There’s something truly special about hearing a safari story straight from someone who’s just lived it. Emma’s time at House in the Wild is one for the books. Let her story inspire your next adventure:

Close your eyes and imagine this: the warm sun on your skin as a soft breeze carries the earthy scent of the savannah; the distant rumble of a lion mingling with the gentle murmur of the Mara River; the sight of acacia trees silhouetted against a dramatic sunset; the taste of freshly baked bread paired with perfectly ripened home-grown fruits, and the feel of smooth, handwoven fabrics as you sink into the comfort of your private veranda.

Welcome to House in the Wild.

An incredible sensory journey into the heart of Kenya’s wilderness, House in the Wild completely redefines traditional notions of excessive luxury, merging exclusivity and comfort with sustainability, cultural authenticity, community, and a deeply mindful connection to nature.

Tucked away in the beautiful Enonkishu Conservancy on the fringes of the Maasai Mara, I spent the week here disconnecting from technology and our fast-paced city lives to connect with what truly matters—people, culture, nature, and purpose.

Each day here is a reminder of the delicate balance between humanity and the wild, and the power of collective action to preserve it. It’s a place everyone should experience, helping you reconnect with what holds real value.

A Wildly Warm Welcome 

The journey to House in the Wild builds excitement with every mile. After a short plane ride over the Maasai Mara, you land on a small airstrip and are greeted by the wide smile of your guide for the week ahead. Whisked away on a mini-safari en route to the lodge, the adventure begins before you even unpack your suitcase!

From the moment of arrival, I felt wrapped in the warm embrace of the wild - in every sense of the word. The lush landscapes of the conservancy, the wide smiles of the team, and a refreshing lime and ginger drink create a welcome like no other. It’s a feeling of being home - just wilder.

Cosy Cottages and Conscious Craftsmanship

Proud members of The Long Run, House in the Wild integrates seamlessly with its surroundings. Seven cottages nestle along the river, alongside a main lodge with a lounge, bar, dining area, and pool. Sustainability shines through - from 100% solar power to locally sourced materials.

My home for the week was Olerai Cottage, complete with an outdoor shower, a freestanding bath overlooking the Mara River, and a private veranda. Early mornings brought freshly brewed coffee to my door as I listened to the bush waking up - the grunts of hippos, the rustle of leaves, and birdsong filling the air.

Every detail has been chosen with care. Wooden beams, Maasai textiles, and vibrant beadwork exude warmth and charm. Thoughtfully placed seating areas provide perfect views of hippos in the river below, while the lodge’s curated books on rewilding and Kenya’s wildlife deepen your connection to the wild.

Wildlife That Dance to Their Own Tune

Although House in the Wild is located in Enonkishu Conservancy, game drives also take you to Ol Chorro and Lemek Conservancies. Each area offers breathtaking wildlife encounters, from herds of elephants to mischievous lion cubs tumbling over one another.

Game drives here are tailored to you. Guides like Joe, who led my safari, are not only knowledgeable but deeply passionate. What stood out to me was the respectful approach to wildlife - only a limited number of vehicles are allowed at sightings, ensuring animals are undisturbed and guests can enjoy intimate, unhurried experiences.

With Maasai community guides, every outing feels like a story unfolding. From the way elephants communicate through vibrations to the Maasai’s deep connection to the land, these guides bring the Mara to life. Every game drive is like an intimate theatre of the wild.

Wildly Enriching Activities

Beyond game drives, there’s the option to explore on guided nature walks or cycle through the savannah on mountain e-bikes. One particularly moving experience was visiting the Ol Chorro Conservancy Rhino Sanctuary, home to two of the last remaining Southern White Rhinos in the Mara. Standing face-to-face with these magnificent creatures, protected 24/7 by armed rangers, is humbling and unforgettable.

For those seeking a truly ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ experience, hot air ballooning over the Maasai Mara should tick that box with ease. There’s nothing quite as exciting as floating over the Mara as the sun rises, spotting the plethora of wildlife below, before landing for a champagne breakfast (something still firmly on my own bucket list).

Wildly Impactful Initiatives 

What distinguishes House in the Wild is its commitment to restoring biodiversity, improving livelihoods, and delivering extraordinary experiences. Their Futures in the Wild programme showcases how tourism can create lasting benefits for local communities and the environment.

During my visit, I sat alongside 30 Maasai women supported by this programme, participating in a beading session. I was in complete awe of their remarkable craftsmanship and the strength of their spirit. What struck me most was how they effortlessly blend the ancient art of beading with modern-day opportunities, transforming a centuries-old tradition into a sustainable livelihood.

Through these initiatives, House in the Wild creates meaningful change - empowering communities, restoring ecosystems, and shaping a sustainable future.

A Feast For Your Wild Side 

Dining at House in the Wild is a celebration of Kenya’s vibrant flavours, with fresh ingredients from the lodge’s Wild Shamba organic garden. From morning coffees on the riverbank to candlelit dinners under the stars, each meal is unforgettable.

Breakfasts feature homemade granola, tropical fruits, and freshly baked bread. Lunches, enjoyed under the trees or by the river, are a colourful feast of salads and grilled meats. Afternoons bring cakes and coffee before evening game drives, while dinners are a magical affair—three courses served by the fire or beneath the starlit sky.

The People Make the Place 

The people at House in the Wild are its soul. From guides who share their passion for the wild to the kitchen staff crafting personalised dishes, every interaction feels heartfelt.

For me, learning to play Mancala, a traditional African game, with the team was a highlight. Sitting together, listening to stories, and sharing laughter deepened our connection in a way that felt truly special.

By the time you leave, you’re not just saying goodbye to a lodge, but to a group of friends who’ve shared their hearts and passion for this wild corner of the world.

Final Roar: Reflections on the Wild 

House in the Wild is more than a safari lodge - it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Every moment here, from sunrise coffees by the river to candlelit dinners under the Kenyan sky, whispers the beauty of living harmoniously with nature. The laughter shared, the knowledge gained, and the connections made with the land, wildlife, and people remind you of the delicate balance we must protect.