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Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve Kenya
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#42 of 178 Specialty lodging in Maasai Mara National Reserve
Location
4.9
Cleanliness
5.0
Service
5.0
Value
4.8
Mahali Mzuri is located in the Motorogi Conservancy and there are 13,500 hectares of bush to explore along with the neighbouring Olare Orok Conservancy. Against the backdrop of a valley and sprawling plains as far as the eye can see, visitors to Mahali Mzuri can expect exciting game drives with experienced Guides, delicious meals, a cosy and relaxing atmosphere at our camp and in a uniquely designed, spacious and luxurious tent.
Only three days have passed since our departure from Mahali Mzuri, but our incredible experiences there will be with us for rest of our lives. This paradise, in the Maasi Mara, surpassed all of our expectations from beginning to end. The people, location, and experiences are sublime. From the moment you land, Mahali Mzuri succeeds in providing a true 5 star experience in the Kenyan bush. The personalized champagne greeting upon arrival sets a luxuriously welcoming tone for those lucky enough visit. The well appointed tents with large outdoor decks offer unsurpassed views with frequent large animal sightings. The morning and afternoon drives in the conservancy are indescribably beautiful with an abundance of wildlife unlike any other. Our guide Newton was fantastic. His knowledge of and ability to locate even the rarest animal inhabitants provided great excitement and anticipation before each drive. We were never disappointed, and felt each new drive somehow surpassed the last. The density and variety of animal populations in the conservancy always provided frequent, extremely upclose animal viewing, with the animals barely even noticing our human presence. Our short trip with Kas to the nearby rhino reserve, was fascinating, and easily completed our quest to view the "Big 5". We could not have asked for a better stay and will reminisce fondly for a very long time. Many thanks to Newton, Kas, David, Wilson, Raymond, Maryann, Ann, and Susan. …
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Date of stay: March 2023
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Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Worth the expense and effort in every way, it's that special
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
It was our first holiday at Mahali Mzuri but definitely not the last one. The moment we arrived, we fell in love with this gorgeous place, and it’s surroundings. The location of the camp is absolutely stunning and the views from the restaurant, the lounge, and our tent are incredible, overlooking the beautiful valley. Our tent was amazing, very spacious with a big viewing deck and equipped with everything you may need. We saw hippos, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and even lions while relaxing at our deck and also from the outdoor seating area while enjoying breakfast or lunch. The meals were excellent – every single one. The best food we ever had at a safari camp. But most important are the people working at Mahali Mzuri. They made our stay so special and so memorable. Mariana, the Camp Manager, is awesome. She does such a great job. Marianna regularly came to our table and we always had a nice chat and a good laugh with her. She even welcomed us and the other guests in the bush where her team set up a delicious breakfast for us. Johnstone, our dedicated waiter, is brilliant. He immediately picked up our preferences. So he always arranged a table with more privacy at the deck for us. He brought my wife a shuka (Maasai blanket) when it was chilly, without having to ask for it. He just knew what makes us feel comfortable and happy. The day before we left he surprised us with a private lunch. We were overwhelmed by the lovely setting at the Boma he arranged for the two of us. Thank you Johnstone for making us so happy. We felt in best hands with you. Kas, our guide, is outstanding. He is extremely experienced and he made it possible that we had the most incredible sightings on our game drives. On our last evening drive he surprised us with sundowners in the bush with a stunning scenery. We were sitting together at a camp fire with drinks and snacks. Barman Raymond was there and prepared our favourite drinks in the wild – simply incredible. Thank you Kas for making our game drives so personal, very exciting and unforgettable. Barman Raymond not only spoiled us with his delicious drinks in the wild, but also at the lounge. He is a great guy and very entertaining. We had a lot of fun together. Thank you Raymond for making us laughing so much – and the Elephant mud bath Eddie, the chef, is much more than a super talented chef. He also formed a great team around him. The meals were delicious, creative and beautifully presented. Eddie regularly came to our table and asked if we enjoyed the meals. Thank you Eddie for taking such great care that we have a fantastic culinary experience at Mahali Mzuri. We loved every moment at Mahali Mzuri, thanks to the wonderful people working there. The day before we had to leave my wife said to me: “This is the most wonderful holiday of my life.” Asanti sana Mariana and team for making this happen. Tuta Onana Badai…
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Date of stay: December 2022
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The mahali mzuri exceeds all expections. The tents are beautiful and well appointed. You have the option of closing up at night or leaving the flaps open to experience the Maasai Mara nighttime. One night we watched beautiful lightning across the sky. The staff are helpful and attentive. The food is very good and plentiful.
