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Travel + Leisure
31-07-2025
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
One of Sir Richard Branson's Exceptional Safari Camps Just Got a Gorgeous Renovation—and Has Ranked Among the World's Best Hotels
Mahali Mzuri Virgin Limited Edition's Mahali Mzuri safari camp in Kenya was recently renovated. In 2021, it was named among the best hotels in the world according to T+L's World's Best Awards. Private conservancy access offers uncrowded game drives, with flexibility for off-road tracking and night drives. The camp's location on the side of a lush valley overlooking rolling plains provides unrivaled panoramic views as well as wildlife viewing, from both your tent's deck and communal spaces. Each renovated tent features claw-foot tubs, separate showers, oversized lounging sofas in dedicated living areas, and private decks, now enhanced with custom Maasai beadwork and contemporary African design elements. Guests enjoy pan-African cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The first hint that Virgin Limited Edition's Mahali Mzuri camp would deliver an extraordinary wildlife experience came before I even set foot there, as zebras galloped along the dusty Mara North Airstrip and my guide, Jackson Nchoe, greeted me with Maasai warmth and a split of Champagne. On the way to camp—a short 20-minute drive—a few giraffes prompted a traffic jam crossing in the bush, and we also encountered elephants grazing on vegetation. "You're the only one at camp tonight," Wilson Odhiambo, the camp's general manager, told me as I arrived at the resort, which is mostly camouflaged into the landscape. Mahali Mzuri (or "beautiful place" in Swahili) officially reopened in June 2025 following an extensive redesign that elevated Sir Richard Branson's already spectacular 12-tent safari camp. (The resort was named the best safari lodge in Africa and the best hotel in the world in T+L's 2021 World's Best Awards.) Developed in collaboration with Lynne Hunt London, the camp now seamlessly blends modern African style with sustainability, incorporating custom Maasai beadwork and bronze spear finials that celebrate local culture. Branson's involvement began in 2007 when he visited Nairobi and learned about conservation threats to the Olare Motorogi region, a critical wildlife corridor connecting the Serengeti to Kenya's Loita Hills. Working directly with Maasai landowners, he developed Mahali Mzuri as both a world-class safari destination and conservation solution, establishing a primary school along the way. I waltzed down to tent No.5, located on the right—more secluded—side of the main communal areas, and gasped when I opened the doors to find a claw-foot tub with unobstructed views of the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. I set intentions to spend ample time at the sizable deck with my favorite in-room amenities—binoculars and a French press with local Kenyan coffee—and Mother Nature at my fingertips. At night, I left my windows unzipped to the screen only, dove into bed with the nightly turndown service of a cozy hot water bottle between the sheets, and slept like a baby amidst the African bush. Relax and stargaze around a firepit. Mahali Mzuri Since I had the camp to myself for the night, I made the most of my solo time and ordered room service, only to be surprised with a full-service, three-course meal served on a candlelit table on my balcony. After dinner, I sat on the deck and absorbed the after-dark sounds of the wilderness before eventually going inside to take a bubble bath and read. Food was another highlight. I never skipped a meal, even when I wasn't hungry, because the chef always crafted something delicious. On my final night, I joined a group of travel agents around the safari campfire for cocktails, followed by a beautiful dinner under the stars, where we swapped favorite lion and lioness stories while bonding over exceptional cuisine and camp adventures. The area is special, and Odhiambo was right—it truly was a buffet for the apex predators. When a zebra was taken down by lions, who ravenously feasted on it, the raw intensity hit all my senses. It was a moment of raw predatory beauty and the circle of life in its most authentic form. My days fell into a perfect rhythm: pre-dawn coffee before morning drives, lazy pool hours during the heat of midday, afternoon spa treatments with Joan for therapeutic massages, and evening drives that concluded with sundowners in extraordinary locations. To me, the bush is one of the most restorative places on earth, where you can re-learn to exist without electronics and, instead, observe your surroundings. By the end of the trip, I could gauge the time of day or temperature simply by tuning into nature's rhythms. As Odhiambo put it, it's best to "let your schedule mentality go and go with the flow." After experiencing the camp's remarkable blend of luxury, conservation, and genuine Kenyan hospitality, I left feeling a bit emotional, waving goodbye from the plane to the exceptional crew, who had become like new friends. Below, my full review of the reimagined Mahali Mzuri safari sanctuary in Kenya's Olare Motorogi Conservancy. The Rooms Mahali Mzuri's 12 tents are accessed via elevated walkways, with six on each side of the central area. Tent positioning matters: Tent one and three offer