Connoisseurs of the Maasai Mara – that vast, gorgeous expanse of wilderness in southwestern Kenya, at the border with Tanzania – know that its character changes subtly from one nook to the next. Olonana Lodge occupies a covetable position just north on the famous Mara Triangle, at the edge of the National Reserve – a marvellously secluded and leafy spot, between looming escarpment and fast-flowing river. Here the “Sanctuary” label seems especially apt. Below the terraces of the lodge, a resident pod of hippos wallows, snorting and harrumphing, in the shade of acacia trees, which screen Olonana from the outside world.

Yet all around, the ceaseless pageant of wildlife and wonder rolls on. Olonana is uniquely placed for the Great Migration, due to its proximity to the Mara River and the Oloololo Escarpment. It’s a short drive from several crossing points, where between July and October great herds of wildebeest and zebra thunder through the crocodile-infested river – perhaps the climax of the most dramatic natural phenomenon in the world. Our guides can take you close to the action, and know about the best viewpoints away from other safarigoers.

Within the north of the exalted Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, an abundance of wildlife and big game inhabit the legendary Masai Mara Reserve. The spectacular wildebeest migration takes place from July to September when the grasslands of the Masai Mara are covered with a mass of shifting wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle. Truly one of the most impressive displays of wildlife on the planet, each year large predators arrive to take advantage of the vast bounty of prey arriving, nature's high-stakes dramas constantly on display. Around October, the main herds begin their journey towards Tanzania. While the game viewing in the Mara is excellent year-round, there is also the opportunity to experience Kenya's rich cultural heritage. Many local communities still follow traditional ways of life, practicing ancient customs and rituals. Visiting villages provides an opportunity to understand Maasai traditions and history as well as community development and the preservation of traditional livelihoods.