Alex Walker's Serian

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Alex Walker's Serian

Alex Walker’s Serian - a collection of intimate bush camps. Amongst the most authentic in East Africa, they flaunt a sense of spirited style & character.
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Alex Walker’s Serian is a charismatic collection of exclusive and intimate safari camps in the prime wildernesses of Kenya and Tanzania. We operate and outfit safaris, and our focus is on offering you access to the magic of the bush in a rich variety of ways. All of our clients have exclusive use of their safari vehicle at no extra cost, and on top of that, walking adventures, flycamping, night ga

me drives, photography, ballooning… The list goes on. Our objective is to show you there’s more to safari than driving around ticking big animals off a list… It’s about being open to falling under the spell of this enchanting landscape. The word ‘serian’ comes from the Masai language, meaning ‘serene… calm… tranquil’ and there is an element of this that is particular to the bush. Partly it has to do with silence. At night, you can feel a lion’s roar resonate in your chest cavity because the air is not clogged with distractive sound. Its clarity lets you see straight to the sparkling heavens. It is also to do with distance from the rest of the world – not just a physical distance, but a deliberate distance in the way we decide to live. It’s about choosing to disconnect, in favour of what these spaces have to offer you if you allow them. There is also an indescribable purity to being immersed in a wholly natural setting. Clean air, unspoilt and untamed, and animals that are truly wild: it’s an unconditional environment that we are lucky to touch, and yet is untainted by our fingerprints. If you immerse yourself in it, osmosis begins to take effect, and the quietude and the beauty quietly infuse your being. In the company of our guides, you are among people innate to the place, who can unveil this way of life to you. They are attuned to its essence and can translate it by showing you to see through their eyes.

15/08/2024

The weather has been a little unpredictable in the Northern Serengeti. This has resulted in absolute chaos with the movement of the wildebeest. The recent rain has seen many large herds cross the Mara river into Lamai over the past few days. Most of these crossings are happening at number four which is located in front of our camp.

I have been in awe of these incredible creatures as they tackle the river and cannot wait to share my images with you all soon. Lots of action!

12/08/2024

Happy World Elephant Day!

The is protecting elephants and their habitats by supplying a Mavic 3 Thermal drone for trained rangers to deploy to respond to elephants in danger.

For , join us to expand their drone program enabling MEP’s nine ranger teams to have two drones to operate day and night.

Starting August 8 and running through August 12, all donations made to MEP are doubled up to $25,000.

Double your drone impact today!

Visit to make a donation 🐘

10/08/2024

Today is World Lion Day!

Did you know that Tanzania is the stronghold for the African Lion?

The photos in this post have all been captured during the past week in Lamai, Northern Serengeti and if you have spent time in the Serengeti ecosystem then you will find it hard to believe that this species is under threat. 200,000 lions roamed Africa 100 years ago and today there are only 24,000 lions left!

We support the incredible work of a wonderful conservation initiative.Kope Lion strives to foster human-lion coexistence in Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania. Here intensifying human-wildlife conflict has been tough on the lions.

You can celebrate World Lion Day by following and supporting and help them create a corridor of tolerance.

www.kopelion.org

08/08/2024

Always a treat to photograph hyena and their little ones.

Did you know that hyena cubs are “precocial”, meaning they are born in a more advanced stage of development with their eyes open and teeth intact. The little cub in this photo is at the age of inquisitiveness and it was quite comical watching the adults try to usher the cubs down into their underground den.

A magical morning on the Lamai plains, Northern Serengeti.

06/08/2024

The guests and I have spent time with a young male leopard here in the Lamai Wedge. This individual was incredibly relaxed in our presence and we found him napping on the ground.

📷 Photo Tip:

Capture your leopard sighting with a series of images that showcase the unique features of this spectacular species. This could include the rosettes in the coat, the curl of their tail or the light in their stunning eyes as they look up towards a tree 🐆👌🏻

05/08/2024

G’day everyone, it’s Bobby-Jo here. I’m excited to be taking over the socials for the next week!

I’m currently the photographer in residence for Serian’s Serengeti Lamai camp.

Wildlife photography is my biggest high in life and last night I was thrilled to capture this young energetic wildebeest at sunset.

📷 Settings

Mode: Manual
Aperture: f/8
Shutter Speed: 1/1600th
ISO: 640

📷Tip: Use shade white balance to enhance those colours!

04/08/2024

Morning notes from the bush with Alex Roldan, our photographer in residence in our Mara Camps.

This morning while exploring Mara North we had the pleasure of spending time with ‘Oloti’, a male cheetah originating from Tanzania.
He has spent his life roaming between the Serengeti National Park, Mara Triangle and surrounding conservancies.

