Asilia Namiri Plains Camp

Nestled in the remote eastern corner of the Serengeti, Namiri Plains is a two-hour flight from Arusha. This area remained closed for two decades to create a safe haven for the cheetah population to flourish. Recognizing that sustainable tourism can secure the cheetah’s long-term future, it has reopened, with Asilia appointed as its custodian. Namiri Plains offers East Africa’s finest cheetah viewing opportunities and is a favored safari destination for seasoned enthusiasts. It’s not just cheetahs; lion and spotted hyena populations thrive here as well.

Namiri Plains is an intimate camp, tucked amid a grove of fever trees, boasting magnificent views over the sweeping plains. Eight traditional safari tents with spacious verandas provide guests with a cozy and exclusive experience. In terms of remoteness, Namiri Plains is truly isolated, with the nearest neighbor a 45-minute drive away. Guests can savor sunrise breakfast picnics atop Soit Le Motonyi Rock before embarking on their game drives.

The Ngare Nanyuki underground river creates permanent water sources that support year-round game concentrations, including big cats and their carnivorous companions. The plains are adorned with striking rocky outcrops, and the sunrises over the splendid Barafu Kopjes to the east of the camp are truly awe-inspiring.

While Namiri may not cater to first-time safari-goers seeking to tick off every wildlife encounter, it is a paradise for seasoned safari enthusiasts. Located in a remote area with very few vehicles around, the patient observer can spend entire days witnessing big cats interacting with each other and their environment, including the adrenaline-fueled spectacle of a cheetah hunt.

With the arrival of the rains comes the Great Migration. From November to May, the eastern plains near the volcanic highlands, rich in fertile soils deposited millions of years ago, become a lush green oasis that lures wildebeest and other game to Namiri Plains. The plains come alive with the presence of hundreds of thousands of animals, creating a breathtaking sight.

Even outside the Migration season, Namiri offers unparalleled game viewing. Abundant plains game and frequent predator-prey interactions provide opportunities for award-winning photographs. If you have the opportunity to secure a spot at the camp, don’t hesitate. It pairs perfectly with a mobile camp like Kimondo or Ubuntu, which follow the wildebeest herds year-round. A typical Northern Itinerary may also include a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, and starting your trip at Asilia’s Highlands is a wonderful choice.

For more information about cheetahs, you can explore our blog about Tanzanian cheetahs. Additionally, we have several videos showcasing Namiri Plains’ remarkable predator concentration.