Olonana Lodge
Kenya’s Maasai Mara is virtually synonymous with safari – surely among the most physically lovely, biologically diverse and culturally rich regions in Africa, and the scene of one of the most astonishing wildlife spectacles anywhere on earth, the annual Great Migration. Amid this dizzying swirl of natural beauty and drama, Olonana Lodge is a hideaway of rare elegance and serenity, in a prime position on a private stretch of the Mara River – the very spot where Sanctuary began, a quarter of a century ago, in 1999.
The lovely setting, at once secluded and convenient
The resident pod of snorting, harrumphing hippos in the river below
The 14 strikingly contemporary Suites and two-bedroom Geoffrey Kent Suite (with private pool, chef and guide)
The extensive use of organic, homegrown produce in the kitchen
The small but delightful spa, Bush Gym and swimming pool
A fantastic base during to the Great Migration (July to October, historically)
Setting
Enhance your stay with these extraordinary experiences
Never a dull moment, either within or beyond the lodge. The overall opportunities for wildlife viewing are as good as they get anywhere in Africa; the prospect of watching the sun rise over the Mara from a hot-air balloon, followed by a champagne-flavoured breakfast picnic à la Streep and Redford… well, what’s not to love?
Great Migration
Between July and October more than a million wildebeest and zebra make their way across the Maasai Mara in search of pastures new. The interest this arouses among the predators through whose territory they pass is intense. The drama that unfolds as a consequence is quite simply one of the greatest shows on earth.
Maasai Community Visits
Olonana has a strong, longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship with local Maasai communities. There’s no better way to learn more about Maasai culture, customs and daily life than from the Maasai themselves.
Bespoke Bush Walks
Nothing quickens the senses quite like a stroll in the African wilderness. And because Olonana is situated within a private conservancy adjacent to the National Reserve, guided walks are not merely possible but strongly recommended.
Night Drives
The lion sleeps tonight. Or does he? Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Oloisukut Conservancy after dark. Our expert guides will reveal an otherwise unseen world of nocturnal animal magic.
Hot-Air Ballooning
Some things really are worth getting out of bed for before dawn, even when you’re on vacation. A hot-air balloon flight over the Maasai Mara, watching the landscape take shape in the first rays of new morning sunshine, is surely one of them.
Scenic Flights
Fully personalised scenic flights by helicopter or biplane give you a lilac-breasted roller’s eye view of large parts of the Maasai Mara. You’ll swoop and skim above an epic patchwork of acacia-studded savannah. Chocks away!
Plan your trip for
Apr 3 - May 31, 2025
Prices are in USD, per person, double occupancy.
A&K PHILANTHOPY
Committed to conservation and responsible tourism since 1999, we support sustainable projects to improve wellbeing and build lasting community relationships. The Maasai Mara Conservation Program formalised our collaboration with local Maasai in planning their own development and enterprise priorities and assisting them to manage natural resources and utilise the amazing biodiversity that draws visitors from around the world.
Safe Water for Schools
We believe everyone deserves the right to clean water, and as part of this commitment we have partnered with LifeStraw to provide water filters in schools across two continents.
School Lunch Program
To coincide with the launch of Kitirua Lodge, we will be starting a School Lunch Program at a community school close to the property, as well as assisting with the construction of new classroom space and a kitchen.