Last year, he was seen limping badly but with veterinary treatment and help from the Mara Rangers he rehabilitated and has seemingly now made a full recovery.

📸 Alex Roldan

31/07/2024

World Rangers Day.

“Recognition for the unstinting hard graft, the daily de-snaring patrols, the night time ambushes, the rhino monitors, the ecologists, the wardens, the anti poaching patrols. It’s a tough gig, we often dont see the trials, the hard won small gains.

For the rangers whom we work with on a daily basis we thank you.

At the end of the day our product is not the camps, nor the food, not the guides, nor the cars; it is the wilderness and the wildlife that we seek out.” Alex Walker.

We’re proud to be part of the Mara/Serengeti ecosystem, directly and indirectly making a difference though organisations such as , Mara North Conservancy, Narok County Government, , and the to support these everyday heroes. It is also thanks to all our wonderful guests that travel to stay with us that make the differnce to be able to support these natural wonders.

So today, let’s give a huge shoutout to the Rangers!

29/07/2024

Serengeti Lamai top tip✨

Look up from the lens.
We love photography, but sometimes it’s about putting down the camera and being present in the moment.
Pack a pair of binoculars before you pack anything else, experience the wild in its full intensity and beauty.

📸 Daniel Samwel

27/07/2024

Conservation is at the heart of Serian.

Living amidst such beautiful nature, it's our duty to care for the environment and protect the wildlife we share it with.

These are integral pillars of Conservancy Guardians, our affiliated not-for-profit, which focuses on strengthening the foundations of community conservation in East Africa.

Tomorrow, we celebrate World Nature Conservation Day, a reminder to stay focused on our goals and continue our conservation journey.

📸 Daniel Samwel

25/07/2024

Technical photography tips from Daniel Samwel during his photographic residency!

During a recent early morning shoot, I encountered a male lion in low light. Instead of still shots, I used panning tracking the lion's movement with a slower shutter speed. This technique blurred the background while maintaining focus on the lion, conveying its dynamism and grace.

Key considerations include setting a slower shutter speed (around 1/15s to 1/60s), keeping focus on the subject, and positioning for a clear background.

Embracing panning in low light can capture dynamic wildlife photographs.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens
Focal length: 278mm
ISO: 3200
F stop: f/5.6
Exposure time: 1/15sec

We have photographers in residence in our Mara camps until the end of October, they can’t wait to help you take some epic shots.

📸 Daniel Samwel

23/07/2024

Serian’s Serengeti Lamai -

The open plains of the Lamai Wedge are incredibly beautiful and abundant in game. The landscape is reminiscent of scenes from Out of Africa, and there is plenty of freedom to roam and explore. The camp is situated opposite Crossing Point 4, midway among all crossing points along the river – and is perfectly positioned to spectate the wildebeest river crossings. Away from the river, this area of rolling savannah, boulder-strewn hillsides and fig-tree groves, is littered with inconceivably enormous herds of wildebeest, topi and zebra – as well as all the predators that gorge on this movable feast.

We can't wait to have you here to witness the magic of the Serengeti in person.

21/07/2024

Meet Mzee Swaleh, a 57-year-old champion craftsman with decades of experience. His old-school, traditional hand-crafting skills and deep understanding of the wood he works with produce the stunning carpentry you will find in our Tanzanian Lamai camp.

We’re truly grateful for Mzee Swaleh’s incredible artistry and the unique touch he brings to our camp.

15/07/2024

“My second week at Alex Walker’s Serian in Mara North Conservancy has been nothing short of exhilarating. As the photographer in residence, I have been astounded by the exceptional skills of the guides in tracking wildlife. They’ve mastered the art of interpreting the natural world, using birds’ alarming calls and the subtle sounds of predators to pinpoint elusive animals. Their deep connection with the rhythm of nature has consistently led to unforgettable wildlife encounters, capturing moments that define the essence of the African wilderness.

Looking ahead, the anticipation for the next week brims with excitement. With such expert guidance and the untamed beauty of the conservancy, I am eager to continue this journey, knowing that each day holds the promise of new discoveries and breathtaking photographic opportunities.” , Photographer In Residence, July 2024.

12/07/2024

Shoutout to the amazing Rhoda, Ruth, Millicent and Sylvia working tirelessly behind the scenes to handle all our reservations in Nairobi with .

Their hard work and dedication keep everything running smoothly, ensuring our guests have unforgettable experiences. Recently, these incredible women took a trip to our Mara properties to see the latest refurbishments and stay updated on camp life.

Your commitment and passion do not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything you do!

