AA Lodges Mara

AA Lodges Mara is a well-known safari lodge located in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, offering a perfect blend of comfort and authentic safari experience. The lodge is situated along the Oloololo escarpment, providing guests with stunning views of the Mara plains and the Mara River, home to abundant wildlife. This lodge is renowned for its excellent service, comfortable accommodations, and proximity to the incredible wildlife of the Masai Mara.

Location

AA Lodges Mara is strategically located on the Oloololo Escarpment, one of the most scenic spots within the Masai Mara ecosystem. It is positioned close to the reserve’s key wildlife zones, making it an ideal base for exploring the park’s rich flora and fauna. The lodge’s location ensures guests can enjoy game viewing directly from the property, with easy access to the iconic game drives in the Mara.

Accommodation

AA Lodges Mara offers a range of comfortable accommodation options designed to suit various preferences and budgets. The lodge is known for its spacious rooms that combine comfort with traditional African charm.

• Standard Rooms: The lodge has 60 well-appointed rooms, featuring private balconies or verandahs that overlook the stunning Mara plains. Rooms are equipped with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and modern amenities such as hot showers, mosquito nets, and in-room safes.
• Luxury Tented Camps: For guests seeking a more rustic yet luxurious experience, AA Lodges Mara also offers luxury tents that allow guests to enjoy a more immersive safari experience. These tents are furnished with high-quality bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and are well-secured with mesh screens to ensure safety and comfort during your stay.
• Family Rooms: The lodge caters to families and groups by offering family-friendly accommodations, which include larger rooms and interconnected spaces for easy and comfortable stays.

Facilities

• Restaurant and Bar: The lodge boasts a spacious dining area serving a variety of local and international cuisine. Guests can enjoy meals while taking in breathtaking views of the Mara landscape. The bar is a great spot to unwind after a thrilling game drive, where guests can enjoy drinks and relax in a cozy, safari-inspired setting.
• Swimming Pool: AA Lodges Mara features a swimming pool, offering guests the chance to cool off after a day of exploring the park. The pool area also provides a perfect space for relaxation, with sun loungers and beautiful views of the surrounding savannah.
• Gift Shop: Guests can purchase souvenirs and Maasai crafts in the lodge’s gift shop, including beaded jewelry, textiles, and carvings, which make for great keepsakes from their safari experience.
• Wi-Fi and Communication: AA Lodges Mara offers Wi-Fi in some public areas, allowing guests to stay connected or share their safari moments with loved ones.

Activities

1. Game Drives: The highlight of any stay at AA Lodges Mara is the game viewing experience. Guests can enjoy morning and afternoon game drives within the Masai Mara National Reserve, where they can see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and numerous other species such as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
2. Hot Air Balloon Safari: For an extraordinary safari experience, guests can opt for a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. This allows guests to view the Mara plains from the sky, offering incredible photo opportunities and a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife below.
3. Cultural Experiences: The lodge offers cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages. These visits provide guests with an opportunity to learn about the Maasai people’s traditional lifestyle, customs, and daily activities. Guests can also participate in Maasai dances and crafts demonstrations.
4. Nature Walks: AA Lodges Mara also arranges nature walks led by knowledgeable Maasai guides, offering an intimate way to explore the Mara’s ecosystems. These walks are a great way to observe smaller creatures, plants, and the landscape up close.
5. Bird Watching: The Masai Mara is home to an impressive array of bird species, making it a fantastic location for bird watching. Guests can spot everything from eagles and vultures to colorful lilac-breasted rollers and flamingos.

Sustainability

AA Lodges Mara is committed to responsible tourism and has implemented various eco-friendly and sustainable practices to minimize its environmental impact. The lodge strives to conserve water, reduce waste, and incorporate solar energy into its operations. It also supports local Maasai communities and promotes conservation efforts within the Masai Mara region.

Access

AA Lodges Mara is accessible by both road and air:

• Road: The lodge is about a 5-6 hour drive from Nairobi, depending on road conditions and traffic. The journey offers scenic views of the Great Rift Valley and the surrounding landscapes.
• Air: Guests can opt for a flight from Nairobi to the Keekorok Airstrip or Ol Kiombo Airstrip, followed by a short drive to the lodge. There are also airstrips within the reserve for private charters.

Conclusion

AA Lodges Mara offers a perfect combination of luxury, comfort, and an authentic Maasai Mara experience. Whether you’re seeking thrilling game drives, hot air balloon safaris, cultural immersion, or simply relaxation in a stunning location, AA Lodges Mara provides an unforgettable base for exploring one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves. With its warm hospitality, excellent amenities, and proximity to the Masai Mara’s rich wildlife, it is an ideal choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in the heart of the African savannah.