Beyond Kenya Safaris

Sanctuary Olonana

A Luxury Masai Mara Tented Camp

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Sanctuary Olonana is an exceptional luxury safari lodge set on a private stretch of the Mara River in the heart of Kenya’s most famous game reserve, the Masai Mara National Reserve.Featuring 14 glass-sided suites, Sanctuary Olonana is inspired by the Masai Mara’s breath-taking natural wonders, an abundance of wildlife, and a dramatic river which runs right past its forest setting. Game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, scenic flights and balloon rides, Olonana makes for a wonderful African safari..

Why visit Sanctuary Olonana

  • Located on a private stretch of the Mara River bordering the epic Masai Mara
  • During annual Wildebeest Migration, the action happens less than 40 minutes camp’s doorstep
  • Easily accessible, only a 45 minute flight from Nairobi
  • Newly opened Geoffrey Kent Suite featuring 2 ensuite bedrooms, private dining, infinity pool and private vehicle and guide
  • Offers game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, balloon flights and scenic flights
  • Gold Eco-Rated by Ecotourism Kenya and winner of “Africa’s Leading Eco-Lodge” in World Travel Awards 2015
  • In the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame. This unique accolade is granted only to those businesses that have won the Certificate of Excellence for five years in a row.

Accommodation

Featuring 14 glass-sided suites, Sanctuary Olonana is inspired by the Masai Mara’s breath-taking natural wonders, an abundance of wildlife, and a dramatic river which runs right past its forest setting. Game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, scenic flights and balloon rides, Olonana makes for a wonderful African safari.

Classic Masai Mara

The soothing interiors of the main lodge are an extension of the surrounding wilderness — floorboards evoke wood bleached by the African sun, while splashes of saturated mustard yellows and cerulean blues conjure the colours of African wildflowers glowing in a ‘golden hour’ light. Ornamentation includes hand-crafted Maasai spears on the walls and patterned prints inspired by these carved wooden weapons once used for lion-hunting ensure an authentic African spirit abounds. Dramatic glass doors open out from the lounge to the terrace. Here, faded indigo rugs and elegant Edison-bulb pendant lights gently illuminate the decking without competing with the natural ambiance and the inviting new boma firepit is encircled by deckchairs, with each seat promising grandstand river views. Dine on the deck of the main lodge and overlook the river’s resident hippos. Relax with a good book in the library, cool off in the pool or for an extra special treat, experience traditional African remedies and spa treatments in the mini-spa.

Suites and Family Suites

Sanctuary Olonana’s 14 exceptional suites, at least 130 sqm in size, flaunt clean lines and organic materials, and are so comfortable that guests would be forgiven for being tempted to stay in. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors fold open to reveal magnificent Mara River views and the interiors have been sensitively and tastefully finished with elegant nature-inspired furnishings; this creates an ever-present sense of being connected to the great outdoors. Sumptuous king-sized beds, with overhead fans, and a daybed on the deck invite you to relax inside or out, while the sprawling lower lounge area offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Three of the suites at Sanctuary Olonana feature an extra bedroom, which is heaven-sent for families. The unfaltering attention to detail extends to fully stocked mini-fridges, specially commissioned African art and glamorous ensuites. These refined marble- and slate-accented bathrooms have a generous tub,collaboration.

Geoffrey Kent Suite

Now the most luxury travellers can immerse themselves in this wildlife experience, connecting with ancient forces of nature, from the secluded ultra-luxury Geoffrey Kent Suite. The sophisticated free-flowing space contains two private bedrooms, each fully en-suite, and is accessed by private road.

Guests can enjoy:

  • Two en-suite bedrooms complete with freestanding bathtub
  • One additional connecting bedroom for children
  • Fully open floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Wraparound private decking area and infinity pool overlooking the river
  • Private vehicle and safari guide
  • Private lounge and dining area
  • Exquisite meals freshly-prepared by an in-suite chef
  • Fully stocked private bar with premium drinks

Olonana Camp Family Travel

Sanctuary Olonana welcomes families with children of all ages.Our family suites feature two bedrooms – perfect for families with young children.

