Namiri Plains

About Namiri Plains

Before Namiri Plains was built, these grasslands were closed to tourism for 20 years while the cheetah population was restored and researched. Upon expiry of the research lease, we were proud to be offered the rights to establish the first safari camp in this unchartered corner of the Serengeti. Our safari guides established the road networks, tracked the different prides and families across the plains, and embraced the guardianship of Namiri Plains. It is this bond, and the knowledge our guides hold, that allows them to deliver an unparallelled safari experience.

Game drives track cheetah across the plains, or spy out lion basking atop granite kopjes, while walking safaris allow for a closer connection to the wilderness and the opportunity to observe the details unseen from a vehicle. In camp, relax around the pool whilst keeping an eye open for game approaching a natural spring across the plains, or schedule a massage to take your relaxation one step further. The information centre tracks the fascinating development of this habitat, providing insight into both the landscape and wildlife of Namiri Plains.

accommodation

Rooms

Ten stylish tented suites and one family suite overlook the expansive plains of the eastern Serengeti. The beautifully furnished interiors are spacious and comfortable, with sliding doors running the width of the room, opening onto an expansive viewing deck. The walls are made from calcrete, a sedimentary rock created from the ashes of the Ngorongoro volcanoes, that help to regulate the temperatures of the suites. The suite interiors are decorated in natural materials and tones. Each bathroom enjoys a view over the plains and has a standalone resin tub on the private deck, allowing for an al fresco bubble bath with a chilled glass of fizz.

accommodation

Namiri Plains Retreats

Experiences

A unique camp in a remote location

Entirely rebuilt and refurbished in 2019, Namiri Plains offers stylish and spacious accommodation with sweeping views across the surrounding grasslands. The camp features a relaxing pool and deck, as well as a library and fascinating information centre.

The plains around Namiri are vast and unspoilt, mainly thanks to the restricted tourism access they long enjoyed. Choose to explore by vehicle, by foot, or from the air, or opt to relax in camp with a drink by the pool or under the hands of a skilled masseuse. Whatever your preference, there is plenty on offer at Namiri Plains.

Experiences

A typical day on safari at Namiri Plains

Start the day early with a morning wake-up call and tea or coffee delivered to your suite. Early mornings and late afternoon typically deliver the best wildlife viewing, as animals tend to be more active during the cooler hours. Whether you opt for a walking safari or a game drive, these will both set off as early as possible. Game drives will usually include a picnic breakfast so as not to waste time in camp, but if you’re setting out for a walking safari then a light breakfast is usually enjoyed in camp with something more substantial available upon return.

Lunch in camp is followed by the opportunity to relax and soak up the pleasures of camp during the heat of the day. Cool off in the swimming pool, enjoy a revitalising spa treatment, or recline on your private veranda with a good book and a cold drink. Refuel with afternoon tea, before setting out for an afternoon game drive and sundowners on the open plains. Returning to camp in the early evening, there’s a chance to freshen up before drinks around the campfire and a delicious dinner. Another perfect day in Namiri.

Experiences

Game drives

There are usually two game drives each day: one first thing in the morning and another in the late afternoon. With our expert guides who know this area best, track big cats across the plains, over termite mounds and up the kopjes. In November, the enormous herds of the migration pass directly through these plains as they make their way south, however, they can still be accessed until June before they begin to mass in the northern Serengeti.

Experiences

Walking safaris

One of the most exciting ways to explore the Serengeti is on foot. Stepping down from the vehicle, the smaller ecosystem so regularly overlooked comes into focus. Termites, ants, butterflies, and dung beetles all play a role in the success of the ecosystem, and a walking safari allows the time to appreciate them. Although big game is frequently seen, tracking them on foot from a distance is a different experience compared to trying to get close in a vehicle. 

Experiences

Photographic safaris

Namiri Plains is home to one of our specially modified photographic vehicles. The open vehicle allows keen amateurs and professional photographers alike to shoot at eye level with wildlife. It is equipped with all the gear to ensure award-winning shots — from beanbags and camera rests to 360° swivel seats. Please enquire to ensure availability of the vehicle and confirm any additional fees. 

Experiences

Information centre

There’s ancient history to be discovered on the plains around Namiri. The layer of calcrete below the ground’s surface provided the perfect compound for the creation of fossils millions of years ago after the eruption of the surrounding volcanoes. For more information about fossils and the surrounding area, visit our Information Centre where books, maps and artefacts can also be found.

Learn more about this area of the Serengeti in our information centre, where you’ll find relevant, carefully selected books, maps and artefacts. 

Experiences

Cheetah research

Experiences

Hot-air balloon safaris

Take in the Serengeti from a bird’s-eye view as you soar over the plains in a hot-air balloon. This is a breathtaking way to see the full scope of the wildebeest herds. Hot-air balloon trips are at extra cost and are weather dependent. Advance booking is essential. 

Experiences

Asilia Spa

Visit the spa for a well-deserved indulgence after a long flight or overland journey. Treatments can also be organised en suite.

Experiences

Family safaris

At Namiri Plains, we welcome families with children over 5 and have a family tent that sleeps four (children under 12 must share a tent with an adult). The two Retreats offer a luxurious experience for families looking for an element of exclusivity and a private space in which to connect.

While we do not offer specific activities for children, our friendly staff will do their best to entertain all guests. Please ask your agent about hiring a private vehicle for your family’s safari. 

Experiences

Meals and refreshments

All food is made in camp, including fresh bread, biscuits and muffins. Breakfast is a continental buffet or full English, and lunch is a light buffet with salad or fresh vegetables. If you opt to extend your game drive in to the day, we can pack your lunch for a bush picnic. Later, a three-course dinner is served in the dining tent or under the stars.  

We are able to cater to most diets. Please let us know of any dietary requirements ahead of your arrival.