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WRITING IN THE MARA

Next Retreat Dates are 6 - 19 December 2025

APPLY NOW

Space is strictly limited, so consider applying sooner rather than later.

About Maasai Land Writers' Retreat and Workshop

The Maasai Land Writers’ Retreat is an opportunity to step out of your usual routine and into an uninterrupted creative immersion in the Kenyan savannah. Located within Maasai Mara, a 4-5 hour drive from Nairobi, you’ll be housed in a simple, comfortable cottage with communal gazebo and terrace overlooking the vast expanse of the savannah, hot showers, and Wi-Fi. The retreat, administered in affiliation with PEN-Kenya Chapter, is an offshoot of the International Literary Seminars, which in turn was a successor to the renowned Summer Literary Program in Russia/Lithuania/Kenya/Canada/Georgia (1998-2019).

Retreat participants write, attend optional intensive workshops, walk around, go on drives, eat dinners together, and read their works to each other in the evening at the gazebo. There’s also a daily sunrise walk to see giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, gazelles and other animals, and bird-watching walks with local guides. The nearby Maasai town of Ngoswani is a 15-minute walk (or 3-minute drive) away; there are shops and a market, and a cafe. The local Maasai community members are friends, and the retreat offers a meaningful immersion in the Maasai way of life. While here, we visit local schools and try to help them; it is an important part of our being here. The number of participants in the retreat is limited to 15-17, and we reserve 3-4 spots for the talented young Kenyan writers.

COST & LOGISTICS

All participants get picked up at the airport in Nairobi.
People arriving in Nairobi with a couple of days in the city will have the option of exploring the city with our assistant/tour guide.
In Nairobi (2-3 nights), the hotel where retreat participants normally stay, Chester House, is $70 USD per night with breakfast.

The cost is $90 USD per day ($60 with double accommodations), with full board traditional African/European meals (vegetarian options available).

The optional intensive workshops, taught by writers and professors Josip Novakovich (Guided Writing) and Mikhail Iossel (Manuscript Critique: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Memoir), and Kristina Marie Darling (Poetry) cost $350 USD for 5-6 sessions in either.
Additionally, there is a mixed-genre workshop with one of Kenya's leading writers and poets, Tony Mochama, and the Maasai beadwork workshop. These two workshops are free. More writing faculty may join the retreat at some later date.

The conservation safari ride, 3-4 hours at sunrise and 3-4 at sunset, to see lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, cheetahs and other animals you won't (and wouldn't want to) encounter during your walks outside the compound, costs about $50-60 USD per person, plus the shared cost of the vehicle.
Alternately, entry to the national park for non-Kenyans, at the heights of the tourist season, is $200 USD, plus the additional $40-50 USD per person with 4 people to the vehicle, for the full day. It is believed that the rate is about to be lowered.. Either the conservation safari ride of the national park safari provides one of life's great experiences.

After the retreat, some of the faculty and participants choose to go for another 7-10 days on Lamu—an ancient and quite indescribable place, 1 or 2-hour flight from Nairobi, approximately $200-250 r/t. On Lamu, we normally stay at Jannat House, which used to serve as the former SLS/ILS headquarters. The rates there are $45-50 per night, with breakfast. There (both in Lamu town and in Shela, on the other end of the island) we'll be writing, reading, much in the same way as in the Mara. The informal writing workshops will continue there.

CREATIVE SESSIONS AND WORKSHOP FACILITATORS

Mikhail Iossel
Maasai Land Retreat director and instructor
(Manuscript Critique workshop)

Born in Leningrad, USSR (now St. Petersburg, Russia), where he worked as an electromagnetic engineer and belonged to an organization of samizdat writers before immigrating to the United States in 1986. He is the author of Love Like Water, Love Like Fire (winner of the 2021 QWF Paragraphe Hugh MacLennan Prize for Fiction), Notes from Cyberground: Trumpland and My Old Soviet Feeling, and one previous collection of fiction: Every Hunter Wants to Know. He also was the founding director of the Summer Literary Seminars international literary programs (Russia, Kemnya, Lithuania, Canada, Georgia).. A frequent contributor to the New Yorker, his stories and essays have also appeared in the New York Times Magazine, Foreign Policy, Ecotone, Guernica, Tikkun, Best American Short Stories, and elsewhere. Iossel, a Guggenheim, National Endowment for the Arts, and Stegner Fellow, has taught in universities throughout the United States and is an associate professor of English at Concordia University in Montreal.

