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Accommodation, Experiences
When it comes to authentic safaris, few destinations can rival the mystique and incredible range of experiences available at Agama Mara. Nestled in the heart of the African savanna, this gem offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. Emma, our Sales Manager, visited Angama in May of 2023, and while she was a huge fan even before she visited, upon her return, we all know that this is the lodge in Africa that captured both her heart and soul. Experience the magic of Angama through Emma’s eyes.
Named after the Swahili term for “suspended in mid-air” Angama Mara is a spectacular safari lodge with a breathtaking view of Kenya’s Maasai Mara spread out below. The lodge has a bird’s eye view over the plains, so one almost feels like you are touching the clouds- indeed between heaven and earth. The location makes its views unbeatable and a great reason to include in any trip.
The lodge has a bird’s eye view over the plains, so one almost feels like you are touching the clouds- indeed between heaven and earth
We arrived via the Kitchwa Tembo Airstrip – there is a long-term vision to create a private charter airstrip over the next few years, and then took the short drive towards the lodge through Kenya’s beautiful Maasai Mara reserve.
The Lodge is exquisitely positioned at the summit of the hill, with a long view over the Maasai Mara Triangle. The images on the website and social channels hardly do the surroundings justice, you have to see it for yourself! The lodge itself features 30 rooms split over two main lodges – featuring 15 beautifully appointed tents each- with a central pool, photographic studio, curio shop, wellness center, and map room.
The views from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows in the rooms have to be experienced to be believed
The rooms are wonderful – and all are tastefully decorated with beautiful local elements. Each room offers views of the plains below and due to being spaced out, you still feel like you have enough privacy. The views from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows in the rooms have to be experienced to be believed.
The Maasai Mara reserve is easily accessible as well. Angama itself features a number of underground springs that well up above ground, meaning there is a year-round supply of water and game. The area is famous for the “great tuskers,” and the sheer size of the elephant herds had my entire party enthralled for hours from the lodge deck or while out on game drives.
The area is famous for the “great tuskers,” and the sheer size of the elephant herds had my entire party enthralled for hours from the lodge deck or while out on game drives
The Maasai Mara is famed for its exceptional wildlife, and Agama Mara takes full advantage of this. The heart-pounding excitement of game drives allows you to witness the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) in their natural habitat. One thing I especially appreciated about the game drives is that the vehicles are spacious – no middle seat means no matter where you are in the vehicle, you will have a 360-degree view of the wildlife on every drive.
Another fabulous little secret that Angama holds is that they can arrange a professional photographer to accompany you on the drives and take photos for you (and even of you, if you like). This is a very special touch and some of the moments captured of our group were priceless – the awe, wonder, and pure joy on our faces perfectly encapsulated in real, raw snapshots. The photography studio allows you to edit your photos with the help of one of their knowledgeable experts.
The photography studio allows you to edit your photos with the help of one of their knowledgeable experts
Everyone you meet at the lodge is outstanding; they anticipate your every need and always make you feel welcome with their signature Kenyan warmth. The dish ingredients were often grown locally, and always fresh, and delicious. The menu offers a great selection of regional cuisine, with Indian influences, and vegetarian options. The lodge offers a variety of dining options, the sundowner boma with the local Masai showing their skills and prowess is a definite highlight and not to be missed. I found myself drinking in the near-unbelievable visits with a delicious gin and tonic in hand on one of the afternoons, wishing I never had to leave.
I found myself drinking in the near-unbelievable visits with a delicious gin and tonic in hand on one of the evenings
Guests can also enjoy a picnic lunch or breakfast to enjoy while on the game drive and I recommend doing this at least once. Of course, this is also the spot where the iconic Out of Africa film was shot, and visiting this scenic locale is a wonderful short hike that offers breathtaking vistas and is quite a romantic experience.
Of course this is also the spot where the iconic Out of Africa film was shot
The picnic baskets that the lodge provides, are tied up with Angama’s signature purple and red twine, its a bit of an Angma insider – the string is woven into a beautiful bracelet for guests to wear. The legend goes that once the bracelet wears through, then its time to return to Angama.
The legend goes that once the bracelet wears through, then its time to return to Angama
At Angama Mara you feel like you become one with nature. The exceptional guides, drivers and all staff in general all make the experience extra special. I am passionate about community and conservation and I was happy to learn more about the Angama Mara Foundation. Each visitor to Angama Mara makes a $20 payment to the Foundation, included in their stay, towards a separate organization established for the benefit of the local residents, animals, and landscape that surround the lodge.
I am passionate about community and conservation and I was thrilled to learn more about the Angama Mara Foundation
The Foundation works in the areas of conservation, healthcare, and education. Together with the Mara Conservancy, the lodge’s neighboring villages, and NGOs with a history of having an influence in the area, projects are chosen and given priority with the community’s input on where they can affect the greatest change.
The lodge also offers a fantastic fitness center ,an artful selection of gifts and a wellness centre ideal for when you want to indulge in a holistic treatment. While my time there wasn’t quite enough to enjoy a balloon safari, this is a must-experience activity. Another unmissable element is the walking safaris, where guests get to experience the Maasai Mara up close and personal. With your local guide by your side, guests will find their eyes opened to the beauty of Africa and this special corner of Kenya in new and unexpected ways. Connecting with the local Masaai tribes is also a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I walked away feeling deeply grateful for my time spent with them.
Connecting with the local Masaai tribes is also a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I walked away feeling deeply grateful for my time spent with them
Agama Mara is a destination that transcends the ordinary, offering travelers an extraordinary blend of untamed nature and comfort. Whether you’re 8 or 80, there is plenty to do and experience. From thrilling safaris and guided walks to cultural immersion and ultimate relaxation, this enchanting corner of the Maasai Mara has it all. Thank you to Leshan, who created memorable moments. I will always cherish Ekai, who made every game drive a unique and action-packed experience.
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines a true safari and adventure in the heart of Africa, Agama Mara should be at the top of the travel list. Prepare to be captivated, awed, and pampered as you embark on a journey like no other.
Your African dream awaits at Agama Mara.
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