the most privacy and are farthest from the main area, while the right-side tents are tucked into the bush. The left side works better for families and groups, especially with the addition of a new, larger family tent. The recent redesign has transformed these already beautiful accommodations into five-star luxury oases. The rooms, with their floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors, open up to a viewing experience like no other, akin to having your own private wildlife documentary screening room, where the action never stops. The color palette evokes the bush—warm taupes and deep browns grounded by ivory, with vibrant splashes of red and black referencing traditional Maasai attire. Each tent features carpeted floors, king beds, plush oversized sofas, writing desks, and stunning en-suite bathrooms with all-black fixtures and freestanding bathtubs overlooking the conservancy. Additionally, Mahali Mzuri's tents are among the few outside the Serengeti with in-room air conditioning—a game-changer in the heat. The minibars—although they are anything but mini—are another highlight. They are stocked with complimentary drinks, including African gins like The Mara Edition Gin by African Originals (with gorgeous African beading on top), Amarula cream liqueur (that you can make a sweet riff on a white Russian with), and Mont Rochelle wines (from the estate connected to Virgin Limited Edition Mont Rochelle Hotel. The fridge has everything you'd ever wish to sip on, and even a cutting board, citrus fruits, and a shaker for crafting the perfect in-room martini. Food and Drink Dining at Mahali Mzuri offers a sophisticated culinary journey through Africa's diverse flavors. Meals showcase both traditional Kenyan dishes and international cuisine featuring fresh ingredients. The chef maintains a greenhouse garden, which yields plenty of fresh herbs and vegetables. Breakfast was filled with delicious homemade pastries, fresh fruit, and eggs prepared any style, all while watching hippos and elephants in the valley below. After morning game drives, I was always excited for the chef's cold soups—the snap pea was a particular favorite for cooling down after hours in the African heat. Lunch brought wonderful choices like the poached pear salad with sundried tomatoes, figs, cucumber ribbons, and asparagus or heartier mains like Kashmiri-style lamb rogan josh served with chapati flatbread, steamed rice, mango chutney, side salad, and tzatziki. Whether soaking up panoramic views from camp or enjoying picnics on the open plains, every midday meal was worthy of an afternoon nap. For dinner, I looked forward to dishes like sun-blushed organic tomato, basil, and fennel soup with truffle oil, followed by succulent roast lamb chops with Lyonnaise potatoes and honey minted gravy. The sought-after vegetarian options were equally impressive, like githeri—a hearty stew of corn, beans, and spring vegetables served with steamed rice and guacamole. Dessert was a must, too. The chocolate fondant, deconstructed affogato, and Kenyan selection of cheeses and crackers were impossible to resist. Meals can be enjoyed pretty much anywhere: in the dining tent, on your private deck, or by the flickering firelight under a canopy of stars. With all drinks included, guests can help themselves to the well-stocked self-service bar any time. However, there is also a bartender ready to craft the perfect libation for aperitivo hour by the campfire. Evenings meant settling by the glowing firepit with chilled wine, swapping stories from the day's adventures while listening to Kenyan music in the background. Activities and Experiences A pride of lions walking around the bush. Mahali Mzuri Every game drive is a front-row seat to one of nature's greatest shows, with twice-daily safaris exploring the vast Olare Motorogi Conservancy. The knowledgeable guides informed us about the importance of the abundant termite mounds, helped us spot the secretary bird with its distinctive headpiece-like feathers, which hunts snakes, and shared Maasai cultural traditions. Sign up for a night game drive to spot elusive nocturnal creatures like aardvarks, honey badgers, and bush babies under the stars. The conservancy's location is where multiple lion pride territories converge, creating opportunities to witness territorial battles and hunting behavior. Guests are assigned the same guide throughout their stay, allowing them to build on their animal tracking and wildlife knowledge as they go. Enjoy scenic views from a hot air ballon over the Olare Motorogi Conservancy near Masai Mara National Reserve. Mahali Mzuri Hot-air balloon safaris offer a bird's-eye view over the savanna as golden light shines over herds of elephants, giraffes, and, if you're lucky, the Great Migration below. The balloon ride is followed by a Champagne breakfast in the bush. Walking safaris with expert Maasai warrior guides reveal nature in ways that no game drive can, as guests track animal footprints and discover abundant bird species while gaining deep insight into traditional Maasai knowledge. Community tours to traditional manyattas for cultural performances and The Maa Trust's beading workshop are also offered. The Spa Nasaro Spa is situated at the valley's base, where guests can tune out with massage treatments, body scrubs, and facial services in a small treatment room. The