The Story Behind Manzili Mara
Manzili Mara was born of friendship, legacy, and creative collaboration.This remarkable home was first brought to life by designer Tom Bossard and the late Anthony Russell, an artist and conservationist whose pioneering view of safari as both art and ecology shaped the original house. After Anthony’s passing, Tom joined forces with Vanessa Roumeguere, founder of Manzili House in Nairobi, to reimagine the space with fresh vision while honoring the soul of what came before.
Together, they created something rare: a house rooted in community, story, and deep respect for place. Built on the Siria Escarpment—named from the Maasai word siria, meaning “serrated”—the house sits at a sacred threshold, a jagged spine of ancient rock and cultural memory. It was constructed entirely in traditional Maasai style, using mud, timber, and thatch, and brought to life by the hands and hearts of the local community.
Every inch of Manzili Mara reflects a shared ethos: that hospitality can be intimate, design can be meaningful, and travel can support what is local and lasting. This is not simply a place to stay. It is a place to feel, to remember, and to return to—in story, in spirit, or again one day on foot.
Getting There
Remote but Easily Reached
Though set deep in the wilderness, Manzili Mara is easily accessible by air or road.
By Air:
— Scheduled flights from Nairobi to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip (just 20 minutes from the
house)
— Private charters and helicopters available on request
By Road:
— Approximately 5 hours from Nairobi
Coordinates:
— Airstrip: Kichwa Tembo
–House: 1°18'49.7"S 34°56'07.8"E
–Guests are welcomed on arrival and transferred directly to the house—where wild landscapes and complete privacy await.
Sustainability
Conservation in Every Detail
Manzili Mara is guided by a low-impact tourism model, designed to support both local
communities and the natural ecosystem.
Key sustainability practices include:
— 100% solar-powered with no diesel reliance
— Built entirely with locally sourced, natural materials
— Operated and maintained by a local Maasai team
— Supports community partnerships and conservation efforts
— Minimal footprint and limited guest capacity for ecological integrity
Here, sustainability is not an add-on—it is the foundation.
Health & Comfort
Comfort in the Wild
Manzili Mara is situated in a very low-risk malaria zone, thanks to its high elevation. The
house is equipped with the essentials for a safe and comfortable stay.
What to expect:
— Filtered mineral water throughout
— 24-hour solar electricity (240V)
— CPAP machines compatible
— UK three-pin plugs (guests are advised to bring a universal adaptor)
— Wi-Fi across the property
— Laundry service included
The climate is pleasant year-round, with warm days, cool nights, and low humidity.
Dry seasons: January–March and June–October
Rainy seasons: Long rains in April; short rains in November–December