Marriott

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Baraka Lodges Ltd to develop JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge.

This lodge in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve will signify the hospitality group’s entry to the luxury safari segment.

A milestone opening

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is expected to open in 2023 in one of Africa’s most celebrated areas of wildlife conservation and wilderness. Conservation will be at the forefront of this development and the lodge aims to employ up to 50 people from Masai community.

“As a brand rooted in mindfulness, we cannot think of a more perfect retreat for the mind, body, and soul than the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya,” said Bruce Rohr, vice president and brand leader, JW Marriott, Marriott International.

“JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will offer guests a luxurious backdrop to make once-in-a-lifetime memories as they connect with nature and wildlife as never before. We are thrilled that the JW Marriott brand will be welcoming adventure travellers, including families, to this breath-taking part of the world.”

Jerome Briet, chief development officer in Europe, the Middle East and Africa for Marriott International, added: “The signing of JW Masai Mara Lodge is a milestone in Marriott International’s growth in Africa as the company enters the luxury safari segment.”

“This landmark project is in response to travellers’ growing desire for experiential offerings that enable them to build a deeper connection with their chosen destination. JW Marriott encourages guests to be mindful and present, which perfectly lends itself to meaningful safari holidays.”

An immersion into the surroundings

The lodge will focus on providing guests with an immersive stay that takes into account a holistic approach to wellness, mindfulness of the environment and impact on the land. Providing a base for exploration of the Masai Mara National Reserve, this property will overlook the banks of the River Talek on the edge of the reserve.

Guests can expect the lodge to have 20 private tents, including a presidential canvas-topped pavilion and two interconnected canopied suites, along with shared spaces including a restaurant, lounge bar, spa and outdoor terrace with fire pits. This will be the setting for evening Masai dance performances.

Safari drives from here will provide the opportunity to see lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros and elephants and the annual great wildebeest migration between June and September.

Designed by Kristina Zanic, the lodge’s interiors will pay tribute to the natural surroundings and take inspiration from earth, wind, fire and water, with an earth palette and natural materials.

Commenting on the plans, Mr. Shivan Patel of Baraka Lodges Ltd, said: “We’re delighted to collaborate with Marriott International to debut this stunning luxury lodge and their first Safari offering in the Masai Mara.”

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