Trip Report JW Marriott Masai Mara

We flew from Nairobi to Masai Mara airstrip and were greeted by our guide Jacob. For the next week, he would be our personal guide and wildlife tracker. Within the thirty-minute drive from the airstrip to the camp we ran into elephants, giraffes and the endangered Black Rhino.

We pulled up to the entrance of the camp where the local Masai Tribe welcomed us with a traditional dance, and the option to join. What a welcome! Upon checking-in, the property manager, Jemma, gave us a tour of the grounds. We were brought a refreshing welcome drink and were shown around the main lodge. The restaurant and full bar are in the main lodge, which offers beautiful views of a river that is home to a local family of hippos.

Just down the path is a beautiful swimming pool, gym and incredible spa. Following the tour, we were shown to our tent which was beautifully decorated with local art and textiles. All our wants and needs were taken care of; they even had our favorite spirits available for us at the mini bar which was a nice personal touch. This property is all-inclusive, so we only provided a couple of extras for ourselves.

We spent our days with morning game-runs at sunrise, and then we either relaxed by the pool or enjoyed the spa. On our first night, we were lucky to encounter a hungry leopard and witness a live kill, which is so rare to see. One night following our game-run, we watched the sunset in the bush with cocktails and appetizers. We also enjoyed an incredible bush breakfast the next morning. For our last two days, we decided to do full day game drives and had lunch in the bush, as the prides of lions in sight simultaneously enjoyed their lunch as well. Other sightings included a cheetah with her cubs, loads of elephants and so much more!

I can't praise the staff at this resort enough. Every detail was meticulously planned, and everyone was so friendly. You can tell they all really enjoy their jobs, while working in such a beautiful place. One night, they even brought out an entire cake for a birthday surprise and on our last night, they surprised us with a private dinner.

Image 1: Travel advisor posing with an elephant in the back. Image 2: A lone giraffe standing mightily in a green field, with an African tree in the background.

We visited this property in November, which is the beginning of the rainy season. However, I must say the weather was very pleasant and the valley was green, which meant happy animals with plenty of water and grass. We got to view all the big five the first day of our safari. The rain only came while we were sleeping.
The property made our special birthdays memorable ones, and it's going to be difficult to top! I would definitely suggest this property to anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or interested in top-notch animal viewing in a high-end tented camp, with five star amenities.

I'd recommend the JW Marriott Masai Mara to anyone looking for a high-end safari experience. It would be a dreamy honeymoon destination and a great place to celebrate a special birthday or anniversary. I'd be happy to help plan the perfect experience to help get you there!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Kenya. In need of further inspiration? Check out our guide, Awe Inspiring Nature, Views and Unique Memories: Three days in Naboisho Conservancy, Masai Mara, Kenya.