Where remote takes on new meaning
In the extreme north of the Serengeti, close to the border with neighbouring Kenya, the Mara River slices through one of the most far-flung corners of Tanzania where rolling green hills dotted with acacia trees open into wide, grassy savannahs. This is where the great wildebeest migration meets its biggest challenge at its peak between July and October each year - crossing the Mara, a river with some of the highest concentrations of crocodiles in Africa. It's also where you'll find Nimali Mara - a lodge literally on the edge of the action...
See
The heaving herds of the great wildebeest migration as they battle their way across the churning, muddied waters of the Mara River filled with unseen dangers that lurk beneath.
Hear
Wildebeest calling in their millions, their distinctive "gnu, gnu, gnu" vocalisations that gave them their African name reverberating across the northern plains during migration season.
Smell
The delicious, rich aroma of local coffee brewing as you alight from your game drive vehicle for a fabulous bush breakfast overlooking the plains of the northern Serengeti.
Taste
A refreshing gin and tonic as you sit back on a plush beanbag atop a kopje and toast the magnificent setting sun in sensational African style.
Touch
The sky, as you soar effortlessly over the endless plains, drifting on an African breeze in a hot air balloon - the oldest form of manned flight.
Location
Nimali Mara is tucked away on the side of a low kopje overlooking gently rolling plains with views of distant hills beyond. This is one of the most remote areas of the northern Serengeti, making it exclusive and intimate, especially outside of the great migration, which has its peak between July and October each year. The game viewing is exceptional here all year round, with some of the highest concentrations of elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, and hyena in the Serengeti. The Mara River is just a 35-minute drive away from camp as it winds its way through the plains, en-route to Lake Victoria in the west. It's home to huge pods of hippo and some of the largest crocodiles in Africa, thanks to the countless wildebeest and zebra that fall prey to these gargantuan reptiles as the herds cross the river during the great migration.
Accommodation
Nimali Mara is a chameleon, blending effortlessly into its surroundings, making the most of the kopje's rock formations to create unique spaces where guests can relax and unwind in between activities. An infinity pool set within a natural cave offers the perfect place to cool down during the heat of the day. The eight glass-fronted tented suites and two honeymoon suites completely immerse guests in their environment while affording exceptional views out over the Serengeti plains. Private decks are equipped with swing beds that make siesta time a treat. Even the en-suite bathrooms have views from their large, copper bathtubs with windows that open out directly onto wild Africa. Nimali Mara's décor is a blend of contemporary and natural elements, using lots of organic influences to create texture and copper fittings to introduce a warm ambience.
Activities
Nimali Mara's main activities are morning and afternoon game drives, exploring one of the most remote regions of the Serengeti. This area is particularly well known for its elephants and predators. A hot-air balloon flight over the northern plains and the Mara River is also highly recommended. During the great wildebeest migration's peak, between July and October each year, we focus on the Mara River crossings.
In addition to these activities we also offer the following:
- Spa treatments and wellness therapies
- Bush lunches & dinners
- Sundowners in the bush
- Dedicated children's activities
- Champagne bush breakfasts
Experiences
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Getting there
Nimali Mara is a four-hour game drive from Nimali Serengeti.
- Kogatende Airstrip (35 minutes' road transfer)
S 01° 42 09.2’ / E 034° 54 42.5’