experience is enhanced by the natural soundtrack of the African wilderness and serves as the perfect complement to active safari days, offering a mental and physical reset. There's also a gorgeous heated 39-foot infinity pool with stylish striped cabana chairs where guests can sip on rosé and watch elephants. Family-friendly Offerings A small heard of elephants walks past the game drive vehicles. Mahali Mzuri Mahali Mzuri welcomes children aged three and older, which is notably younger than the typical safari minimum age of five, making this one of Kenya's most family-friendly luxury camps. It features a comprehensive program designed to keep children engaged throughout their stay with tracking activities, treasure hunts around the camp, nature spotting safaris to discover lizards, insects, and birds, as well as games tailored to different age groups. Story time with guides sharing tales about bush animals adds a fun touch to evenings. Children aged six and above can join game drives. There's a new family tent post-renovation, featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a shared lounge area, allowing families to spread out. Security guards provide extra attention to tents with children at night. Families receive dedicated vehicles for game drives, ensuring flexibility with timing and activities. Accessibility and Sustainability Mahali Mzuri's elevated walkways and tent design may present challenges for guests with mobility limitations, though the camp staff works to accommodate special needs whenever possible. The remote location and traditional safari tent construction mean the property doesn't meet standard ADA compliance requirements. Sustainability initiatives include a solar farm that provides up to 100 percent renewable energy, rainwater harvesting systems, and an expanding kitchen garden with a greenhouse that supplies fresh, organic produce year-round. The camp now features electric vehicles for some transfers, reducing environmental impact while maintaining the safari experience. Staff uniforms are crafted by Kenyan heritage fashion brand KikoRomeo using local, natural, and biodegradable materials. The majority of Mahali Mzuri's staff members come from local Maasai communities, and the camp has supported the ongoing development of a primary school serving 300 students for over a decade. The newly launched Inua Jamii charitable association transfers all donations directly to community projects focused on education, water, sanitation, and health. "We are extremely proud of everything that has been achieved since the establishment of the conservancy, including hugely impactful community development projects in the region, which have ranged from building schools and health centers, to supporting SMEs [small to medium enterprises] and providing access to clean water and sanitation,' says Odhiambo, who is also on the board of the conservancy. Location Aerial view of the heated outdoor infinity pool. Mahali Mzuri Mahali Mzuri sits within the exclusive Olare Motorogi Conservancy, adjacent to Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve. Getting here is half the adventure. The most efficient route is to fly into Nairobi's Wilson Airport (WIL) and then take a connecting flight to Olare Orok Airstrip (OLG) or Mara North Airstrip (HKR), which offers an impromptu game drive to the camp. The conservancy location provides crucial advantages that make the journey worthwhile: only five safari camps operate within the 33,000-hectare area, ensuring intimate wildlife encounters without the crowding common in public reserves. During peak season, three-night stays include complimentary day passes to Maasai Mara National Reserve. The remote setting means no nearby towns or urban attractions. For the adventurous, road access from Nairobi takes approximately five hours but offers scenic countryside views and additional wildlife spotting opportunities that turn the transfer into its own mini-safari. For the ultimate Kenyan adventure, consider extending your stay at Finch Hattons in Kenya's Tsavo National Park. "Mahali Mzuri and its sister camp, Finch Hattons, in Kenya's Tsavo National Park, both offer something unique, but combining the two makes for the ultimate Kenyan safari experience that includes the Big Five of the Maasai Mara and the peaceful, off-grid wilderness of Tsavo," says James Bermingham, CEO Virgin Hotels Collection. For seamless connectivity, Scenic Air Safaris provides private charter flights between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and Olare Orok Airstrip in an Executive Cessna Grand Caravan C208B for up to 10 passengers, from $2,436 each way. Book Now Mahali Mzuri operates as part of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition portfolio, offering Virgin Red points to members. Booking directly through Virgin Limited Edition ensures the best rates and most flexible cancellation policies. Peak season runs from mid-June through September, with a festive season surge in December. Check the camp's website for the most current offers. Nightly rates at Mahali Mzuri start from $3,100 per tent per night (inclusive of all meals, beverages, twice-daily game drives, airstrip transfers, laundry service, and taxes). Every T+L hotel review is written by an editor or reporter who has stayed at the property, and each hotel selected aligns with our core values.