09/07/2024

Keeping up with the camp buzz…

Dany (), our Photographer In Residence, is here in our Mara properties assisting clients with their photos and keeping us updated on the incredible wildlife of Mara North.

Teagan (.cunniffe) has been busy capturing stunning shots of all our AWS portfolio in both Tanzania and Kenya, watch this space as more get released.

The Wildebeest Herds are on the move and have reached Northern Serengeti! Stay tuned for more amazing updates!

05/07/2024

Daniel has had a wild first few days as our Masai Mara camp’s photographer in residence, saying “there is nothing better than spending time in nature, where the wildlife sightings are ten out of ten”. ✨

📸 Daniel Samwel

30/06/2024

We’ve had an amazing June with Cathan Moore Bush Maniac as our resident photographer at our Masai Mara camps. Big thanks to Cathan for sharing your talent as well as helping guests capture incredible images!

We’re excited that Daniel Samwel will be joining us in Kenya as our photographer in residence for July.
We can’t wait to see the magic Daniel will create!

📸 Teagan Cunniffe

27/06/2024

Our favourite spot in Lamai to unwind around the fire 🔥

The camp is situated opposite Crossing Point 4, perfectly positioned to witness the wildebeest river crossings and the abundant game in the rolling savannah.

Relaxing around the flames sharing stories of the wildlife in the Lamai Wedge is our favourite way to end the day.

📸 Teagan Cunniffe

24/06/2024

When you stay at any of our Mara North properties, a visit to the Golden Naboisho School is a must-do activity! This community-run primary school serves about 180 students and, despite its challenges with buildings, resources, and facilities, it thrives on the incredible commitment of its teachers, parents, and students. Their dedication to providing education on the edge of Mara North and Olare Motorogi Conservancies is truly inspiring.

Thanks to the ongoing support of bringing us the Kids In the Wild, significant progress has been made in improving the school’s infrastructure and resources. By supporting , your donations can continue this positive impact, supplying essential materials and creating a better learning environment for these bright young minds. Every contribution makes a significant difference in fostering education and opportunity.

Don’t miss out on this enriching experience. Visit the Golden Naboisho School and leave a positive mark on the community. Together, we can uplift and support this wonderful school.

15/06/2024

Take time to safari ✨

Slowing down and extending your safari allows you to be immersed more within your surroundings. Take time to learn about projects that make a difference to the lives and livelihoods that depend upon them such as the Mara Elephant Project

Mara Elephant Project is located in Lemek Conservancy, a key conservation partner in the Masai Mara. By visiting them you’ll learn more about their incredible efforts to tackle poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and habitat loss.

They believe the long-term survival of elephants is worth fighting for—and we can all be part of the solution.

📸 Cathan Moore Bush Maniac

08/06/2024

It's been a whirlwind of activity here at Serian ‘The Original’ as we get ready for reopening and the high season.

We were thrilled to have Stratton Hatfield from the Kenya Birds of Prey Trust join us for intensive bird training and feel his passion for the mara birdlife.

Schalk from Ulovane Environmental Training has already joined our Kenyan team for a guide training refresher before heading over to our Tanzanian camps, as we gear up for the busy period.

Cathan Moore has been dazzling us with his incredible photographic talent, and we can't wait to see more of his creations this month.

Bring on the season!

📸Shela Barrah
📸Cathan Moore
📸Roisin Allen
📸Cathan Moore

06/06/2024

Cathan Moore’s highlight of his first week as our Serian Mara camp’s photographer in residence:

My first couple days at Alex Walker's Kenyan Camps have been filled with big cat sightings but the cheetah have certainly taken center stage.

We were on our way back to camp after what we had already deemed a successful morning when we spotted a cheetah female perched on a termite mound, scanning the grassland below. It was evident that she was looking to hunt and so when two Thompson Gazelles walked into the frame about 300 meters away, she immediately took to action.

With lightning speed, she skillfully closed the distance and took down one of the Gazelles before dragging her well-earned kill into the shade of an Acacia Geradi.

I guess fast food means something different here on the plains of Mara North!

📸 Cathan Moore Bush Maniac

03/06/2024

Excitingly, Stratton Hatfield from the Kenya Birds of Prey Trust will be joining us in our Serian Mara Camps tomorrow for a bird training refresher with our guides. The trust plays a crucial role in conserving magnificent raptors and educating people about their importance. 🦅

We can't wait to enhance our knowledge and skills from his expertise!

📸 Bobby-Jo Photography

01/06/2024

The Kenya team has been hard at work preparing ‘The Original’ camp for its grand reopening in under two weeks, including a new menu.

