Manzili Mara, Masai Mara
Perched atop the Siria Escarpment, the dramatic western boundary of the Masai Mara, Manzili offers a wonderfully elevated, serene and refined safari experience. The Mara’s most intimate exclusive-use property, this is a stylish and immersive base from which to explore and experience Africa’s most celebrated wilderness area.
Summary
- A uniquely personal ‘Masai modern’ safari home in a spectacularly scenic setting
- Tucked into the forest canopy with panoramic views across the Mara and Serengeti ecosystem
- Formerly the private bush retreat of the late Anthony Russell – photographer, artist and designer
- Built in rustic-chic style with locally-sourced, sustainable natural materials by Kenyan artisans
- Enjoy a secluded and sophisticated safari experience at your own place
- Take a front-row seat for the early movement of the wildebeest migration as it begins its journey north from Tanzania.
- Excellent game viewing in the Mara Triangle – the preferred area of the National Reserve
- Adjacent to the Partakilat Rhino Conservancy – rhino walks, nature walks and community-led conservation
- Accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 ensuite bedrooms
Detailed information
ACCOMMODATION
- Two bedroom suites with adjoining bathrooms (bathtubs and showers)
- Three standard ensuite double bedrooms with adjoining bathrooms (showers)
- All bedrooms have lounge areas and fireplaces
- Drawing room with fireplace
- Dining room with fireplace for evening meals
- Outside dining area for breakfasts and lunches
- Built on stilted wraparound decks
ACTIVITIES
- Game drives in the Mara Triangle – 20 minutes from the property
- 4×4 custom game viewing vehicles, open-sided
- Guided animal tracking and bush walks
- Bush breakfasts and sundowners with views over the Serengeti
- Rhino walks in the Partakilat Rhino Conservancy
- Yoga mats in every room
- Beading with the Masai women
- Visits to the local Masai village
FACILITIES
- 24-hour solar power
- In-room charging facilities
- Wi-Fi internet throughout
- Limited cell phone signal
- Laundry service
- 20 minutes’ game drive from Kichwa Tembo airstrip
Location
Manzili Mara is perched on top of the Siria Escarpment, the western boundary of the Masai Mara and sits just outside the Masai Mara National Reserve. Located in South Western Kenya alongside the Tanzanian border, The Masai Mara, together with the adjoining Serengeti National Park, forms one of the world’s most diverse and spectacular eco-systems. A region characterised by short grass savannah plains interspersed with areas of riverine forest and bordered by towering rocky escarpments, The Mara is home to an incredible abundance and variety of wild animals and is renowned worldwide as Africa’s most exceptional – and loveliest – safari destination.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve covers an area of 1,510 sq. km (580 sq. miles) at altitudes which range from 1500 to 2170 metres above sea level. The area has one of the highest lion densities in the world, together with significant populations of cheetah, leopard, elephant and buffalo, and this is where over two million wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s Gazelle migrate annually. Home to over 95 species of mammal and 570 recorded species of bird, excellent ‘Big Five’ year-round game viewing is virtually guaranteed.
How to get there
By Air
There are several daily scheduled flights to and from Nairobi to the nearby Kichwa Tembo Airstrip which is about 20 minutes from the house.
Carriers serving the Masai Mara include;
- Safarilink (from Wilson Airport) flysafarilink.com
- Air Kenya (from Wilson Airport) airkenya.com
- ALS (from Wilson Airport) flyals.com
There are often also daily flights to the Masai Mara from Nanyuki and other Laikipia destinations and from the Kenya coast. The airstrip is also accessible to private charter flights.
By Road
The camp is around 6 hours’ drive from Nairobi via Narok and a 4×4 vehicle is required.
Visitor’s Book
Rates
Full Board Accommodation Rates
- Minimum stay – 3 nights
- Maximum occupancy – 10 guests
- Infants stay free of charge
Standard Season Rates (16th Jan to 31st May, 1st Oct to 15th Dec)
- Exclusive-use for up to 4 guests – Kes 180,000 per night
- Additional adult guests – Kes 30,000 each per night
High Season Rates (1st June to 30th Sept, 16th Dec to 15th Jan)
- Exclusive-use for up to 4 guests – Kes 340,000 per night
- Additional adult guests – Kes 60,000 each per night
Children aged 3-15 years pay 50% of the adult rate
These rates, terms and conditions are for East African residents – please contact us for non-resident rates
Access to the Masai Mara National Reserve is subject to park fees – please contact us for applicable rates
Stays are on a generous full-board basis and include game drives and airstrip transfers – please contact us for full details of what is included in your stay and what is available at additional cost
These rates, terms and conditions are valid for stays up until 15th January 2027
The owners require all adult guests to sign an indemnity form on arrival
Please contact us to make a booking
Please familiarise yourself with all our terms & conditions when making a booking