Josip Novakovich
Instructor (Guided Writing workshop)

Emigrated from Croatia to the United States at the age of 20. He has published a dozen books, including a novel, April Fool's Day (in ten languages), four story collections (Infidelities, Yolk, Salvation and Other Disasters, Heritage of Smoke) and three collections of narrative essays, as well as two books of practical criticism. His work was anthologized in Best American Poetry, the Pushcart Prize and O. Henry Prize Stories. He has received the Whiting Writer's Award, a Guggenheim fellowship, the Ingram Merrill Award and an American Book Award, and in 2013 he was a Man Booker International Award finalist. He teaches creative writing at Concordia University in Montreal. He has been with Maasai Land Writers' Retreat since its inception.

Kristina Marie Darling
Poetry Instructor at Maasai Land Writers' Retreat,

The author of over thirty books, which include recent releases from Bloomsbury, Dzanc, Persea, and Penguin Canada. A twice-awarded Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Darling’s work has also been recognized with multiple endowed residences at Yaddo, a Villa Lena Foundation Fellowship, fourteen juried residencies at the American Academy in Rome, where she previously served as an ambassador for recruitment, and a nomination for the Distinguished Visitor Fellowship at the American Academy in Berlin. A prolific educator and public speaker with the Ovation Agency, she has held academic appointments at the American University of Rome, the University of Zadar in Croatia, the Universidade do Porto, the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, the European Law and Governance School, the Amsterdam School for Cultural Analysis, the University of Cambridge, the American Research Center in Sofia, the Leysin American School in Switzerland, and the Ionion Center for the Arts and Culture, where she is now permanent faculty. Dr. Darling has also lectured at Yale University, Columbia University in the City of New York, the New School, Istanbul University, the University of Bangka Belitung in Indonesia, the University of Cyprus, the San Miguel Writers Conference & Literary Festival, the Leopardi Writers Conference in Recanati Italy, the United States Embassy in Togo, and many other distinguished venues in the U.S. and abroad. Dr. Darling spends her summers teaching in Greece, on the islands of Kefalonia and Andros respectively, and her winters in San Michele on the Amalfi Coast.

Tony Mochama
Teaching a Hybrid Genre Workshop at Maasai Land Writers' Retreat,

Kenyan writer, poet, journalist and essayist, also known under the pseudonym Smitta Smitten. After graduating in law from the University of Nairobi, he embarked on an illustrious literary and media career. He is the author of thirteen books of poetry, fiction, literary journalism, and non-fiction. This makes him one of the authors of his generation in East Africa with the most literary awards. Having previously spent almost two decades at the Standard Media Group, he currently works at the Nation Media Group, where he writes cultural, literary, and political columns. Winner of the prestigious Morland Miles Writing Scholarship and several Burt Awards for African children's literature, Mochama was also named the African Union's official author for East Africa in 2023. He has represented Kenya at numerous literary festivals and residencies around the world, including Venice, Lisbon, Rabat, Shanghai, and Montreal. Alongside his literary career, he is actively involved in training young authors as a moderator and mentor, notably through the AMKA programme at the Goethe-Institute, Nairobi. Versatile, polyglot and passionate about pan-African culture, Tony Mochama has established himself as a leading voice in contemporary African literature, and was in mid-2025 chosen to represent Eastern Africa in Paris at the UNESCO Book Industry week.

 

Gloriah Amondi
Maasai Land Retreat Coordinator

A trained lawyer, a prominent Kenyan journalist, and an award-winning, extensively published writer. Currently, she is enrolled in the graduate creative writing program at Concordia University, Montreal, where she recently founded a project called ‘Writers in Conversation,’ hosting discussions between East African writers and their counterparts from North America, with the intention of introducing East African literature to foreign readers.

Midge Indeche
Maasai Land Retreat Coordinator

A Customer Relations Strategist and Operational Efficiency Expert specializing in delivering outstanding client service and behind-the-scenes support. She has been with the Retreat from the very first, helping to create a smooth, inspiring experience for every participant.

Jane Owidi
Maasai Land Webmaster

A statistician and web designer in Nairobi, she blends logic with creativity to build clean, purposeful websites. With a deep love for both design and data, she brings visions to life online. When she’s not building websites, she’s analyzing trends and crafting visuals that tell a story.

