Uncomplicated luxury at Lemala Ewanjan

Lemala Ewanjan nods to the era of the first Africa explorers but the 12 tents you see today are a far cry from the spartan comforts these explorers endured. The huge beds, gathered gauze curtains, chandeliers and soft safari tones are more than they could have possibly imagined. Not to mention the clink of ice in a traditional gin and tonic! Like most traditional camps, each bathroom features a ‘bucket shower’ to order –  an alfresco rainfall-style shower attached to huge pulleyed buckets filled with perfectly heated water.

In a multitude of ways, Lemala staff like to consider themselves ahead of the game, promoting solar power and triple filtered borehole water to avoid the use of single-use plastic bottles. We also fashion other safari operator’s waste plastic into school tables and chairs – just one of our many community projects.

Guests generally dine together, captain’s table style, sharing stories of their day’s adventures. Or more private affairs can be arranged for those seeking a touch of intimacy. We serve hearty soups, traditionally eaten by East African explorers to hydrate themselves, and dishes like tender pork loin served with delicious locally grown fresh vegetables – paired with red wine imported from South Africa. There are also delicious vegetarian options such as caramelised roast cauliflower with a soy dressing.

Location is key when it comes to the Serengeti especially during the migration. We’re at the end of a blind valley looking south over a carpet of plains, a privileged position away from other vehicles so you feel like East Africa is yours alone. Guests can enjoy twice daily game drives spotting the Big Five and other mega game such as hippo, cheetah and spotted hyena. You could even make a full day of it with a picnic lunch.

The highlight? Aside from 2.5 million wildebeest thundering past our front doorstep, we love this area for its permanent water sources. Wherever there is water in the Serengeti, herbivores congrate. And wherever you find herbivores, carninvores are sure to follow.  It’s drama all year round!

A tented camp is without doubt the the best place to recover from a busy day exploring the bush  – there’s nothing like sitting on the verandah with a book basking in the warm colours of a beautiful Serengeti afternoon. All aided by our amicable, passionate members of staff many of who have been with us for years.