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Serian 'The Original', Masai Mara | Timbuktu Travel
Masai Mara

Serian 'The Original'

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Serian 'The Original'

A classic camp with a warm Kenyan spirit in the fabulous Mara North Conservancy.
There’s no tearing through the bush, ticking off animals from a vehicle at Alex Walker’s Serian; this is a safari that’s about listening, watching and feeling the very heart of the bush and engaging with all its inhabitants (four-legged and other!) And luckily, there’s an enormous range of activities to help you on your way. Back at base, the camp is a haven of tranquillity, tucked away in the wonderful Mara North Conservancy under a sleepy grove of olive trees. And funnily enough, the local Maasai translation of ‘serian’ is ‘calm’ or ‘serene’ – which is exactly how you’ll feel after a few days here.
Mara Conservancies , Masai Mara , Kenya
From $1.3K per person/per night
Safari
6 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The mess area (and library and dining area) is a treetop expanse of wooden decking complete with gnarled trees protruding through the floorboards and the perfect sprinkling of little luxuries to make you feel right at home – think plenty of low-slung and seriously comfy seating, an indoor fireplace and G&Ts on request. The fabulous Treehouse teeters in the nearby trees and if you’re not sleeping there, head up for a quiet cushion-filled siesta and contemplate the Mara stretching before you.

The rooms

Perched on platforms for the ultimate in uninterrupted views, the six tents are as big as marquees and perfectly bush-chic in a totally understated way. Enormous double beds draped in mosquito nets take centre stage, surrounded by simple woven rugs and carved writing desks and there’s plenty of cushions and chairs on the veranda to relax in. En-suite bathrooms have twin sinks, showers and huge bath tubs to float in and and gaze at the divine views of the Mara River and Oloololo Escarpment.

Activities

Where do we start? Game drive to your heart’s content with your private guide (included in the price), practise your archery skills with the local Maasai, breakfast on the banks of the Mara River, head out on a walking adventure through the magical terrain (maybe even with a night of fly camping?) and soar through the air on a balloon safari. So what doesn’t Serian have? Lots of people and lots of cars – you’re pretty much on your own up here and it’s heaven.
Why we love it

Why we love it

Having a dedicated guide and vehicle and running your days at your own pace. Fancy an all-day drive complete with al-fresco breakfast and sundowner G&Ts? Absolutely fine.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Mara North Conservancy is home to only 10 other camps so a stay at Serian really feels like you have your own private piece of Africa. In fact, there’s 4000 acres of pristine walking area just for you.
Something to think about

Something to think about

There’s no Wifi here (or at any of the Serian camps) so take it as a real chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect to nature.
Lodge positive impact

Positive Impact

The impact of your stay

Serian 'The Original' is owned by Alex Walker's Serian, and founded on a profound respect for Kenya and Tanzania's wildernesses and cultures. Central to their ethos is preserving these areas by managing human interaction with wildlife. As populations grow and resources strain, Serian emphasizes making conservation profitable for locals. Note: a conservancy fee applies but is not included in the nightly rate.

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How to book Serian 'The Original'

How do I book Serian 'The Original'?

Serian 'The Original' can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Kenya trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Kenya trips featuring Serian 'The Original' or get advice and suggestions from one of our Kenya specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Serian 'The Original'?

Stays at Serian 'The Original' start from around $1.3K per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Serian 'The Original'

Kenya

Masai Mara

A safari classic filled with the Big Five, wildlife-dotted landscapes and vibrant Maasai warriors.