The location next to the Mara River with countless hippos was exceptional.

The fact that we were told upfront that everything can be paid by credit card including the park fees for Masai Mara and the conservancy fees for the local community. The conservancy fees had to be paid in cash (70 US$ per person per day in Shilling) and Masai Mara gate accepts credit cards when the machine works (100 US$ per person per day; 200 US$ in high season). The safest is to organize permits for the KWS parks through eCitizen, but you need a lot of patience with this online system. Also worth mentioning was the condition of the roads. In case you travel by car yourself, make sure you hire a proper 4WD or take a driver; the roads are in an unbearable condition and you wonder, where all the park and conservation fees go. Not to be blamed on the lodge management!

The situation of this accommodation is excellent. Sitting on the verandah to the restaurant you have a superb view of the Mara River and its wildlife. The rooms were clean and the bed and bathroom were both good. The service in the restaurant was excellent. There were only four of us in the lodge and as a result we had excellent service from the waiter and chef. The breakfast and other meals were all very good with loads of food nicely cooked.

Sadly of the 130 rooms only four were occupied during our stay by myself and three travel companions. Maybe because of the lack of guests there was no WiFi in the rooms and the power supply to the rooms was only available between 7:00 and 9:00 in the evening. Whilst you could charge at the reception the lack of WiFi and power in the room was a problem. Had it not been for those two factors I might have given this lodge a 10.

We had such a lovely stay at the Mara River Lodge!! The staff was so gracious and accommodating - their hospitality is unmatched. We just adored staying near, watching, and listening to all the hippos!! The rooms were clean and beds comfortable. We enjoyed the pool on a rest day, and spent the morning observing the hippos, as well as gazelles, baboons, and elands on the bluff across from us. To know - it is a bit of a drive to the nearest gate but we were more than fine with that as we saw an abundance of animals on the way to the gate (because you’re driving through the conservancy), and we just absolutely loved and wanted to stay near the hippos!! The food was fantastic and the chef wonderfully accommodated the vegetarian in our group. The chef also prepared boxed lunches for our safaris as well as a boxed breakfast complete with coffee and steamed milk when we left extra early one morning (in search of leopards!). And many thanks to William who had hot tea and cake for us when we returned from our safaris - followed by delicious gin & tonics! Overall, a 10/10 stay!!!

Not a negative for us but just to know, you have to plan charging your devices as there are windows when the power is on and available - this was not at all a problem for us - you just have to plan accordingly!

The kitchen staff was phenomenal. We were late a few times because of our jet lag. They weren’t upset with us and instead said it was alright. They always asked what we wanted to eat and obliged to our dietary restrictions. Everyone in the hotel was friendly. My husband and I enjoyed our stay!

Electricity time changes should be communicated to guests. The addition a bulletin/chalkboard in the lobby can convey any changes. Families that are larger may need to carefully plan electronic use such as blow driers and screen time. This includes photographers needing to charge their equipment, etc.

I really enjoyed my stay at Mara River Lodge. Its unique location made me feel incredibly connected to nature. Waking up and going to bed hearing hippos communicating to each other was an amazing experience. Staff is very welcoming and friendly. On the day of my boyfriend's birthday the whole staff came out of the kitchen to sing and dance songs to celebrate his birthday. They made our experience unforgettable! We particularly enjoyed our chats with William who is incredibly sweet and welcoming and made us feel at home. I would definitely recommend this place to fellow travellers!

Bumpy road to get there

I loved the property gardens, the river view and hippos, the cuisine and most of all the warm reception by your staff. They treated me as if I were a Queen. My favorite staff member Emanuel is a gem. I am hoping I can visit again with more friends and family.

I didn't like the rough roads. But next time I may fly from Nairobi. I noticed a small landing strip . The bathroom tend to smell a bit moldy, but I guess you don't open the windows to air it our because of mosquitoes and flies getting in.

What an amazing location! Situated on the bank of the Mara river with Hippos galore! Food was exceptional. We enjoyed breakfast on the terrace over looking the river watching the wildlife. As we were full board, we took 3 packed lunches with us on the day we left and they were delicious! The room was lovely, clean and comfortable, situated in beautiful gardens. Plenty big enough for 3.

Can't think of anything!

The service of the staff has been great and the meals have been very tasty. We appreciated the place as it was very peaceful and great atmosphere overally.

The Lunch box for the second day haven't been provided by the accommodation, as we ordered for a full board. We found strange not to be asked if we needed such boxes, especially as we were game driving the full day.

We stayed here overnight with an early start to the Mara Triangle. Lots of game on the way in. Highly recommend. Especially as it is so expensive now for Foreigners to enter and camp in the Mara.

The location was perfect Bed was very comfortable property was very well maintained and clean

Bathroom could do with updating