SPIRIT OF THE MASAI MARA

Outdoor swimming pool.

Thank you for visiting us. The world is a beautiful place, filled with coincidences and opportunities. Here's an extraordinary one for you...

I'm Justin, the proud owner of Spirit of The Masai Mara, a Safari Lodge where the true spirit of Africa comes alive. Unlike those who rely on fluffy towel photos, we focus on creating a unique and genuine experience. While our towels are undeniably fluffy, we believe true luxury goes beyond material comforts. Spirit of The Masai Mara is a place where soul, creativity, belonging, and pride merge to reveal the magic of this exceptional Maasai land.

Prepare yourself for a safari experience unlike any other! Encounter lions, leopards, pangolins, and witness the vibrant Maasai culture with spears, arrows, beads, bracelets, cows, and sheep. Marvel at the sight of two million wildebeest leaping across crocodile-infested rivers. At our lodge, you have the opportunity to drive the safari car alongside a Maasai guide, support a girls' orphanage through a wild hole-in-one game, and embark on thrilling night game drives to spot active lions and leopards. Not to mention, our boutique safari lodge features individually designed villas, an infinity swimming pool, and a badminton court to showcase Maasai skills. It's an unparalleled safari adventure!

Fluffy towels may be a marketing cliché when there's nothing truly special to offer. At Spirit of The Masai Mara, we prioritize sharing experiences, creating stories, and immersing ourselves in the true essence of this remarkable land.

Years ago, I arrived in the Masai Mara as a guest. Nadja and I, along with our two little ones, Layla and Finn, have since chosen to make it our home. Our journey began when we serendipitously met in South Sudan, where I was on a cross-Africa trip from the UK and Nadja was working on anti-HIV projects for GIZ. Little did we know that this chance encounter would lead us to design and build The Spirit of The Masai Mara Safari Lodge ourselves. Living in a tent beneath the tree in front of the main building, we faced numerous challenges head-on, from construction to sourcing interiors. With unwavering determination and an ability to overlook the obvious, we overcame every obstacle in our path.

Leasing 56,000 acres of land from over 1,000 Maasai households and establishing the conservancy was more than a mere business transaction. It was rooted in the deep bond we formed with the Maasai community, enabling us to become custodians of this precious ecosystem. We understand that true conservation and sustainability can only be achieved when there is a genuine connection and mutual trust between the people and the land.

The Maasai community has bestowed upon me the title of Warrior or "Moran," symbolizing my profound respect and commitment to the values and traditions of this land. As a mother, Nadja holds a special place of respect within the Maasai tribe, as the role of mothers is deeply rooted in their core values. Our own children, Layla and Finn, have been embraced by the tribe and carry Maasai names. They are growing up with a profound connection to the land and its people. I understand that sharing our personal story may melt your heart or make you feel a bit overwhelmed, but I bear it in the hope that it reassures you to trust us, create new stories, and share incredible experiences. And yes, there are lions and leopards too!

So, as you embark on your safari adventures, fully immersed in the wonders of the Masai Mara, remember that your presence here goes beyond a mere visit. By choosing to stay at The Spirit of The Masai Mara Safari Lodge, you become an integral part of a shared journey, one that values the well-being of both the community and the wildlife that call this land their home.

Imagine standing on a cliff, overlooking the breathtaking Masai Mara with its green expanse resembling a giant map of Africa. Take your shot, aiming for that perfect swing to achieve the "world's wildest hole in one." This exhilarating golfing experience not only offers excitement but also supports the local orphanage, making a positive impact in the lives of deserving children who deserve a brighter future.

But that's not all—immerse yourself in the true spirit of adventure by becoming the safari guide yourself. Picture yourself behind the wheel of a safari car, accompanied by a knowledgeable Maasai guide. Feel the thrill of navigating the vast grasslands, spotting magnificent wildlife, and forging a personal connection with this ancient land on your own terms. It's an experience that I first had when I explored the Masai Mara with my friend and Maasai guide, Kios. Now, we extend that opportunity to you, allowing you to create your own unforgettable safari moments.

Join us on this remarkable adventure where you are not just guests, but fellow travelers on an extraordinary path. Disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with nature, culture, and the true spirit of the Masai Mara.

With laughter and adventure,

Justin & Nadja

Owners, The Spirit of The Masai Mara Safari Lodge