Chem Chem and Little Chem Chem, Tanzania

This stunning lodge certainly recognises that it is blessed by its unique location. In summer, the lake is aflutter with clouds of pink flamingos whilst in winter, the Maasai warriors, toting silver ice buckets and spears, serve sundowners on the dry sandy riverbed. The elephant-filled Tarangire game reserve is just a 20 minute drive away or a little further afield, the acclaimed Ngorongoro Crater is a two and a half hour drive up the Rift escarpment - perfect for an exhilarating day's wildlife excursion.

Known as the sunrise camp (wake up to the spectacular sunrise over Tarangire National Park), Little Chem Chem is the charismatic little sister to Chem Chem Lodge and with just five vintage-style tents and a brand new family tent, Little Chem Chem simply oozes authenticity of a bygone era. Set on the edge of an acacia forest, the camp is surrounded by the glorious landscape of the Tarangire River, known for its impressive Baobab trees and it overlooks the fresh water of Lake Burunge. Little Chem Chem is a real under-canvas safari favourite of ours - we love its distinct 'Out of Africa' feel! When darkness falls, after a bush sundowner or dinner, head out on a night game drive with a guide to search for that flicker of light that could only be a pair of eyes! From the elusive aardvark to bouncing bush babies, a host of noctural animals come out at night. Draped in a warm blanket, climb onboard the open game vehicle with spotlights on 'at the ready' and explore the night time bush - a great way to see predators hunting! If you are lucky, you might even see a leopard! The birdlife at Little Chem Chem is wonderful too.

Your refuge is one of eight stylish tented suites, all with spectacular lake views. The tents are a minimum of 80 metres apart so complete privacy is assured and each boasts a luxury bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, a dressing room, yoga mats and private patio complete with a sumptuous day-bed. The calm and natural interior design complements the charming attentive service offered by the staff who are mainly local villagers.

Chem Chem (and sister camp, Little Chem Chem) evoke the spirit of a vintage safari - in fact, the concept of a slow safari was born here, out of the owners' passion for the African bush. In essence, a slow safari allows you to experience Africa at its most raw – it is a tangible, sensual experience beyond the confines of a vehicle ..and brings the opportunity to see, feel, touch and smell the African bush on foot as well as in an open safari vehicle. What's more - you can even enjoy the challenge of a sunrise run through the wilderness with a Maasai guide - the ultimate morning jog! Work off your safari pounds as you run through the inspiring landscape - your Maasai guide will chat as you run, while you do your best to keep up with the zebra, giraffe, wildebeest and other wildlife....! This is a voyage of discovery like no other in Africa and for those who relish keeping fit, there's simply no better way to start the day! Other activities include cultural visits to the local Maasai village and school, balloon flights and walking safaris ..and at the end of the day, nothing could be more perfect than savouring sundowners on the shores of Lake Manyara. December to February is a great time for bird watching whilst June to October heralds the chance to witness animal herds on the Tarangire River. Escape the afternoon heat and cool off in the pool which is hidden in the trees, or take a refreshing dip following your sunrise run! Then dust down your weary safari legs at the Chem Chem Amani Spa - indulgent bush pampering at its best!