The soothing interiors of the main lodge are an extension of the surrounding wilderness — a Kenyan Greenheart tree extends through the centre, floorboards evoke wood bleached by the African sun, while splashes of saturated mustard yellows and cerulean blues conjure the colours of African wildflowers glowing in a ‘golden hour’ light. Ornamentation includes hand-crafted Maasai spears on the walls and patterned prints inspired by these carved wooden weapons once used for lion-hunting ensure an authentic African spirit abounds. Dramatic glass doors open out from the lounge to the terrace. Here, faded indigo rugs and elegant Edison-bulb pendant lights gently illuminate the decking without competing with the natural ambiance and the inviting new boma firepit is encircled by deckchairs, with each seat promising grandstand river views. Dine on the deck of the main lodge and overlook the river’s resident hippos. Relax with a good book in the library, cool off in the pool or for an extra special treat, experience traditional African remedies and spa treatments in the mini-spa.

Sanctuary Olonana’s 14 exceptional suites, at least 130 sqm in size, flaunt clean lines and organic materials, and are so comfortable that guests would be forgiven for being tempted to stay in. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors fold open to reveal magnificent Mara River views and the interiors have been sensitively and tastefully finished with elegant nature-inspired furnishings; this creates an ever-present sense of being connected to the great outdoors. Sumptuous king-sized beds, with overhead fans, and a daybed on the deck invite you to relax inside or out, while the sprawling lower lounge area offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Three of the suites at Sanctuary Olonana feature an extra bedroom, which is heaven-sent for families. The unfaltering attention to detail extends to fully stocked mini-fridges, specially commissioned African art and glamorous ensuites. These refined marble- and slate-accented bathrooms have a generous tub, double vanity and a rain shower.

Now the most luxury travellers can immerse themselves in this wildlife experience, connecting with ancient forces of nature, from the secluded ultra-luxury Geoffrey Kent Suite. The sophisticated free-flowing space contains two private bedrooms, each fully en-suite, and is accessed by private road.

You may have decided with your guide to take a picnic breakfast or lunch with you but equally lovely in the evening is to enjoy a bush dinner. A private and secluded clearing is prepared for an elegant dinner in the middle of the African bush. As the sun swiftly sinks, the setting is illuminated by a magnificent log fire. The table setting is as sophisticated and elegant as found in the finest restaurants with wild flower arrangements that grace starched white table linen. Candles flicker in the darkness, throwing golden lights on the table cloth as smiling waiters serve a delicious dinner. After dinner retire to the warmth of the campfire where brandies and liqueurs are served as you absorb the peace and beauty of an African night.

As the afternoon game drive comes to an end, drive to a specially chosen vantage point overlooking the Mara plains. Drinks are served as you take in the beauty of the rapid sunset colouring the acacia dotted plains and transforming the world in a matter of minutes. Enjoy the warmth of the fire and discuss the day’s adventures as waiters serve canapés and a selection of drinks, with the spectacular setting sun in the horizon.

This luxury safari lodge is an exclusive hideaway complete with library and swimming pool.

Between activities, why not relax at our mini-spa? Offering a range of treatments from facials to body massages, the spa uses products from the Africology and French marine-based Thalgo range. Choose from a range of treatments such as a full body sweet and savoury scrub, pure collagen velvet mask, an indoceane treatment journey or Africology balancing scalp and foot massage. Africology manicures and copper & hot stone pedicures are also available.With spectacular views over the Mara River and the soothing sound of the river and hippos in the background – you’ll have no choice but to relax.