GALLERY

FORMER PARTICIPANTS

  • Writing to the sound of bells on goats grazing at sunset, with glimpses of giraffes in the distance… I felt inspired, communing with writers and surrounding nature. Simple comfortable accommodations. There was open-ended time to write with opportunities to hike, visit the town, local schools and the Maasai Mara National Reserve for safari drives. I enjoyed learning about Maasai culture from  and experiencing a part of Kenya that most tourists don’t see.

    Stephanie Sellars,

  • The Mara retreat was in all ways a treat – sweet, surprising, and unique. The landscape and place. The expanse of space, the sounds, the sky, the animals, allowed me to immerse myself in another world.  The people. A curated team of committed writers whose goal was to go deeper into writing, discover and grow together. The facilitators. Offering attention, precision, insight and kind feedback. A “once in a lifetime experience” which I would love to experience again!

    Sonia Fevre,

  • Do you want to have your life changed without quite perceiving the changing? Do you want to discover what happens between the pages of your prose when (you think) you’re not looking, what your poetry seeks without asking, what dreams whisper to you while waking? The field trips, the striking scenery, the comradery, the beguiling and wisdom-drenched Maasai, the hush of the veldt, the absurd moon, the wildlife. My advice: JUST GO.

    Dean Ellis,

  • I attended The Maasai Land Writers’ Retreat in 2023 and it was an unforgettable experience. The accommodations were simple and rustic, we had all we needed to write deeply, relax in community together, and explore the wonders of this extraordinary corner of the world. The wildlife! The local Maasai people were warm, welcoming.

    www.erikaschickel.com

    Erika Schickel, author of The Big Hurt and You’re Not the Boss of Me,

  • The best of wishes to Mikhail Iossel and the rest of the team for this year’s program in December! I can honestly say my two trips to Kenya through this program were transformative and life-changing. I will always cherish the writing community and lifelong friendships I found there.

    Carrie Lynn Hatland,

  • Maasai Land Writing Retreat, shifted my perspective on writing entirely. The workshops, led by Prof. Mikhail Iossel, were a revelation. I was shocked how accessible fiction became through the writing prompts guided by Prof. Josip Novakovich. I  enjoyed the poetry workshop with Tony Mochama. The location itself was unforgettable. And the company of fellow writers? Unparalleled. I left with a full heart. Now I write with less hesitation and more faith.

    Wambui wa Mwangi,

  • It is always inspiring to be at a retreat surrounded by excellent mentors and other writers who are confronted with similar issues of craft but the Maasai Land Writers’ Retreat is much more than that. There are workshops and evening discussions and readings and fellowship in the charming gazebo but, also, the immersion in the land of the Maasai. Savanna highlands surround the Retreat. The experience was productive and educational, enjoyable and transformative and look forward to returning.

    Iraj Isaac Rahmim,

  • Maasai Land Writers’ retreat felt like living, for a while, outside the normal flow of life. The place is ideal for introspection. The workshops by Iossel were instructive, full of wisdom and wit; the prompt writing sessions by Josip guided me into the deep recesses of my mind where I discovered surprising story ideas, and the hybrid session by Mochama brought me back to my poetic sensibilities. The mornings there were pristine and the evenings glorious.

    Dismas Okombo,

  • Maasailand Writers’ retreat, between the wildlife and the very insightful sessions, it felt like living creatively, poetically. Even when I was not actively writing, all I could think about were stories that wanted to come to life, and in that period, I wrote five short stories and a few poems, and took a lot of notes that will be a guide for the rest of my writing career, thanks to the Maasai Land Writers’ Retreat.
    With Gratitude,

    Munira Hussein,

  • I’m forever  indebted to Maasai Land Writers Retreat for the gift of inspiration. During the May 2024 Retreat that I started writing Souls of Independence, my novel manuscript which is currently a finalist for the 2025 Iskanchi Book Prize based in the United States. Before attending the Retreat, I had  just a skeleton of the novel’s idea. A huge toast to the visionary Prof. Mikhail lossel for being considerate enough to bring Kenyan writers to the Retreat.

    Peter Ngila Nzeli,

  • The writing retreat in the Maasai Mara was incredible. It was a generative, removed, quiet environment. There were optional day trips to nearby locations. The safari was a personal highlight! The space allowed for isolation but always offered comradery when I sought it. The communal spaces with other writers, and the evening readings and discussions in the gazebos created a group sense of comradery. I’m still in contact with many of the writers I met on this trip.

