23 July, 2017
Located on the water's edge, Sand River Masai Mara is a luxury Kenyan safari camp reminiscent of glamorous 1920s Hollywood films celebrating African adventure. Opening up onto the Masai Mara National Reserve, this is the perfect place to channel your inner-Attenborough as you spot the Big Five. The Masai is pretty exceptional all year round, but from July to October colossal herds of wildebeest begin their stampedes through the reserve to the Serengeti. Each luxury tent boasts an extensive veranda, so sit back and enjoy a front row seat of the great migration.
With just 16 tents, you'll feel like you've got the bush to yourself as Sand River takes glamping to a whole new level. Each tent channels colonial charm with empire four-posted beds, vintage leather trunks, hardwood floors and brocade drapes. Wash the dust off after a long day's safari in the copper-clad standalone bath tub or outdoor shower overlooking the grasslands.
Your personal butler will greet you each morning with a pot of freshly brewed coffee. Take your continental breakfast on your private terrace or opt for a bush breakfast with a side of wildlife - the monkeys have developed a penchant for the apple and cinnamon French toast.
The dining room offers three-course meals throughout the day, though you can take it wherever you fancy - have a picnic in the sprawling savannah or dine alfresco under a starlit sky. With a daily changing menu and a chef ready to cater to your every whim, whether that's tender steak or traditional African cuisine.
Yes, and tends to get a bit wild as most of Africa's animal kingdom turns up to join the party.
The billiards room is where the Lion King (or Queen) is truly decided - challenge fellow guests or hotel staff to a game.
Expect noisy neighbours as you're woken by the roar or lions or elephants trundling past. With no electric fence to block your view, during evening hours you'll be escorted to your tent by guards.
Elephants sneaking a drink from the hotel pool, lionesses hiding their cubs in crevices on Black Rock and - if you're really lucky - an elusive pair of honeymooning leopards during mating season.
Rooms start from £420 per person per night for full-board accommodation, local airstrip transfers and safari activities.