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Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear klmsmm, Thank you so much for taking the time to write such kind praise about your time staying with us at Mahali Mzuri. It’s fantastic to hear such wonderful feedback about our team and the food, and truly a thrill to hear that we exceeded all your expectations. Stargazing and storm watching is an incredible experience here in the Maasai Mara and we’re so pleased that you particularly enjoyed taking this in from your tent during your stay. We were delighted to host you and I do hope that you’ll return to visit us again soon. Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had an unbelievable time at Mahali Mzuri. The setting couldn't have been better and the game drives were full of great sightings. Sitting on the deck for lunch or poolside you can see a ton of wildlife just outside of camp. The staff was amazing and always went out of their way to help out with anything you needed. Our safari guide was Jonathan who couldn't have been better. Extremely knowledgeable and we really enjoyed going out with him each day and couldn't recommend him enough. Looking forward to our next safari at Mahali Mzuri!
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Date of stay: September 2022
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear F3994HZryanc, Wow 5*s – what an amazing review. We’re so glad to hear you had an unbelievable time during your stay with us, and thank you for choosing our beautiful Mahali Mzuri to celebrate such a monumental occasion. Our setting is just spectacular, isn’t it? And the views from the deck and poolside are incredible – these are some of my favourite places for relaxing and watching wildlife. Our team work incredibly hard to meet and exceed the needs of each individual guest, and we’re beaming to hear we got it right during your stay. Safe to say, you were in great hands on your game drives with Jonathan. He is a Mara expert, and a true asset to our wonderful team. There isn’t much about the Mara that Jonathan doesn’t know, and we’re so glad he was able to share his knowledge and passion with you on your game drives. We’re also looking forward to your return and hope you will come and visit again soon. Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I wish it was simple to put in to words the experience we had at Mahali Mzuri but it has been quite the struggle. Our time at the camp was nothing short of perfect. In fact, it was magical. From the moment we stepped off our plane on the dusty landing strip in the Masai Mara to the final farewell, we received nothing but exemplary service. Whilst this level of attention must take meticulous planning and practicing, it was executed with non-pretentious ease. Newton, our guide for the duration of our stay, met us with perfectly laid out refreshments and an enthusiastic smile. A Masai from the same area as Mahali Mzuri, his knowledge of the animals, the land and the people was boundless. Over the course of 5 days, we explored the entire conservancy. Each game drive was a unique experience – a Cheetah kill, a Leopard and her cub, a Lion tribe mourning a cub, Elephants, Giraffes, Buffalos and so much more. Not only did he share is vast knowledge about the Masai Mara but he shared stories about himself and his family. Over 5 days , we didn’t just come to know a great guide, we made a life long friend who we can not wait to see again very soon hopefully. The food at Mahali Mzuri was second to none. Joshua, the Head Chef and true food enthusiast thrived on the challenges we set him each day to create the perfect meal. The ingredients were fresh and seasonal with many of them grown in the kitchen garden. The skilful chefs made breads and pastries, salads and soups, juices and sauces daily and often to order.Bush breakfasts were ordered the night before and served with such ease on the morning game drives - egg chapatis, fruit skewers, vegetables, cereals and juice packed perfectly in a hamper to be enjoyed as we sat peacefully watching the animals wander past. A heartfelt thank you to Chef Joshua and his team for going above and beyond. They should be immensely proud. Leticia became a firm favourite with our family. She served us our meals but did so much more. She became a friend and entertainer to our children. Our children learnt the art of Masai beading from her, she played games with them and encouraged them to complete their Little Masai Warrior work books. Leticia’s smile was infectious and her playful nature made meal times joyful. Together with Raymond, the chief bartender, they committed to find the perfect wine pairing to every meal! If you happen to find yourself at Mahali Mzuri, Raymond makes a mean Rosemary scented Gin and Tonic… The Askari’s always ensured we remained safe as we travelled across the camp. They were especially careful and attentive towards the children. The housekeeping staff kept the rooms at an impeccable standard and small touches like hot water bottles in the bed kept us snug and warm. The in room amenities were of the highest quality. A well stocked mini bar was delightful, the Masai bath ducks were a playful touch and the beautifully scented toiletries brought joy to the soul. Mahali Mzuri works with the Masai and the land in beautiful conjunction. A local school benefits greatly from the ‘Pack for Purpose’ Scheme as does the local Masai Village which guests can visit. What a humble experience it was to visit the Masai village and see how grateful they were that we took time to come and learn about their way of life. Guides at Mahali Mzuri are very respectful of the animals and take great care to not overcrowd or disturb them. After all , we are but mere guests in their home. The entire team of staff at Mahali Mzuri make the camp the special place it is. The care and commitment of each individual makes for a faultless experience. Each and every member should be very proud - you have impressed us immeasurably. Mariana, Wilson, Newton, Joshua, Leticia, Betty, Raymond and every other member , you make Mahali Mzuri a home not a camp and we cannot wait to come back to you. We love and miss you!…