Business Insider
25-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
The world's richest are pouring money into Africa's luxury resorts
Billionaires are increasingly drawn to Africa. For many, the cost of entry, from land acquisition to development, is significantly lower than in more established markets. Notable investments in African luxury travel include Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition and expansions by Kasada Capital Management. Global investors, including billionaires and Middle Eastern firms, are increasingly interested in African tourism due to untapped potential and cost efficiencies. The Jumeirah Group teams up with Thanda Group to develop high-end African destinations, such as private islands and safaris. A private island off Tanzania's coast, where guests pay around $50,000 per night for exclusive use of a villa, catamaran, and helicopter transfers inside a protected marine reserve, is emerging as the latest marker of Africa's fast-growing luxury hospitality market. According to a Bloomberg report, the resort is run by Dubai's Jumeirah Group LLC, part of the emirate's royal business empire, and reflects a broader surge of global investor interest in African tourism. From vineyard retreats to elite safaris and gorilla treks, billionaires, tech moguls, and Middle Eastern investors are turning their attention and capital toward Africa, now seen as one of the last untapped frontiers of luxury travel. Jumeirah has teamed up with the Swedish founders of Thanda Group to offer a private island escape off Tanzania and a Big Five safari experience in South Africa. Kasada Capital Management, backed by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund, is expanding its footprint, eyeing deals in Morocco and adding to its 19-hotel portfolio across seven African nations. Meanwhile, Albwardy Investment, the firm behind Dubai's Desert Palm Polo Estate, is pushing ahead with developments in Zanzibar and Seychelles. It's a marked shift. Where African hospitality was once largely shaped by state-led initiatives, it's now being redefined by private capital, keen to meet a growing appetite for luxury experiences in untamed destinations. Billionaires are betting big Billionaires are increasingly drawn to Africa. For many, the cost of entry, from land acquisition to development, is significantly lower than in more established markets. Meanwhile, tourism numbers are soaring. In 2024, Africa surpassed pre-pandemic levels of international arrivals, welcoming 74 million visitors, according to UN Tourism. A 2024 Deloitte report on next-generation travellers forecasts that the Middle East and Africa will lead global growth in inbound tourism through 2040. Africa alone is expected to expand at a compound annual rate of 3.5% from 2019 to 2040, showing the region's long-term appeal. Virgin Limited Edition, the luxury hospitality brand founded by Richard Branson, has made Africa central to its strategy; over half its properties are on the continent, with more investments on the horizon. Others are following suit. Koos Bekker, the billionaire behind Naspers Ltd., recently opened his second ultra-luxury lodge in South Africa.
Business Insider
21-06-2025
- Business Insider
I work on Richard Branson's private island. My day can consist of a normal 9-to-5 or partying with guests until 4 a.m.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Arran Main-McKendrick, 36, who is the deputy general manager of Necker Island. It has been edited for length and clarity. I drive a golf cart to the office. During the two-minute journey, I might bump into a giant tortoise, a kangaroo, or Richard Branson waving good morning. In April 2022, I started working at Richard Branson's Necker Island resort in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). I began as the guest services manager and, in January 2023, became the deputy general manager. Before I came to Necker, I worked as an events and sales manager in London. I've always kept my eye on Virgin Limited Edition because it felt more my pace. I'd lived abroad before working as a cast member for Walt Disney World in Florida for seven years after university, but I'd never lived on an island. I saw the head of guest services role, and I sent my résumé. They invited me for an interview, and I made it to the final stage. I told my husband we might have to move, and he said, "Alright. Let's do it." We didn't know much about Richard Branson's island I'd heard Necker Island was incredible, but apart from that, I didn't have any preconceptions. My husband and I applied for our visas and went for it — we've always been adventurous. We arrived by boat in April 2022. We'd moved our whole lives to this tiny island — it was amazing and nerve-racking. I remember going to the staff village and being greeted by my new co-workers who were having a party. The next morning, I could see Necker Island properly. It's total paradise. There are 24 rooms on the island, spread across the "Great House" and individual Balinese houses around the island. Necker also has two private beaches. Our conservation team looks after the island's giant tortoises and lemurs. Guests can book the island exclusively or non-exclusively with other guests from June to December. We don't really have a typical guest. People will come to Necker Island for a conference or to celebrate a