Mara Nyika Camp

The main area incorporates broad wooden decks and open-sided structures to create a pleasant indoor/outdoor feel. Open and breezy by day and softly lit by night, the ambience here changes to suit the mood. The canvas-covered restaurant is dressed simply but elegantly in natural wood tones, highlighted with local textiles and decor. The lounge is similarly furnished, with neutral pieces and hand-selected artefacts that are interesting but detract in no way from the area's principal attraction – the sublime wilderness.

Walkways wind through the canopy to the four tents, generous in both size and their distance from each other. They are constructed of canvas with the tell-tale luxury and light touch of a smart fly camp – both supremely comfortable and impermanent. Large outdoor decks allow you to be silent among the birds as you admire the plains beyond. Four-poster beds, deep baths and (our favourite) the chirping, whistling neighbours are among the camp's best features.

As superb as game viewing in the Masai Mara is, it can be a jostle if you're vying with huge numbers of other travellers for space at sightings. Mara Nyika's location in the Naboisho Conservancy gets you away from the fray, yet still within reach of the action. Explore the reserve on morning and afternoon game drives, looking out for the iconic species and the lesser-known ones. Investigate local Masai culture, respectfully. And take surreal photographs from a hot-air balloon.