Keekorok Lodge, Masai Mara Park, Kenya

Keekorok Lodge

Keekorok Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in Masai Mara National Park, Kenya. Keekorok Safari Lodge is located on a 180-acre site in the southern region of Masai Mara National Reserve and is surrounded by an area of lush grassland and permanent springs. Keekorok Lodge in Masai Mara Game Reserve epitomizes 5-star luxury with an outstanding safari experience, uncompromising elegance and breathtaking beauty identifies Keekorok Lodge. It is sited in the direct path of the annual migration and was the first safari lodge to be built in the Masai Mara and Keekorok opened its doors in 1965, at the height of the migration, Keekorok Lodge is surrounded by a swarming mass of animals and there is hardly any need to go for a game drive. Keekorok Lodge in Masai mara charm lies in the liberal use of local building materials. Sand stone, cedar wood and other indigenous materials are used in all rooms and public areas, a 300-meter walkway meanders through the riverine forest in front of Keekorok Lodge with a small bar at one end overlooking a dam where the resident hippo, if he is not on ‘walk about’, finds his observers as fascinating as they find him. When you visualize 5-star luxury accommodation in Kenya, Keekorok Lodge is the picture you see, this breathtaking safari lodge is full of the opulence you have been searching for. The beauty, the pampering, the delectable food, and an award-winning wine selection – this incomparable 5-star luxury safari accommodation has it all. At Keekorok Lodge Kenya we offer you a choice of rooms to ensure that your 5-star accommodation lives up to all your expectations on your luxury safari. Our Classic rooms boast or elegant high windows with stunning views of the trees and river and a private deck to make you feel closer to nature, a spacious bath inside showers, Keekorok Lodge has been on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold list of the world’s favourite safari lodges two times Keekorok Lodge was crowned Kenya first luxury safari lodge by the World Travel Awards, Keekorok Lodge is awarded 1st safari Lodge in the Luxury Tented Lodge category in Kenya. Keekorok Lodge invites you to discover one of the most beautiful travel experiences in East Africa, of medium size, the lodge is comparable to an eco-chic tented lodge rather than a safari lodge with a level of comfort and luxury that has rarely been equaled. Keekorok Lodge owners have pushed the standards and requirements of the service to the highest level, The sense of hospitality of the staff has made the reputation of the Keekorok Lodge. You will be welcomed simply but generously and will feel at home in Keekorok Lodge. Whoever said you shouldn’t mix business and pleasure has not been to Keekorok Lodge, our facility boasts an awesome, fully equipped conference Centre with the capacity to accommodate up to 200 people, with prior arrangement, we can also provide for any specific requirements you may have for your event. Of course, once your conference is done for the day, you and your colleagues can relax in the 5-star luxury accommodation and indulge in a delicious meal in our on-site restaurant. What about something even more special? Imagine getting married to the love of your life in a charming chapel or under a canopy of trees with the sounds of nature mixed with the angelic voices of an African choir. We can make it happen. Arrange your fairy-tale wedding with the help of Keekorok Lodge. We will take care of the legal proceedings, the theme, the wedding cake, the music, the flowers and the food. The cherry on the cake of your dream wedding is the 5-star luxury safari accommodation in our Premier Suite for that perfect honeymoon. Located in the very heart of Kenya’s fabled Maasai Mara National Reserve, Keekorok, meaning motley abundance in the local Maasai language, was constructed in 1962 on a choice one-hundred-and-eighty-acre site in an area of permanent springs and lush grassland. Accommodation is on a full board basis that includes morning tea or coffee, breakfast, luncheon, afternoon tea, and dinner. Luncheon boxes are available by prior request for guests taking all-day game drives. All spacious rooms have a balcony, overlooking the garden, pool or Reserve. They are equipped with a ceiling fan, allergy-free bedding, and mosquito nets. The Lodge serves traditional dishes in the Hippo Bar, overlooking the lake. The Elephant Deck provides a good setting for experiencing a bush dinner. Guests can explore the Keekorok Nature Reserve with a safari and the 24-hour reception can assist. For the younger guests, a children’s playground is also provided. Keekorok Airstrip is only a 10-minute drive away and a shuttle service is provided on request.

