The Maasai Mara has a new benchmark for luxury. Perched over the iconic Mara River with sweeping views of the Mara Triangle, Surana Mara Camp is one of the most exciting new properties in Kenya. As safari experts, we've seen our share of lodges, but Surana Mara blends location, luxury, and wildlife immersion in a way that truly stands out.
This guide is our comprehensive review, designed to give you a true sense of the experience. We'll go beyond the brochure, using details from our own analysis to cover the accommodation, activities, dining, and the unique wildlife opportunities that make this camp a remarkable destination for a discerning traveler.
Our Expert Take: Why Choose Surana Mara?
For travelers seeking an exclusive and intimate safari, Surana Mara delivers. It's ideal for honeymooners, photographers, and anyone who appreciates refined comfort without sacrificing an authentic connection to the wilderness.
- What We Love: The location is phenomenal. Overlooking the Mara River and just 9km from the Serengeti border, you are in a prime position for year-round wildlife, including the Great Migration. The private stone bathtubs with river views are a masterclass in safari luxury.
- Insider Tip: The camp features a dedicated photography studio with Nikon gear for guest use. This is a rare and incredible perk for both amateur and professional photographers wanting to capture the perfect shot.
- Best For: Couples, honeymooners, photographers, and seasoned safari-goers looking for a sophisticated and restorative retreat.
The Surana Mara Experience
Location & Wildlife: In the Heart of the Action
Surana Mara's position on the Mara River gives it a front-row seat to one of the most dynamic ecosystems on earth. The camp overlooks the Mara Triangle, a region famous for its dense concentration of wildlife and stunning landscapes.
- Unrivaled Wildlife Viewing: The river is a magnet for animals. You can often spot hippos, crocodiles, and elephants directly from the camp.
- The Great Migration: From roughly July to October, the camp's location provides incredible access to witness the dramatic river crossings of the Great Wildebeest Migration.
- Safety & Seclusion: The entire camp is protected by a 24-hour electric fence and security patrols, ensuring peace of mind without interrupting the stunning, wild views.
Accommodation: Your Private Riverfront Suite
The camp features 12 expansive tented suites that redefine luxury in the bush. These aren't just tents; they are sophisticated retreats designed for comfort and immersion.
- Spacious & Elegant: Each suite features hardwood floors, a plush king-sized bed, and a separate lounge area.
- The Famous Bathtub View: The standout feature is the freestanding stone bathtub, perfectly positioned in the en-suite bathroom to offer uninterrupted views of the Mara River as you soak.
- Private Deck: A private deck with comfortable seating opens up from your lounge, creating the perfect space for morning coffee or an evening cocktail while watching the wilderness unfold.
What's Included in Your Stay?
One of the most common questions we get is "what's actually included?" Surana Mara offers a genuinely all-inclusive experience:
- Accommodation: Your luxury river-facing tented suite.
- All Meals: Full-board dining including personalized 5-course menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Selected Beverages: Soft drinks, juices, teas, wellness infusions, local beers, house wines, and a selection of spirits.
- In-Suite Minibar: A fully stocked minibar for your convenience.
- Laundry Service: Up to five items included.
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi in suites and all public areas.
- Airstrip Transfers: Return transfers from Keekorok and Ol Kiombo airstrips are provided.
Signature Experiences & Activities
Expertly Guided Safaris
The game experience is central to any safari, and Surana Mara excels here.
- Luxury 4x4 Vehicles: Game drives are conducted in custom-designed 4x4 Land Cruisers with elevated seating for optimal viewing and onboard charging ports.
- Signature Bush Experiences: Your stay includes a magical "Hippo Pool" bush breakfast (complete with bubbly) and classic evening sundowners in a scenic location.
- Walking Safaris: For a different perspective, join a guided nature walk around the property with a knowledgeable Maasai naturalist.
Wellness by Surana: Spa, Yoga & Fitness
This is not just a safari camp; it's a wellness retreat. The facilities are extensive:
- Spa & Massage: A full spa offering healing treatments from reflexology to full-body massage.
- The Balance of Extremes: A unique wellness circuit featuring a sauna and a cold plunge pool to detoxify and vitalize the body.
- Movement & Fitness: A fully-equipped gym is available for guest use, and the camp offers guided yoga sessions and even a "Run Club" for cardio with a view.
For the Photographer
The dedicated photography studio is a game-changer. Guests have access to professional Nikon cameras and lenses, along with guidance from an experienced photographer, ensuring you can capture the moments of a lifetime.
Dining at Surana Mara
Dining is an event in itself. The main restaurant's open-sided design provides panoramic river views. The cuisine is fresh and expertly prepared, with 5-course menus that can be personalized.
The camp features two distinct bars: an upper bar with sweeping views and a more intimate lower bar with an adjacent wine cellar. For a truly special experience, the camp can arrange private bush breakfasts, lunches, or dinners.
The Best Time to Visit Surana Mara
While the Mara is a year-round destination, your experience will vary by season
Practical Information
- Getting There: The camp is a 5-6 hour drive from Nairobi or a quick 45-minute flight. The camp provides transfers from the Keekorok and Ol Kiombo airstrips.
- Health & Safety: A clinic with a resident nurse is available on-site. The camp is fully fenced, and security is present 24/7.
- Check-in/Out: Check-in is at 12:00 PM, and Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
- Power: The camp runs primarily on solar power (240v AC), with a generator for backup.
