House in the Wild

OVERVIEW:

House in the Wild is a small, eco-friendly lodge with seven cottages just north of Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. The property is part of the Collection in the Wild portfolio, which operates conservation-focused safari lodges and exclusive-use villas in the Maasai Mara. It’s charming, rustic, and owner-operated, and guests at House in the Wild can expect warm hospitality and plenty of personal attention. As the house overlooks the Mara river, the views from here are exquisite, and game drives take place in three different conservancies, guaranteeing maximum wildlife-viewing opportunities. Rates at House in the Wild are full board and include all meals, soft drinks, beers, non-premium wines and spirits, laundry, and Ngerende airstrip transfers.

ACCESS & LOCATION: 

House in the Wild is located in the Enonkishu Conservancy, on the banks of the Mara river. There are scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Ngerende airstrip – from there, it’s a 20-minute drive to the lodge. Private charters can also be arranged by small plane or helicopter.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT HOUSE IN THE WILD: 

House in the Wild has seven charming, rustic-chic cottages, each with one or two bedrooms and private verandas facing the river or gardens. The style is homely and incorporates local craftsmanship and sustainably sourced natural materials such as thatch and exposed wood beams. Original in their design, the Kisaru and Marula cottages both have two en-suite bedrooms with gorgeous copper bathtubs, and cosy fireplaces. River, Hippo, and Olerai are one-bedroom cottages, and Warbugia has an upstairs loft ideal for sleeping two children. All rooms have mosquito nets, an electronic safe, square pin plug sockets, drinking water, yoga mats, and torches. The stone floors are decorated with kilims and natural weave rugs, and every cottage has comfortable indoor seating areas, writing desks, simple hanging storage areas, luggage racks, and 24-hour solar-powered lighting. Double doors open onto verandas with seating arrangements, some facing the lawns and others overlooking the Mara river. River Cottage has a particularly beautiful outlook from its front-facing double bed, allowing guests to gaze out at the water as soon as they open their eyes!

House in the Wild’s open-sided shared spaces have a Swahili-style bar and dining area where guests can request both private and communal dining. Candlelit dining can also be arranged in scenic spots beneath the stars, by a log burner, or in the privacy of your veranda. There’s a swimming pool with panoramic river views and a thatch gazebo. Wi-Fi is available in both the main areas and the cottages.

ACTIVITIES AT HOUSE IN THE WILD:

House in the Wild is a family-friendly property with plenty to entertain all ages.

• Game drives

  – Unlimited drives take place in the game-rich Enonkishu, Ol Chorro, and Lemek conservancies, led by experienced professional guides. Guests can also request day trips to the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

• Nature walks

  – Venture out on a guided nature walk and encounter some of the Mara’s smaller attractions, such as birds, butterflies, plantlife, spoor, and animal tracks.

• Rhino Sanctuary visits

  – Visit the white rhino sanctuary, where you’ll observe these protected gentle giants in their natural habitat and learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Please note that the entrance fees for this activity are extra and payable directly.

• Hot air balloon excursions

  – Soar high above the Mara’s golden plains on an unforgettable hot air balloon excursion, followed by a champagne breakfast. Please note that this activity is not included in the rate.

• Visit the Mara Training Centre

  – At the centre, founded by owners Tarquin and Lippa Wood, you’ll learn all about their work with local communities and wildlife conservation management.

• Mountain biking

  – For those wishing to stay active, bike riding around House in the Wild, accompanied by a Maasai guide, is possible.