Marriott International has signed an agreement with Baraka Lodges to open its first luxury safari lodge in Masai Mara, Kenya.
Located within the Mara National Reserve, the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will mark the entry of Marriott brand into Africa’s safari segment.
The JW Marriott safari lodge is anticipated to open next year.
It will feature 20 private tents, which will include one presidential canvas-topped pavilion and two interconnecting canopied suites.
Each tent in the lodge will have a private terrace overlooking river Talek.
Apart from the private accommodation, the lodge will also have common areas including a spa, a lounge bar, and a restaurant.
Other shared spaces include an outdoor terrace with fire pits, which will play host to the Masai folk dance performances in the evening.
Marriott International JW Marriott vice-president and brand leader Bruce Rohr said: “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.
“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.”
The JW Marriott Masai Mara will aim to conserve the land and its inhabitants and will employ around 50 locals from the Masai community.
The lodge will have artful design, architecture and interiors which will reflect the surrounding landscape and natural world.
Currently, Marriott International owns and manages more than 120 properties in Africa and 8,000 hotels globally.
Last month, the company announced the opening of The Dubai EDITION and an agreement to debut St Regis hotel brand in the UK.
