Sentrim Mara Game Lodge

The staff were great, and the rooms were really clean for what are basically outdoor tents. I also liked the food and the fact that the camp is inside the reserve. The place feels a little dated, especially the bathroom, which could use an update. I’d stay again.

Francis and the rest of the staff were the best part of our two nights. They were so helpful, and the buffet food was a real highlight. Our room was basic but a good size, and everything was clean, even though the bathroom looked dated. The pool was clean too, just very cold.

The security staff were friendly and helpful. That was the bright spot in an otherwise horrible stay, especially compared with the other three Sentrim lodges we visited that week. We booked for six people and stayed three days, but never saw the manager until a safe in our room jammed. He first had the receptionist send us back to the front desk twice, saying it was our fault and they would get to it when they could. We kept asking for help until he finally came out. My wife even apologized in advance in case she'd caused the problem, but he showed no empathy and scolded us like children. The reception was disorganized and the welcome was unfriendly. At the bar, they said they didn't stock either of two drinks we'd had at the other Sentrim resorts, and that we'd have to pick an inferior option at three times the price. After we asked the front desk to intervene, they somehow found the drinks about 20 minutes later. The chef was friendly and capable, but could use a refresher on food standards, variety, and cooking. One omelet arrived unflipped with raw egg white on top. Other staff seemed dour and unhappy to be serving guests, and morale felt nonexistent. I would advise people to avoid this place.

The lodge is close to Sekenani gate and has very good rooms and excellent food. You get a real forest atmosphere while you're there. The best Mara sightings are a long way from the lodge, though, so a full-day safari makes the most sense for wildlife photography.