Just as the annual wildebeest migration arrives in the North of the Serengeti this month, so Asilia Africa opens their newest camp, Olakira Lamai. A luxurious base from which to view one of nature’s greatest spectacles, Olakira Lamai is close to the Mara River where the iconic river crossings of thousands of wildebeest take place each year.
Many regard the Lamai Wedge as having the most beautiful scenery in the whole Serengeti eco-system. This stretch of savannah sits between the Mara River and the Kenya Border and from June – November is home to Olakira Lamai. The camp is an easy 20 minute drive from the Mara River and the dramatic action of the annual wildebeest crossings. The game-rich valleys and plains that surround the camp are home to the Big 5 year round and the picturesque Mau escarpment provides a dramatic back drop as the action unfolds.
Touching the earth lightly, this canvas camp all but disappears into the surrounding bush and, with just eight en suite tents, Olakira – meaning “shining star” in kiSwahili – ensures an intimate and authentic wilderness experience.The dcor takes its inspiration from the nomadic cultures of North Africa with Moroccan influences such as the Bedouin lanterns that illuminate the mess tent at night. Yet the camp remains loyal to the traditional East African safari style with authentic bucket showers and flickering lantern light. Each morning guests are woken with tea or coffee brought straight to their tent and a piping hot traditional bucket shower. After a hearty breakfast your morning drive will explore the Serengeti, whether a dramatic crossing at the Mara River or a lazy pride of lion lying under a shady Acacia tree, this is big game viewing at its finest.
After a light lunch back in camp it is time for a siesta, whether relaxing on your tent verandah or in the comfortable mess area, the camp’s library is well stocked. A delicious afternoon tea precedes the afternoon game drive. The Lamai Wedge is famous for the herds of a thousand topies, hundreds of eland, big prides of lion, cheetah and rhino. An African sunset marks the close of a day and is always best viewed with a sundowner drink in hand! Return to camp to the warmth of the camp fire and swap the day’s sightings and stories with other guests. After a three course feast and a final night cap by the fire under the stars be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the African bush at night.
Olakira Lamai was built with the utmost respect for the environment in which it is situated and aspires to leave behind nothing but footprints. The tented camp has no permanent structures and is broken down and moved at the end of the season, leaving the precious site as it was found with the exception of a couple of footpaths which are quickly reclaimed by the resilient African bush. Furthermore the camp is carbon neutral and runs entirely on solar power.
Olakira Lamai will open on the 1st July 2013 and rates start at US$ 620 per person per night, excluding national park fees.