Chef Michael has been whipping up a culinary storm in the kitchen with our team of chefs. They have been experimenting with new flavours and innovative ideas to keep things fresh and exciting.

Also, a very happy Madaraka Day to everyone in Kenya!

30/05/2024

Chuffed for our crew, their hard work and dedication to the cause. Big smiles and cheerful disposition despite the long hours, tough conditions, and remote environments. Thank you Safari Awards and the judges for recognising us. We love what we do, so lucky to be living in one of Africa's great National Parks; the Serengeti... we look forward to seeing everyone back in the bush and under canvas.

27/05/2024

Nature's drama in action!

This hyena was caught making a quick getaway with the head of a zebra. Survival in the wild isn't always pretty, but it's always fascinating!

📸 Jana Arnhold

11/05/2024

The University of Life - Professors leading classes in "just being"....

09/05/2024

East African Canvas fundi, Simon, is hard at work creating magic with the new tents at Serian Original ✨

📸 Roisin Allen

07/05/2024

At Serian, it's all about community and family ties.
Generations of local families, deeply connected to these lands, make up our team, starting from training right through to employment. Siblings, parents, and cousins working side by side, create a true sense of family and community.

📸Matthew Williams-Ellis

Address

Serian 'The Original'
Nakuru
254

Website

https://www.serian.com/

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Videos

Happy World Wildlife Day from the Southern Serengeti! 🌍 I am so thrilled to have observed and photographed eight tiny lion cubs who have just emerged from the safety of the marsh today! The addition of these little ones help to secure the safety of their pride for years to come. 🦁 Zach, Patrick, Colin and I feel so privileged to have captured this footage, especially on World Wildlife Day. 📸 Bobby-Jo Photography #wildlifeday #alexwalkerserian #slowdownandsafari #throughalense

Welcome to Mara North! Serian pride lionesses and the Offbeat pride male lions devoured a hippo kill feast near the airstrip, surrounded by hungry waiting hyenas. This wild scene awaited our guests as they first stepped from the plane! 📸 Serian guide Henry Good Fellow captured this epic footage. #naturesuitsme #alexwalkerserian #tiptotail #weareserian

And so it begins… herds have been seen crossing the Mara river on the Serengeti side . Our Lamai camp in the centre of the action! 📸: Michael Thomas #alexwalkerserian #tanzania #serengeti #lamai #thegreatmigration #wildebeest #marariver #wonderoftheworld

Yesterday, we found the cutest little baby Dikdik in our car park. #didyouknow Dik-diks are tiny. Fully grown, dik-diks stand about 12-16 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh 7-15 pounds. Dik-diks are one of the rare monogamous mammals. emales only give birth to one offspring at a time, up to twice a year. The baby stays with its parents until it's about seven months old, at which point the parents chase it off the family territory. 📸: Tanya Miller #alexwalkerserian #seriancamp #weareserian #naturephotography #femalephotographer #naturelovers #nature_perfection #wildlife_photography #majestic_earth_ #majestic_wildlife_ #masaimara #maranorthconservancy #capturethewild #onlyafrica #wildaboutafrica

Run wild until you find someone just as wild to run with 🐾 Music: Sunny Musician: @iksonmusic #runningwild #alexwalkerserian #thewildbunch #weareserian #maranorthconservancy #whyilovekenya #naturesuitsme #livingwild

Adrian Allen was born and brought up in Kenya and passed his childhood roaming, exploring and fishing. He has spent the last few years in our Serian and Ngare Serian camps, and being on-site in the stunning Mara has been the perfect spot for nurturing his true passion: guiding. Living the bush life has kindled his deep understanding and appreciation of this world-class wildlife zone, and there is no one better to show you around. He’s in his element on foot, and a safari with him is as much fun as it is fascinating – an appetite for mischief ensures no dull moments, and an Adrian Allen adventure is one you’re sure to remember. Take a glance at “The Allen Key” itinerary by clicking the link in bio and book your adventure now. Video by Trai Anfield @iamtheallenkey #alexwalkerserian #theallenkey #mischife #maranorthconservancy #naturesuitsme #familysafari #lovewhatyoudo #safari #thewildbunch #kenya

“MIGRATION UPDATE” The Herds are moving between Kakessio and the South of Ndutu. The herds are spread out over the southern plains, and we are hoping they will start making their way up north soon. Thank you, Michael Thomas. #alexwalkerserian #wildyetresponsible #conservancyguardians #whatwedo #wildyetresponsible #taketimetosafari #outinthebush #authenicexperience #naturesuitsme #taketimetosafari #serianserengeti #tanzania #migrationupdates #greatmigration #wilderbeestmigration