To see and not be seen on this sacred site was a huge challenge, but we took that to be where nature leads, beauty and style would follow. And so it did.
Lamai’s open fronted bedrooms are peppered around the Kogakuria Kopje, a tumble of giant boulders that stand proud above the northern Serengeti grasslands.
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Lamai sticks its head above the rest both literally and figuratively.
Our mission here is to be the guardians of this magnificent sacred kopje and create a lodge that did no harm here was no mean feat. The camp was meticulously designed to mould to the kopje and blur lines between nature and us.
Lamai has an understated style that combines light-touch brilliance with resourceful creativity. Beautiful furniture and artefacts are made by skilled Tanzania artisans while one-off pieces discovered in remote markets across Tanzania are painstakingly upcycled. We are scrupulous about working with local suppliers, so everything is made or sourced in-country. The light-filled rooms channel immense views of the Serengeti while remaining all but invisible to the outside world. This is all about treadling lightly. Seeing, but not being seen.
Lamai Private is hard to beat if you’re traveling with your family. The small and intimate lodge is right at the heart of the safari action, so days are filled with adventure; the Mara River crossings are just a couple of miles away while the area is a hotspot for resident lion, leopard and rhino plus endless other species of bird and animal. Retreat to the lodge during the heat of the day and you’ll find the perfect place to kick off your shoes and relax while enjoying incredible views over the Serengeti. A dedicated team, wonderful fresh food, drinks galore, comfortable sofas, sun decks, open rooms. All the ingredients for every member of the family to have the perfect holiday.
Open
June to mid March
2
separate lodges
12
open-fronted rooms
8
rooms in main lodge
4
rooms in private lodge
All with verandahs and views
The transport networks in Tanzania are very good with internal flight schedules across the country. It is possible to fly into the parks and land at one of the bush airstrips. From there, most lodges will arrange for a transfer journey from airstrip to the lodge. Depending on the lodge location, this can vary in journey time. Or, if you opt for a driving safari in northern Tanzania, your guide (included as standard with Nomad) will transport you from location to location.
Yes, some camps have minimum age limits, in camp and especially on walking safaris. But there are many brilliant private or family properties that can tailor the age restrictions.
Yes you can charge your devices whilst on safari. Most camps have connection points in the tent or room. Also, in most safari vehicle there is charging points available so you can keep all your cameras and phones topped up and never miss that wonderful sighting.
This is the trip of lifetime so you must have a good camera (or phone) to capture those wonderful memories. More importantly is a decent pair of binoculars - essential for your time in the bush. Sunscreen and insect repellant should be in the bag as well as a good water bottle, although you will be provided with a Nomad water bottle as part of your stay - hydration is really important on safari and in dry climates. Check your luggage restrictions with your tour operator as there are restrictions on luggage allowance for domestic flights in Tanzania. Also, if you react to insect bites be sure to bring antihistamines. It is a good idea to carry loperamide (commonly sold as Imodium) just in case.
Many people underestimate how immersive a safari experience is. Time in the bush can be tiring – most mornings you will be up before sunrise as the wild wakes up your day continues into long evenings spent under the stars. If you’re travelling with children, we always recommend a private guide and exclusive vehicle (included as standard with Nomad) that means a lie in here and there is always possible.
There is no rule for the number of days on safari but we would recommend taking your time in each location and not rushing through safari parks. Give yourselves time to stop and immerse yourself in the area. Many travellers consider a pit stop at the beaches of Zanzibar or Mafia Island to re-charge post safari and before they head back to the real world.
We advise against drinking the tap water in Tanzania and as such, we provide safe drinking water in all camps and vehicles so guests can remain well hydrated throughout their trip.
Early starts with golden light as the bush awakens, and a fresh cup of coffee by the morning camp fire. Either breakfast in camp or take a bush breakfast to go. Enjoy early morning game drives to observe wildlife before the day gets too hot. In the heat of the day, find a shady spot for a siesta go. After tea, its time for an afternoon foray and sundowners with a view. Evenings are quiet, firelit, and full of stars.
Yellow Fever vaccinations are required if you are arriving from endemic countries. Other recommended vaccinations include tetanus, diptheria, polio, hepatitis A and typhoid. You will also need to consider hepatitis B and malaria prevention medicines. In all cases, you must seek advice from your medical professional.