Ngare Serian: The Ultimate Riverside Safari Retreat in the Masai Mara
Nestled along the Mara River in the exclusive Mara North Conservancy, Ngare Serian- represents intimate luxury safari experiences in Kenya.
With only four tents and profound seclusion, this camp offers discerning travellers an authentic wilderness escape few properties match.
For those seeking the perfect balance of adventure, exclusivity, and world-class wildlife viewing, Ngare Serian delivers an unforgettable safari experience. Let us guide you through everything that makes this camp a standout choice for your Kenyan safari.
What Makes Ngare Serian Unique?
The Ultimate Riverside Setting
The name “Ngare” translates to “by the river” in the Maa language, and this camp embraces its location. Perched on raised hardwood platforms overlooking the Mara River, each of the four spacious marquee tents offers uninterrupted views of the flowing water, river rapids, and resident hippo pods. The constant symphony of rushing water and wallowing hippos creates an immersive wilderness soundtrack that guests remember long after their departure.
The Iconic Rope Bridge Entrance
Reaching Ngare Serian is an adventure in itself. The camp is accessible only by crossing a 50-metre-long suspended rope bridge over the Mara River, the crossing is narrow and slightly swaying.
However, this crossing is more than access,it marks a symbolic transition from the ordinary world into a wilderness sanctuary where time slows.
There, nature takes center stage.
Exclusivity and Intimacy
With just four tents, Ngare Serian offers unparalleled privacy and personalized service . The camp’s small size makes it ideal for groups traveling together, families celebrating special occasions, or couples seeking a romantic escape . Each group enjoys a private vehicle and dedicated guide throughout their stay .
Accommodation at Ngare Serian
Luxury Tents
The accommodation at Ngare Serian consists of four supersized marquee-style tents, each positioned on a polished hardwood platform along the riverbank . Tents are spaced to ensure privacy, with three overlooking the river rapids and one offering views of a hippo-filled pool .
Interior Features
Each tent is a masterpiece of safari style:
- Four-poster beds with Victorian-style iron frames and mosquito nets
- Spacious living areas with armchairs, writing tables, and characterful carved furniture
- Oriental rugs on polished wooden floors
- Open-air design with three sides that can be opened to allow cool river breezes
En-Suite Bush Bathrooms
The bathrooms are a highlight, featuring:
- Flush toilets and twin washbasins
- Showers with hot running water
- Sunken bathtubs with panoramic river views
- 24-hour electricity via solar power with generator backup
Location and Access
Mara North Conservancy
Ngare Serian is situated in the Mara North Conservancy, a private wilderness area of over 74,000 acres that borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve . With only 11 camps in this vast conservancy, the area offers an exclusive, uncrowded safari experience .
Getting There
- Fly-in: 45-minute flight from Nairobi (Wilson Airport) to Mara North Airstrip
- Transfer: Approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the airstrip to the camp’s parking area
- Final Access: Crossing the iconic rope bridge into camp
Wildlife and Activities
Private Game Drives
Every group receives a private vehicle and expert guide for game drives . Guests can explore both the Mara North Conservancy and the Maasai Mara National Reserve, with flexibility to design their own itinerary each day .
What to See:
- All Big Five animals
- Abundant predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs
- Large herds of plains game
- Over 450 bird species
- The spectacular Great Migration (July to October)
Walking Safaris
Guided bush walks in Serian’s private 4000-acre concession offer a different perspective on the African bush . The trek up the Oloololo Escarpment rewards walkers with breathtaking panoramic views .
Night Drives
The camp’s location in a private conservancy allows for night game drives, offering opportunities to spot nocturnal wildlife including leopards, bush babies, and other creatures of the night .
Fly Camping at The Nest
For the ultimate adventure, guests can experience fly camping at The Nest Treehouse—a raised platform where you can enjoy a picnic followed by sleeping under the stars . This is one of owner Alex Walker’s passions and offers one of the most authentic bush experiences in Africa .
Additional Activities
- River fishing in the Mara River
- Bush running and hikes
- Sundowners by the river
- Hot air balloon safaris (optional extra)
- Cultural visits to Maasai villages
Facilities and Dining
The Mess Tent
The central mess tent is mounted on dark wooden floors, creating a warm and inviting space for dining and relaxation . Features include:
- Comfortable lounge area with sofas and armchairs
- Grand dining table seating up to ten guests
- Riverside deck for outdoor dining and evening campfires
Cuisine
Ngare Serian serves delicious farmhouse-style cuisine made with fresh ingredients, many sourced from the camp’s own kitchen garden . Meals are served family-style, fostering a communal atmosphere where guests can share stories of the day’s adventures.
Positive Impact and Conservation
Ngare Serian is owned by Alex Walker’s Serian, a company founded on profound respect for Kenya’s wilderness and cultures . The camp’s conservation ethos focuses on making wildlife preservation profitable for local communities, ensuring the long-term protection of the Mara ecosystem .
Ngare Serian vs. Sister Camps
Serian The Original (Mara North Conservancy)
Located just downstream from Ngare Serian, Serian The Original offers a similar quality experience with a more family-friendly atmosphere . With six tents including a family unit, it’s ideal for those traveling with children . Both camps share the same exceptional guiding team and can be combined for longer stays.
Nkorombo Serian (Maasai Mara National Reserve)
For guests wanting to experience the heart of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Nkorombo Serian offers a seasonal camp located within the reserve itself . Combining Ngare Serian with Nkorombo Serian provides the best of both worlds—exclusive conservancy and prime reserve viewing.
