Highly-exclusive Safari Camp for Only 24 people

In a paradise where lions roam freely and lead lives of idyllic isolation, Sir Richard Branson’s Mahali Mzuri, located 240 km West of Nairobi is only accessible via a five hours drive or one-hour flight from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It must be said, the highly exclusive Mahali Mzuri glamping experience is the crème de la crème of safari escapades. Perched 1,700m above sea level, the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy covers an area of 13,500 hectares, and the ultra-exclusive 12-tented safari camp can only accommodate 24 people at any one time, perfect for wholesome safari adventures without the clamouring of other tourists; it is just you, your friends and the animals.

The 12 residential tents are built with sturdy hardwood and framed by a generous number of floor-to-ceiling windows. Taken together, it brings the outside in, funnelling natural light into the space and illuminating warm wooden interiors; the walls separating the vacationers from the wilderness are almost imperceptible as they blend into the surroundings seamlessly. Yet, at the same time, the tents are replete with modern amenities that are meticulously integrated, making it the ultimate glamping experience while losing none of its naturalistic style. Ten of the 12 tents are made to accommodate two adults (with the option of splitting into twin beds) and the remaining two are configured to house two additional guests — perfect for families with children over six.

At the heart of the enclosure lies the Main Tent where vacationers may wind down in the well-stocked library, a relaxing lounge with an open fireplace, and/or have their dinners at large communal table alfresco-style to build a sense of camaraderie amongst fellow safari enthusiasts. A stone’s throw away is the infinity-edged pool for visitors to dissipate the safari heat while admiring the Kenyan landscape. Alternatively, they could opt for an exotic Spa treatment where visitors may luxuriate in locally-sourced herbs.

Twice daily, there will be game drives in a six-seater Land Cruiser where guests get front-row seats to see lions, wildebeest, elephants, giraffes and cheetahs while being entertained by the reminiscence of their hospitable guides. If watching the natural wonder that is river crossing is a priority, come between July and August as herds of wildebeests tromp into Kenya’s Masai Mara in the annual Great Migration. Mesmerised by the indomitable spirit of the animals in search of life-saving water, you pray inwardly for the safe passage of the young calves that lugged behind parents.

Although seemingly unplugged from civilisation, there is no compromise when it comes to food. Besides the provision of some of the finest Champagne of the land, guests may choose from an array of pan-African and international cuisine and even the setting of their meals. Whether it is a bush BBQ, champagne picnic or dining under the starry African sky, the team at Mahali Mzuri will gladly oblige.

The lions may be the King of the safari, but at Mahali Mzuri, the throne is reserved for the 24 esteemed guests.