    Curtis McRae,

  • The Maasai Land Writers’ Retreat 2024 was the real deal for me. The quiet time in my room filled the second draft of my historical novel in pre-colonial Kenya; the ethereal hike up the hill, evening walks and safari rides around Maasai woodland fed my imagination towards world building in my novel. The camaraderie of fellow writers, the evening banter on politics and literature at the gazebo was the highlight of every day of my stay.

    Nyasili Atetwe,

FAQs

What’s the weather like in Kenya (Nairobi and the Mara) during the retreat

Kenya generally has warm days and cool evenings. Expect cool mornings and nights, especially in the Mara. Nairobi is usually mild with occasional light rain — think pleasant and breezy.

What kind of clothes should I pack

Light layers work best! Bring comfortable clothes for writing and workshops (casual-smart), a light sweater or jacket for cool mornings and evenings, and a pair of sturdy shoes for excursions. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are great for the Mara sun.

Do I need to pack anything specific for the retreat

Yes — a journal perhaps, your favorite writing tools, a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, and a light shawl or scarf for layering. Don’t forget any prescription medications you need. A flashlight or headlamp may also come in handy.

Will I need to exchange money into Kenyan Shillings (Ksh)

Yes, we recommend changing your currency into Kenyan Shillings before leaving Nairobi. Many places in the Mara are cash-based, and mobile money (M-Pesa) is widespread but might not be accessible to all international visitors.

Are credit cards widely accepted

In Nairobi, yes — most major hotels, restaurants, and malls accept cards. In the Mara, cash is more reliable. Some curio shops or smaller vendors may not accept cards, so it’s best to have Kshs on hand.

What kind of electrical outlets are used in Kenya

Kenya uses the British-style Type G plug (three rectangular prongs). The voltage is 240V, so check your devices and bring a universal adapter if needed. You can also pick one up in Nairobi before heading out.

Is the internet available at the retreat

Yes — there will be a shared Wi-Fi router or two available in the common area of the retreat venue. While it may not be lightning-fast (it is the Mara!), it’ll be good enough for emails and browsing.

Where will I stay when I arrive in Nairobi

We recommend Chester House & Suites in the city center — comfortable, secure, and conveniently located for your onward travel. Midge, our program coordinator, will help you with your stay, if needed.

What if I arrive in Nairobi a day or two early

Perfect! Nairobi has great options for a light adventure. Visit the Nairobi National Park, Giraffe Centre, or David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Midge will be on hand to help plan a quick visit or connect you with a trusted guide or driver.

Who is Midge, and how can she assist me

Midge is your go-to program coordinator/assistant and helps with logistics. From Nairobi coordination to retreat questions, she’ll help with airport pickups, accommodations, local recommendations, and smoothing out any possible travel glitches.

What’s the best way to get around Nairobi

For safety and convenience, we suggest using trusted taxi services or apps like Uber

Is it safe to drink tap water

We advise drinking bottled or filtered water only. It’s readily available in Nairobi and at the retreat venue. Bring a reusable water bottle, if you'd like, to refill from safe sources.

Will I need a visa to enter Kenya

Yes, most nationalities require an eVisa, or travel authorization, which must be applied for online before arrival, via www.evisa.go.ke. Be sure to apply at least a week before your travel date.

What kind of power backup is available at the retreat

Power cuts are rare but possible in the Mara. The venue is equipped with a backup generator to ensure essential services (including Wi-Fi) remain operational.

What kind of food will be served at the retreat

Get ready for a taste of Kenya! You’ll enjoy delicious local Kenyan dishes — including staples like chapati, sukuma wiki, ugali, stews, nyama choma, and tropical fruits. Vegetarian options will always be available, and special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice.

What’s one thing I must not forget to pack

A sense of adventure and your creativity! You’re coming for inspiration, connection, and a touch of wilderness magic. While the Mara is indeed magical, it’s also remote, and you’ll appreciate having extra light after dark.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested in applying for the retreat?

Please contact us at director@maasailandwriters.com and tell us a little bit about yourself and the project you'd be planning to work on during the two weeks in the Mara. Feel free to include a short sample of your writing.
Please also let us know which workshops, if any, you'd like to take.
You will hear back from us in one or two days.