Sanctuary Olonana is a luxury camp idyllically nestled in the Masai Mara Conservation area. On the banks of the Mara river with a resident hippo population!
This small and exclusive camp was built along sustainable lines. Contemporary architecture is juxtaposed with time-tested building practices. Such as Maasai muddying and stone walls with soothing organic tones and a variety of textures adding warmth and character. 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 colors of African wildflowers glowing in a ‘golden hour’ light. Complimentary
Ornamentation includes hand-crafted Maasai spears on the walls and patterned prints inspired by these carved wooden weapons. 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. The inviting boma fire pit is encircled by deckchairs. With each seat promising grandstand river views.
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. Sanctuary Olonana has a bush gym under the acacia tree canopy. This outdoor fitness area has everything you need for a workout. Elliptical trainers, free weights and yoga mats for a more grounding exercise. WiFi is available.
Sanctuary Olonana has a gold award from Ecotourism Kenya. It is also 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 five years in a row.
Sanctuary Olonana’s 14 x exceptional suites are at least 141 sqm in size. They 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. 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, air conditioning, 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.
Spacious Suites at Sanctuary Olonana
The unfaltering attention to detail extends to fully stocked mini fridges, specially commissioned African art, and glamorous en-suites. These refined marble and slate accented bathrooms have a generous tub, double vanity, and a rain shower.
Three of the suites at Sanctuary Olonana feature an extra bedroom, which is ideal for families.
Suite bath
Geoffrey Kent Suite
Now the most luxurious of travelers can immerse themselves in this wildlife experience. The secluded ultra luxury Geoffrey Kent Suite has two sophisticated free flowing with Including plush king sized beds. The en-suite bathrooms come complete with a rain shower and a generous freestanding bathtub. Where bathers can take in the sun or watch the stars from the water. There is one additional connecting bedroom for children.
View of Mara River from the Geoffrey Kent Suite
In addition; the suite has a private lounge and dining area with a fully stocked private bar with premium drinks. It has clean lines and a sleek modernist silhouette with stylish, and contemporary interiors. Finished with locally quarried stone and Kenyan wood with bespoke nature inspired furnishings. Even better; the suite has floor to ceiling windows that face toward the river below. As well as a wraparound deck incorporating its own raised infinity pool. The perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of game viewing. A personal chef is on standby to prepare meals and snacks on demand. And a fully stocked bar at the ready for first-class cocktails mixed exactly how you like them
The Geoffrey Kent Suite is for guests looking for a private exclusive retreat in the Masai Mara. It is far enough away from the main lodge on a private road. Guests also have a private game viewing vehicle and safari guide. Everything, in fact, allows the Geoffrey Kent Suite’s guests to feel as if they have Sanctuary Olonana all to themselves.
Geoffrey Kent Suite aerial
Kenya Family Safari Vacation
Sanctuary Olonana Child Activities and Policies ↓
With spacious family suites and a wide variety of activities for guests of all ages, Sanctuary Olonana is the perfect choice for a family safari in Kenya. Families with children of all ages are welcome here. The family suites feature two bedrooms. A Suite can accommodate one child aged 12 or younger sharing a suite with two adults (sleeping on a sofa bed). There are three Suites for families at Sanctuary Olonana. Which have an additional bedroom for two children aged 18 or younger and a sofa bed for a child aged 12 or younger. 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.
In addition to four adults, the Geoffrey Kent Suite can accommodate two children aged 18 or younger in an additional (third) bedroom. And a child aged 12 or younger in a sofa bed.
Children aged 6 years stay free of charge. One child (7 – 15) staying with two adults pays 50% of the adult sharing rate. When two children are staying with one adult, one child pays the standard adult sharing rate. The second pays 50% of the adult sharing rate.
Children aged 16-18 staying with two adults in the Family Suite; will pay 75% of the sharing rate during low and medium seasons. While in high and peak seasons, they will pay 85% of the adult sharing rate. Triple and quadruple suites are subject to availability.
Child friendly menus are available and evening meals times are flexible for children.
