AFRICA ON FOOT - Crater to Plains

Enjoy a game drive in one of the most game-rich areas in the world, the Ngorongoro Crater. Explore the vast 300km2 floor with an experienced guide and stop for lunch in a shady spot under the trees, maximising your time in this unforgettable landscape. Our seven-seater closed vehicles are fitted with power points so you’re able to charge your devices, as well as a fridge to keep your drinks deliciously frosty.

The Olmoti climb follows an ancient Maasai cattle trail through mountain forest, grasslands and rocky outcrops. Make the most of outstanding birding opportunities and the chance to see a vast array of butterfly species. At the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent view of the crater below.

Descend into the Empakaai crater accompanied by an NCA ranger and walk to the sparkling soda lake on the crater floor, famous for the pink flamingo that congregate on its shores. Because of the camp’s proximity to Empakaai, it is the only property that gives you the opportunity to make this a half-day excursion.

Guests will have the opportunity to join a Maasai staff member on a visit to a local community. Many of our staff members are drawn from the surrounding communities and are always eager to share their experiences, providing a richer understanding of the culture that defines this corner of East Africa. Guests will be invited to a Maasai boma to gain an insight into the traditional cattle-herding practices and school visits will also be available depending on the time of year.

Game drives at Namiri Plains can be tailored to suit your requirements. Choose to rise with the birds and head out on an early morning game drive, return to camp for a light lunch and then head out again in the afternoon or embrace a full day in the bush, supplied with a delicious packed breakfast or picnic lunch to maximise game viewing time. Please discuss your preferences with your guide or manager.

A walk in the wild gives you the chance to experience Africa’s natural beauty from a different perspective and witness a whole new world of the sights, sounds and smells of the bush. Our walking safaris in the Serengeti are conducted by experienced guides and are the perfect complement to conventional game viewing by vehicle. Short walks range from one to four hours and long walks up to eight hours. A TANAPA ranger is stationed at camp. Please discuss and confirm with the manager on arrival. Game drives Walking safaris (seasonal) Please note that there is an additional charge for this activity.

A unique opportunity to spend an informative evening with Namiri Plains’ resident cheetah researcher while donating to the incredible Serengeti Cheetah Project. The Serengeti Cheetah Project has operated for over 30 years and is part of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). This dedicated project monitors and studies fluctuations in birth and survival rates of cheetahs, which leads to predicting the future of cheetah numbers in other parts of their range, as well as providing valuable insight into the challenges facing cheetah, recognising solutions to reduce these conflicts, hopefully resulting in the conservation of this elegant species. Please note that there is an additional charge for this activity.

For a different perspective of the wildlife, glide over the rolling plains of the Serengeti on a romantic and evocative balloon safari. Take to the skies in the early morning and watch the sun cast its first rays over the land before touching down mid-morning for a splendid breakfast and glass of sparkling wine – the perfect way to end one of the most unique and magical experiences on the continent. Please note that there is an additional charge for this activity.

Namiri Plains is home to one of our specially modified photographic vehicles. The open vehicle allows keen amateurs and professional photographers alike to shoot at eye level with wildlife. It is equipped with all the gear to ensure award-winning shots — from beanbags and camera rests to 360° swivel seats. Please enquire to ensure availability of the vehicle and confirm any additional fees.