Child friendly

  • Child friendly menus available and evening meals can be served earlier than the normal meal times for children.
  • Children between the ages of 5 and 11 years are permitted to participate on the game drives, at the sole discretion of the lodge manager. Children under 5 require the permission of the lodge manager and is subject to the booking of a private vehicle.
  • Children below 15 years of age are required to share a room with an adult.

kids’ activities

Our expert guides will take children out on special game drives and accompany them to the nearby Masai village where they will learn how to make and shoot a traditional bow and arrow, make a fire, build a hut, herding cattle to name a few. Children will also be able to interact with the local children while playing football together and learning maasai songs and traditional dances. Other activities include going out on a nature trail where they will learn about animal footprint identification or enjoy our bush treasure hunt followed by planting their own tree and we have a selection of board games available for the entire family to enjoy.

Activities

  • Game drives
  • Bush Breakfast, picnics & Dinners
  • Sundowners
  • Cultural visits to a Masai Village
  • Visit to a School
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari
Africa; Kenya; Sanctuary Olonana

Sanctuary Olonana Camp 2023 Rates

Sanctuary Olonana Suite and Family Suite-Full Package Rates n in USD per Person per night
1-3 nights4-6 nights7+ nights
PPSingleChildPPSingleChildPPSingleChild
Low    375.00    375.00    188.00    282.00    282.00    141.00    263.00    263.00    132.00
Medium    710.00 1,065.00    355.00    568.00    852.00    284.00    533.00    800.00    267.00
High 1,240.00 1,860.00    620.00 1,054.00 1,581.00    527.00    992.00 1,488.00    496.00
Peak 1,620.00 2,430.00    810.00 1,458.00 2,187.00    729.00 1,377.00 2,066.00    689.00
Sanctuary Olonana (Geoffrey Kent Suite)Full Board Package Rates in USD(Maximum 4 Pax Sharing) per night
1-3 nights4-6 nights7+ nights
Per suiteChild rate Per suiteChild rate Per SuiteChild 
Low1,730.00217.00 1,298.00163.00 1,211.00152.00 
Medium3,605.00451.00 2,884.00361.00 2,704.00338.00 
High5,850.00732.00 4,973.00622.00 4,680.00585.00 
Peak7,900.00988.00 7,110.00889.00 6,715.00840.00
  • Rates Include (Game Package):Transfers from/to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip,All meals, non-alcoholic beverages and alcoholic beverages (with exception of premium brands and Champagne),All game viewing activities, nature walk, Maasai village visit and bush meals,Laundry services.
  • Rates Include (Full Board):All meals, non-alcoholic beverages and alcoholic beverages (with exception of premium brands and Champagne),Nature walk,Laundry services.
  • Rates Exclude:Park fees,International and domestic flights, and road transfers to and from other camps and lodges,Travel insurance, boutique purchases, spa treatments, gratuities and all other items of a personal nature.

See 2024 Olonana Rates Here

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Seasons

  • Low Season                01/Apr-31/May & 01/Nov-16/Dec
  • Medium Season         03/Jan-31/Mar
  • High Season               01/Jun-30/Jun , 01/Oct-31/Oct & 16/Dec-02/Jan/24
  • Peak Season              01/Jul-30/Sep

Accommodation Information:

  1. Long Stay Rates:Long stay rates depend on season of travel and the duration of the total stay, starting from 4 nights. The total stay can be in one camp/lodge only, or be made up of stays in different Sanctuary Retreats camps/lodges anywhere in Africa. Stays in different camps/lodges do not need to be consecutive, but must belong to one itinerary.
  2. Single Occupancy:There is no supplement for single occupancy of a maximum of 3 suites in Low season. Further single occupancy bookings in Low season are subject to a 50% single supplement. All other single occupancy bookings are charged at the single rates listed.
  3. Extra Adults in a Suite:An adult sharing a suite with two other adults pays 75% of the sharing rate during Low season, and 85% of the sharing rate during High and Peak seasons (subject to availability).
  4. Children Policy:Children of all ages are welcome at Sanctuary Olonana. Children aged 15 and younger are required to share with an adult. A private vehicle must be booked for game drives by families including children aged 5 and under.
  5. Child Rates:The maximum age for child rates to apply is 15 years inclusive. One child staying with two paying adults stays free of charge in Low season, and a second child sharing the same suite pays child rate. One or two children staying with two adults pay child rate in High and Peak seasons. Two or three children staying with one adult (who is paying standard sharing rate) pay the child rate in Low season. When two or three children stay with one adult in High and Peak seasons, one child pays adult sharing rate and the other child(ren) pay child rate. In all other circumstances children pay the applicable adult fare. Triple and quadruple suites are subject to availability.

