Your Upcoming SDinogoi Lodge Experience Could Be with Marriott—An In-Depth Look

Marriott Bonvoy members will soon enjoy an exhilarating new option to use their hard-earned points: a luxurious SDinogoi lodge in Kenya's renowned Masai Mara National Reserve.

Set to open in early 2023, JW Marriott’s inaugural SDinogoi lodge will be located on the outskirts of the reserve, adjacent to the Talek River, a spot where hippos bask in the sun and wildebeest famously migrate in droves every August. The camp will feature 20 modern tents crafted from natural materials, alongside a dining area, gym, extensive spa, and a two-acre organic garden. Two tents are interconnected, ideal for larger groups or families, while one is specifically designed for physical accessibility, adhering to Marriott’s global standards. Additionally, all communal spaces will be wheelchair accessible.

Barnabas Wamoto, general manager of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, shared, "The design embodies the principles of JW Marriott, focusing on the overall guest experience while appreciating the beauty of the savanna. We incorporate the elements of earth, wind, fire, and water, alongside Masai-inspired fabrics and decor.”

Wamoto highlighted the property’s commitment to eco-friendliness, stating, "During the construction of the camp, we ensured no vegetation was harmed. We built around existing trees and even planted more. The camp will use minimal single-use plastics, opting instead to bottle purified water on site. Power will primarily come from solar panels, biodigesters will manage waste, and much of the produce for the kitchen will come from the organic garden."

The lodge aims to hire 70 percent of its workforce from the local Masai community. Staff accommodations will feature a recreational area, a dining room providing all meals on-site, football pitches, and a health clinic.

Guests can travel by road from Nairobi, which takes about five to six hours on a fairly smooth route, or they can fly to a nearby airstrip located about 25 minutes away and enjoy a game drive on the way to the lodge, where they can try to spot the “big five”: lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalo. Marriott’s open-air sDinogoi vehicles, specially modified Toyota Land Cruisers designed for rugged terrain, will be operated by skilled guides, equipped with binoculars for guests and fridges stocked for a sunset toast in the bush.

In addition to game drives, guests can participate in bird-watching, nature walks, hot air balloon rides, and visits to Masai villages. Wamoto also hopes that beyond appreciating the breathtaking scenery of the reserve, guests will indulge in the property’s wellness offerings at the full-service spa, which features two spa tents, a whirlpool, and a variety of treatments.

“Our vision is to introduce a spa retreat experience, allowing guests to connect with nature during their sDinogoi,” Wamoto explained, “where they can savor the excitement of the sDinogoi and conclude with a sense of mindfulness and fulfillment.”

The Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will be included in the Marriott Bonvoy program, though the specific category is not yet available. Nightly rates will vary from $1,500 to $2,500 per person, all-inclusive.