Ever felt that deep itch to escape Nairobi’s traffic and noise, to just breathe fresh air and see endless skies? Mara Moja Naretoi House is your answer—a stunning, eco-friendly private home right in the heart of the Maasai Mara.
We’re breaking down everything you need to know: from the unique Maasai-inspired design to how you can actually book it for your next family getaway. It’s time to plan that epic local holiday you’ve been dreaming about.
What Exactly is Mara Moja Naretoi House?
This isn’t your typical hotel or lodge. Mara Moja Naretoi House is a private, exclusive-use home available for rent, offering a completely self-contained safari experience. Some people think it’s a public camp or part of a big chain, but pole, that’s not true. It’s more like having your own luxury villa, but one that sits privately within a Maasai conservancy bordering the main reserve.
The Maasai Mara Conservancy Connection
You won’t find this house inside the Maasai Mara National Reserve itself. Instead, it’s located in the Naboisho Conservancy. This setup is similar to how many Kenyans choose private conservancies around Amboseli for a more exclusive, less crowded experience. Being in a conservancy means your game drives have off-road access and you directly support local Maasai communities through conservancy fees.
the “Exclusive-Use” Model
When you book Naretoi House, you book the entire property for your group only. This is key. There’s a minimum stay requirement, often 2-3 nights, and you pay one rate for the house, not per person. It’s perfect for a multi-family trip or a special celebration, giving you total privacy and flexibility with your schedule, meals, and activities.
How to Book and What It Really Costs
Booking Naretoi House is straightforward but requires planning. You deal directly with the management company or through a trusted local tour operator. Forget walking in; this is a pre-booked, all-inclusive experience where everything is arranged for you in advance.
Here’s what you need to budget for and understand:
- The nightly rate for the entire house can range from KES 150,000 to over KES 250,000 depending on the season. This usually covers all meals, house drinks, and two shared game drives per day.
- You must also pay a conservancy fee per person, per night. This is non-negotiable and goes directly to the Naboisho Conservancy for community and wildlife projects. Budget an extra KES 5,000 to KES 8,000 per adult per night for this.
- Transfers from the airstrip or a self-drive meeting point are included. If you’re driving yourself, you’ll need a capable 4×4 and must coordinate your arrival time precisely with the house manager.
- Major bookings are often secured with a 50% deposit, with the balance due 60 days before travel. Always get a proper contract, not just a WhatsApp agreement.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid for a Smooth Stay
Underestimating the All-Inclusive Nature
Some people think they can pop to a nearby duka for supplies. The house is remote within the conservancy. All your meals and drinks are provided, so come ready to relax and enjoy what’s offered. Communicate any dietary needs like allergies or halal preferences when you book, not when you arrive.
Mixing Up Conservancy and Reserve Rules
Don’t assume the rules are the same as the main Maasai Mara National Reserve. In the Naboisho Conservancy, night game drives and guided bush walks are allowed. This is a huge bonus! But you must always be accompanied by a conservancy guide—never wander off on your own.
Forgetting About the Minimum Guest Requirement
The house is designed for groups. While the rate is for the house, there’s often a minimum number of paying guests required, like 6 adults. If your group is smaller, you may still have to pay for the minimum, making it less economical. Always confirm this before getting excited.
Last-Minute Booking During Peak Season
Trying to book for December holidays or long weekends in June can be a nightmare. This place gets booked out months, sometimes a year, in advance by both international and local tourists. Start planning your group trip at least 6-8 months early to secure your dates.
Getting There: Your Kenya-Specific Travel Options
How you get to Naretoi House depends entirely on your budget and sense of adventure. The most common airstrip is Naboisho Airstrip, served by daily scheduled flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi. A one-way flight costs roughly KES 15,000 to KES 20,000 per person. The house team will collect you from the airstrip.
For the self-drive crew, it’s a different story. The journey from Nairobi takes about 5-6 hours. You’ll take the Mai Mahiu-Narok road, then head towards Talek. The final stretch into the conservancy is rough murram. You must have a proper 4×4 and you must coordinate your exact arrival time and meeting point with the house manager in advance—they will guide you in from a designated gate. Don’t rely on Google Maps alone in the bush.
Here’s a pro tip: If you’re driving, consider breaking the journey with a night in Narok town. This lets you start the final off-road leg fresh in the morning and avoids arriving at the house after dark, which is safer and more enjoyable. Pack some extra drinking water and snacks for the road, just in case.
The Bottom Line
Mara Moja Naretoi House offers a uniquely private and luxurious way to experience the Maasai Mara, but it’s an investment best suited for a group. The key is The all-inclusive, exclusive-use model and planning well in advance to secure your spot and budget correctly for all costs.
If this sounds like the perfect setting for your next family reunion or group holiday, start by visiting the official management website to check availability and get accurate, current rates for your preferred dates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mara Moja Naretoi House in the Maasai Mara in Kenya
Can I book Naretoi House directly online like a hotel on Booking.com?
Not exactly. You cannot make an instant booking online. You must contact the management or a local tour operator via their website or phone to check availability, discuss your group, and receive a formal proposal and contract.
The process is personal, not automated. You’ll likely exchange several emails to confirm all details before making a deposit via bank transfer or MPESA for a local agent.
What is the cancellation policy if our plans change?
Cancellation policies are strict, especially for peak seasons. You typically lose your deposit if you cancel within 60-90 days of arrival. Closer to the date, you may forfeit the full amount.
It’s crucial to ask for the specific policy in writing before you pay. Consider getting travel insurance that covers trip cancellation for your group.
Is the house suitable for young children or elderly relatives?
Yes, it can be very family-friendly. The house has multiple bedrooms and communal spaces. However, you must supervise children closely due to the wild, unfenced environment.
Inform the management about any mobility concerns. While the house is spacious, the terrain outside is uneven and not wheelchair-accessible.
Can we request specific meals, like traditional Kenyan dishes?
Absolutely! The private chef can prepare a wide variety of meals. When you book, discuss your menu preferences, including ugali, nyama choma, or vegetarian options.
This is a major advantage of a private house. Just give them enough notice to source the ingredients.
What happens if we have a medical emergency while at the house?
The house has first-aid kits and staff are trained in basic first aid. For serious emergencies, they have protocols to evacuate guests to the nearest airstrip for a flight to Nairobi.
However, you are responsible for any evacuation costs. It’s highly advised to have Complete medical insurance that covers air ambulance services in Kenya.
