Angama Mara is an owner-run safari lodge situated on the Oloololo Escarpment of Kenya's Great Rift Valley. This position, approximately 300 metres (1,000 ft) above the plains, offers expansive views and direct private access into the Mara Triangle, the north-western sector of the Masai Mara ecosystem.
The lodge's design and location are configured to facilitate significant wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly during the annual Great Migration.
The lodge is located on the edge of the escarpment, outside the formal boundary of the Masai Mara National Reserve. It maintains exclusive-use access to the area. This location provides guests immediate entry into the Mara Triangle.
The Mara Triangle region features a high density of resident wildlife and typically experiences lower vehicle traffic compared to the eastern reserve. Access to Angama Mara is primarily via air, using the lodge's private airfield, Angama Mara Airfield.
Scheduled flights from Nairobi's Wilson Airport land at this airfield, followed by a short, guided vehicle transfer to the lodge. Road transfers from Nairobi are also available. Improved tarmac roads to the region have resulted in reduced travel time.
Angama Mara includes two separate, self-contained camps: North Camp and South Camp. Each camp contains 15 Tented Suites. This totals 30 suites across the property.
Additionally, a private, exclusive-use four-bedroom Mara House is available. The suites feature a floor-to-ceiling, 11-metre wide glass front, which provides uninterrupted views of the plains below.
A central guest area links the camps. This area includes the Photography Studio, Fitness Centre, and Swimming Pool.
Each Tented Suite functions as a standalone structure, providing significant privacy and comfort. Standard features remain consistent across both camps.
The central guest Pavilion houses the primary facilities available to guests from both North and South Camps.
A Fitness Centre with modern equipment, a 12-metre swimming pool, and a dedicated spa area offer wellness options. In-suite massages can be arranged upon request. The quiet environment of the escarpment supports relaxation.
Meals represent a key aspect of the Angama Mara experience. The lodge operates a farm-to-table model. Produce is sourced from its one-acre kitchen garden, known as the 'Shamba'.
In addition to meals at the main lodge, guests can request private in-suite dining or specific bush dining experiences. These experiences include a picnic on the kopje featured in the film 'Out of Africa'.
An extensive collection of books is available in the library, providing a quiet space for reading and relaxation. The cultural centre features curated displays and information about Maasai culture, traditions, and the local ecosystem. Presentations are often provided by Maasai guides.
The lodge includes a dedicated Photography Studio, available to all guests. It is equipped with Apple editing suites and a large-format printer. Professional photographers are often in residence to provide tutorials, and camera equipment is available for hire.
All safari activities take place within the Mara Triangle, a conservancy managed by the Mara Conservancy. The region's geography and management contribute to a high-calibre safari experience, characterised by reduced vehicle density.
Game drives are conducted in custom-built, open-sided Toyota Land Cruisers. Angama Mara's guides are extensively trained, possessing comprehensive knowledge of the local fauna and flora.
Drives are scheduled twice daily. They can be adjusted for full-day excursions, which include packed meals. This practice is common during the Great Migration season to optimise viewing opportunities at the river.
Guided walking safaris are available along the crest of the Oloololo Escarpment. These walks focus on smaller ecological details. This includes endemic plant species, insect life, and the distinct birdlife found at this altitude. Examples include Verreaux's eagles and other raptors that nest in the cliffs.
From July to October, Angama Mara's location provides direct access to several key Mara River crossing points. Guests can reach the primary crossing areas within a short drive. This positions them to observe the river crossings of wildebeest and zebra herds.
Angama guides utilise a network of intelligence to locate active crossing sites.
The Mara Triangle is known for its notable populations of big cats. The area is home to several resident lion prides, such as the Oloololo Pride. It also serves as a key territory for leopards and cheetahs.
The density of plains game, including topi, eland, and Thomson's gazelle, remains high throughout the year.
Each guest contributes a mandatory nightly amount, which directly funds the Angama Foundation. This foundation operates as a separate entity, dedicated to community development, education, and healthcare.
Its key projects involve the operation of a full-service medical clinic serving the local community. The foundation also provides bursaries and infrastructure improvements for local schools. Conservation initiatives are implemented in partnership with the Mara Conservancy.
Pricing is structured seasonally and is quoted in USD. All rates are subject to change, and confirmation is required at the time of booking.
| Season | Per Person Sharing (per night) | Single Occupancy (per night) |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Season (1 Jul - 30 Sep; 23 Dec - 4 Jan) | $2,850 | $2,850 |
| Standard Season (5 Jan - 30 Jun; 1 Oct - 22 Dec) | $1,900 | $1,900 |
Included: All guided safaris, walking safaris, meals, and drinks (excluding French Champagne and premium cellar wines). Transfers to/from Angama Mara Airfield, laundry services, and Wi-Fi are also included.
Excluded: The mandatory nightly contribution to the Angama Foundation, Mara Triangle park fees, in-suite massage, photographic studio services, and staff gratuities are not included.
Entrance fees for the Mara Triangle are mandatory for all guests entering the reserve on safari. The Mara Conservancy regulates these fees. They are separate from lodge costs.
| Category | High Season (Jul - Dec) | Low Season (Jan - Jun) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Resident Adult (18+) | $200 USD per person, per day | $100 USD per person, per day |
| Non-Resident Child (9-17) | $50 USD per person, per day | $50 USD per person, per day |
| East African Resident Adult | KES 3,000 per person, per day | KES 3,000 per person, per day |
All foreign nationals travelling to Kenya must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before departure. The previous visa system has been replaced.
Applications for the eTA are processed online. It is mandatory to apply at least 72 hours before the start of your journey to allow for sufficient processing time. The eTA is required for boarding any flight to Kenya.