Sala's Camp Hotel

Masaai Mara

With access to some of the best wildlife in Kenya, this intimate, conservation focused camp in southern Maasai Mara spares no luxury, whether on the lookout for rhino or taking a post-game-drive dip

The Mara makes sense for first-timers and seasoned safari hands alike. There’s the ease of access: a quick flight from Nairobi, the hypnotic savannah, one of the highest concentrations of big cats in Africa – and a vast range of lodges and camps. Top of the list has to be Sala’s Camp, the brainchild of locals Mikey and Tanya Carr- Hartley, who know the lay of the land like no other. Their love of the region is clear, from the design and convivial hospitality to their carefully crafted roster of activities and focus on conservation and community. You’ll find Sala’s Camp in the southern reaches of the Maasai Mara – tickling the border with Tanzania – along the Sand River. Its style? Think under canvas with the dial cranked to 11 – an intimate, luxury affair with sweeping private tents filled with plush linens, local art, antique furniture and copper tub – and all with a private pool and sunkenseating area. Over in the main mess tent, the open-fronted space is helmed by a huge dining table cut from a single piece of fallen African rosewood, though guests can eat in the garden space too. Comfy sofas, games and books are scattered around, though you’re likely to be more mesmerised by the gang of resident mongoose playing on the lawn or tales from other guests returning from a drive.

Inspired meals are fresh and flavoursome – much of the food grown in the kitchen garden – while sundowners are served from a back bar retro-fitted into a safari jeep (African gin and Amurala a given). If spotting rhino, rare cats and, if you’re very lucky, pangolin is not enough, hot-air balloon rides, nature walks and birdwatching can all be arranged.

Words by Blossom Green. Photography by Scott Ramsay, lovewildafrica.com.

Seven-night all-inclusive safari from £20,675pp, excluding international flights. journeysbydesign.com