Kids’ activities
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, and herd cattle. To name a few activities. Children will also be able to interact with the local children. 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 enjoying a bush treasure hunt followed by planting their own tree. Kids can also make their own pizza which is always fun. And there is a selection of board games available for the entire family to enjoy.
Masai Mara family safari
Sanctuary Olonana Activities
Located in the Masai Mara, close to the border with Tanzania, the game concentration is high. And during the annual wildebeest migration, the action happens right on the camp’s doorstep. From around July to October grunting herds of wildebeest and zebra cover the plains. Often crossing the river between Tanzania and Kenya, attended by crocodiles, lions, and cheetahs. The Masai Mara is fabulous for seeing big cats, their prey, and all the Big Five. At any time of year. There is abundant wildlife even when the migration is not in this area.
You will also have the chance to meet the local Maasai community, interact with them. And learn about their traditional lifestyle.
Game Drives
At Sanctuary Olonana, game viewing starts from the camp. A pod of hippos lives permanently in the river just below camp and many other species come to drink there. Sanctuary’s experienced guides take you to all the hidden spots. And the customized open safari vehicles offer all round views. Allowing for excellent photography opportunities. The Mara’s rich ecosystem includes acacia studded Savannah, riparian forest, and woodland. This attracts more than 300 bird species and a stunning variety of animal life all year round.
Cheetahs
Cultural Visit To Maasai Village
Get an insight into the vibrant and still traditional way of life of the Maasai. Learn about the medicinal plants that grow here. The importance of cattle. And the stages of life through which all Maasai pass. From young boy or girl to respected elder. Your experienced Maasai guide will show you around the traditional village. Complete with a cattle enclosure, outer palisade and mud, and cow dung huts. Meet the elders, their wives, and families and learn about the social structure of the homestead, the role of women in their society, and many more aspects of their daily life. Interaction and discussion are encouraged. So whether the ladies are building a hut, the warriors are dancing, or making fire with stones and sticks; guests are free to join in.
Masaai Village
Visit A Local School
More and more popular are the visits organized by the guides to a variety of local schools during the school term. These visits are free but; we would recommend a donation to the school of anything upward of $15 per person.
Local school
Walking Safaris
A walking safari is a unique and exhilarating experience that provides an entirely different perspective on the bush. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and park rangers, discover the beauty of the Masai region on foot. In the Oloisukut Conservancy. Encounter majestic game such as giraffe, zebra, elephant. As well as the diverse birdlife. The guides will unveil the hidden world of animal behaviors and share the ancient wisdom of medicinal plants. (Additional cost applies)
Night Drives
At Sanctuary Olonana, the adventure never stops. Experience the thrill of a night safari and enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the Oloisukut conservancy after dark. Witness the plains come alive at night. With nocturnal animals such as the aardvark, bush baby or the bat-eared fox. Choose between early evening or post-dinner drives. (Additional cost applies)
Hot Air Balloon Safari
Your balloon is inflated with the first rays of sunrise. Once aloft; it floats gently over the plains and the plethora of game. The balloon lands around one hour after taking off. The smells of bacon, sausages, and eggs welcome you. As you begin breakfast with platefuls of exotic Kenyan fruits and homemade pastries. And of course, glasses of bubbly to toast your flight. (Additional cost)
Masai Mara hot air balloon safari
Health and Wellness
Workout out to a soundtrack of the hundreds of species of birds living in the acacia trees’ canopy. The Bush Gym at Olonana is a simple, effective way to keep up with your fitness routine. While enjoying the unique environment of the Masai Mara.
Following your workout, relax with in-room spa treatments. Offering the ultimate relaxation and indulgence. (Spa is at an additional cost)
Community Upliftment and Philanthropy Projects ↓
Enkereri Village and school: Enkereri Village, is located at the top of the Siria Escarpment close to Sanctuary Olonana. Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy is working together with Enkereri on a number of projects. To improve the way of life and education for its people. Including extending gas piping into designated “cooking huts” in the village. In order for them to make use of biogas, a renewable energy source used for cooking and heat.