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Date of stay: December 2022
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded Feb 23, 2023
Dear 738minalg, Thank you so much for your incredible words, and for taking the time to leave such a lovely review. To hear our wonderful camp described as ‘Heaven on Earth’ has us all incredibly happy and filled with pride. It was our pleasure to host you and your wonderful family. Newton is an incredible Guide and just incredibly knowledgeable – having grown up in the local area his knowledge about the Mara and the wonderful wildlife of the region is phenomenal. We’re so pleased he could share this with you. It sounds like you had some amazing sightings on your game drives – and that you learnt a lot too. I’ve passed your kind feedback onto Newton who is beaming from ear to ear to hear you enjoyed your experience with him. We truly are immensely proud of Chef Joshua and our team in the kitchen - their passion and skill is clearly displayed through the wonderful meals they provide and we’re so pleased you were able to enjoy all of this. We agree – there is nothing like breakfast on a game drive in the magical Mara watching all the incredible wildlife around you, a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Leticia is just brilliant, isn’t she? We’re so glad your Little Warriors learnt the Masai craft of beading from her, and it’s great to hear that she was able to entertain your lovely family. Her smile just lights up the room – and we’re glad she could make your mealtimes so wonderful. And Raymond is amazing – his stories, his cocktails, and his gin and tonics are truly a cut above. We’ve passed your kind words onto them both, and they are so pleased to hear what a great time you had with us. The Askari’s are our incredible guards, and we’re so glad they made you feel safe when travelling around the camp at night – they are incredibly attentive and careful, particularly with any younger guests. We’re also overjoyed to hear you visited the local Maasai village to learn more about the Maasai tribe and the local culture. We work hand-in-hand with the Masai here at Mahali Mzuri, and it goes without saying that respect for nature and wildlife is of the utmost importance. We are so glad that this was something you were able to experience first-hand during your visit. It is always our aim for our guests to feel at home here at Mahali Mzuri – we are so pleased to hear that this is exactly how you felt. Please do come and see us soon – we would absolutely love to host you and your family again. Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
After nearly 18 months of planning and anticipating, we finally took our dream vacation to Kenya in December 2022. Our time at Mahali Mzuri was the centerpiece and highlight of the trip. This was hands down the most luxurious travel experience we've ever had; the hospitality at Mahali Mzuri was simply unmatched. The visit was off to a great start when our guide Betty picked us up at the airstrip and we saw 2 lionesses before even arriving at camp. We enjoyed 6 game drives (plus the trips to/from the airstrip, which were like mini game drives) with Betty over the course of our 3 night stay. She had such a wealth of knowledge to share and always seemed to position the vehicle so we'd get amazing views and interactions with the wildlife. We particularly came to appreciate her deep knowledge of local birds - while the big game are flashy and fun, they can be a bit hard to come by sometimes, and there are always interesting and beautiful birds to see and hear! Over the course of our stay, we saw pretty much everything - lions, leopards, cheetah, elephants, hippos, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, and so many antelope (including the elusive eland). The staff at camp took such wonderful care of us and truly made sure everything we could have wanted was handled. Ann welcomed us and introduced us to the camp, and a few days later, she was my massage therapist. Don't sleep on the spa treatments in the afternoons between game drives - who needs white noise or chimes when you can listen to the sounds of the Masai Mara during your massage! Raymond the barman was a blast - such a personable guy and a great "facilitator of fun" with his inventive cocktails and funny stories. Leticia was our server for the duration of our visit. She was so kind and attentive, always remembering our preferences and making sure things were just as we wanted. The food at Mahali Mzuri was delicious and varied, and we really appreciated being able to dine just the two of us (vs. the group dinners we'd been prepared for in our research of some other camps). We especially enjoyed the soups (cold at lunch, hot at dinnertime), and the chef has a cookbook available for purchase. We chose to breakfast out on our game drives for all but the last morning, and the