Experiences

The classic game drive remains a favourite, heading out in the crisp morning air or just before sunset to meet the wildlife in their natural habitat. Your Maasai guide will unearth all the little secrets and stories of their homeland, tracking down and getting you up close to a wide variety of wildlife the area is known for. There's much to see, from as big and dangerous as the Big 5 to the smaller antelope and birdlife. After your many sightings, we stop somewhere special to enjoy a morning coffee or sundowners before heading back.

A day safari is delightful, but a whole new cast comes out to play when the sun goes down. When staying at Lerai Safari Camp, you're privy to this on our night game drives, whereas this is not allowed in the bigger parks like Maasai Mara. It's an exhilarating experience that will have you on the edge of your seat and your heart in your throat as you search for the reflecting eyes of wildlife in the dark savannah. From spring hares to pangolin, porcupine and bush babies, you'll meet all the things that go bump in the night.

Arguably the best perspective of East Africa is from a bird's-eye view, and our hot air balloon safaris at the crack of dawn will remain one of your fondest memories. Glide through the sky and watch the wildlife, or perhaps even the Great Migration, depending on when you visit, as they go about their business, blissfully unaware of your presence. To end this experience on a high note, you finish it off with an indulgent Champagne bush breakfast in the cool shade of a balanite tree to cheers to a spectacular start to your day.

Imagine taking on the vast savannah on your own two feet, all your senses on high alert as you head right into the belly of the bush for the ultimate thrill. Led by our local Maasai guide, you can see the landscapes and wildlife through his eyes and appreciate the finer details you might've missed on a game drive. They'll also teach you about its many nuances, how to identify animal tracks, ancient African wisdom and cultures.

Visit a local manyatta (settlement) and learn about the extraordinary Maasai way of life, which has been little affected by modern influences. Barter for some beautiful Maasai beadwork and handicrafts.

Mingle with Africa’s greatest wildlife by joining them on four legs and trot through the vast plains on horseback. This is one of the most thrilling experiences because it can get you very close to the game, and you get to treat your senses to the full bush experience.

Your food will taste even better when you enjoy it in the wide-open savannah with wildlife in your company. Let us surprise you by setting up a feast in a special setting in the bush. Are you celebrating a special occasion? If you let us know in advance, we can go the extra mile to make it even more special and personalised.

A safari favourite, sundowners are when you sip your choice of drink in the bush, watching as the sun bids its adieu in a splendid display of colour. An East African sunset just looks more vibrant and larger-than-life than anywhere else on earth. We like to set ours up on Leopard Hill, with views over the acacia-dotted savannah and its wildlife residents. We invite you to come see for yourself.

Whether you consider yourself a birder or not, the Olerai Conservancy's vast variety of birdlife will leave you in awe. This slice of East Africa has become famous for its kaleidoscopic birds, ranging from kingfishers to whydahs, bee-eaters, parrots, and the fearsome raptors and endangered vultures.

Our local massage therapists will work out any tight knots, leaving you feeling like you’re drifting on a cloud of bliss. It’s the best way to end an adventurous day and will have you sleeping like a baby.