Karen Blixen Camp

The large central area sits on a wide timber deck suspended above the sloping lawns (tangled vegetation on the river's edge protects against visits by crocs and hippo), and consists of a huge dining room and bar under thatch, with open sides offering stunning river views, and an outdoor dining terrace around a fire pit. The lounge leads out into the gardens, with a secluded swimming pool and sundeck, and a small beauty spa tucked beneath the trees.

22 spacious platform-mounted tents lie along the riverbank, each fronted by a veranda with wonderful views. Two tents share a platform, a perfect family option. Traditional safari style – heavy canvas, roll-up windows, solid wooden floors and vintage furnishings – echoes the 'Out of Africa' atmosphere of a century ago. The mood continues in elegant armchairs, beautiful linens and solar lights disguised as hurricane lamps. Bathrooms are en suite, with a screened outdoor shower and bathtub under the sky.

Game drives in the Mara North Conservancy offer the chance to see prides of lion, large herds of elephant and buffalo, cheetah and abundant plains game. Night drives often yield exciting leopard sightings, and the occasional aardvark or civet. Full day drives and walking safaris in the Masai Mara National Reserve are also possible, with shorter nature walks in the private conservancy around the lodge. Other activities include exciting birdwatching, visits to a Maasai village and hot air balloon safaris.