One of Kenya's leading economic pillars, tourism, continues to scale higher after two safari lodges in the country were ranked among the best establishments that go beyond the normal traditional game drive but offer a wide range of cultural experiences.
The World Best Awards survey, compiled by Travel and Leisure, named two lodges in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Angama Mara Lodge and Beyond Bateleur Camp, among Africa's most unique lodges that have something different to offer.
The survey factored in lodges that offer a non-traditional safari experience by looking at the facilities, service food, location and overall value.
"Classic safaris are still well represented, with guests favoring wildlife-rich areas such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, and the South African Kruger National Park," read part of the survey.
Kenya recorded two entries in the survey, tying with South Africa and Rwanda. On the other hand, Tanzania led with three while Uganda recorded one entry.
The top-ranked hotel was the Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
Angama Mara Lodge
The name of the lodge was inspired by the Swahili word meaning 'suspended in mid-air'. According to the establishment's official site, the safari lodge consists of two camps with 15 tented suites each, a private airfield and access to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.
"Each of Angama Mara’s spacious 100 square metres Tented Suites has floor-to-ceiling glass spanning all along the front to make the most of the dramatic views," part of the profile reads.
The rates of the lodge are categorised by season with travelers parting with Ksh254,022 each during the peak season, Ksh165,410 each for the standard season, and special offers ranging from Ksh100,427 each.
Bateleur Camp
Located at the foot of the Oloololo escarpment, the elegant Bateleur camp offers an unsurpassed wildlife experience. From two intimate camps consisting of nine tented suites each to a private butler and housekeeper who are at the guests' beck and call.
"Adventures at Bateleur Camp include twice-daily game drives, including spot-lit night drives. The camp also offers a range of additional activities such as bush walks, hot air balloon safaris, community excursions, a well-equipped gym and wellness treatments in our massage sala," part of the profile reads.
The tented suites cost Ksh93,338 per person per night while those seeking to delight in the family tent will pay Ksh326,684 each.