Sanctuary Olonana Special Offers

Stay longer, pay less 2023
Sanctuary Retreats Olonana Lodge, Masai Mara, Kenya.

Enjoy extra on your safari getaway with Sanctuary Retreats’ extended stay offer valid for 2023 and 2024, when you stay at one or more of our properties depending on your season of travel:

  • Stay 4-6 nights & save up to 25%
  • Stay 7+ nights & save up to 30%

To find out more about this offer, please refer to the rates

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Olonana Safaris-Sample Itinerary

8 Days Safari to Liakpia & Masai Mara

Day 1

Upon arrival at Nanyuki or Kamok Airstrip via Wilson Airport, you will be met by a Sanctuary Retreats representative and transferred to your camp located in Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Nestled amongst fever trees in the shadow of Mount Kenya, Sanctuary Tambarare boasts 10 luxurious tents from which guests can enjoy views of the 90,000 acres of unspoilt terrain in the award-winning Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The rest of your afternoon is at leisure to explore the camp grounds and its surrounding. Should you wish, you may take part in an afternoon game drive to catch a first glimpse of the wonders that await you during your stay here. Once back at camp, freshen up before you sit down for dinner where you will enjoy sumptuous meals prepared by our talented chef.

Meals included: LD
Overnight: Sanctuary Tambarare

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast in camp, head out into the bush or opt to meet the Conservancy’s K9 Anti-Poaching Unit*. Spend your morning interacting with the rangers and learn about what it takes to look after this specially trained canine team. After a tour of the facilities, try your luck at outsmarting and outrunning this elite squad. Not only will this be a great opportunity to stretch your legs, you will also be actively involved in the dogs’ training. Return to camp for lunch and rest before heading back out in the afternoon. Explore the plains on foot in presence of an experienced ranger*. This interpretive walk will get you up close with the sights, smells and sounds of the African bush. You will learn about game trails, identifying spoors as well as the smaller mammals of Ol Pejeta. As the sun sets, enjoy drinks prepared by a member of the team while you are still out in the Conservancy. Sip on your cocktail to the sounds of the bush as the fiery colours of a classic African sunset fill the sky. Finally, enjoy a well deserved dinner before retiring to your tent for the rest of the night.

* Additional cost applies and subject to availability at the time of booking.

Meals included: BLD
Overnight: Sanctuary Tambarare

Day 3

Kick off your day with a morning run*. Join the park’s rangers in their daily morning exercise routine, and on this 5km journey soak in your surroundings as the savanna slowly wakes up with the warmth of the sun. For other guests, wake up to the smell of hot coffee and enjoy a cup on your private veranda. If you are lucky, you might be greeted by a herd of elephants roaming through the grassy plains in front of your tent. Aboard one of our specially customised 4×4, explore Ol Pejeta Conservancy alongside our local guides. Their knowledge and passion to educate create an enriching experience. While out on one of our daily game drives, you can expect to meet the Big Five, cheetahs, hippos, jackals, hyenas and Ol Pejeta’s 130 resident black rhinos. At lunch, your guide will bring you to a secluded area of the conservancy for you to enjoy a specially prepared picnic surrounded by wildlife and jaw dropping landscapes.

In the afternoon, return to camp, freshen up and relax for the rest of the day is at leisure. For guests interested to head back out, why not join the Conservancy’s team of trackers* as you locate lions and collect vital information needed to study this apex predator.Come nightfall, while most guests head in to sleep, we recommend embarking on a thrilling night game drive*. The plains come alive at night, with nocturnal animals such as aardvark, white-tailed mongoose, zorilla (striped polecat), bat-eared fox and perhaps even lions and leopard. This night-time adventure is very special as it’s not possible in most of Kenya’s national parks and reserves.

