Guide to Serian - The Original in Mara North Conservancy

Mara River, Treehouse, & Serian – The Original African Bush Camp

Serian – The Original, part of the exclusive Alex Walker Collection, offers an authentic and unpretentious yet comfortable and welcoming safari experience. Nestled within the private Mara North Conservancy, it serves as the perfect starting point for your safari adventures, with easy access to both the conservancy and Masai Mara National Reserve. 

The camp is renowned for its exceptional service and the friendly, attentive staff who are dedicated to making your stay unforgettable. Each tent comes with its own private safari vehicle and driver, giving you the freedom to create a personalized safari journey. One of the main advantages of staying within the conservancy is the sense of peace and privacy you’ll enjoy, far away from the crowds typically found in the National Reserve. With fewer camps and guests in the area, the experience feels more exclusive and intimate.

In true safari camp style, the communal area at Serian – The Original is housed in a thatched building, featuring an open-air dining space and a cozy lounge furnished with comfortable cream sofas, dark wood furniture, and a romantic wood-burning fireplace. The camp can accommodate only twelve guests at a time, ensuring a serene and tranquil atmosphere throughout your stay. The cuisine is a highlight, with fresh ingredients sourced from the camp’s own garden, including vegetables, fruits, and salads. 

The owner even keeps beehives to protect the garden from hungry elephants. Start your day with a delicious breakfast, such as homemade toasted muesli paired with fresh mango slices. For lunch, enjoy dishes like crispy fish cakes or Thai vegetable cakes, accompanied by vibrant green salads and freshly baked bread adorned with edible flowers. As the day winds down, indulge in an elegant three-course dinner served fireside.

The camp features six spacious, marquee-style tents, each with a private bathroom that includes a large stone bath, twin sinks, flushing toilets, and powerful showers with views of the lush Mara River valley. The interiors are tastefully decorated with four-poster beds, wrought-iron lampstands, Persian rugs, and dark wood furniture, all in soothing neutral tones. 

The front terraces of the tents are equipped with daybeds and floor cushions, offering a perfect spot to relax while overlooking the river, home to a pod of hippos. Just a short stroll from the main camp is ‘The Nest,’ a charming treehouse that can be reserved for an overnight stay or a peaceful afternoon picnic amidst the treetops. For families, there is also a larger tent that features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an adjoining deck for extra space and comfort.

Things to Do at Serian – The Original

At Serian – The Original, you’ll find an array of exciting activities that will make your stay unforgettable. One of the highlights is the game drive in an open-top safari vehicle, where you’ll be guided by an expert driver and spotter. Each tent is assigned its own vehicle, guide, and spotter, giving you the freedom to take as much time as you need to capture the perfect wildlife shot. The camp’s team is highly skilled and knowledgeable, ensuring you visit the best spots and gain insights into the local wildlife.

A unique perk of staying in the conservancy is the opportunity to go on bush walks. Join the morning walking safaris for an adventurous experience off the beaten path. These walks let you get up close to nature, offering a chance to see even the smallest details in the environment, while also possibly encountering buffalo, hippos, elephants, and other wildlife.

For a truly extraordinary experience, guests can try fly-camping. This option lets you explore the bush during the day and spend the night in a lightweight tent under the stars.

Serian also offers thrilling nighttime game drives and the chance to take a hot air balloon ride over the savannah (additional charge applies).

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