Marriott International Expands Luxury Safari Portfolio in Kenya with The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott Safari Camps

Marriott International is set to enhance Kenya’s already vibrant tourism landscape by introducing two new luxury safari camps in the heart of Africa’s most iconic wildlife regions. The company has signed agreements to bring The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp to life. These exclusive camps, set to open in 2025 and 2026, respectively, will cater to discerning travelers seeking an elevated and immersive safari experience in Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes.

A New Era of Luxury Safari Travel

With a growing demand for unique and non-traditional hospitality experiences, Marriott International is expanding its luxury safari portfolio in Africa. The newly signed safari camps will set a new benchmark for high-end accommodation in Kenya, combining extraordinary wildlife encounters with unmatched elegance and world-class service.

According to Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer for Marriott International in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, “The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will offer opportunities for wildlife encounters, elegant designs, and exemplary service that promise to create lasting memories for guests.”

The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp: A Treetop Retreat in the Wild

Scheduled to open in August 2025, The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp promises to deliver an unparalleled luxury experience in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Known for its remarkable wildlife, including the iconic Great Migration, the property will be situated along the famous Sand River, offering stunning views of the riverbanks and surrounding forest.

The camp will feature 20 opulently designed tented suites, including a lavish four-bedroom presidential suite, each with a separate living area, infinity plunge pool, and indoor and outdoor showers. Guests can indulge in exceptional dining experiences across various venues, including a multi-cuisine restaurant with a curated wine cellar, a stargazing sky deck, and an authentic boma. Additional facilities will include a spa, wellness center, outdoor gym, swimming pool, and a photography studio. With private game drives and cultural experiences, The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp is set to redefine the luxury safari experience.

Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer of Middle East & Luxury at Marriott International, shared, “The growth of our luxury safari portfolio and The Ritz-Carlton’s debut into the segment represents a defining moment for the brand. This project blends The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary sophistication with the untamed beauty of the Masai Mara, offering a transformative escape.”

JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp: A Sanctuary of Tranquility

Opening in early 2026, JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will be nestled between the majestic slopes of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains, providing guests with an immersive and tranquil escape into nature. Located within the Solio Game Reserve, a globally recognized rhino sanctuary, this camp will offer intimate wildlife experiences, including rare sightings of both white and black rhinos, along with leopards, cheetahs, and various plains game.

The camp will feature 20 luxurious tented units, including two spacious two-bedroom suites, each with a private plunge pool. Design highlights will include serene wellness spaces, the signature JW Garden, and a range of dining options, including a traditional restaurant and a sky deck dining venue. Guests can also enjoy a Spa by JW, a fitness center, horse-riding safaris, night game drives, and visits to a private rhino orphanage. JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp promises to be a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul.

Sustainability and Community Focus

Both camps will prioritize sustainability, with eco-friendly construction methods, energy-efficient infrastructure, and a commitment to preserving wildlife habitats. The properties will also focus on community engagement, providing jobs, educational opportunities, and supporting local conservation efforts. This combination of luxury and responsibility ensures that tourism benefits the local community and helps to protect Kenya’s precious ecosystems.

Marriott’s Continued Growth in Kenya

The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will follow the success of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, which opened in 2023. With these additions, Marriott’s portfolio in Kenya now includes seven properties and over 1,100 rooms, solidifying the brand’s presence as a leading player in the region’s luxury hospitality sector.

A New Chapter in Safari Luxury

With these new additions, Marriott International is bringing an exciting new level of luxury and adventure to Kenya’s safari scene. Whether you're seeking an immersive wildlife experience or a serene retreat surrounded by nature’s beauty, The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp are set to redefine what it means to experience Kenya’s remarkable landscapes in style.

For more information on these exciting new properties or to book your next luxury safari adventure, visit Marriott’s official websites.

Experience the magic of Kenya with Marriott International – where world-class luxury meets the wild.