* Additional cost applies and subject to availability at the time of booking

Meals included: BLD
Overnight: Sanctuary Tambarare

Day 4

Today, opt to explore the conservancy on horseback*. Accompanied by rangers, you will roam within the 600-acre endangered species enclosure where you will learn about the conservation work carried out in Ol Pejeta. Get up close and personal with southern white rhinos, Grevy’s zebras and Jackson’s hartebeests. Most importantly meet Najin and Fatu and listen to their incredible story narrated by their caretakers. This mother-daughter duo are the last two northern white rhinos in the world.

Return to camp to freshen up before lunch. You may wish to enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. However, we recommend meeting the local community in the villages surrounding the camp*. See firsthand the work the Conservancy undertakes in healthcare services, sustainable energy and community enterprise initiatives.Once back in camp, end your day with cocktails around the campfire recalling the day’s activities before sitting down to a gourmet dinner prepared by your chef.

* Additional cost applies and subject to availability at the time of booking

Meals included: BLD
Overnight: Sanctuary Tambarare

Day 5

Awaken early this morning to a warm cup of tea or coffee served on the veranda of your tent, and should time allow it head out for a last game drive in the grassy plains of the Laikipia plateau. You will be met by a member of our team who will transfer you to the airstrip for your onward journey to the Masai Mara. Upon landing, a member of our team will greet you and drive you to the camp.

Sanctuary Olonana is an exceptional luxury safari lodge set on a private stretch of the Mara River in the heart of Kenya’s most famous game reserve, the Masai Mara. Featuring 14 glass-sided suites, Sanctuary Olonana is inspired by the Masai Mara’s breathtaking natural wonders, an abundance of wildlife, and a dramatic river that runs right past its forest setting. Offering game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, scenic flights and balloon rides, Olonana makes for a wonderful African safari.After your welcome drinks, you will be ushered to your suites by a Maasai warrior, all while being serenaded by the sweet melody of his flute accompanied by the sounds of the bush. The rest of your day is at leisure for you to unwind, relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the Mara River from your pavilion.

Day 6

There is no better way to spend your first morning in the Masai Mara than exploring the bush on one of our customised 4×4 vehicles accompanied by your expert guide. Let him take you to all the hidden spots and listen to him talk about the Mara’s rich eco-system. From acacia-studded savannah, riparian forest and woodland which attract more than 300 bird species to a stunning variety of animal life all year round, you are in for a treat. If travelling between July and August don’t miss the chance of witnessing the Great Migration.

Back at the camp enjoy a cooling shower with mesmerising views before sitting down for lunch. In the afternoon we recommend heading out to meet local communities. Whether you wish to visit a school to see how Sanctuary Retreats’ philanthropy projects impact the daily lives of the local community, or meet the members of a local Maasai tribe, our guides will happily assist.

Upon your return, freshen up and treat yourself to an in-room spa experience with our team member professionally trained in facial and body massages.

Finally, end your day sipping on cocktails around the campfire recalling the day’s events, and head in for an early night to best enjoy the next day.

Meals included: BLD
Overnight: Sanctuary Olonana

Day 7

In the early hours of the day, you will be driven out to the Masai Mara in the morning’s darkness. After the captain’s safety brief, board the hot air balloon* as it inflates above your head. Take off, and rise in the air while the surrounding white noise slowly dissipates leaving you with the occasional roar of the flames keeping the balloon afloat. Once high enough, look down and watch the landscape of the Masai Mara light up to the fiery sunrise that spreads under your feet. Drift through the air for an hour before landing back on firm ground to the smell of a freshly cooked breakfast for you to enjoy in the bush before returning to camp to spend the rest of your morning at leisure.

After lunch in camp, head out for an afternoon game drive to soak in your last few moments in the Mara. Top it all off by enjoying cocktails in the bush with an African sunset as a backdrop.Upon return to camp, soak in your bath. Relax and unwind to the flowing white noise of the Mara river below. Sit down to a last sumptuous dinner accompanied by stunning views of the bush and the African night sky.

* Additional cost applies and subject to availability at the time of booking

Meals included: BLD:- Overnight: Sanctuary  Olonana

Day 8

Enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing at camp or venture out early on one last morning game drive before transferring to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Nairobi to connect with your onward flight.

See Sanctuary Tambarare Camp

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