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Luxury boutique safari operator has just reopened of its flagship East African property, Sanctuary Olonana, after an extensive refurbishment. This marks the latest – and most dramatic transformation of the company’s camps and lodges so far, as it continues to roll out a multi-million-dollar investment program across the Sanctuary Retreats portfolio.

Since opening its doors in 1999, Sanctuary Retreats’ first African camp has always been something of a trailblazer for responsible eco-tourism, wining numerous awards and accolades throughout its almost 20-year history. Ranked number 1 amongst Africa’s top resorts in the 2017 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, the luxury camp is already renowned for its exceptional customer experience and individual service, and this reputation is only likely to be further reinforced with its latest incarnation, which blends an innovative, modern design with environmental best practice – all of it presented in a very distinct traditional African style.

Set in lush woodland on the banks of the Mara River in Kenya’s Masai Mara, a key staging point for Africa’s annual Great Migration, the new-look Sanctuary Olonana brings the outdoors inside, almost literally, thanks to fourteen spacious new glass-sided suites, designed especially to maximise the wilderness experience for guests. Each one boasts over 130 sqm of floor space, with floor-to-ceiling glass folding doors providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Mara River across the private decking.

Stylish, contemporary interiors are furnished with bespoke furniture including plush king-sized beds and elegant nature-inspired furnishings. Coolly elegant slate and marble ensuite bathrooms are equipped with rain showers, along with generous freestanding bathtubs – the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of game viewing. Three of the new suites will also feature an extra bedroom, making them an ideal option for families.

This effortless blend of safari chic and open-air living is also evident in the Camp’s inviting Main Lodge. An extension of the surrounding wilderness, a Kenyan Greenheart tree grows proudly through its centre, while interiors feature carefully curated traditional decorations and artefacts including handcrafted Maasai spears. Glass doors open out to an extensive terrace offering expansive outdoor dining and relaxation areas, including a new boma fire pit, not to mention more of those spectacular grandstand views of both the river and its resident hippos.

A spa and a spectacular swimming pool overlooking the river round out offering for those times when guests are after a little rest and relaxation.

Of course, the game viewing on offer at Sanctuary Olonana is the other aspect which makes a stay here truly memorable. Experienced guides are expert at finding the perfect hidden spots from which to view the extensive wildlife on show in the Masai Mara, supported by special touches ranging from private picnic breakfasts and lunches to magical bush suppers under the stars.

As well as providing front row seats to the Great Wildebeest Migration, game drives out from the camp reward guests with plenty of ‘Big Five’ encounters, including a pod of hippos who live permanently in the river just below the Camp, and after-dark drives also allow for exclusive sightings of nocturnal creatures.

As part of Sanctuary Retreats’ commitment to conservation and responsible tourism, Sanctuary Olonana is one of only a handful of properties in the country to have been rated Gold by Ecotourism Kenya. Initiatives include a natural water treatment system, a tree-planting project and an organic garden where all vegetables served in the lodge are grown. Master Maasai bead-workers also regularly visit to create brightly coloured handcrafted jewellery which can be purchased in the remodelled shop, with all profits going back into the community.

Prices at Sanctuary Olonana start from USD350 per person per night, twin share, for 1 – 3 nights, including all meals and drinks (excluding premium brands) and transfers to and from the airstrip to the Camp plus a choice of two daily shared game viewing activities.

And for even better savings, take advantage of Sanctuary Retreats’ extended stay offer 2018, when you stay at one or more of our properties including Sanctuary Olonana depending on your season of travel.

Stay 4 – 6 nights and save up to 30%.

Stay 7+ nights and save up to 40%.

Terms and conditions apply.