Keekorok Lodge Accommodation

The Keekorok Lodge was established in 1962 as the first lodging accommodation in Masai Mara park, Kekorok lodge is nestled amongst the plains and the direct pathway of the spectacular wildebeest Maasai mara and Serengeti migration, guests visiting between the months of July through October have an opportunity to witness this incredible facet of nature personally. It is hard to find a lodge accommodation in Masai Mara that is more perfectly located for experience the African wildlife experience. The old adage, "Location, location, location," is certainly applicable for the Keekorok Lodge. Enjoy your stay. Accommodation at Keekorok Lodge comprises single storey bungalows constructed from natural materials. All have ensuite bathrooms and private verandahs with views over the plains and distant hills. The bedrooms are equipped with the finest linens and furniture and electricity is provided on a 24-hour basis. For those with a taste for Kenya’s pioneering days, a number of luxury tents on stone hardstands are available, all fitted to the highest standards. Each room has a King Bed option with the Presidential Suite featuring three bedrooms and a separate living area. The suite options provide guests with both shower and bathtub options as part of your evening rejuvenation after a glorious game drive. At Keekorok Lodge, we have four types of rooms to fit your needs. There are a total of 85 Standard rooms, 12 Chalets, 1 Executive Suite and 1 Presidential Suite. A 300m walkway meanders through the riverine forest in front of the lodge with a small bar at one end. It is overlooking a dam where the resident hippo, if he is not on a walk about, finds his observers as fascinating as they find him. All is based on Full Board, which includes morning tea or coffee, breakfast, luncheon, afternoon tea and dinner. Luncheon boxes are available by prior request for guests taking all-day game drives. Located in the very heart of Kenya’s fabled Masai Mara National Reserve, Keekorok, meaning diverse abundance in the local Maasai language, was constructed in 1962 on an 80 acre site in an area of permanent springs and lush grassland. All kinds of animals and birds abound here. Many species of mammals and reptiles, and an astonishing amount of birds have been recorded in the reserve. The Lodge has everything possible; no matter who you are, Keekorok will help you feel at home. With the largest gift store in the game park, spacious grounds, countless activities, a sparkling pool, fantastic food and beverage options, and a rich history as the oldest game lodge in the Masai Mara, Keekorok is an unforgettable experience in the Masai Mara. Read More

standard Rooms

There are 85 Standard Rooms at Keekorok Lodge. Standard Rooms are 32sqm. The Standard rooms been furnished with carefully selected custom-made furnishings, that reflect the hotel’s quiet serenity. Rooms are authentically designed décor with perfect views of the Lawns and the Wild.

Chalet Room

These rooms overlook the sprawling lush gardens which offer peaceful views. Chalet Rooms are 40sqm.

Executive Suite

These rooms are authentically designed décor with perfect views of the lawns and gardens. Executive rooms are 42 sqm.

Presidential Suite

The presidential suite/cottage provide a large living and dining area. Private terrace with day bed overlooking the lake and a private out door fireplace. Offers guests a one-of-a-kind guest experience and contemporary comfort and modern lifestyle. The presidential suite is 110sqm.

Premium Suite

These rooms are authentically designed décor with perfect views of the lawns and gardens. Premium rooms are 42 sqm.

