Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Namiri Plains
True safari in big cat country
For two decades, the expansive grasslands of the Eastern Serengeti were closed to tourists, allowing the cheetah population to flourish. Today, it is one of the prime cheetah and big cat viewing spots in the region, especially from November to June when migrating wildebeest venture into the area.
Namiri Plains is the only camp for miles around, all but ensuring the dramatic safari on offer is yours alone.
Eight stylish tented suites, contemporary but authentically safari, look out over the grassland and passing game. One is little more private, ideal for honeymooners, while another can accommodate a family of four. Think king size beds, crisp sheets with both the indoor and outdoor showers
The communal mess tent lounge and shady spots under acacia trees are wonderful places to relax and admire the wilderness. Meals in the dining tent are all about freshly baked breads in the morning, surprisingly opulent three course dinners after drinks around the fire and picnic lunches out in the bush.
Game drives are the main activity here, with lion, cheetah and leopard predation on the prolific plains game a likely sight. More intimate walking safaris are also on offer, accompanied by experienced guides, as is meeting up with a local cheetah researcher to learn more about the elegant felines. Hot air balloon safaris can be arranged from here too.
Highlights
Game drives
Walking safaris
Meet cheetah researchers
Hot air ballooning
Eight tented suites
Communal dining and lounge tents
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Namiri Plains with
Etosha National Park
Encounter by Ongava is an intimate safari camp set within Ongava Game Reserve, on the southern edge of Etosha National Park. You’ll be surrounded by Mopane woodland and wildlife moving freely through the landscape.
There are eight spacious walk-in tents: seven standard tents and one paired tent that works well for families or small groups. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom with an outdoor shower and a private deck.
You can head out on game drives across the 30,000-hectare Ongava Game Reserve. The area is known for its rhino population, as well as lion, zebra and antelope, including the endemic black-faced impala. We especially recommend private guided nature walks, where you can slow down, appreciate the small details and explore with minimal impact. There may be the chance to approach white rhino on foot, as well as spend time bird watching.
For a wider safari experience, take a guided excursion into nearby Etosha National Park, Namibia’s prime savannah wilderness area. At the Ongava Visitor Centre, learn about the region’s geology, wildlife, plants and ecology.
Back at camp, slow down by the pool, settle into the library or gather at the bar as evening falls. The day softens into drinks, quiet conversation and the sounds of the reserve.
