Marriott International Expands Luxury Safari Portfolio in Kenya with the Signing of The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott Safari Camps
Nairobi, Kenya — Marriott International, Inc. has announced plans to expand its luxury safari portfolio in Kenya with the signing of two exclusive tented camps: The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp. These properties, developed in partnership with Lazizi Mara Limited and Lazizi Solio Limited, part of the Lazizi Group of Companies, will redefine luxury safari experiences in Kenya’s most spectacular wildlife destinations.
“Building on the success of our luxury safari portfolio in Africa and the increasing demand for unique outdoor hospitality experiences, these signings mark a significant milestone for Marriott International,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “Both camps will blend elegant design, unparalleled service, and immersive wildlife encounters to create unforgettable memories for travellers.”
A New Era of Luxury Safari Travel
Shivan Patel, Director of Lazizi Group of Companies, emphasized the projects’ impact: “Kenya is synonymous with the ultimate safari experience. These camps will not only elevate the luxury safari segment but also support conservation and community initiatives, ensuring a sustainable and meaningful travel experience.”
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp – Opening August 2025
Located in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve, this first-of-its-kind Ritz-Carlton safari retreat offers an unmatched vantage point of the Great Migration. Elevated on a secluded island along the Sand River, the camp provides a front-row seat to Africa’s most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacle.
The 20 elegantly designed tented suites, including a four-bedroom presidential suite, feature private infinity plunge pools, indoor and outdoor showers, and sunken lounges overlooking the riverbanks. The camp will also offer:
A gourmet multi-cuisine restaurant with a curated wine cellar
A stargazing sky deck for celestial experiences
A luxurious spa and wellness centre
Exclusive game drives, guided nature walks, and cultural immersions
“This project will set a new benchmark for luxury safari travel, seamlessly blending The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary sophistication with the untamed beauty of the Masai Mara,” added Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East & Luxury, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.
JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp – Opening Early 2026
Set within Solio Game Reserve, a 45,000-acre conservation sanctuary, JW Marriott’s latest safari retreat offers a tranquil escape in the shadow of Mount Kenya. Home to one of the world’s most successful rhino conservation programmes, the reserve provides unparalleled wildlife encounters, including black and white rhinos, leopards, and cheetahs.
The camp’s 20 luxurious tented units, including two two-bedroom suites, will feature private plunge pools and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces. Key experiences include:
Guided horseback safaris, night game drives, and quad biking across the Solio plains
A signature Spa by JW, outdoor fitness centre, and wellness spaces
A sky deck dining venue with panoramic views
A private rhino orphanage visits and conservation-led experiences
Sustainability & Community Impact
Both properties will prioritize sustainability and conservation, incorporating eco-conscious design, energy-efficient infrastructure, and local community engagement. Initiatives will include job creation, educational programmes, and wildlife conservation efforts.
With the upcoming openings of The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp, Marriott International is solidifying its commitment to delivering world-class luxury experiences while championing responsible tourism in Africa.