‘Ngare’ translates to ‘by the river’ in the Masai language, and the idea behind this snug little camp was to transport the serenity of the original Serian camp to the water’s edge. Hugging the banks of the Mara, Ngare Serian is cosy and intimate. It can only be reached on foot, over a narrow rope bridge – and in a way the crossover is symbolic: a call to step out of touch and out of time, and give yourself over to the natural charm of the place. There’s something special about being on the water’s edge – the water slipping and sloshing over the stones sets a soothing soundtrack, but at the same time its energy and movement lends lightness and life – green shoots, verdant growth and glossy rocks that metamorphose into hippos.
Ngare Serian consists of only 4 tents, and this intimacy makes it perfect for hosting a family holiday, or gathering a group of friends. The tents are dotted along the riverbank, decked out in style with Zanzibar four-poster beds and open bathrooms overlooking pods of hippo. Take a leaf out the hippos’ book: lounge languidly, soaking up the sights and sounds of the bush from the bathtub built into your veranda decking.
Ngare is nestled in the private Mara North Conservancy, and is also perfectly positioned to take advantage of our 1,500 acres of exclusive conservation area. Yes – 1,500 acres of wilderness that belongs just to us, and is all yours to roam and explore… If you ever dreamed of your own slice of Africa – this is it. Tucked away in this conservation area, and a mere gentle stroll from camp, is ‘The Nest’, our tree house – a gorgeous sleep-out spot, or a perfect perch to have a picnic… In general a great extension of the peace and seclusion of Serian. Because we are free to do as we please in our own little zone, night drives and fishing in the river are also possible here. Walking is another great way to see the sights: tune into the whispering savannah silence away from the hum of a vehicle.
As you ease into a slower pace, you’ll notice your senses picking up on the finer details: the intricate perfections of a skeleton, a map of secret paw prints, a microcosmic universe in a termite mound… You might want to end your stroll at our treehouse: The Nest. Stop by and have your sandwiches, or else settle in and spend the night out on a limb.
See the stars. The nocturnal element of safari often gets forgotten, but you’ll see the clearest skies of your life in the bush: go on a night drive, cut the engine, switch off the lights, and marvel at the infinite glittering heavens.
Flycamping. There’s no better way to get to grips with the true essence of safari than to get out there on foot, and camp like an explorer in days of yore.
14
YRS AVG LIFESPAN
34
KG EATEN PER DAY
7
TONS THE WEIGHT OF A BULL
32000
HECTARES PRIVATE CONSERVANCY
50
HIPPO IN A POD
