Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott Safari Camps Opening Soon in Kenya

Marriott is boosting its presence in East Africa. The hotel chain has inked deals for 2 new luxury tented safari camps in Kenya, both of which will open in the next year.

Here’s what you need to know about both properties.

Marriott To Open 2 Safari Hotels in Kenya

The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp is scheduled to open in August 2025. The resort will be located in the heart of Masai Mara National Reserve and will have just 20 tented suites. Each will include a separate living area, a private lounge, an infinity plunge pool, and indoor and outdoor showers.

The resort will also have curated game drives for guests, plus several dining options, a wine cellar, a spa and wellness center, an outdoor gym, a pool, and more. 

Not to be outdone, the JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will also open soon, in early 2026. The resort will be located in the Solio Game Reserve and will feature 20 tented suites. All will contain private plunge pools. Amenities include 4 restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and more.

Guests will also have access to guided horseback riding safaris and nature walks, night game drives, quad biking, and visits to a private rhino orphanage.

Booking Safari Camps in Kenya With Marriott Bonvoy Points

While we await the opening of the new Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott safari camps, let’s take a look at your other options for a luxury stay in Kenya.

The JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge opened in 2023 and has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best resorts on the African continent. The lodge is situated along the River Talek and has 20 private tents. Most importantly, you can observe the “Big 5” found in Masai Mara: lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceroses, and elephants. 

The best time to visit Masai Mara is between the summer and fall, but prices can be exorbitant during those months. For instance, a 4-night stay at the lodge can run you over $10,000!

There’s award availability, too, but it isn’t cheap. Award rates range between 196,000 and 206,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. However, you can bring the total cost of your stay down with the fifth night free.

Final Thoughts

Marriott’s presence in the luxury safari segment is growing, with 2 new resorts opening in Kenya next year. While we don’t have many details about them yet, we know they’ll be ultra-luxe, as they include 2 of Marriott’s most premium brands: The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott.