The Trip That Changed How I See Travel: Mara Serena Safari Lodge

Every year, thousands of travellers leave the comfort of their routines to search for something deeper. An escape, a moment of peace, a little adventure, or just a reminder that life can be beautiful.

 For me, that moment came the day I decided to book with Africa bed of Roses Safaris.

You may wonder how I was able to find them and finally book with them.

I had seen their name everywhere on social media and travel forums, and I even went ahead and mentioned them to my best friend, who had visited the Masai Mara National Reserve sometime back.

Nothing prepared me for the combination of professionalism, authenticity, warmth,  and seamless execution that Africa Bed of Roses safaris delivered.

Birthdays always have a way of reminding us who we are, where we’ve been, and where we are going.

This year, as I unlocked a new chapter in my life, I wanted it to be different.

This is how I ended up choosing a 5-day 4-night Masai Mara safari package with Africa Bed of Roses safaris with my friends.

I can tell you for free, Africa Bed of Roses safaris will transform how you celebrate your birthday.

I did not just choose them, I trusted them, and they turned my birthday into an unforgettable experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.

 I will share this experience with you in this piece so that you can also have an extraordinary birthday.

Thank me later!

Brief History of The Mara Serena Safari Lodge

I am a solo traveller, and I have always been fascinated by places that carry stories within their walls, and Mara Serena Safari Lodge is one of those rare gems.

Long before the Mara Serena Safari Lodge became one of the most celebrated Safari Lodges in East Africa, it began as a dream, an ambitious idea to create a sanctuary in the heart of the wild Masai Mara without disturbing its natural beauty.

Mara Serena Safari Lodge traces its roots back to the early 1970s, a time when Kenya was trying to position itself as a global safari destination.

Therefore, architects, conservationists, and the local Masai communities came together with a single Mission, which is to build a lodge that blends into the Savanna, protects wildlife, respects the culture, and allows guests to feel deeply connected to nature.

When construction began, it was not only about putting up walls, it was about crafting a lodge that belonged to the Mara.

By the mid-1970s, Mara Serena Safari Lodge finally opened its doors not as a hotel to spend nights but as an icon of Kenya’s hospitality.

Travellers from all over the world were drawn to its unique design, panoramic hilltop views, and the feeling that the lodge itself was part of the landscape.

Over the years, Mara Serena Safari Lodge has hosted adventurers, filmmakers, honeymooners, wildlife photographers, birdwatchers, and families seeking both luxury and authenticity.

Today, the Mara Serena Safari Lodge stands proudly as one of the most historically rich and culturally rooted lodges in the Mara.

Mara Serena Safari Lodge’s legacy is built on:

• Sustainable Conservation
• Deep respect for the Masai community
• Luxury
• Hospitality that has been defined for over 50 years now.

These are some of the reasons why Africa Bed of Roses safaris partners with the Mara Serena Safari Lodge.

During our 5-day 4-night stay at the lodge, this history is something I could feel in every sunrise, sunset, evening breeze, every Masai beadwork lining the corridor walls, and every smile from the staff who carry forward this legacy with pride.

Location

Mara Serena Safari Lodge sits majestically on top of a hill in the southern part of the Masai Mara National Reserve.

The lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the savannah, where you can see the plains stretch endlessly towards the horizon, wildlife roaming freely, and sunsets painting the sky in every shade of orange and gold.

In addition, the lodge is 270 KM by road, which translates to a 5-6 hour journey through the Great Rift Valley, passing lush hills, Masai villages, and open plains.

On the other hand, for travellers who prioritise speed and comfort, Mara Serena is easily accessible via a short 45-minute flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport, landing at one of the nearest airstrips in the Masai Mara.

Once you get there, Africa Bed of Roses safaris organises smooth transfers directly to the lodge.

 You don’t have to worry about a thing, you just need to relax and enjoy the trip while everything else is well taken care of.

That’s the whole point, right?

Beyond the wildlife, the Mara Serena Safari Lodge location provides a sense of seclusion and serenity where you feel removed from the hustle and bustle of the city to are immersed in the sounds of nature, which consists of birds chirping, hippos grunting in the rivers, and wind brushing across the tall grass.

The Journey

By Road

Day 1: Departure, Arrival, Checking In & Afternoon Game Drive

I am used to travelling alone, but this time around, my close friends joined me so that we could celebrate my birthday together.

One thing I have learnt in this life, when choosing friends, remember to choose intentional and genuine friends who are always there to celebrate with you, and more so, to do life with you

Here is how our trip went down.

We left Nairobi early in the morning, excited, laughing, and joking as the city slowly disappeared behind us.

Bed of Roses safaris had organised a comfortable Safari Land Cruiser for us, stocked with snacks, refreshing soft drinks, with pop-up windows and a sunroof perfect for photography.

One thing about my girls and I is that we love documenting our life experiences that we will live to remember, even when we grow old.

On our way, we passed through Mai Mahiu, which gave way to the dramatic escarpments of the Great Rift Valley.

Africa Bed of Roses safaris had thoughtfully planned the stops for us, turning the drive into part of the safari experience that allowed us to stretch, take photos, and absorb the scenery.

Moreover, our guide shared fascinating insights into the geological history of the Great Rift Valley. We learnt a lot.

Next, we passed through Narok town, the gateway to the Mara.

Narok town is full of Masai culture, markets, and everyday life.

Africa Bed of Roses safaris arranged a quick stop where we could stretch, grab a snack, and even interact briefly with the locals.

Seeing Masai warriors walking through the town in their traditional attire reminded us that this trip was not just about going to see wildlife, but it was also about connecting with people, culture, and history.

By Air

For travellers who prefer faster and more exclusive arrivals, Africa Bed of Roses safaris offers flights from Wilson Airport to the Mara Airstrips, followed by a short transfer to the lodge.

Something advantageous about flights, they reduce travel time, allowing you to start your safari experience almost immediately while enjoying stunning aerial views of the Mara plains.

• 3-day Masai Mara Flying Safari

Are you choosing the scenic road journey as we did, or do you prefer flying into the Mara?

Africa Bed of Roses safaris will handle every detail, ensuring your safari experience is unforgettable.

Book your birthday safari at info@africaweb1234.site

Moving on swiftly, by mid-afternoon, we arrived at the Mara Serena Safari Lodge.

The welcome was amazing, where the staff greeted us warmly with refreshing drinks and smiles, making us feel at home.

Accomodation

We were later taken to our spacious rooms, beautifully decorated with Masai-inspired touches, “ Manyatta style”, and offered breathtaking views.

Mara Serena Safari Lodge is a sizeable lodge with 74 guest rooms and one suite.

Its unique architecture creates a sense of both privacy and community as the rooms are spread across the hilltop with private balconies.

For our group of 5, Africa Bed of Roses safaris arranged 2 adjacent rooms, making it easy for all of us to stay close while enjoying our individual spaces.

Three of us shared one room with twin beds, and two shared another room with a larger double bed.

Each room had an ensuite bathroom with a hot shower, soft towels, and basic toiletries, along with a sitting area.

Interestingly, the private balcony became our favourite spot, offering early morning views of grazing zebras and distant elephants.

Just waking up and experiencing the sunrise over the Mara plains felt like a gift in itself.

One thing about me I play low when it comes to showing emotions. But Africa Holiday  Safaris got me on this one.

I was given a special birthday treatment organised by Africa Bed of Roses safaris and Mara Serena Staff.

There was an elegant birthday set-up in one of the balconies.

There were festive balloons, a birthday banner with a picture of me on it, and a birthday cake with the words “ Aging like fine wine.” There was also chilled sparkling white wine to toast the celebration.

I was so emotional, and I really cried uncontrollably as my friends gave me a group hug.

At this moment, I felt loved and valued.

After this amazing birthday welcome, we were set for the afternoon safari, our first safari.

As usual, Bed of Roses safaris had organised a spacious open-roof safari vehicle that was perfect for wildlife spotting and photographing.

Almost immediately, our tour guide pointed out the zebras grazing in groups, as their black and white stripes shimmered in the late afternoon sun.

The real thrill began when we spotted a pride of lions enjoying a meal in the mara.

Nature always has a way to surprise you, and this was it.

Our well-informed tour guide explained to us their behaviour in detail, how hunting happens, how they behave when annoyed, and how the cubs learn hunting skills.

My friends and I were silent for a moment, absorbing the majesty of these apex predators in their natural environment.

As usual, cameras started clicking, and we realized this was the start of memories we would talk about for years to come.

As dusk approached, we made our way back to the Mara Serena Safari Lodge.

At some point, the journey was quite filled with reflections on what we had experienced.

This game drive was more than just a wildlife sighting but instead it was an introduction to the Mara.

Day 2: Full Day Game Drive and Birthday Adventure

The Second day of our 5-day 4-night birthday safari began before dawn.

The essence of these early mornings is to ensure we enjoy every minute without wasting time.

After a hearty breakfast at the restaurant, we were ready for our first full-day game drive.

Leaving the lodge with mist hovering over the plains felt magical.

As we went deep into the Masai Mara National Reserve, our tour guide told us about predator-prey behaviour, the delicate balance of the Mara ecosystem, and fun facts about each species we encountered.

For a birthday celebration, it felt like nature was part of it.

Birthday Bush Lunch

At midday, Bed of Roses safaris had arranged a picnic for us under a tree.

There is just something special about eating in the wild while listening to the soundtrack of Africa.

Was I ready for another birthday surprise? To be honest, I wasn’t.

