Azure Mara Haven Lodge
The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is a world-renowned safari destination, famed for its incredible density of wildlife and the spectacular annual Great Wildebeest Migration. For travelers seeking luxurious and comfortable lodges inside Masai Mara, Azure Mara Haven Lodge stands out as an exceptional choice. It is a premier luxury accommodation situated on the banks of the Talek River at the edge of the famous Masai Mara National Park.
Prime Location and Access to Azure Mara Haven Lodge – Masai Mara National Park
Azure Mara Haven Lodge is strategically located on a 25-acre landscape overlooking the endless Mara savannah, which is rich with abundant wildlife and birds. The lodge is approximately 2 miles from the Hippo View Point, giving guests quick access to prime game viewing areas.
- By Road: The drive from Nairobi city center to the Masai Mara National Park takes approximately 5–6 hours (250km).
- By Air: A flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the close Ol Kiombo Airstrip takes about an hour, followed by a convenient 45-minute transfer drive to the lodge.
Luxury Accommodations and Amenities at Azure Mara Haven Lodge – Masai Mara National Park
Azure Mara Haven Lodge is among the best lodges in Masai Mara for its blend of traditional style and modern comfort. The lodge consists of 31 spacious and luxurious, well-appointed tents overlooking the riverfront.
- Accommodation Features: The tents are elevated on raised platforms and are decorated with local woods. Each luxury tent is furnished with an en-suite bathroom that includes clean private flush toilets, both indoor and outdoor hot and cold showers, and a bathtub with a magnificent view of the river. The rooms are equipped with comfortable queen-sized beds, mosquito nets, a sitting area, dressing tables, a television, a private veranda with deck chairs, wooden tables, and complimentary bottled water. The lodge also offers family tents consisting of two inter-connecting rooms, as well as tents for individuals (single, double, twin, and triple beds).
- Pricing: The cost for a tent starts at $300 per night and above, with rates being higher during the peak high season.
- Guest Feedback on Power: A notable point of guest feedback pertains to the electricity supply. While the lodge utilizes solar energy with a backup generator, power is typically run for a specific duration in the evening (for example, 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM). Guests suggest the benefit of 24-hour electricity for fully charging devices like camera batteries and for the continuous use of in-room fans for comfort during the night.
- Safety and Staff: Guests consistently praise the friendly and organized staff who ensure comfort and safety. The use of escorts at night due to the unfenced location provides a welcome sense of security from nearby animals.
Dining, Services, and Activities at Azure Mara Haven Lodge – Masai Mara National Park
As one of the luxury lodges inside Masai Mara, Azure Mara Haven Lodge provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities for a memorable safari.
- Cuisine and Dining: The lodge features a spacious restaurant that serves a variety of global cuisines, including international (vegetarian and non-vegetarian) and Kenyan cuisine. Meals include English breakfast, picnic lunch options, and an impressive dining deck with a wood-fired oven overlooking the Talek River. Bush dinners are also offered for a unique safari experience.
- Leisure and Relaxation:
- A well-stocked bar and lounge provides a variety of refreshments, including local, cocktail, wine, spirits, and international beers, all with breathtaking views over the Mara plains and Talek River.
- An outdoor swimming pool with a poolside bar offers refreshing views beneath the African sky, complete with romantic poolside barbecue options.
- A fitness center with massage facilities is available.
- Other Facilities & Services: The lodge offers a business center for conferences, weddings, and honeymoon packages. Additional services include laundry, Free Wi-Fi, a craft shop with Masai souvenirs and safari essentials, free parking, and airport pick-up/drop-off services.
- Recreational Activities: The lodge is a fantastic base for various safari activities:
- Game Drives (to spot the Big Five and over 1 million migrating Wildebeest).
- Hot Air Ballooning Safaris.
- Nature Walks.
- Boat Cruise at Mara River (seasonal).
- Bird Watching (the park hosts over 600 bird species).
- Cultural visits to local Masai homes.
The lodge’s commitment to providing a blend of artistic design, comfort, and a true Maasai Mara experience solidifies its standing among the best lodges in Masai Mara.