chef would take our picnic breakfast order at dinner the night before. There is nothing like enjoying a cup of coffee and breakfast sandwich parked next to two cheetahs! The accommodations were simply spectacular. This is glamping like you've never seen before! Our tent had a fully stocked minibar (we loved the local KO gin for an afternoon cocktail on the spacious verandah) and plenty of bottled water. Mahali Mzuri provides personalized reusable bottles (a great souvenir) too. Laundry service is like magic - put your dirty clothes in the bag, fill out the form, and leave it as you depart for your morning game drive. When you return from dinner, your clothes will be clean and folded. There was sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer in the room/safari vehicle/by the pool, plus the regular stuff (shampoo, conditioner, lotion) and bubble bath + bath salt scrub for the fabulous claw foot tub! Wifi connectivity was excellent - a really slick meshed network between the tents and the restaurant/bar area. We turned our phones on airplane mode the whole time we were there. There was also a really nice power strip on the desk that had both USB plug ins and multi-way international plug so we didn't even need our power converter from US plugs. You can choose to leave tent flaps open at night or have them closed - we left ours open and loved listening to the sounds of the Mara (lions, hippos, etc) at night. You'll need an escort to walk around camp after dark. Even though we saw cape buffalo poop on the trail to the restaurant one morning, we felt very safe. Your "wake up call" will be one of the security guards knocking on the door of your tent! The only disappointment of our stay was in the gift shop. I was dying to bring home a Mahali Mzuri baseball cap but there were none in adult sizes! Alas. Plenty of cool beaded items and branded jackets in case you forgot one for cool morning game drives. Mahali Mzuri was an absolutely magical place to stay and set the bar extremely high for our first safari. We would love to return someday, but until then, we'll hold on tight to our memories and flip through our photos. Asante sana!…
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Date of stay: December 2022
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded Feb 23, 2023
Dear amyhromatka, Wow! What an incredible review. We’re over the moon to hear that you chose to visit us for your dream holiday, and so pleased that after such a long time planning we managed to live up to your expectations. To hear that your visit to Mahali Mzuri was the centrepiece of your trip, and that the hospitality you experienced with us was unmatched, has us all beaming from ear to ear. It was our pleasure to kick off your trip with your first game drive enroute to camp –it sounds like you had some incredible sightings too, seeing two lionesses on your way to camp sounds like the perfect introduction to the magical Mara! You were in great hands with our wonderful guide Betty – she is incredibly knowledgeable about the Mara and wildlife and we are so glad she was able to share this wealth of knowledge with you. We agree - she certainly knows how to position the game vehicle for guests to get the most incredible views of the animals. It sounds like you saw so much of the incredible wildlife, we’re so pleased to hear. We’re so glad to hear you felt well taken care of – this is, of course, the most important facet to our team Mahali Mzuri. Ann is just wonderful, incredibly welcoming and a very talented therapist. We totally agree – the Mara is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing massage, and the sounds of nature are just unbeatable. The amazing Raymond is not only a fantastic barman, but a brilliant ‘facilitator of fun’ – it certainly helps that his cocktails are to die for! Leticia is also fantastic – and we’re so glad you were able to experience her incredible attention to detail when it comes to guest preferences. We may be biased, but we agree – our food at Mahali Mzuri is just delicious. A morning coffee and breakfast out on a game drive with the incredible wildlife is an unbeatable experience. We’ve passed your lovely feedback onto our team and they are thrilled to read such kind words about your stay. Thank you for also sharing your feedback on the accommodation, we’re delighted everything was to your liking - from our luxury tents through to the stunning views; you really never tire of them, not least when enjoying a delicious KO gin on your private deck. Having a bubble bath and jumping into bed to listen to the sounds of the wildlife surrounding you is the perfect way to end the day at Mahali Mzuri. We’re sorry to hear you were disappointed with the lack of baseball caps in adult sizes – we appreciate your feedback and will take it on board to see if this is something we can potentially offer in the future. We really loved hosting you and can’t thank you enough for giving us such a wonderful review. We hope you’re already planning a return visit – don’t leave it too long. Asante sana! Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The whole experience of going to Mahali Mzuri is exceptional. From landing at the airstrip and being welcomed with cold drinks, to arriving at the venue. Everything was organised and well coordinated. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. The food and drinks were of the highest standard and the service from the entire staff was fantastic. The game drives and the vehicle amenities made the extra mark on the adventure.
