Narok: A global tourism camp in the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve in Narok County has held its Annual Cake Mixing Festival to usher in the December peak tourism season. Speaking during the event, the Sarova Mara Lodge Manager, Jane Kiragu, expressed excitement about the 2025 Cake Mixing Ceremony, which is anticipated to be celebrated by guests from around the world, marking the bond between the facility and its clientele.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kiragu highlighted that the hotel recently received a global award as the best tented camp in the world, as well as being recognized as the best luxury camp in East Africa. This adds to the Magical Kenya Signature experience, enriched by the lodge’s organic garden experience. She further noted that the tourism season has been thriving despite challenges such as the increase in park fees, which have not deterred tourist flow.
Kiragu commended the County government for its efforts in maintaining order, infrastructure, and wildlife protection, particularly during the recent wildebeest migration spectacle. Deputy Chief Park Warden Dickson Ole Keiwua described the 2025 tourism season as exceptional, with the highest number of tourists in 20 years. However, Keiwua urged the community surrounding the park to continue supporting the County in conserving this vital tourism asset.
Tourists attending the ceremony were thrilled, describing the event as memorable during this year’s festive season. Kender Kidur from London shared his enthusiasm about his stay at the Mara, noting it as fantastic, especially being able to observe his favorite wildlife.
The Lodge Chef, Viona Koskei, celebrating her first year at the facility, mentioned that the Cake Mixing tradition dates back to the 16th Century. The mixing, primarily done by friends and families, will be macerated for one month before serving. Koskei also noted that most of the ingredients, such as dry fruits, are sourced locally from the lodge’s garden and mixed with grains, nuts, and spices to create a 100kg fruitcake.
