If you’re planning a trip to Maasai Mara and are trying to choose between Mara Serena Lodge and Sarova Mara Lodge, the decision may seem difficult, especially when both properties offer unique experiences. Based on personal experiences, here’s a detailed comparison of both lodges to help you make an informed decision.
Sarova Mara Lodge: A Luxurious Stay with a Personal Touch
I had the pleasure of staying at Sarova Mara last year, where I enjoyed the luxury of a Deluxe Tent that exceeded my expectations. The tent was spacious, well-equipped, and offered a sense of comfort and privacy. The large space felt more like a room than a tent, with everything you would expect for a high-end safari experience.
Pros of Sarova Mara Lodge:
- Beautiful Grounds: The grounds were impeccably maintained, with lush greenery and a variety of wildlife roaming around. I had a delightful experience with a dikdik that frequently visited my terrace, and there were also many mongoose in the area. It was wonderful to see wildlife so close to the lodge.
- Food & Staff: The food was excellent, and the staff were welcoming and friendly. The lodge made me feel at home, and the overall hospitality was top-notch.
- Private Experience: The Deluxe Tent offered a private, tranquil atmosphere with the sounds of nature around. It was peaceful and allowed me to enjoy the serenity of the Mara in comfort.
- Swimming Pool Area: Though I didn’t use the pool, it was well-kept and added to the relaxing atmosphere of the lodge.
Cons of Sarova Mara Lodge:
- Power Outages: One downside was the occasional power outages during the night. While the lodge provided a torch to navigate, it was still a bit of an inconvenience.
- Lack of Views from Tent: While the grounds were beautiful, I didn’t have much of a view from my tent, which might be a dealbreaker for some travelers who seek panoramic views of the Mara.
Mara Serena Lodge: A Scenic, Yet Busy Option
I also stayed at Mara Serena Lodge in January and had a very different experience. While the views were spectacular, there were a few areas where the lodge fell short, particularly in comparison to Sarova Mara.
Pros of Mara Serena Lodge:
- Stunning Views: The views from the room were breathtaking. From my room, I could look out over the Mara plains, which made the stay more memorable. If views are important to you, Serena has a distinct advantage.
- Game Drives: I was fortunate to see a leopard and several cheetahs in the main reserve of Maasai Mara during my stay. The game drives were generally good, and you can expect to see plenty of wildlife in both the main reserve and the Mara Triangle.
Cons of Mara Serena Lodge:
- Room Size & Condition: The room size was smaller than I expected, and the bathroom was quite dated, which may not align with expectations for a luxury safari lodge. Hot water pressure was inconsistent, which can be frustrating after a long day of game drives.
- Crowded Atmosphere: The restaurant was noisy, likely due to the large number of tour groups staying at the lodge. This made it less relaxing, and the food was not as good as I had hoped, particularly with limited options for non-meat eaters.
- Staff Efficiency: While the staff were friendly, they weren’t always as efficient or attentive as I would have liked, especially when compared to the service at Sarova Mara.
Game Drives & Wildlife Sightings
Both lodges are ideally located for wildlife viewing, but I did find that the Maasai Mara Reserve offered a wider variety of animals compared to the Mara Triangle during my stay. I saw lions aplenty in the Triangle, but it was in the main reserve where I had the privilege of spotting cheetahs and a leopard. That said, you’re likely to see amazing wildlife at both locations, regardless of where you stay.
Conclusion: Which Lodge Should You Choose?
Choose Sarova Mara Lodge if:
- You prefer spacious, luxury accommodations with a more intimate atmosphere.
- You appreciate wildlife sightings right at your doorstep and beautiful grounds.
- You’re looking for exceptional service and food.
Choose Mara Serena Lodge if:
- You value scenic views and a unique vantage point over the Mara.
- You’re prepared for a more bustling atmosphere with larger groups.
- You don’t mind slightly dated rooms for the sake of being close to the action in the reserve.
Ultimately, both lodges offer great safari experiences, but your choice will depend on the kind of experience you’re looking for. If you prefer quiet luxury, Sarova Mara may be your best bet, while those looking for stunning views and a bustling atmosphere might prefer Mara Serena Lodge.