birthday, and Richard brings a lot of philanthropic groups. We keep the identity of our guests close to our chests, but I've met people that I never would have expected to meet. My day-to-day work My responsibilities range from running logistics with the boat team to picking up guests, to chatting with engineers about the wind turbines, to helping housekeepers take linen off the bed. On a typical day, I'll go to the Great House and chat to the guests having breakfast about their evening. We will have a team briefing and go through the guests' plans for the day. A day could include kangaroo yoga, a lemur feed, lunch in Turtle Beach, and tennis in the afternoon. Sometimes I work 9-to-5, and sometimes I'm partying with the guests until 4 a.m. After work, we can go to the beach for sunset, but sometimes we'll put on Netflix. Other nights we'll leave the island. Many of the Necker staff are local and live on Tortola or our neighbouring island, Virgin Gorda. We also have an employee village on Necker Island. The cost of living in the BVI is surprisingly comparable to living in London. The island is paradise, but there have been hard days During our downtime, staff can use the island's amenities and go kite surfing, use the tennis courts, or go scuba diving. One of my favorite places on the island is the crow's nest: a hot tub on the roof of the Great House. I like watching the stars there because there's not much light pollution. When Richard Branson and his wife Joan aren't traveling, the island is their home, and we see them often. They are generous and kind, and often invite us to dinner. There have been challenging days, like when Hurricane Ernesto came through in 2024. We have a protocol on what to do, but it was one of the scariest nights I've had. We had to make sure the guests and staff were safe. A lot of objects were smashed, and we had 48 hours to get the island ready for the next guest coming in. You adapt quickly to island living I think everyone gets island fever now and again. We leave the island once a week. We've got staff boats that run to Virgin Gorda, where around 4,000 people live. We might go for dinner or even grocery shopping. Every Thursday, we have our groceries floated in on a barge that we order from a supermarket on Tortola, an island 30 minutes away by boat. I miss being able to pop to a coffee shop in London, but it's certainly saved me money. We miss our family and friends, but they can visit as we have special rates. You really need to visit to get the island energy, that's when it comes to life. It's amazing how quickly you adapt. The Necker staff are like a family, and we couldn't be happier here.
Hospitality Net
10-06-2025
- Hospitality Net
Virgin Limited Edition Unveils the New Look Mahali Mzuri
Mahali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson's luxury tented safari camp in Kenya's famed Maasai Mara, and part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, has officially re-opened following a full interior re-design. The re-opening is welcomed in time for guests to take their front row seats for the annual Great Migration, which typically occurs during July and August. Mahali Mazuri, meaning 'beautiful place', was born out of a passion to conserve the under-threat route of the Great Wildebeest Migration, in 2013. Today, with a refreshed look and feel, following its first ever full refurbishment, the camp's connection to its surrounding environment has been brought even further to the fore. Its 12 luxury tented suites retain their iconic peaked roofs, while the new addition of floor to ceiling glass windows provides guests with the ultimate panoramic viewing experience of the diverse wildlife and verdant valley beyond. The design of each tented suite, created in partnership with Lynne Hunt London, has been inspired by Maasai craftsmanship and the local culture that is an integral part of Mahali Mzuri's DNA. Textiles, hardware and custom furnishings were sourced from Nairobi-based suppliers such as Siafu, Matbronze and Nishit & Co, among others. Contemporary African design blends seamlessly with a collection of artworks by East African artists, such as Theresa Musoke and Dickens Otieno, curated by Circle Art Gallery, along with accents of intricate Maasai beadwork in the accessories and soft furnishings created by local nonprofit, The Maa Trust. Each tented suite features king-size or twin beds, a lounge area, separate walk-in shower and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the spectacular views of the valley and the abundant roaming wildlife, as well as a spacious private viewing deck. There is also a dedicated family tented suite featuring both a king-size bed and twin beds, as well as two en-suite bathrooms, one with a walk-in shower and the other with a freestanding bathtub. Complimentary minibars, stamped postcards and yoga mats provide extra special touches to the in-room amenities. Beyond the guest tents, the camp's communal open firepit area, with its panoramic views, offers a central space for stargazing and wildlife watching. The new design concept extends to the restaurant and bar, which also overlook the stunning scenery, while the infinity swimming pool area has been transformed with the addition of cabanas featuring striking red and black soft furnishings, in a nod to traditional Maasai attire. As with all Virgin Limited Edition