Mara Safari Lodge
Mara Safari Lodge serves as a gateway to one of the continent’s most pristine and captivating safari destinations. As you journey into the depths of Kidepo Valley National Park, the anticipation builds with each passing mile. The Lodge renowned for its expansive savannahs and abundant wildlife. It’s a place where the rhythms of nature remain untouched by the passage of time. And where every moment holds the promise of discovery and wonder.
Inspired by the endangered Ik tribe – one of Africa’s smallest ethnic groups with a surviving population of less than 10,000. Displaced by the government in the 1960s to create space for the game park, our name Mara, despite having a universal connotation is short for Marang which in Ik dialect means “how are you?.” The Ik tribe – a hunter-gatherer community now lives in the Morungole Mountains on the border with neighboring Kenya.
We are a social enterprise that provides unique, state-of-the-art hospitality and customized tour experiences for our clients. We are passionate about the conservation of Mother Nature and mindful of the community in which we operate.
Our materials locally sourced, and we rely heavily on green energy. Such as solar for water heating, lighting, and running fridges. Our eco-friendly stoves use solar and volcanic rocks. Making us one of the most sustainable lodges in Kidepo Valley National Park.
Accommodation
We currently offer 12 standard rooms for booking. Each room thoughtfully designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort and style. Ensuring that your stay with us is truly exceptional. Each accommodation option at Mara Safari Lodge is designed to provide a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure and exploration.
Sink into our queen-size beds, enveloped by all-round mosquito curtaining, take in the beautiful sunset views from the balcony of your room. And enjoy nice hot showers from your en-suite bathroom.
Dinning
Embark on a culinary journey like no other! At Mara Safari Lodge, we believe that dining is not just about food, but an experience that engages all your senses. That’s why we’ve curated the ultimate dining experience that will leave you craving for more.
Our guests are treated to some of the most delectable native local dishes. Carefully crafted by our chef with locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is infused with flavors that are unique to the region, giving you an aroma that will transport you to a world of culinary bliss.
But it’s not just the food that makes our dining experience unforgettable. We take pride in serving our dishes in traditional dining items that add an extra layer of authenticity to your meal.
Activities
Camp fire
Our campfires are more than just a source of warmth on cold days. They’re a place where you can connect with nature and bond with fellow travelers. As the stars twinkle above and the moon casts its seductive glow, you’ll hear the sound of the wild – birds singing, crickets chirping, and mammals in a coordinated chorus – telling their own stories.
Nothing connects people more than stories – the revelation that people have gone through the same tribulations as you, like the same music as you, and share similar experiences. Our campfires are a place where you can reminisce on what it’s like to be young, wild, and free.
Bird Watching
Birding is best done on the fringes of the Narus and Namamkwenyi Valleys, where you have higher chances of catching a glimpse of rare species such as the Abyssinian Roller, Purple Heron, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Clapperton’s Francolin, Black-breasted Barbet, and Karamoja Apalis – which is found only in Kidepo.
We are in close proximity to Namamkwenyi Valley areas where there are several bird species from this magnificent valley. Apart from the bird sightings, tourists can have excellent views of Kidepo and many other wildlife. This Valley is located one kilometer away from our Lodge and one needs about 1.5 hours to complete the birding.
Game Drives
The best times to set off for our game drives are two-fold; at 6 am when the opportunities to spot the nocturnal animals are abundant. And at 4 pm in the evening when the animals are retiring for the night. In the Narus Valley – the only oasis in the semi-arid park – a wildlife show is on full display as the animals gather to cool off from the glaring sun. Here you will be able to spot lions, buffalos, zebras, hartebeests, cheetahs, giraffes, waterbucks, leopards and a plethora of bird species. Four of the Big Five live here; the African buffalo, leopards, elephants, lions, all in perfect harmony.
Nature Walks and Hiking
Kidepo Valley National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park offers a range of nature walks and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s beauty up close.
The Lomej Mountains are a popular hiking destination. With a hike that starts at 7 a.m. and takes approximately four hours to complete. Shorter guided walks of around two hours taken through the Narus Valley. Which is located 5 kilometers away from Mara Safari Lodge. Namamkwenyi Valley can be reached in one Kilometer from Mara Safari Lodge. Visitors can also meet members of the IK tribe during prearranged hikes to the Morungole Mountains outside the park.