Keekokork Lodge Experience

Keekorok Airstrip is located southeast of Maasai Mara National Reserve, giving easy access to Lonwalet Hill and Ol Tukai Hill. It has one unpaved runway measuring 1,280 meters (4,200 ft) in length. The Keekorok airstrip is situated at 1,768 meters (5,801 ft) above sea level and its geographical coordinates are: 1° 35' 9.00"S, +35° 15' 6.00"E (Latitude: -1.585832; Longitude:35.251667). The airstrip mainly serves Keekorok Lodge, Mara Sarova Game Lodge, Sekenani Camp, Mara Sopa Lodge, Mara Topi Safari Lodge, Ashnil Camp and Cottars Camp. As your plane lands at the Keekorok airstrip, you will find yourself in the heart of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. You will be picked up in your own 4×4 Land Cruiser at the airstrip and, after passing a family of elephants or a herd of zebras on the short drive to the lodge, Keekorok Lodge will welcome you with open arms. Drop your bags in your room and then relax on the lodge’s terrace with a cup of Kenyan tea. Keekorok Lodge has everything possible; no matter who you are, Keekorok will help you feel at home. With the largest gift store in the game park, spacious grounds, countless activities, a sparkling pool, fantastic food and beverage options, and a rich history as the oldest lodge in the Maasai Mara, Keekorok is an unforgettable experience in the Maasai Mara. If you are planning a safari holiday to Kenya, the Masai Mara is one destination where a visit is a must. The "Mara" is the most popular of the many national parks and game reserves and is renowned for its abundant wildlife, the annual migration and its diversity providing a balanced environment. What better way is there to enjoy all of these other than in sheer luxury? Welcome to Ngerende Island Lodge and Ngerende in the Wild, exclusive luxury in the Masai Mara. Ngerende Island Lodge will help make your safari a truly unforgettable experience. Strategically located on an oxbow of the Mara River it offers seven elegant suites stylishly designed to give you both comfort and exclusivity together with ambience, fine dining, swimming pool and of course a spa. Ngerende in the Wild has two options - a lake view or river view and is positioned in an area abundant in wildlife and only 15 minutes from a major migration crossing. Sleeping is in luxury tents or the more traditional canvas/wood suites complete with butler service, exclusive chef and views out of this world all in the "wild" The quality of Keekorok’s dining options is unsurpassed, and you will be able to savour the Chef’s delicious creations for each meal during your stay at Keekorok Lodge. All meals are buffet-style with a huge choice of freshly prepared options. The main meal plan at Keekorok Lodge is Full Board, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Dining at Keekorok is a stylish affair in an open-sided dining room affording stunning views over the Mara. Breakfast and dinner at Keekorok Lodge are served in the Main Restaurant while packed lunched are available for those looking to explore the far corners of the reserve. After a strenuous day of game spotting and nature watching, what better way to relax and feel re-invigorated than by taking a swim in the cool, clear waters of the pool. The al fresco lounge/bar, which is open throughout the day and especially for Kenya’s famous evening ‘sundowners’, has been designed with a distinctly African ‘feel’. An attractive and certainly unique feature here is an elevated 300 metre long walkway from the bar to a small dam in which a family of hippos have made their home. Watch the hippos and other animals and birds from the safety and comfort of the cocktail bar at Keekorok Lodge. Read More

Masai Mara national Park

The Maasai Mara National Park or the Mara game reserve as most Kenyans call it, is a beautiful national reserve in Kenya, bordering the Serengeti in Tanzania. For anyone who’s ever flicked through a safari guide, the Masai Mara needs little introduction. Although markedly smaller than many of East Africa’s safari gems (it’s 1500 km2 in size), boy does it pack a lot in. The original home of the Maasai people, Mara means ‘spotted land’, so named for its boundless plains lightly sprinkled with acacias and kopjes. This scene has become the face of African safaris and set the Masai Mara firmly at the top of Kenya’s ultimate safari spots. It also happens to be home to some of the highest densities of wildlife in Africa, which provide some of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. Majestic, strolling herds of elephant, the clash of Africa’s biggest cats and the heart-pumping thrill of the Great Migration…It all awaits on a Masai Mara safaris. On a Masai Mara safari, game drives are a definite staple and allow you to cover the most ground, keeping pace with the thundering herds of wildebeest and watching all the big cat action. You can also take full advantage of a full-day drive so you never miss a moment. Bush walks are possible in some of the private conservancies, and you’ll trace the movements of a beetle, uncover hidden burrows and learn to track wildlife on foot with a Maasai guide. You could even join the throngs on horseback and get closer to the wildlife than you thought possible or gaze over the sprawling plains and ant-sized antelope from a hot air balloon. While the Masai Mara’s bucket list-defining reputation precedes it, so does the price tag. A Masai Mara safari may be expensive but it has a good excuse – everything from game drives to walking safaris to bush dinners tend to be included in the price. Not to mention your dollars are fed into community and conservation projects that work to preserve this beautiful place. Over the years, we’ve picked up a tip or two for saving some pennies in the Masai Mara – and all without compromising on the experience. While it may be tempting and time-saving to fly from place to place, Kenya’s layout makes it possible to drive between most safari destinations, which also means you’ll benefit from having a private guide for the duration of your trip. Lastly, any safari outside of peak season means a drop in the cost – but more on that later. Read More

