If you’ve ever wanted to stand at the world’s edge and feel like a main character, Angama Mara is the place. (some of the loveliest scenes from Out of Africa were filmed here). Perched somewhere between heaven and earth, on the edge of the Great Rift Valley—where Africa quite literally drops away beneath you, along with your ability to form complete sentences.
You can experience a romantic Out of Africa picnic on the same kopje in the same spot. The champagne and sweeping views are included. The heartbreak and questionable life choices? Entirely optional.
Angama means ‘suspended in midair’ in Swahili. Located on the edge of the Oloololo escarpment, the lodge has blistering views of the Mara plains below. The 30 tented suites – split between two identical camps to allow for more space – are scattered along the valley edge, all with outlandish outlooks from their big private terraces and through floor-to-ceiling windows. Red accents – cushions, nap-inducing rocking chairs on the deck, bed runners and so forth – nod to the Maasai’s famous red shuka cloth.
You’re only ten minutes on a private road from the Maasai Mara National Reserve, so whether you’re here to see the wildebeest herds or the Mara’s lions, you’re close to all the action. There are game drives to track the big five and even hot air balloon flights if you need a second helping of “breathtaking view” (don’t forget a billowing scarf).
In camp, visit the beading studio to design unique jewellery or beadwork to jazz up your wardrobe, have an in-room massage, and sip G&Ts around the campfire before a spot of Maasai singing and dancing.
If you fancy a bit of extra privacy, you can dine in your tent. Otherwise, meals are served – well, anywhere. In the main area, by the pool, in the library. Even in the forest.