Some of the other projects:
Indigenous tree planting: Make a difference while on holiday and help combat increasing deforestation by planting your own tree in the tree nursery.
Wetlands Project: Through a unique system, wastewater is cleaned and released back into the Mara River. And used in the irrigation system for the tree nursery.
Organic Garden: Enjoy a delicious fresh salad picked from the camp’s own organic vegetable garden; one of the simplest forms of conservation.
Maasai Women’s beadwork: Guests have the opportunity to see the women producing the beadwork and purchase the handicrafts in the Sanctuary Olonana gift shop.
Community support
Wining and Dining
Breakfast, lunch, snacks during activities, and dinners are all included in your stay. Cuisine takes centre stage at Sanctuary Olonana. But extends far beyond fine dining in the camp. For a truly memorable evening, guests can opt for a romantic private bush dinner in the heart of the African wilderness. Expect a sophisticated table setting, adorned with wild flower arrangements and crisp white linen. Positioned in a secluded clearing. As darkness falls, the atmosphere will be enhanced by a magnificent log fire and flickering candles. Casting dancing light and shadows on the bush. After dinner, retire to the warmth of the campfire with a digestif and drink in the peace of the night.
Sanctuary Olonana’s main dining room and veranda command views over a dramatic stretch of the Mara River. See, and hear, the family of noisy hippos who colonize the banks below the camp. There’s an organic vegetable garden too where much of the food you eat in camp comes from. This is farm-to-table dining at its finest. Such as a Vegetable Wrap filled with Olonana Homemade Goodness. A wrap with basil Pesto, mayonnaise, braised peppers, crisp cucumber, carrots & creamy avocado served with a garden salad on the side.
During your morning game viewing activity, you will enjoy coffee, tea and a selection of scones and biscuits in the bush. Afternoon and evening game drives include classic sundowner cocktails and canapés at specially selected spots. Before returning to the camp for pre-dinner drinks and dinner. With prior notice, Sanctuary Olonana is able to arrange halal meals. However, please note the kitchens aren’t strictly halal and the chefs are not trained in halal food preparation. Unfortunately, kosher meals are not available.
Romantic dinner
Best time to visit Sanctuary Olonana
Sanctuary Olonana is open all year, offering unique experiences throughout the calendar. Kenya’s has warm days and cool evenings. December to March are usually the warmest months of the year. While June to August are cooler. April and May often see intermittent rains. And days during September to November are warm with short, scattered rains.
July to October
This is the most popular time to visit the Masai Mara due to the annual wildebeest migration. Usually occurring between July and October. Millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara. In search of fresh grasses providing incredible wildlife viewing.
The weather is generally dry and cool, with minimal rain.
November to June
This period is often quieter with fewer safari vehicles. The rainy seasons (April – June and November – December) result in lush, green landscapes and breathtaking scenery.
Many young animals are also born during this time.
How to get to Sanctuary Olonana
Sanctuary Olonana is located in the Masai Mara on a private stretch of the Mara River. The camp is accessible by air via the Kichwa Tembo Airstrip. This is approximately a 20 minute drive from Sanctuary Olonana. The flying time from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is about 45 minutes. Or, the drive takes about 6 hours.
Sanctuary Olonana Rates
The longer you stay, the less you pay in 2024 Stay 4-6 nights & save up to 25% Stay 7+ nights & save up to 30%
Below are the game package rates in USD. Full board rates are available on request should you be driving to camp yourselves / with your own guide.
Sanctuary Olonana Suites and Family Suites Rates
Length of stay
1-3 Nights
4-6 Nights
7+ Nights
Per adult sharing
Per adult sharing
Per adult sharing
Medium Season: 3rd January until 31st March 2024
$1 155
$924
$866
Low Season: 1st April until 31st May 2024
$990
$743
$693
Medium Season: 1st to 15th June 2024
$1 155
$924
$866
High Season: 16th June until 31st October 2024
$2 250
$1 913
$1 800
Low Season: 1st November until 20th December 2024
$990
$743
$693
High Season: 21st December 2024 to 2nd January 2025
$2 250
$1 913
$1 800
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 with a 50% single supplement.
