Global hotels bet big on Maasai Mara as tourism earnings surge

An aerial view shows the expansive Lemek Conservancy where the new Muthu Mara River Lodge began operations. [Manuel Ntoyai, Standard]

Global hotel groups are pouring millions of dollars into Maasai Mara safari lodges as Kenya's tourism earnings surge past pre-pandemic levels.

The Maasai Mara ecosystem now hosts over 60 safari camps and lodges ranging from budget tented camps to ultra-luxury properties charging upwards of $3,500 per night, reflecting a dramatic recovery from the COVID-19 collapse that nearly destroyed Kenya's wildlife tourism industry.