The Ritz-Carlton’s first safari property in Kenya showcases innovative biophilic design that elevates the safari experience while honouring local culture and craftsmanship
2nd June 2025 – Internationally acclaimed LW Design Group proudly unveils its revolutionary design concept for The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp in Kenya, set to welcome guests in August 2025. As a visionary firm, LW known for creating some of the world’s most iconic hospitality projects, has masterfully crafted a groundbreaking safari experience that seamlessly merges world-class luxury with the soul of the Masai Mara. This landmark project marks both LW’s and The Ritz-Carlton’s first entry into the safari lodge market, bringing their extensive global expertise to create a new benchmark in luxury safari experiences.
Perched along the banks of the Sand River, the safari camp introduces a transformative approach to safari lodge design, with each structure elevated three meters above ground. This innovative design decision, conceived by LW, not only protects the property from seasonal flooding but creates an unparalleled treetop perspective that places guests at eye level with the forest canopy, offering a rare and immersive vantage point to fully embrace the surrounding wilderness.
“The core vision behind The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp was to create an experience unlike any other, redefining a destination where world-class luxury seamlessly merges with the soul of the Mara,” says Pooja Shah-Mulani, Managing Partner, Creative at LW Design Group. “As a global design firm, we have had the privilege of designing and leading some of the most iconic hospitality projects around the world. We wanted to bring this extensive international expertise to the safari lodge market, a segment we are truly excited to enter.”
Biophilic Design: Architecture in Dialogue with Nature
The design narrative is deeply rooted in biophilic principles, with the architecture and interiors designed as a dialogue with nature. The journey begins as guests cross a 30-meter swing bridge, creating a sensory shift that gently separates them from the modern world and immerses them into the heart of the wilderness. Each tented suite features roll-up canvas walls that dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and scents of the Mara.
The landscape design has been carefully curated to preserve indigenous vegetation, using the plants to blur the boundaries between the lodge and the surrounding habitat. Natural shade, filtered light through tree canopies, and the sounds of the river all work together to create a multi-sensory environment that evolves with the time of day and the seasons.
Local Craftsmanship: Celebrating Kenyan Artistry
LW’s steadfast commitment to local sourcing is the cornerstone of this property’s identity, encompassing materials, craftsmanship, and the rich stories intricately woven into its design. All furniture and joinery have been locally crafted by generational joinery workshops, where traditional skills have been passed down and refined to meet international hospitality standards. The rugs and textiles found throughout the lodge have been handwoven on traditional looms by local women artisans, creating a beautiful fusion of local artistry and global quality.
“Every element, while luxurious, is rooted in the textures, traditions, and spirit of Kenya,” adds Pooja. “Personally, this project holds special significance, as Kenya is not just a destination but a home to me. Being able to combine my global experience with the opportunity to contribute to a place so close to my heart has been an incredibly rewarding journey.”
Innovative Amenities: Luxury in Harmony with Nature
The property introduces several first-of-their-kind features for a tented safari camp in the region, including private plunge pools for each suite, outdoor sunken lounges perched above the treetops, and indoor/outdoor showers that offer complete privacy while embracing the canopy and sky above. These thoughtfully curated elements ensure that luxury and nature exist in perfect harmony, where every space celebrates the spirit of safari living with comfort, authenticity, and awe-inspiring beauty.
Sustainable Design: Environmental Stewardship
Sustainability is at the core of the design philosophy, ensuring the lodge exists in harmony with its surroundings. Key initiatives include locally sourced materials such as timber, stone, and textiles, reducing the carbon footprint while supporting local economies; elevated structures minimising ground disturbance, allowing wildlife and water flow to continue naturally; and solar energy and rainwater harvesting integrated into the infrastructure.
Culinary Journey: Dining Experiences Under African Skies
The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp also features exceptional dining venues designed by LW, including a multi-cuisine restaurant, a stargazing sky deck for dining under the vast African sky, The Boma for immersive, fireside dining experiences at sunset, and an underground wine cellar offering intimate private dining experiences.
“The result is a refined, immersive, and authentic safari experience, offering guests not only the unparalleled service of The Ritz-Carlton but also a genuine connection to the land, the culture, and the stories of the Masai Mara,” concludes Pooja.
The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp sets a new benchmark for sustainable luxury in Kenya’s iconic wildlife destination. Combining LW’s visionary design with The Ritz-Carlton’s renowned service, the property celebrates the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Masai Mara. Offering authentic experiences that honour the environment, it exemplifies how luxury and sustainability can coexist, inviting guests to discover Kenya with unmatched sophistication and respect for the land and its people.