Keekorok Lodge Dinning

Keekorok Lodge offers a variety of cuisine options for its guests, including traditional African, Asian and Western dishes. Guests can choose to dine indoors or outdoors, with both options offering beautiful views. The keekorok Lodge restaurant overlooks the manicured lawns and stunning rock garden, making it the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal. In addition to the main dining room, there is also an outdoor boma where guests can enjoy a traditional African meal under the stars. Keekorok Lodge has a wide variety of wines available for its guests to enjoy. The lodge has a wine cellar that is stocked with a variety of wines from all over the world, ensuring that there is something to suit everyone's taste. The simplicity of the dining room glows with colorful place settings on meticulously designed dining tables. We purpose to extend the finest outdoor dining experiences blending into the nature, with views of the savannah under the stars and by the fireplace for unforgettable delicious meals. Seasonal herbs and vegetables produced from our herb garden ensure organic produce on the dinner plate. Our enthusiastic chef takes pleasure in preparing home style cooking with menus to suit the tastes and preferences of the guests, including continental, Indian and traditional African delicacies if so desired. Special dietary requirements can be catered for by prior arrangement. The dining options will never disappoint. The first-class chef delivers local and international cuisine that captivates the taste buds. Guests have the option of dining in the traditional restaurant or selecting the deck for dinner with a view.

Keekorok Lodge Amenities

The Keekorok Lodge provides guests with a collection of amenities that add convenience, enhance your stay, and make your overall lodging experience top-notch. For starters, the Keekorok airstrip is only 10 miles away with an available shuttle service delivering you right to the doors of the lodge. There is an outdoor pool that features a poolside snack bar, both conference and banquet facilities, and a divine spa that brings tranquility back into life after a day out on the plains. Laundry facilities or laundry services, Wifi, safe and storage, along with a variety of personnel services make sure you remain connected to the world and your stay is completely convenient.

Keekorok Lodge Spa and Wellness

The spa at Keekorok Lodge is a wonderful place to relax and rejuvenate during your safari adventures. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. It's the perfect way to pamper yourself after a long day of exploring the African wilderness. Keekorok is a great option for your next African safari! With its large size, variety of activities, and great location, Keekorok is the perfect place to stay while exploring the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Guests can enjoy game drives, bird walks, Masai dancing, and wildlife films while staying at the lodge. In addition, the spa offers a variety of treatments that are perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploration.

Meetings & Conferences

We offer state-of-the-art conference rooms with the choice of open-air and indoor meeting spaces. Our lush green lawns can host up to 400 guests and two of the conference rooms allow for 40 and 180 people simultaneously. Our complimentary facilities include writing pads and pens, Wi-Fi, two flip-charts, markers, a projection screen, an LCD projector and a P.A. system with two microphones for groups of over 30 people. Our food and drinks services are complimented by an expert staff with a passion for excellence that includes early morning tea/coffee, chilled juices, assorted cookies, assorted pastries and assorted muffins. There is also mid-morning tea/coffee, assorted juices, a chef’s cycle menu of pastries and savouries, assorted mini sandwiches and assorted fresh fruit platter. In addition, there is afternoon tea/coffee, fruit smoothies, a chef's cycle menu of pastries and savouries (both hot & cold) and an assorted fresh fruit platter. There is also lunch with an accompanying soft drink.

Great Migration

The Maasai Mara is the most popular safari destination in East Africa, along with the Serengeti in northern Tanzania. It is the site of the Great Migration, where over 2 million zebras, gazelles and wildebeest travel from Serengeti to the Maasai Mara each year. Often called the Jewel of Africa, the Maasai Mara takes its name from the Maasai tribe who have inhabited these lands since the 17th century. Mara translates to spotted, referencing the scattered acacia trees that mark the landscapes, and that have become the symbol of the Maasai Mara. Located in Kenya's South West, the Maasai Mara National Reserve covers just over 583 square miles. Unlike national parks, the Maasai Mara has no fencing and is instead bounded by the Ololoolo (Siria) Escarpment on its western edge and extends south to the Tanzania border, where it seamlessly merges with the Serengeti National Park. However, the reserve's northern and eastern borders are surrounded by private wildlife conservancies.The conservancies add 350,000 acres to the greater Mara area, and animals are free to roam anywhere within the Mara ecosystem. There are fourteen in total, but the top four conservancies, also known as the 'Big Four' are: Mara North, Mara Naboisho, Ol Kinyei, and Olare Motorogi. The Great Migration is undoubtedly the greatest wildlife show on earth and for a portion of the year (August to October), it plays out in the Masai Mara. In July, the tumultuous herds of wildebeest, zebra, gazelle and topi gather their energy on the banks of the Mara River before they crash across over the coming weeks, hoping to dodge the waiting crocodile and big cats. They remain on the plains of the Mara until October, enjoying all the succulent grasses and fresh water they can – a sight you’ll enjoy with nary a tree to block your view. The Great Migration aside, the wildlife of the Masai Mara is a highlight all on its own. Four out of the Big Five can be spotted all year round, it’s just the rhino that remains elusive. The landscape also provides a unique chance to see cheetah sprinting across the plains in pursuit of antelope, while the rivers hold giant crocodile and pods of hippo, which you’ll see basking in the sun or foraging (on night drives). Kenya has an incredible range of birdlife with over 1000 species to be spotted, including the finely-feathered migratory birds. Birding is at its colourful peak between November and March, and twitchers will be amazed by the variety, from the tiniest bee-eater to eagles that soar overhead. This is the land of the Maasai and a visit to the Mara gives a true insight into their traditional way of life. In the conservancies, you are able to travel to a Maasai village, taste local beer and other delicacies, before joining the day’s activities and learning how to track wildlife from the masters on a walking safari.

