A GLAMOROUS SAFARI
Kicheche Mara North: Kenya
I stayed at Kicheche Mara, a luxury classic tented camp surrounded by a lush savannah and diverse wildlife including the famous “big five.” With only eight tents overlooking the Olar Olok stream and an average of two guests per tent, one never feels crowded. The executive chef prepares a three-course lunch and dinner eaten at an expansive, elegantly laid dining table at the main camp, paired with delicious wine or refreshing, cold beer. Guests take their breakfast and six o’clock sundown drinks (a crisp glass of bubbly or wine) on the savannah overlooking breathtaking morning landscapes or painted sunsets.
Accommodations
Each luxury tent houses a queen bed and an ensuite bathroom (with hot shower and flushing toilet) — my type of camping. Fitted with lowwattage lighting 24 hours a day, each suite has fresh, clean drinking water, bug spray, an umbrella, poncho and Wellington boots just in case it rains. The common area consists of two large, open tents filled with comfortable seating, board games, books, local crafts and a charging station for any electronics that you have brought with you. There is also a fully stocked bar should the Kenyan heat leave you thirsty.
Food
Catered picnic breakfasts and lunches are available for those who want to dine on the savannah. Guides pack everything from sandwiches to tortillas to traditional Kenyan snacks such as mandazi, a slightly sweet cross between a doughnut and a bun. Lunches include items such as freshly baked quiche and salad with a post meal cheese board, while dinners can include steaks and stir fry followed by crumble and custard. They also cater to food allergies. All meals are served with a variety of South African wines and beers.
Transportation
Four-wheel-drive customized safari vehicles have open windows and an open roof. These are ideal for viewing, taking pictures or capturing video of the animals on the Mara. These vehicles are also equipped with bottled water, ponchos (in case of rain) and outlets for on-the-go charging should camera batteries threaten to die.