House in the Wild, Masai Mara: A Pioneering Rewilding Safari Lodge
Experience the heart of regenerative tourism at House in the Wild, a family-owned boutique lodge perched on the banks of the Mara River within the private Enonkishu Conservancy.
For travellers seeking an authentic and meaningful safari experience, House in the Wild offers something truly special. This is not just a place to stay; it is a pioneering rewilding project that has transformed former farmland back into a thriving wilderness
. As part of Beyond Kenya Safaris’ curated portfolio, this intimate eco-lodge delivers exceptional wildlife encounters, warm hospitality, and the deep satisfaction of supporting community-based conservation.
Here is everything you need to know about this remarkable property, from its inspiring story and luxurious accommodation to the unforgettable safari experiences it offers.
Location: In the Heart of a Rewilding Success Story
House in the Wild is located on Naretoi, a 1,000-acre private estate within the Enonkishu Conservancy, on the northern edge of the Maasai Mara ecosystem . The lodge boasts a stunning setting in a patch of forest on a bend of the Mara River, offering guests exquisite views of the water and the surrounding plains
.
A Unique Conservation Story
What makes this location truly exceptional is its history. The area was once an intensive commercial farm. The estate is the first project of its kind where land use on the edge of the Mara has reverted from farming back to nature . This pioneering rewilding project, led by owners Tarquin and Lippa Wood, has seen wildlife return to the area in spectacular numbers . The Enonkishu Conservancy is now a model of regenerative eco-tourism, managed in partnership with the local Maasai community, who own the land
.
How to Get There
House in the Wild is accessible by air or road:
- Charter Flights: Private charters can fly directly to a nearby airstrip.
- Scheduled Flights: Scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport land at Ngerende airstrip, from where it is a 20-minute drive to the lodge
- Road Transfer: For those preferring a scenic journey, it is approximately a 6-hour drive from Nairobi
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Accommodation: Charming Cottages with a Rustic-Chic Style
House in the Wild offers seven charming cottages, each designed with a homely, rustic-chic aesthetic that incorporates local craftsmanship and sustainable materials . The accommodation can comfortably host up to 20 guests
.
Cottage Types
- One-Bedroom Cottages: There are four single en-suite cottages, including River, Hippo, and Olerai. These are perfect for couples or solo travellers. Some have magnificent views of the Mara River from the bed, while others are renowned for their romantic copper bathtubs
- Two-Bedroom Family Cottages: Three cottages have two en-suite bedrooms, ideal for families or groups of friends. These include Marula, Kisaru, and The Original Cottage. Each features a double and twin room configuration with shared living space and private verandas
- Warburgia Cottage: This unique one-bedroom cottage features a loft area that can sleep two children, making it an excellent option for a small family
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Amenities
All cottages at House in the Wild offer a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort :
- En-suite bathrooms, some with outdoor showers or copper bathtubs
- Private verandas overlooking the river or gardens
- Fireplaces in select cottages
- Mosquito nets, electronic safes, and writing desks
- Yoga mats and flashlights
- 24-hour solar-powered lighting
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Living Spaces & Sustainability
The lodge’s shared spaces are open-sided, with a Swahili-style bar and dining area . Guests can enjoy meals in the main dining room, in the privacy of their cottage, or under the stars by the campfire
.
A Commitment to Sustainability
House in the Wild operates on a low-impact model, ensuring that the environment is protected for future generations :
- Solar Power: The property runs on 95% solar energy, supported by a backup generator
- Eco-Wetlands: A water recycling system uses an eco-wetland for natural water purification
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Fresh salad and vegetables are grown in the on-site Wild Shamba organic garden, with ingredients sourced within a 50 km radius
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Dining: Healthy, Home-Cooked Farm-to-Table Meals
The cuisine at House in the Wild is a highlight of the stay. The private chef prepares healthy, home-cooked meals based around fresh produce from the organic garden . Mealtimes are flexible, and guests can choose to dine in the elegant indoor dining room, on their private veranda, or in scenic spots under the stars . The chefs are also excellent at catering to children with favourites like fish fingers, spaghetti Bolognese, and pizzas
.
The Team: Personalised Service
House in the Wild is a family-owned and owner-operated lodge, ensuring warm hospitality and plenty of personal attention . The property is fully staffed with a dedicated team, including an excellent chef and professional safari guides . One of the best features is that every booking is guaranteed a private 4×4 safari vehicle and a professional guide, allowing you to tailor your game viewing to your own schedule and interests
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The Safari Experience: Game Drives & Activities
The lodge offers access to three wildlife-rich conservancies: Enonkishu, Ol Chorro, and Lemek . These areas are known for their beautiful scenery and uncrowded game viewing, offering some of the best year-round wildlife encounters in the Mara
.