Masai People

The Maasai people are known globally for their vibrant red robes and tremendous bravery as fierce warriors in the wild. Their way of life can seem unimaginable for many; living amongst the punishing dangers of the natural world. A Maasai cultural experience is a fascinating insight into the life of the Maasai people, learning about their rich history and culture. From centuries of living amongst the untamed wild, the Maasai have mastered living off the land.

When to visit the Maasai Mara

The best time to visit Maasai Mara is between July and October, during the Great Migration. Temperatures remain pretty consistent year-round, and rainfall is all that separates the seasons. January and February is the driest season. These months offer the best wildlife sightings and great conditions for safari. March to May is the rainy season, and some lodges and camps will close in April when the rains are at their peak. June to October follows with a short dry season, often punctuated with short, sharp showers. Temperatures are typically cooler at this time of year.

Masai Mara Flights

Keekorok Airstrip is located in Masai Mara, in Narok County, in southwestern Kenya, close to the international border with the Republic of Tanzania, near the location called Keekorok. By air, Keekorok Airport lies approximately 225 kilometers (140 mi) west of Nairobi International Airport, Kenya's largest civilian airport. The geographical coordinates of this airport are:1° 35' 9.00"S, +35° 15' 6.00"E (Latitude: -1.585832; Longitude:35.251667). Keekorok Airport is a small civilian airport, serving Keekorok in Masai Mara and the neighbouring communities. Situated at 1,768 metres (5,801 ft) above sea level, the airport has one unpaved runway measuring 1,280 metres (4,200 ft) in length. The most pleasant mode, by far, of travelling to Masai Mara National Reserve and is by means of a shuttle flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL). Our aviation partners service all major Masai Mara airstrips including the ones located in Masai Mara National Reserve, but also those located in the Mara conservancies. These Masai Mara flights allow you quick and convenient access to all lodges in the Greater Mara area. Below you can find some examples of our flight services. Keekorok makes use of different operators servicing the various Masai Mara airstrips, the most important ones being Air Kenya and Safarilink. Together we are able to service all major airstrips in the Mara. Each of these airstrips allow access to different lodges dependent on the lodge location in the reserve and conservancies. Kindly note that not all flight connections have been displayed below: we would also happily assist with flights from the Serengeti or other locations. Flights from Nairobi or Mombasa to Masai Mara airstrips - The most pleasant mode, by far, of travelling to Masai Mara National Reserve and conservancies is by means of a shuttle flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL). Our aviation partners service all major Masai Mara airstrips, including the ones located in Masai Mara National Reserve, but also those located in the Mara conservancies. These Masai Mara flights allow you quick and convenient access to all lodges in the Greater Mara area. Below you can find some examples of our flight services. Keekorok makes use of different operators servicing the various Masai Mara airstrips, the most important ones being AirKenya and Safarilink. Together we are able to service all major airstrips in the Mara. Each of these airstrips allow access to different lodges dependent on the lodge location in the reserve and conservancies. Kindly note that not all flight connections have been displayed below: we would also happily assist with flights from the Serengeti or other locations. Shuttle flights departing from Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL) service all major airstrips in the Masai Mara (including Keekorok Airstrip, Musiara Airstrip, Mara North and Kichwa Tembo) making all areas and safari lodges accessible. Transfers from and to the destination airstrip are included when staying at any of the safari lodges but please note that additional fees may apply.