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Date of stay: April 2022
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Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip:The pool is over chlorinated so ensure you have swimming goggles.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded Feb 23, 2023
Dear 866riteshs, Wow thank you so much, what a wonderful review to receive. It makes me incredibly happy to read all the lovely comments you have so kindly shared. To be described as an exceptional and amazing place is so great – thank you for your kind words. We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed your stay with us, and I have passed your feedback on to our incredible team who were overjoyed to hear you had such a great stay. I do hope we get the chance to welcome you back in the near future – please do come and visit us again soon. Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
You must stay here at least once in a lifetime, after staying here I understand why it was ranked as the best hotel worldwide. In Mahali Mzuri they will provide you with everything you need for a memorable safari trip. The staff organizes two private safaris per household per day (one in the morning and one at 4pm), during each Safari you’ll get to spot all sorts of animals like lions, leopards, giraffes, hypos… If you want to visit a Maasai village they will easily organise your visit and take you there at the time that you prefer (I highly recommend doing this visit). Furthermore you will experience top tier hospitality with the kindest and most devoted staff. Everything you’ll want to consume is included ( including an amazing bar 🤣). Do yourself a favour and stay here if you want to have an unique experience that you will never forget.…
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Date of stay: December 2022Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded Feb 23, 2023
Dear Alimaca, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a glowing review of your time at Mahali Mzuri – reading feedback like this leaves us beaming with pride, and to hear that it was the best trip of your life make us so incredibly happy. Our game drives and guides are incredible, and no two are ever the same. We’re so pleased we were able to share with you the magical wildlife in the Mara and so glad you were able to visit the local Maasai village – we too would highly recommend visiting. It’s a fantastic insight into daily life in the Mara, and a great way to learn more about the local Maasai tribe. I simply loved reading your comments about how the team’s efforts had such a positive impact on your stay. I also couldn’t agree more, I might be biased – but I believe we do have the kindest and most devoted staff, and it was a pleasure for us to host you. Please do come back and visit us again soon, we’d love to host you again. Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My husband and I are avid travelers. It’s hard to put things into words when you just had the most wonderful vacation ever. What makes Mahali Mzuri so special is not just the breathtaking location of the camp, delicious meals, great amenities, and luxurious tents, but most of all the amazing and caring staff at the camp. Chef Edison (Eddy) made my husband’s birthday dinner so special. The entire staff surprised us with a great presentation and delicious birthday cake. Leticia went above and beyond to make sure we are well-taken care of. Each meal was so special, private, and memorable. Amaiza did a great job taking care of our tent and each turndown service was beautiful. She even took care of our laundry before our flight back home. Because of my recent foot surgery, I was still limping during our safari trip. Everyone at the camp went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable, especially Marianna. She even arranged a car to drive us to the spa instead of taking a hundred steps down to the spa area. We were so lucky to have Jonathan as our guide. His tracking of the animals and keen ability to identify them just by their sounds is absolutely impressive. Each game drive was spectacular and educational. We’re glad the staff enjoyed the chocolate gift bags that we gave them; I wished I would have brought more. Because we had such an amazing time at Mahali Mzuri and were impressed by their service, we are now thinking of visiting the other Virgin Ltd Edition properties.…
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Date of stay: December 2022
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded Feb 23, 2023
