Sanctuary Olonana

The award-winning Sanctuary Olonana is a premium tented safari camp set on the Mara River in a private concession in the renowned Masai Mara region.

The camp has a sustainable ethos that has earned them a Gold Award from Ecotourism Kenya, and their safari guides have gained many responsible tourism awards. The camp is easily accessed by a 45 minute flight from Nairobi to Kichwa Tembo airstrip (a 15 minute game drive from camp).

Guests can enjoy various activities including game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, scenic flights and balloon rides (some activities are at a supplement).

In between game activities, guests can relax on the main viewing deck overlooking the river, read in the library, cool off in the pool or indulge in one of the signature treatments in the mini-spa.

ACCOMMODATION

The Geoffrey Kent Suite allows travellers to immerse themselves in secluded ultra-luxury in this sophisticated free-flowing space. Guests will enjoy two ensuite bedrooms, an additional family room, wraparound private decking and infinity pool, lounge and dining area, and private vehicle and safari guide. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the rooms. Electricity supply is a combination of main grid power and silent packed generator.

ACTIVITIES

GAME DRIVES

At Sanctuary Olonana, game viewing starts from the camp. A pod of hippos lives permanently in the river just below camp and many other species come to drink there. Sanctuary Retreats’ experienced guides take you to all the hidden spots and their customized open safari vehicles offer all-round views, allowing for excellent photography opportunities. The Mara’s rich eco-system includes acacia-studded savannah, riparian forest and woodland which attract
more than 300 bird species and a stunning variety of animal life all year round.

FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN 

children of all ages are welcome at Sanctuary Olonana. With spacious family suites and a wide variety of activities for guests of all ages, Sanctuary Olonana is a good choice for a family safari in Kenya. Activities can be arranged especially for children including tailored game drives, treasure hunts, bird watching and animal print identification. They are also are flexible with meals and meal times for children. Children aged 15 years and younger are required to share with their parents. Sanctuary Olonana offers 3 family suites, each featuring two bedrooms.  A Private vehicle must be booked for children aged 5 or younger. Babysitting service is available on request (not a registered babysitter) at a nominal fee which will be paid directly to the child minder. Baby cots are
also available

HONEYMOONS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Guests celebrating their honeymoon will receive special surprises during their stay. All attempts are made to keep honeymooners separate from other guests.

The  honeymoon services include:

• Private meals on boma deck
• A bottle of sparkling wine during dinner
• Complimentary 30 minute back massage and spa treatments at reduced rates
• Complimentary private vehicle (subject to availability)

NATURE WALK

The camp’s naturalist leads guided walks on which you can learn more about plants, trees and wildlife and how the Maasai tribe makes use of these in their daily lives. Visit the camp’s award-winning wetlands and there is an opportunity to plant a tree, leaving a positive mark in Africa. Learn to identify the birds from their song and discover the insects and smaller creatures that are easily missed on drives.

BUSH BREAKFASTS, PICNICS & DINNERS

Sanctuary Olonana offers the opportunity to enjoy meals in the middle of the African bush. Dinners are especially delightful as the private and secluded setting is illuminated by a log fire and pretty lanterns. A touch of elegance comes with the starched white table linen and romantic candles, and guests are served meals of the highest standard. Later, guests retire to the warmth of the campfire where brandies and liqueurs are served and they can fully absorb the peace and beauty of an African night.

SUNDOWNERS

As the perfect ending to the afternoon game drives, sundowners are included. Guests are hosted to their favourite drink and a selection of canapes at a scenic point where they can observe the spectacular sunsets over the Mara plains.

CULTURAL VISIT TO MAASAI VILLAGE

Escorted by a Maasai guide, guests are invited to visit a local village to gain an insight into the traditional way of life of the Maasai people. Learn about the medicinal plants that grow here, the importance of cattle and the stages of life through which all Maasai pass, from childhood to respected elder. Meet the families and find out about the homestead’s social structure, the role of women and much more. Interaction and discussion is encouraged, so whether the ladies are building a hut, the warriors are dancing or making fire with stones and sticks, guests are free to join in.

VISIT TO A SCHOOL

Visits are organised by the guides to various schools (school term time only). These visits are free but there is a recommended donation to the school of anything upward of $15 per person.

SPA

Between activities, relax at the  mini-spa which offers a range of treatments from facials to body massages. With spectacular views over the Mara River and the soothing sound of the river and hippos in the background – you’ll have no choice but to relax. Africology uses healing essences of some of South Africa’s indigenous plants, Rooibos, Aloe Ferox, Marula and African Potato. They are dermatologically tested to EU standards, not tested on animals nor use any animal products.

HOT AIR BALLOON SAFARIS

A magical once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a hot air balloon flight for an incredible aerial view of the wildlife and beautiful scenery of the Maasai Mara. Flights take off at dawn in order to capture the wonderful sunrise over the African plains. On landing, enjoy a Champagne Bush Breakfast. Please ask us for details and prices.