My friends asked me to close my eyes. I heard them whispering and giggling.

 It was at that moment that excitement warmed my heart more than the Mara sun.

Immediately, I opened my eyes, and there they were, standing with wide smiles and beautifully wrapped little parcels they had secretly carried all the way from Nairobi, and I did not notice.

I was filled with so much joy and happiness. These were not just gifts, they were pieces of love.

Right there in the middle of the wild, with elephants grazing from a distance, I felt surrounded by pure love.

Returning To The Lodge

By 6 PM, we returned to the lodge dusty, tired, and overjoyed.

It was not just a game drive, it was an intimate birthday experience created with thought, passion, and care.

Thanks to Africa Bed of Roses safaris for making me feel more than just a client, I was family.

If you ever dreamt of having a birthday experience that was out of this world, then this is it.

A full-day game drive with a professional, warm, and experienced team who know how to make experiences memorable in exactly what you deserve.

Day 3: Relaxation

We woke up this time a bit late, at least after the sun was already out.

After freshening up, we made our way to the restaurant where the smell of fresh Kenya-brewed coffee and warm pastries filled the air.

The staff already recognized us, greeting us like old friends.

We could see giraffes from a distance and hot air balloons floating gracefully across the horizon.

This already set the tone for us to relax and just enjoy Mara Serena Safari Lodge and its environs.

For travellers who still want the thrill on day 3, Africa Bed of Roses safaris offers an optional early drive, but my friends and I decided to stay back and enjoy the serenity of the lodge.

Amenities

After lunch, we decided to go and enjoy the Mara Serena Safari Lodge amenities.

• We took a cold swim in the swimming pool for an hour, which was so refreshing.
  
• Another hour was spent at the lounge area reading, journaling, and simply enjoying the view.
• As the day came to an end, we took time capturing the beauty of the safari lodge, permitting ourselves to slow down.

Evening Sunset Moment

How do you even visit the Mara and not experience the sunset?

As the sunset approached, we gathered at the lodge’s viewpoint, watching the sky turn into a masterpiece.

Later, the Africa Bed of Roses safaris guide joined us, briefing us on the plan of Day 4, which promised more adventure and deeper exploration of the reserve.

Day 4

Our guide picked us up right after breakfast, smiling as always, ready to show us the part of the reserve we had not explored yet.

1. Remote Sections of the Mara

This part of the Mara is peaceful, with fewer vehicles and more raw wilderness.

The landscape changed as we drove. The rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and open plains were where wild animals roamed freely without destruction.

Here, every stop was a photographic moment. It was like nature was performing just for us.

2. Cultural Masai Village Visit

Africa Bed of Roses safaris gave us a village visit option, and for sure, we never hesitated exploring the Masai culture.

On arrival, we were welcomed with Masai cultural dances and warm smiles.

We learnt how the Masai built their homes, how they live alongside wildlife, and how their traditions have been carried from generation to generation.

In addition, they showed us their beadwork, firemaking skills, and even invited us for a short dance.

This entire experience felt like a genuine cultural exchange.

Back to the Lodge

Later, we went back to the lodge, tired but happy.

We ended the day with dinner, soft music, and endless conversations.

Day 5: Final Adventure

This was our last day to soak in everything that Mara had to offer. It wasn’t a sad day, it was just full. Full of memories, full of joy, and full of moments that had settled quietly in our hearts.

On this day, packing was harder than expected. Every item packed in our bags had a story attached to it, including the dust on our shoes.

As we left Mara Serena Safari Lodge, the staff told us, “ Karibu Tena,”  meaning come back again.

At the reception, they were prepared to check us out. They moved with the same professionalism and friendliness they had shown us from day 1.

Also, our guide stood beside us, helping with the process, joking with us like he had known us for years.

Just as we thought the trip was over, A group of staff members brought us a surprise, handmade Masai bracelets. “Something small to remember us with.” They said.

We could not hide our smiles. We smiled as we said thank you.

It did not end there, we also took a group photo with the staff. A memory frozen in time, filled with gratitude.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I realized that this birthday trip was more than a safari but instead it was a chapter filled with beauty, adventure, friendship, and soul-deep moments that I will carry with me forever.

If you are looking for an experience that blends adventure and comfort, culture with nature, and moments that touch your heart, then this is the experience you deserve, and Africa Bed of Roses safaris is ready to give you exactly that.

Alternatively, for those looking to explore further or extend their Kenyan adventure, The Serena Hotels and Lodge Collection offers incredible options.

1. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
2. Serena Sweetwaterscamp
3. Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge
4. Lake Elementaita Serena Camp
5. Nairobi Serena Hotel
6. Serena Beach Resort and Spa ( Mombasa)

Stay tuned for more as I explore each one of them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

“ The Mara Never Leaves You, A Part Of You Will Always Live Here.”