This archive report was first published on 4 September 2019.
Sarova Hotels has pulled out of a 15-year partnership to manage the Spirit of the Mara luxury lodge in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, barely two years after signing the deal.
The agreement, which was set to run until 2034, was terminated on mutual terms between Sarova and the lodge owners, the McCarthy family.
According to Sarova Hotels Managing Director Jimi Kariuki, the decision to end the partnership was made in September, and the lodge will cease to be managed by Sarova from that date.
The partnership, which was signed in April 2018, saw the lodge's room count increase to 1,250, but the cancellation of the deal means reduced earnings and room count for Sarova.
The hospitality group will continue to operate the Sarova Mara Game Camp at the popular tourist destination.
Mr. Kariuki stated that Sarova will continue to have a strong presence in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve through its tented lodge, Sarova Mara Game Camp.
The Spirit of the Masai Mara is a 10-suite lodge and the only property at the 12,500-acre Siana Conservancy, a private facility within the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.
The lodge has been operational since 2015 and was set to add a family suite and a spa to the property.
September 4, 2019
