Mara River Post

​The broad thatched-roof areas of the east and west edges of the camp house the lounge, bar and dining room. Intimately arranged seating areas, natural materials and soft tones give the large spaces a warm, friendly atmosphere. At the centre of each half are round hearths, surrounded by plenty of seating. Stone decks rim the perimeters, offering mesmerising views of the river and the plains beyond.

The west side of camp has eight rooms, the east side, twelve. In both cases, the rooms flank both sides of the communal areas, so reaching your room is no great trek. The stone, canvas and thatch rooms are elevated, encircled by wooden decks that provide great sightings right from your room. The interiors are simple, on the luxurious side of comfortable, with quality linens and comfortable mattresses. En-suite bathrooms have hot showers and double basins. Electricity is solar-powered.

Game drives are the best way to catch the action. The area is so huge and diverse that longer drives mean you'll get some really good game viewing. Safari traffic often gets congested during the high season, when the wildlife is active, but the guides here are excellent, and know how to deal tactfully with such scenarios. Note that the lodge is closed from mid-March to the end of May, during the brunt of the rainy season.