Kenya had always been a dream destination for us, and our first safari adventure exceeded every expectation. This was our second time visiting the African continent (first time was in Egypt), making the experience even more special. From the breathtaking landscapes to the incredible wildlife, our journey was made even more special by staying at the luxurious JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge and ending our trip with an unforgettable experience at Giraffe Manor. If you’re considering your first safari, we highly recommend these properties for an experience like no other!
Getting There: The Bush Plane Experience
Our adventure started with a short one-hour flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Keekorok Airstrip, provided by Safarilink. This small aircraft was quite a new experience for us since we had never been in a plane that small before—it carried a maximum of only 12 people! The flight itself was smooth and offered stunning aerial views of Kenya’s vast landscapes, dotted with acacia trees and meandering rivers. The thrill of landing on a dirt airstrip in the heart of the Mara set the tone for the excitement ahead.
Our Journey to the Lodge & First Impressions
Upon arrival from our short bush plane flight, we were greeted by our driver, Sophie, who welcomed us with refreshing drinks and delicious snacks. After that, we embarked on a 30-minute drive towards the lodge. Along the way, we managed to squeeze in a mini game drive, spotting some impalas and monkeys, and even a few water buffalos before we had even checked in!
As soon as we arrived at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, we were greeted in true Kenyan style—with traditional Maasai warriors performing an energetic welcome dance. Their vibrant attire and rhythmic singing were mesmerizing! After the dance, the staff gave us a brief tour of our new home for the next six days, setting the stage for an unforgettable stay.
Luxury Tent Accommodations
JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge redefined our idea of ‘tent’ accommodations. Our luxury tented suite was spacious, elegantly furnished, and featured a private deck with a jacuzzi, overlooking the savanna. Every morning, we woke up to breathtaking sunrise views and the sounds of nature. The en-suite bathroom, plush bedding, and thoughtful details ensured we were never without comfort—even in the heart of the wilderness.
PRO TIP: Pack light! Because of the size & weight restriction of your bush plane flight, you will have limited luggage to begin with but not to worry, here’s the kicker…. the lodge offers FREE daily laundry!! (5 articles of clothing per person)
Exquisite Dining & Amenities
One of the highlights of our stay was the incredible food. Every meal felt like a fine-dining experience with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and flavors inspired by Kenyan cuisine. From gourmet breakfasts to multi-course dinners under the stars, every bite was a delight. The lodge also offered amenities like a relaxing spa and a gorgeous infinity pool—perfect for unwinding after a long day on safari.
Bush Breakfast: Dining in the Wild
One of the unique experiences the resort curates for each guest is a bush breakfast, at least once during the stay. This goes quite above and beyond, as many safari lodges typically charge extra for such an experience. Experiencing breakfast served amidst the savannah was very special, and it was impressive how the hotel managed to establish a full kitchen setup out in the bush. The staff surprised us with a fully prepared breakfast spread under an acacia tree, complete with fresh fruit, pastries, and hot coffee. Enjoying a meal while surrounded by nature, with zebras grazing nearby, was simply magical.
A Photographer’s Dream: Canon Partnership
A standout element of the JW Marriott Masai Mara is its partnership with Canon, which enables guests to borrow telephoto lenses & mirrorless cameras at no additional charge. This allowed us to capture some truly epic photos and video shots of the animals at a distance, a perk that most other safari lodges might charge extra for. As you can see here, Keith was like a kid in a candy store and couldn’t get enough of this Canon room! 😂
Oh and don’t worry if you don’t know how to use these beautiful cameras… their talented, in-house resident photographers will gladly lend a hand!
Safari Game Drives: The Big Five Experience
Our ultimate mission was to spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and the elusive rhino. Our expert guides took us on thrilling game drives through the Mara’s vast plains. We were so lucky to see all five, including a rare sighting of a pair of leopards eating their fresh catch on a tree branch and a rhino grazing in the distance! The sight of a pride of lions lazing under the sun and massive elephants roaming freely down the hills of the savannah was nothing short of breathtaking!
Every game drive felt like stepping into a National Geographic documentary, with incredible encounters and jaw-dropping scenery. The knowledgeable guides shared fascinating insights about animal behavior, making the experience even more enriching for us and our kids.
Visiting a Masai Village: A Humbling Experience
During our stay, we had the opportunity to visit a Masai Mara Village, and it was a truly humbling and eye-opening experience. We have so much, yet they have so little—and still, their joy and sense of community shine through. Their simple way of life is a powerful reminder to be grateful for what we have. The villagers welcomed us with a traditional dance, featuring their famous high-jump ritual—a display of strength and pride. It was an honor to witness their traditions up close, and we left feeling incredibly thankful for both the experience and the perspective it gave us.
Giraffe Manor: A Fairytale Ending
We ended our Kenyan adventure at the iconic Giraffe Manor in Nairobi. The moment we arrived, we were transported into a storybook setting. The historic manor, surrounded by lush gardens, had an old-world charm that felt timeless. Our room had a gorgeous view, but the real highlight? The giraffes!
Every morning, these gentle giants poked their long necks through the windows during breakfast, eager to be fed treats. Our kids were absolutely thrilled—laughing, feeding, and even getting giraffe kisses! Beyond the breakfast experience, the manor also had beautiful grounds to explore and cozy spaces to relax.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Do Safari Experience
Our first safari in Kenya was everything we dreamed of and more. The JW Masai Mara Lodge provided luxury in the wild with outstanding service, and Giraffe Manor offered a whimsical, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or on a solo adventure, these properties are must-stays for anyone visiting Kenya for the first time.
We left with unforgettable memories, a newfound appreciation for Africa’s wildlife, and a strong desire to return. If you’re planning your first safari—trust us, this is the way to do it!