Review: JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

This year, after the exciting milestone of getting married to my partner Jessy, we embarked on a round-the-world honeymoon. Our first aspirational experience on the trip began with a four-night stay at the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge.

Situated in Kenya’s famed Masai Mara National Reserve, the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a luxurious all-inclusive oasis surrounded by wildlife, the Talek River, and the vast savannah plains.

This property, which opened in April 2023, brings forth a dynamic new stride for JW Marriott and the Marriott portfolio, as it’s the first African safari experience that can be booked with points through a major hotel loyalty program.

Until now, the luxury experience of a safari wasn’t accessible on points, so this development is a major advantage for those wishing to enjoy it with excellent value for their points.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge – Booking

The JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge sets standard rates for base-level accommodation at a premium price of $1,750+ (USD) per night.

In contrast, redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points costs about 120,000 points per night, which can be coupled with the advantage of the Fifth Night Free benefit.

It’s not uncommon to find discounted rates of 75,000 Bonvoy points per night, although you’ll have to keep a keen eye on availability to get this rate.

Remarkably, all rates include not only breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks – including alcohol, though excluding premium spirits – as well as up to two game drives per day. This presents an extraordinary value proposition, especially when booking with points!

For any cash bookings at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, you’ll be happy to know that it participates in Marriott Luminous, a preferred partner program.

By booking your stay through an authorized travel advisor, you’ll receive a number of other perks and benefits at no extra cost, which come in addition to those you may enjoy with Marriott Bonvoy status.