Luxury Serengeti and Zanzibar Honeymoon

Namiri Plains Camp Overview

Located in the eastern plains of the Serengeti National Park is the breath-taking camp named Namiri Plains. This camp is recognized in the safari industry because of its location. These grasslands in the eastern part of the park were closed for over 20 years to allow the cheetah population to restore naturally, without human interruption or distraction. Since its opening to the public, Namiri Plains is one of the only camps in this area so a safari here will feel completely private and secluded. Not only that, but the cheetah population has grown enormously and as a result of its success, you will not have a stay in Namiri Plains and not see a cheetah! In fact, the big cat population here is really impressive – lion prides and leopards can also be seen in this area. The camp itself is novel in its design and one of the most luxurious in all of Tanzania – offering private decks, a swimming pool, chandeliers, a library and study, private decks and free-standing baths.

Lemala Nanyukie Camp Overview

Opened in 2018, Lemala Nanyukie matches the same outstanding standards as the other properties in Lemala’s luxury collection. Meaning ‘endless plains’ in the Maasai language, the Serengeti is one of the world’s most celebrated wilderness areas. Lemala Nanyukie is located just a 60-minute drive from the airstrip in the park’s central region. It’s both accessible and exclusive in its own area in the eastern Serengeti. This area was closed to the public for over 10 years during a cheetah repopulation initiative. Now it’s open, only two major camps sit in this area so your game drives will feel very private. And after its successful project, it’s one of the best areas for big cats – cheetah in particular. The camp sits on a grassy savannah dotted with rocky kopjes and shaded by ancient giant acacia trees. Lemala Nanyukie is open year-round, and safari activities like game drives and walks will be accompanied by Lemala’s highly experienced guides. Guests here can expect a light contemporary decor with warmth introduced by textured accessories, luxurious upholstery, and wooden furnishings. The wooden deck has sunken seating and a stunning corner plunge pool with views across the Serengeti.

About Lamai Serengeti

Amongst the giant boulders of the Kogakuria Kopje, you’ll find Lamai Serengeti offers you an incredible vantage point over the vast Serengeti plains. In this incredible location, the lodge is cleverly integrated into the rock formations where the architecture uses natural stone, timber, and canvas to create open-sided pavilions that feel completely connected to the surrounding landscape, with decks offering wide Serengeti vistas.

The heart of the camp is the central mess area, where you will find comfortable lounges and a bar. Meals are served in both indoor and al-fresco settings on tiered decks, allowing you to dine while soaking in the scenery. You can cool off in the swimming pool, which has a wonderful outlook over the plains below, or browse the small boutique corner. For quieter moments, a library and map nook provide a space for reflection. The lodge is located near the Mara River, offering access to seasonal crossing points, and is conveniently reached from the Kogatende airstrip. Wi-Fi is available in the primary communal areas.

Sayari Camp Overview

Overlooking the game-filled plains, Sayari Camp is situated in the north of the Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania. Between the months of June and October, the wildebeest migration herds will be up in this area, feeding on green pasture before taking their opportunity to cross the Mara River. The benefit of being in a camp like Sayari is that the guides will know where the herds are every day and will have a greater insight into when they will make that river crossing and at which crossing point. The camp itself was just redesigned and now offers an even more luxurious and contemporary feel to it. Each of the 15 suites have walk-in showers, free-standing outdoor baths, beautiful décor and private verandas. In addition, the main area offers an inviting pool, set between natural rock formations, an Asilia Spa and an innovative solar-powered micro-brewery. This is the first in the bush!

Matemwe Retreat

For those looking for the utmost luxury and privacy, Matemwe Retreat is a fantastic option. Located on the north-eastern coast of Zanzibar, Matemwe Retreat sits close to the Mnemba Atoll which is great for watersports like diving and snorkelling. Although the resort does not have an expansive beach like other areas, it prides itself on having a hidden cove, undisturbed views and private plunge pools and garden areas to enjoy. For that reason, it is a good option for romantic couples who are looking for exclusivity and pure escapism, either before or after your Tanzania safari. There are only 4 villas, each offering a private plunge pool, a butler service, a personal bar, and air conditioning. It’s also all-inclusive so all meals and drinks are included during your stay. Activities and excursions such as dhow sunset trips, reef walks and village visits can be booked from Matemwe Retreat. Alternatively, you can spend each day relaxing in the sun and being served like a King!

Zanzibar White Sands Overview

Situated on the beautiful beaches of Paje in eastern Zanzibar, is White Sands Villas. This is one of the most private resorts on the island, as the villas have their own pool, living area and garden space to enjoy. Walk a minute from the villa and you will arrive on a pristine white sand beach (hence the name), looking out to the glistening Indian Ocean. There are 11 luxury villas and 3 Cinnamon rooms, each offering different sizes and number of bedrooms to accommodate groups and families. The resort facilities include an onsite spa, a beach bar, various lounge and outdoor garden spaces, a rooftop champagne bar, and of course, an expansive beach to relax on each day. The décor in the villas and main area is very clean, minimal and inviting. With a small collection of luxury villas, the service, food and attention to detail is really exceptional – one of the best on the islands we’d say.

Highlights

Located on the eastern coast of Zanzibar on Paje beach, sits one of the most luxurious hotels on Zanzibar Island – Baraza Resort & Spa. With 5 star facilities, accommodation, design and service, it’s clear why it has been named one of the top 30 island beaches in the world by Conde Nast Travel. The hotel is made of 30 stunning villas which combine Arabic, Swahili and Indian design features, colors and tones. Among others, Baraza proudly offers all-inclusive dining, a butler service, a private beach, and an award-winning spa. In fact, the spa itself is a masterpiece – homing its own lap pool, underwater music and a range of yoga classes, massages, and beauty treatments. Baraza is part of the Zanzibar Collection portfolio (its sister properties being Breezes’ and The Palms) and for those looking for a luxury Zanzibar trip, this would be our number one recommendation.