Kicheche Valley
For those seeking an alternative to the Serian collection, Kicheche Valley offers another intimate camp experience in the Mara ecosystem, with similar attention to personalized service and small-group exclusivity .
Tanzania Connections
For guests looking to extend their East African safari, Ngare Serian pairs exceptionally well with:
- Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park – The Great Migration continues through the Serengeti, offering complementary wildlife viewing
- Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations
- Zanzibar – Perfect for a beach extension after a safari
Beyond Kenya Safaris can arrange seamless connections between Ngare Serian and Tanzania’s premier safari destinations, with internal flights and private transfers.
Sample Itineraries Featuring Ngare Serian
Amboseli and Ngare Serian Luxury Combo (7 Nights)
Destinations: Amboseli National Park & Mara North Conservancy
Highlights:
- Elephant viewing with Mount Kilimanjaro as backdrop
- Exclusive Ngare Serian experience with private guide
- The Great Migration (seasonal)
- Internal flights between destinations
From: USD 8,500 – 9,900 per person sharing
Mara Wildlife Intensive (4 Nights)
Full stay at Ngare Serian with daily game drives, bush walks, and optional balloon safari
Best Time to Visit
- July – October: Great Migration season; river crossings and peak wildlife viewing
- January – March: Excellent predator sightings and dramatic sunsets
- November – June: Green season; lush scenery, fewer crowds, and exceptional birdwatching
Ngare Serian Rates
Non Resident Room Rates in US$ Per Person Per Night
| Amount | ||
| TENTS x 4 | Per adult per night | $1,585 |
| Open all year. | Single occupancy | $2,325 |
| MIN 3 NIGHTS | ||
| Per Child Ages 5 – 15 per night | $745 | |
| Green Season | Per adult per night | $1,245 |
| Jan 6th, 2025 – Jun 30th, 2025 | Single occupancy | $1,970 |
| and Oct 1st, 2025 – Dec 14th, 2025. | ||
| MIN 3 NIGHTS | Per Child Ages 5 – 15 per night | $580 |
Conservancy Fee:
- 2025 :MARA NORTH CONSERVANCY:$180 PER ADULT and $90 PER CHILD (CHILDREN UNDER 5 ARE FREE)
FEATURED ITINERARIES
- ROARING RIVERS VALID: ALL YEAR
- THE ALLEN KEY VALID: ALL YEAR
Rates Includes:
- Full board accommodation and all drinks
- Photographer in residence (Seasonal)
- Walking, sundowners, picnic and bush meals
- Exclusive use of 4WD vehicle, private guide and spotter, unlimited game drives and airstrip transfers
- Daily laundry services
Rates Excludes:
- All conservancy fees (per 24 hrs). Add extra for MMNR, alternatively add a couple nights at Nkorombo.
- Internal flights
- Gratuities
- Items of personal interest
TERMS & CONDITIONS
- Provisional bookings will be held for 14 days. We offer a certain amount of flexibility to extend when possible.
- A 20% non-refundable deposit is required upon booking to confirm a reservation.
- The balance of payment is due at least 46 days prior to the arrival date.
Cancellation
Cancellation must be received in writing.
Confirmed safaris canceled 46+ days prior to arrival – full deposit is forfeited.
No refund will be granted for confirmed bookings made less than 46 days prior to arrival.
Child Rates: US$745 per child (5-15 years) sharing with adults
Minimum Stay: 3 nights recommended
Why Book Ngare Serian with Beyond Kenya Safaris?
As experienced safari specialists, Beyond Kenya Safaris offers:
- Expert knowledge of Kenya’s premier safari destinations
- Seamless logistics between camps and destinations
- Best available rates and exclusive offers
- Tailored itineraries to match your preferences
- 24/7 support throughout your journey
in Brief
Ngare Serian is more than a safari camp—it’s a sanctuary where the rhythms of nature guide each day, and the spirit of Africa embraces you from the moment you cross the iconic rope bridge . With its intimate size, exceptional guiding, and prime location in the Mara North Conservancy, this camp offers one of Kenya’s most authentic and exclusive safari experiences.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Africa or a seasoned safari-goer, Ngare Serian promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to plan your Ngare Serian safari? Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris today to start designing your perfect East African adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many tents does Ngare Serian have?
A: Ngare Serian has just four guest tents, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience .
Q: Is there a minimum stay requirement?
A: Yes, a minimum stay of 3 nights is recommended to fully experience the camp and surrounding wildlife .
Q: Can children stay at Ngare Serian?
A: Yes, children of all ages are welcome. Children aged 5-15 stay at reduced rates, and under-5s may stay free, subject to management discretion .
Q: What is the best way to get to Ngare Serian?
A: Most guests fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Mara North Airstrip, followed by a transfer to camp .
Q: Is the rope bridge safe?
A: Yes, the bridge is completely safe, though it may not suit everyone due to its slight sway .
Q: What is included in the rates?
A: Rates typically include full board, local drinks, private vehicle and guide, conservancy fees, and transfers .
Ready to experience the magic of Ngare Serian? Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris] to start planning your luxury safari today.
Related Alex Walker Serian Safari Camps in Masai Mara:-Serian Camp-Original & Serian Nkorombo
Related Safaris
- Amboseli & Ngare Serian Luxury Combo – 7 Nights
- Mara Wildlife Intensive Safari – 4 Nights
- Samburu & Mara Fly-In Safari – 6 Nights
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