JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

In one word: wow. We have just wrapped up 5 nights at the JWMMM and it exceeded all of my expectations. The property is beautiful, comfortable, and well located -- but what really makes the experience here is the staff. They have really nailed the delicate balance of delivering excellent service but without it feeling overly formal and manufactured. Everyone was so warm, friendly, and engaging (but not so much that I, as an introvert, felt uncomfortable). A few standouts to mention: - Noah in the Fig Tree restaurant was our server for nearly every meal we had. He always had a smile on his face and I'm pretty sure I gained a few extra pounds thanks to his insistence that I add a starter or dessert.. or both to each meal. - Dr. Victor behind the bar will make sure your glass is never empty. I loved the signature cocktails offered, but also went off menu a few times and Dr. Victor was happy to oblige. - Nelson, our room attendant, always made sure we had fresh towels, a minibar stocked with whatever we desired, nightly turndown service, and -- the absolute GOAT amenity -- daily laundry service. He also left us lovely notes each day, which was over the top. - Josiah at the coffee bar made sure that we had a cup of coffee and our choice of pastries even at 5:30am (the blueberry muffins are the best!), but his real talent is in leading the group in a raucous rendition of Jambo Bwana to celebrate guests' birthdays -- don't let his quiet demeanor fool you, he has a pair of lungs on him! - Resident photographer Moses in the Canon studio equipped us with high end cameras that allowed us to capture the best photos I've ever taken. This not only meant we have so many great photos, but the experience of having the camera and the challenge of trying to get the best shots made the game drives so much more engaging than they otherwise would have been. But it's not just the equipment -- Moses was always on hand to offer helpful tips for how to get betters shots, both in terms of using the camera and framing our shots. He also reviewed our photos, offered feedback, and at the end of the trip edited a selection of our best shots. Thanks to Moses, I feel like I got to live my childhood dream of being a National Geographic photographer. - Last, but certainly not least, our guide Joseph stole the show. From the moment we stepped onto the airstrip on day 1, until the moment we departed, Joseph was with us making sure we had the best experience. But more than that, he knows his stuff. His love of the wildlife, sharp eye, and skill with the Land Cruiser meant we not only got to see the Big 5 and then some, but also that more often that not we were the first ones to spot the animal and, even when that wasn't the case, somehow Joseph always managed to angle our vehicle such that we were able to get a great view. His sixth sense for where the animals might be, and they might react in any given situation was truly remarkable. There's more to say, and more people

The JW Marriott is an awesome property set in Mara. The location is very convenient to seeing all parts of Mara. What sets apart this property is the staff! They provide a very individualized service and each detail is taken care of. The food is amazing and chef will prepare any additional requests. I highly recommend visiting this lodge if you plan a Mara vacation.

This lodge and experience exceeded our expectations in every aspect. The facilities, i.e. the common areas, and the tent suites were 12 out of 10. The staff aims and delivers in providing excellent service, from arrival at the air strip to departure, everybody was extremely accommodating. Particularly: Erik, our game drive guide Stephen, general manager Milton, at the reception area Diana, also front desk and host Uttam, the chef Benjamin, our main waiter Victor, also waiter Dewy and Ivy, at the Spa Agnes, house keeping Ronald at the JW Garden (check it out!) The lodge, safari vehicles and tent suites were smart and thoughtfully designed. All civilized comforts were readily accessible. The best experience!