- Plans The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott safari camps
Business a.m. Reporter
Marriott International is expanding its luxury safari portfolio with the planned opening of two additional luxury tented safari camps in Kenya, with the signings of The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp with Lazizi Mara Limited and Lazizi Solio Limited, respectively, both part of the Lazizi Group of Companies.
A statement by the global hospitality group made available to Business a.m. said the signings underscore its commitment to expanding its world-class luxury portfolio and offerings for unique travel experiences, as the proposed properties aim to set new standards for high-end, luxury hospitality in some of Africa’s most breathtaking safari destinations.
“Building off of the incredible success we have seen thus far in our luxury safari portfolio in Africa and the growing appetite for outdoor lodging and nontraditional hospitality experiences, the signing of these agreements with Lazizi Group of Companies marks another milestone in Marriott International’s growth,” said Jerome Briet, chief development officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.
“The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will offer opportunities for wildlife encounters, elegant designs, and exemplary service that promise to create lasting memories,” Briet added.
Shivan Patel, director of Lazizi Group of Companies, also said: “Kenya is synonymous with the ultimate safari experience. These projects are set to redefine Kenya’s luxury safari segment while promoting conservation and community development. Our continued collaboration with Marriott International underscores our shared commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences that celebrate the region’s natural and cultural heritage.”
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp, scheduled to open in August this year, will introduce the brand’s legendary service and elegant design to the sub-Saharan Africa region. The property will be located within the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve, renowned for its abundant wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles journey from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara each year. Elevated amongst the trees on a secluded island surrounded by the famous Sand River near the Tanzanian border, this treetop retreat will offer picturesque views of the riverbanks and forest, giving guests a front-row seat to experience the majesty of the Great Migration.
On the other hand, the JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp is expected to open in early 2026, and is poised to provide the perfect retreat for the mind, body, and soul, bringing the brand’s exceptional service and sophisticated design to the heart of the Solio Game Reserve. Nestled between the majestic slopes of Mount Kenya and the peaks of the Aberdare Mountains, this sanctuary will offer an immersive wildlife experience within the 45,000-acre game reserve, and 19,000-acre Solio Ranch Conservancy. Internationally recognised for its successful rhino breeding programme, the conservancy provides unparalleled encounters with white and endangered black rhinos, along with other indigenous wildlife including leopards, cheetahs, and plains game.