Wildlife Sightings
The rewilded landscape is now home to an incredible diversity of mammals:
- The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino at the nearby sanctuary)
- Cheetah, giraffe, zebra, eland, wildebeest, and hippo
- Excellent birding with over 350 species in the area
- .
Included Activities
The rate at House in the Wild includes a wide range of activities:
- Unlimited Game Drives: Day and night game drives in the Enonkishu, Ol Chorro, and Lemek Conservancies
- Guided Nature Walks: Explore the smaller wonders of the bush, learning about tracks, spoor, and plants
- Rhino Sanctuary Visits: Visit the nearby sanctuary to learn about the protection of Kenya’s endangered rhinos
- Bush Breakfasts, Picnics & Sundowners: Enjoy meals in spectacular locations in the heart of the wilderness
- Tennis, Croquet, and Boules: Fun recreational activities available at the lodge
- E-Biking & Horse Riding: Explore the estate on two wheels or on horseback, accompanied by a Maasai guide
- Farm Tours & Wild Shamba: Visit the organic farm and learn about the lodge’s sustainability initiatives
- Mara Training Centre Visits: Understand the partnership between the lodge and the local Maasai communities
- Community and School Visits: Engage with local projects and learn about conservation efforts
Additional Activities (At Extra Cost)
For those seeking extra adventure, a range of premium activities can be arranged:
- Hot Air Ballooning: Float over the savannah at sunrise for breathtaking views
- Fishing: Catch and release fishing on the Mara River
- Day Trips to the Maasai Mara National Reserve: Explore the main reserve (additional fees apply)
- Massages: In-lodge spa treatments for ultimate relaxation
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Rates & Inclusions
House in the Wild is an intimate lodge that can be booked on a per-person-sharing basis, with special rates for children
House in The Wild 2026 Rates (Per Person Per Night)
| Season | Dates | Adult Sharing | Child (5-15yrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | 5 Jan – 30 Jun / 1 Oct – 19 Dec | US$ 1,245 | US$ 785 |
| Premium Season | 1 Jul – 30 Sep / 20 Dec – 3 Jan | US$ 1,750 | US$ 1,105 |
Please note: These rates are a guide and include accommodation, meals, and the conservancy fee
.
What’s Included
- Full board accommodation
- Soft drinks and local beers
- Non-premium wines and spirits
- Laundry services
- Airstrip transfers (Ngerende airstrip)
- Statutory taxes
- Unlimited shared game drives in Enonkishu, Ol Chorro, and Lemek Conservancies
- Bush breakfasts, picnics, and sundowners
- Guided nature walks, e-bike rides, and horse rides around the estate
- Tennis and farm tours
- Rhino Sanctuary visits (entrance fees extra)
- Mara Training Centre visits
- School visits
What’s Excluded
- Champagne, premium spirits, and cellar wines
- Conservancy fees (US$150 per adult per night / US$75 per child per night, payable with booking)
- Day trips to the Maasai Mara National Reserve (US$400 per vehicle)
- Park fees for the reserve (subject to change)
- Exclusive use of a vehicle (US$400 charge)
- Hot air balloon rides
- Massages and wellness treatments
- Mara Elephant Project visits
- All extra activities, tips, and donations payable direct
Important Information
- Check-In: 11:00 am | Check-Out: 10:00 am
- Child Policy: Children of all ages are welcome. Under 5 years stay free
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in both the main areas and the cottages. Phone signal is intermittent but strong along the river banks
- Power: Solar-powered 24 hours with a backup generator
Why Choose House in the Wild?
House in the Wild is the perfect choice for:
- Conscious Travellers: Support a pioneering rewilding project that has restored a critical part of the Mara ecosystem.
- Families: With family cottages, a private vehicle, and activities for all ages, it’s an ideal destination for a multi-generational family safari .
- Groups of Friends: The intimate atmosphere and private vehicle ensure a flexible and personalised experience.
- Wildlife Enthusiasts: Experience incredible game viewing in uncrowded conservancies, often with exclusive sightings.
- Couples Seeking Romance: Enjoy the charm of a secluded cottage with river views and romantic dining under the stars.
Final Thoughts
House in the Wild offers a rare opportunity to experience the magic of the Masai Mara while contributing directly to its conservation. It is a place where the story of rewilding comes to life, where wildlife roams freely across restored rangelands, and where every stay supports the local community. From the warm hospitality to the breathtaking views, a stay here is more than a safari—it’s a journey of hope and renewal in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
Ready to book your safari at House in the Wild? Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris today to start planning your dream African adventure.
Please note: Rates and availability are subject to change. Contact us for the most current information and to check availability for your preferred dates.