Ultimate Booking Guide for The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp
Ultimate Booking Guide for The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp
How to Book Kenya’s Most Anticipated Luxury Safari with VIP Marriott STARS Benefits
Opening August 15, 2025, The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp marks a historic moment in luxury travel. For the first time, the legendary Ritz-Carlton service arrives in one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations—the Masai Mara National Reserve. Elevated among lush trees along the Sand River, this ultra-exclusive safari camp redefines what it means to experience Africa in refined comfort.
With only 20 architecturally distinctive suites, private plunge pools, personalized butler service, and immersive game drives included, this is not simply a hotel—it is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. In this ultimate booking guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know: accommodations, dining, activities, logistics, and—most importantly—how to book the Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara the smart way through Marriott STARS.
At Stars Desk, we are a Top Marriott STARS Agency, giving our clients priority access, VIP recognition, and added value that cannot be obtained through direct bookings or online travel agencies.
Why The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Is a Game-Changer in Luxury Safaris
The Masai Mara is already legendary for its extraordinary wildlife, sweeping savannahs, and the Great Migration. What makes The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp truly exceptional is how seamlessly it blends authentic safari immersion with modern luxury and sustainability.
This camp is:
Sustainably designed and built in harmony with nature
Located in the serene Sand River region, rich in year-round wildlife
Limited to just 20 suites, ensuring privacy and exclusivity
Fully inclusive, covering dining, game drives, and expert guiding
Designed for travelers seeking both adventure and refinement
For discerning travelers accustomed to Ritz-Carlton standards, this property delivers a safari experience without compromise.
Location & Getting There: Your Journey into the Wild
By Air (Recommended)
The most seamless way to reach the camp is by air. Daily scheduled flights depart from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi, located about 12 km from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). The scenic one-hour flight lands at Serena Airstrip (HKOA), where guests are greeted by the Ritz-Carlton team.
From there, enjoy a one-hour game drive transfer to camp, often your first unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Important note: Luggage is restricted to 15 kg per person in soft-sided bags. Additional luggage can be securely stored.
By Road
A private road transfer from Nairobi can also be arranged. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, offering views of Kenya’s landscapes and rural villages. While scenic, air travel is strongly recommended for comfort and efficiency.
Accommodations: Intimate Suites with Front-Row Safari Views
Every suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara is designed as a private sanctuary suspended above the wilderness, offering uninterrupted views and elevated comfort.
One-Bedroom Suite
At 163 sqm, the One-Bedroom Suite is a refined retreat ideal for couples or solo travelers. Highlights include an elevated private plunge pool, expansive deck, and breathtaking views of the surrounding savannah.
Included with your stay:
Dedicated personal butler
All-inclusive gourmet dining
Daily guided game drives
Professional camera and binoculars
Perfect for honeymooners or first-time safari guests seeking indulgence without excess.
Two-Bedroom Executive Suite
Spanning 232 sqm, this suite is ideal for families or small groups. Featuring one king bedroom and one twin bedroom, a generous living area, pantry, and expansive outdoor dining deck with plunge pool overlooking the Sand River, it balances shared moments with personal space.
This suite delivers a seamless blend of luxury, comfort, and adventure—without sacrificing privacy.
Two-Bedroom Presidential Suite
At an extraordinary 617 sqm, the Presidential Suite is the crown jewel of the camp. Designed for families or groups, it features:
Lavish connecting bedrooms with private bathrooms
Expansive living and dining areas
Pantry and kitchenette
Outdoor dining deck and sunken lounge
Large plunge pool with panoramic views of the Masai Mara and Serengeti
With private game drives, a dedicated butler, and bespoke experiences, this suite offers one of the most exclusive safari accommodations in Africa.
Dining: A Gourmet Safari Under the African Sky
Dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara is immersive, elegant, and deeply connected to place.
Canopy & Nest
These primary dining venues showcase expertly crafted dishes inspired by local Kenyan flavors and international cuisine, paired with exceptional wines.
Private Wine Cellar
An exclusive sommelier-curated wine cellar elevates the safari dining experience, offering rare vintages in an intimate setting.
The Boma Experience
Gather around a fire for a traditional Boma dining experience, blending cuisine, storytelling, and cultural performances under the stars.
In-Suite Dining
Enjoy private gourmet meals on your deck, accompanied by wildlife sightings and uninterrupted views.
Sunrise Bush Breakfasts & Sundowners
Few experiences rival a bush breakfast at sunrise or a sunset cocktail overlooking the savannah—both signature moments of the Ritz-Carlton safari journey.
Experiences & Activities: From Dawn to Dusk in the Mara
Every day at the camp is thoughtfully curated to balance adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Highlights include:
Private open-air luxury game drives led by expert guides
On-property wildlife sightings near the Sand River
The Call of Dusk evening experiences
Discovery Hub & Map Room explorations
Photography Studio with professional equipment
Cultural encounters with local traditions and storytelling
Wellness offerings integrate native healing traditions, allowing guests to restore mind and body after exhilarating safari days.
Important Guest Information
Children under six are not permitted, ensuring safety and tranquility
All stays are all-inclusive, simplifying planning and enhancing value
Personalized itineraries are crafted with your butler and guiding team
Why Booking Through Marriott STARS Is Essential
This is one of the most anticipated new luxury hotels in the world, and demand will far exceed supply—especially during migration season.
When you book through Stars Desk via Marriott STARS, you receive:
Priority access and preferred availability
VIP recognition by camp leadership
Added amenities when available
Personalized pre-arrival planning
Advocacy in upgrade and experience prioritization
As a Top Marriott STARS Agency, Stars Desk has direct relationships within Marriott’s luxury portfolio—critical for securing the best suites and experiences at a property this exclusive.
Best Time to Visit The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara
July to October: Great Migration, peak demand
January to March: Excellent wildlife viewing, fewer crowds
April to June: Lush landscapes, strong value
Booking early with a STARS advisor is essential, especially for opening season and migration months.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Luxury Safari, Booked the Right Way
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp sets a new benchmark for African safaris—where legendary service meets untamed wilderness. With only 20 suites, all-inclusive luxury, and deeply immersive experiences, how you book matters just as much as where you stay.
By working with Stars Desk, a Top Marriott STARS Agency, you ensure priority access, VIP recognition, and a flawlessly curated safari journey from the very first step.
If you are planning a once-in-a-lifetime African safari in 2025 or beyond, this is the moment—and this is the way—to do it right.
