encounter with white and endangered black rhinos, along with other indigenous wildlife, including the Leopard, Cheetah and Plains game.
The camp has 20 luxurious tent units, each featuring a private plunge pool, including two two-bedroom suites. The design plan includes multiple quiet wellness spaces, with guests fully embracing the present moment, including the brand’s signature JW Garden, and four culinary experiences, including traditional restaurants and skydeck dining venues. Additionally, the property offers signature spas with JWs, swimming pools, fitness centres, conservation houses, horse barns, retail boutiques and animal viewing skins. A wide range of experiences are offered, including guided horse-riding safari, night game drives, guided nature walks, quad cycling across the Solio Plains, and a visit to private rhino orphanages.
Conservation and community commitment
The conservation of the land and its residents is at the heart of these projects. Both properties are built using sustainable materials to prioritize energy-efficient infrastructures, minimizing ecological impacts and maintaining wildlife habitat. Additionally, the property will engage with the community through job creation, education programs and wildlife conservation initiatives to ensure tourism benefits are widely shared.
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and the JW Marriott Mount Kenya Saisa Safari Camp mark the second and third luxury safari camps of Marriott in Kenya, Kenya after successfully opening the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in 2023.
Main Image Credit: Marriott International