properties, sustainability is at the forefront, with a large solar farm, a rainwater harvesting system in place, and a large kitchen garden and greenhouse, which supplies the chefs with home-grown organic fruit, vegetables and herbs. The new staff uniforms have also been created by Kenyan heritage fashion brand Kikoromeo, utilising locally available, natural and biodegradable materials. Mahali Mzuri's longstanding partnership with the local landowners and surrounding communities remains at the heart of the camp, which employs over 80% of its staff from the local area. Alongside twice daily game drives, bush walks with Maasai warriors and hot air balloon safaris in search of the Big Five, guests equally have numerous opportunities to engage with the local Maasai tribe through the work of the camp's charitable arm, Inua Jamii - meaning 'uplifting the community'. From volunteering at the primary school, built and run by Mahali Mzuri and funded by generous guest donations, to experiencing life in the local manyatta. Hotel website
Travel Daily News
10-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Virgin Limited Edition unveils the new Mahali Mzuri look
Mahali Mzuri reopens with a full redesign, offering enhanced luxury, panoramic views, and deeper cultural immersion ahead of Kenya's Great Migration season. Mahali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson's luxury tented safari camp in Kenya's famed Maasai Mara, and part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, has officially re-opened following a full interior re-design. The re-opening is welcomed in time for guests to take their front row seats for the annual Great Migration, which typically occurs during July and August. Mahali Mazuri, meaning 'beautiful place', was born out of a passion to conserve the under-threat route of the Great Wildebeest Migration, in 2013. Today, with a refreshed look and feel, following its first ever full refurbishment, the camp's connection to its surrounding environment has been brought even further to the fore. Its 12 luxury tented suites retain their iconic peaked roofs, while the new addition of floor to ceiling glass windows provides guests with the ultimate panoramic viewing experience of the diverse wildlife and verdant valley beyond. The design of each tented suite, created in partnership with Lynne Hunt London, has been inspired by Maasai craftsmanship and the local culture that is an integral part of Mahali Mzuri's DNA. Textiles, hardware and custom furnishings were sourced from Nairobi-based suppliers such as Siafu, Matbronze and Nishit & Co, among others. Contemporary African design blends seamlessly with a collection of artworks by East African artists, such as Theresa Musoke and Dickens Otieno, curated by Circle Art Gallery, along with accents of intricate Maasai beadwork in the accessories and soft furnishings created by local nonprofit, The Maa Trust. Each tented suite features king-size or twin beds, a lounge area, separate walk-in shower and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the spectacular views of the valley and the abundant roaming wildlife, as well as a spacious private viewing deck. There is also a dedicated family tented suite featuring both a king-size bed and twin beds, as well as two en-suite bathrooms, one with a walk-in shower and the other with a freestanding bathtub. Complimentary minibars, stamped postcards and yoga mats provide extra special touches to the in-room amenities. Beyond the guest tents, the camp's communal open firepit area, with its panoramic views, offers a central space for stargazing and wildlife watching. The new design concept extends to the restaurant and bar, which also overlook the stunning scenery, while the infinity swimming pool area has been transformed with the addition of cabanas featuring striking red and black soft furnishings, in a nod to traditional Maasai attire. James Bermingham, CEO of Virgin Hotels Collection, commented: 'I am delighted to be unveiling the new-look Mahali Mzuri as we go into the Great Migration season. We strive to create the most extraordinary experiences for our guests, and we're excited to be able to offer an even more luxurious safari experience, along with a seamless connection to the surrounding nature and authentic local Maasai culture.' As with all Virgin Limited Edition properties, sustainability is at the forefront, with a large solar farm, a rainwater harvesting system in place, and a large kitchen garden and greenhouse, which supplies the chefs with home-grown organic fruit, vegetables and herbs. The new staff uniforms have also been created by Kenyan heritage fashion brand Kikoromeo, utilising locally available, natural and biodegradable materials. Mahali Mzuri's longstanding partnership with the local landowners and surrounding communities remains at the heart of the camp, which employs over 80% of its staff from the local area. Alongside twice daily game drives, bush walks with Maasai warriors and hot air balloon safaris in search of the Big Five, guests equally have numerous opportunities to engage with the local Maasai tribe through the work of the camp's charitable arm, Inua Jamii – meaning 'uplifting the community'. From volunteering at the primary school, built and run by Mahali Mzuri and funded by generous guest donations, to experiencing life in the local manyatta.
