A stunningly simple camp in a true wilderness
Guide Price: From: $595 To: $945
Nomad Tanzania’s new lodge Lamai Serengeti is a small intimate safari lodge located in amongst the large round boulders of the Kogakurjia Kopjes of the Northern Serengeti. This stunning spot, with huge views of the Serengeti towards the Mara River, is best known for the epic river crossings by the migrating wildebeest herds that take place here between July and October. It’s less known for the superb resident game that remains for the rest of the year after the migration circus has left town.
The lodge, which has a total of just 12 rooms, is divided into two entirely separate camps - the Main Camp and the smaller Lamai Private Camp, which has to be one of the best places to stay as a family or group of friends. The site is one that Nomad have known and used for more than 20 years now for their mobile camps. Consequently each room site has been carefully thought out; first with the elements in mind, to take maximum advantage of the view, the sun, the wind and even the rain, second, to be virtually invisible from outside to the casual eye. The rooms, which are beautifully designed are a clever blend of canvas, plaster and natural poles.
Both camps have a natural rock swimming pool to keep everyone cool on a steamy day a library and map room. There is a fantasy bar area with cosy nooks hidden within the rocks, fabulous food, perfectly chilled wine, outdoor showers, roomy verandas with sofas to sink into - think Sand Rivers Selous meets the Serengeti, with a tweak of fresh genius amongst it, and you won't be far wrong
Recognising that most will want to do more than just sit and absorb the view, (although that in itself can be enough) the focus is on game drives. The scenery is stunning with huge African skies and rolling plains. You may see Mara river crossings from July through to December or from December to June you can have an altogether quieter and less-crowded experience in an area that is teeming with resident game. Nomad offer short guided walks within the immediate area, through nearby kopjes and along the myriad riverlines. Longer walking safaris with fly camping in the still pristine neighbouring wilderness areas will be introduced soon.
We just got back on Monday after our 3 weeks in the bush and we had a fantastic trip - thanks to Natural High for organising everything. We saw all of the game that we could imagine and a total of 250 species of birds, the overall experience was quite overwhelming. We had a wonderful trip.
H & NH August 2008
The game viewing was wonderful at Serengeti and we were amazed by what we saw – on the final evening drive a leopard in a tree came down as he heard the distress call of a dik dik being attacked by a cobra - The leopard was going for the cobra but darkness fell and we had to return to camp so never knew the outcome!
CJ December 2011
Just a note to let you know that our trip to Tanzania was spectacular. We had the best guide who was most knowledgeable and great fun to be with. The tents and yurts were wonderful and the food was delicious. We were blessed with excellent weather and saw every animal possible and plenty of action among the big cats. It was unforgettable and I miss it already.
C S and family March 2010
12 tents, made to make the most of the surrounding aesthetics
From: 595 To: 945
A stunningly simple camp in a true wilderness
The Serengeti is the best known safari destination in the world with good reason. Even if you exclude the Wildebeest Migration with its 1.5 million odd animals, the proliferation of animal life in the Serengeti defies belief. In the company of a good guide, this can be like stepping into a wildlife documentary. We’d advocate building your safari in northern Tanzania around the greater Serengeti, but you do need to be aware that being in the right place at the right time is everything in this neck of the woods. Find out when the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration happens. Read more?
Tanzania safaris rival a safari any other country in Africa in terms of sheer wilderness, formidable landscapes and volume of wildlife. At Natural High, we have travelled all over the country, worked in some of its best Tanzania safari camps and lodges and flown all over as bush pilots so we feel qualified to venture such opinions. Read more?
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Catherine's long experience of, and enthusiasm for Africa, makes her a mine of travel information. Add to the mix her vivacious character and inscrutable attention to detail and there are few people you'd rather have plan your holiday.
At Natural High, we've had long experience putting together trips in Africa that really work. Whether it's intimate bushcamps in out of the way places, or a private lodge in one of Africa's top-billing wildlife areas, light mobile camping or remote island escapes, we know there is a lot to choose from. We're absolutely confident that we can recommend the right places for you.