Sanctuary Olonana Geoffrey Kent Suite Rates (max 4 adults*)
Length of stay
1-3 Nights
4-6 Nights
7+ Nights
Per Suite
Child Rate
Per Suite
Child Rate
Per Suite
Child Rate
Medium Season: 3rd January until 31st March 2024
$5 544
$693
$4 435
$554
$4 158
$520
Low Season: 1st April until 31st May 2024
$4 752
$594
$3 564
$446
$3 326
$416
Medium Season: 1st to 15th June 2024
$5 544
$693
$4 435
$554
$4 158
$520
High Season: 16th June until 31st October 2024
$10 800
$1 350
$9 180
$1 148
$8 640
$1 080
Low Season: 1st November until 20th December 2024
$4 752
$594
$3 564
$446
$3 326
$416
High Season: 21st December 2024 to 2nd January 2025
$10 800
$1 350
$9 180
$1 148
$8 640
$1 080
*In addition to 4 x adults, the Geoffrey Kent Suite can accommodate 2 x children aged 18 or younger in an additional (third) bedroom. A child aged 12 or younger can also stay on a sofa bed.
Rates include:
All meals and drinks (including premium brands). Transfer to and from Kichwa Tembo Airstrip. Laundry. Two daily shared game viewing activities. These include morning and afternoon game drives, nature walks, Maasai village visits, sun downer cocktails, and bush meals.
The Geoffrey Kent Suite also includes the use of a private game drive vehicle and guide. All meals will be enjoyed privately at the suite with your own private chef.
Rates exclude: Park fees. Additional activities. Any items of a personal nature. Medical insurance. Scheduled or charter flights to / from Sanctuary Olonana. Inter camp transfers. Private game drives.
Extra Adults in a Tent An adult sharing with two other adults pays 75% of the sharing rate during Low and Medium seasons. And 85% of the sharing rate during High seasons (subject to availability).
Sanctuary Olonana Accommodation Special Offers
Honeymoon Offer
Book at least 2 nights and one partner gets 50% discount on accommodation. For a honeymoon safari like no other!
This special offer can be combined with our existing long stay discount for even greater savings.
Valid for travel within 6 months of marriage certificate Offer does not apply to GK Suite at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp and Sanctuary Olonana. Or the Private Villa at Sanctuary Tambarare
Guests celebrating their honeymoon will also receive special surprises during their stay. All attempts are made to keep honeymooners separate from other guests. Sanctuary Olonana honeymoon services include: Honeymoon services include: Private dinner on the swimming pool deck or boma (weather dependant) Honeymoon bath with sparkling wine in the room Complimentary 15 minute hand/foot massage Complimentary private vehicle (subject to availability)
Single Supplement Offer
We will be waiving the single supplement for all Sanctuary camps and lodges across East and Southern Africa in April 2024 and October 2024, as well as in all low season months. This is in addition to waiving of single supplements in low season.
Stay 3 Pay 2 in East Africa
Stay 3 nights and receive your 3rd night free.
Travel valid from 1st October 2024 – 21st December 2024
Can be combined with the long stay discount
Family / Group Travel Offer
Experience a family group safari like no other at our camps and lodges across Africa.
For groups of eight full paying guests, one guest travels free For groups of 12 full paying guests, two guests travel free with two private vehicles
Valid for travel from 1st February – 31st May, 1st October – 21st December 2024 and 3 January 2025 – 30 April 2025 Valid for travel to all Sanctuary camps and lodges across East and Southern Africa Groups with 6+ full paying adults. Children aged 6+ count towards the min pax Cannot be combined with any other offers Excludes Geoffrey Kent Suite at Sanctuary Olonana and Sanctuary Chief’s Camp. Or the Private Villa at Sanctuary Tambarare
The award-winning Cottar’s Safari Camps are situated in the private conservancy, bordering Maasai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti, Tanzania – rates and offers