Dear MhyAdventure, Wow, what a wonderful review. Thank you so much for taking the time to give us your feedback – I am beaming with pride to hear your kind comments. We’re so happy to hear you and your husband had a wonderful stay with us to celebrate his birthday. I might be a little biased, but I couldn’t agree more with your comments about our team. They are truly world-class, and we’re so pleased to hear your kind words about them. It’s so great to hear how every member of the team made your stay special and comfortable – particularly when visiting for such a special occasion. You were in great hands for your game drives with Jonathan, he is a true expert Guide and his passion for wildlife clear to see - we’re glad he could share his experience and knowledge with you. We’ve passed your feedback on to Eddy, Leticia, Amaiza, Marianna and Jonathan - and they are all so happy to hear how much you enjoyed your stay. We’re so pleased to hear you’d like to visit other Virgin Limited Edition properties, and we would of course, love to welcome you to Mahali Mzuri again soon - please do come and visit us again. Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This was our second visit to Mahali Mzuri. We had a fantastic vacation just as we did the first time. John was our driver. He is a kind patient and knowledgeable man who knows the entire area inside out. We saw so many beautiful animals. Especially cheetahs which was surprising to me. We saw two cheetah brothers kill a young wildebeest. We followed and watched them for hours before they finally went in for the kill. The drives are so special, especially the morning drives. So beautiful to be out in the open air spotting such amazing animals and birds. Don’t miss any drives if you can help it! Bob was our server and general go to guy for this trip. Super nice and a lot of fun . He put up with a lot of requests from us! (Thank you OllyBob!) and he did it with a smile. The accommodations are amazing. There are 12 large ‘tents’ with a big viewing deck overlooking the valley where we saw elephants and giraffe daily. The food was fabulous. Even better than 2019. They were helpful and willing to accommodate any food preferences and restrictions they could. The food and drinks were plentiful and unrestricted. We did do the balloon ride over the Mara. (Hot Air Safaris) I strongly discourage anyone who cares about animals from doing this. If I had known before what I know now I would not have done it. During the balloon flight the pilot would routinely go lower and then fire up the balloon to make the big roaring noise. He said he did it to scare the zebra so they would run. Then the tourists could get a better video. I asked him point blank “ are you deliberately scaring them?” To which he replied YES. He also did it with elephants and they were terrified rallying around trying to protect the baby. Imagine this going on multiple times a day with many balloons every day of the year? Absolutely horrific and unnecessary. Aren’t their lives tough enough? I was so upset and ashamed I’d been a part of it even unknowingly. Disappointingly the migration was not taking place. Apparently the weather/climate had changed the pattern of the wildebeest even though we were peak season. So we did not see The Great Migration. But there were still many animals to see. Overall I can’t express my love for Mahali Mzuri and it’s fabulous staff enough. I highly recommend it. Just don’t go on the balloon ride😏…
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Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Response from General Manager, Owner at Mahali Mzuri
Responded Feb 23, 2023
Dear Sujote, Thank you so much for taking the time to write us such a lovely review. It’s fantastic to hear such high praise from a returning guest to Mahali Mzuri, and we’re so glad you had a wonderful time during your second visit with us. We’ve passed your feedback onto John, who is beaming to hear how much you enjoyed the game drives with him. John is an extremely knowledgeable guide and a true Mara expert – so you were in very good hands. Watching the cheetahs and the incredible Mara wildlife is an unforgettable experience, and we’re so glad to hear you had a great time. We’re also so pleased to hear you enjoyed the food during your stay – and we couldn’t agree more about Bob. He is terrific, and remembers the needs of each guest down to each small detail. He’s so thrilled to hear you had a great time. We’re so sorry to hear you did not have a good experience on your Hot Air Safari. The safety and wellbeing of the wildlife in the reserve is always our absolute priority and therefore appreciate you sharing your honest feedback about this experience. The Hot Air Balloon Safari company is a third party that we arrange these experiences through – and is not directly related to Mahali Mzuri, but we will absolutely address this important feedback with them too. It is unfortunate that you did not get to witness the Great Migration during your stay. As you mentioned, it is difficult to predict when The Great Migration will happen, especially over more recent years due to changes in climate. We’re sorry to hear that you didn’t get to see it this time round, but we are pleased to hear that you still got to witness the abundance of incredible wildlife in the Mara – and we hope that this might just give you another reason to return! We’re so glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay in Mahali Mzuri, and that you would recommend it to other guests. We do hope that you will come back soon – we would really love to host you again. Kind Regards, Wilson Odhiambo General Manager Wilson.Odhiambo@mahalimzuri.virgin.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.