Rebuilding Lake Natron Camp: Lighter Footprints, Better Experiences
Following the damage caused by severe storms earlier this year, work continues on the rebuilding and enhancement of Lake Natron Camp. While rebuilding was never part of our immediate plans, it has provided an opportunity to revisit many aspects of the camp and further refine a philosophy that has guided us since the beginning: creating extraordinary experiences while maintaining the lightest possible footprint on the landscape.
From the outset, Lake Natron Camp has sought to demonstrate that tourism can operate differently. The camp was established in partnership with the Ngare Sero community, employs local people, operates primarily on solar energy and has always aimed to minimise its environmental impact. The rebuild has allowed us to take this approach even further.
One of the most significant changes is the transition to elevated accommodation platforms. Rather than placing tented structures directly on the ground, all new accommodation units are being constructed on raised decks. This approach reduces long-term disturbance to the soil, improves airflow and drainage, and allows natural vegetation to recover beneath and around the structures.
The results are already visible. Areas beneath former tent sites have been rehabilitated and are showing encouraging signs of recovery. In a fragile environment such as Lake Natron, where vegetation can take years to establish, every opportunity to reduce pressure on the landscape is important.
The rebuild has also provided an opportunity to rethink the positioning of each accommodation unit. Guests may not immediately notice that tents have moved by a few metres here or there, but these subtle changes have a surprisingly large impact. Views have been carefully optimised, privacy improved and the relationship between each suite and the surrounding landscape enhanced. The new layouts provide more space, better sightlines and an even stronger connection to the dramatic scenery that makes Lake Natron so special.
Progress has been substantial. Five new suites are already in place, with a further four tented suites and one container-based sleeper unit still under construction. Every week brings visible change as the camp moves closer to completion.
A particularly rewarding aspect of the rebuild has been continuing our long-standing collaboration with Dunia Designs. Over many years, Dunia has helped create furniture and fittings that reflect our commitment to sustainability and creative design. Some of the original furniture pieces produced from recycled plastic have now reached the next stage of their journey and are being recycled for a second time as part of the rebuild. It is a small but meaningful example of circular design in action and reflects our belief that materials should be used thoughtfully and for as long as possible.
Perhaps most importantly, the rebuild remains a community effort. Local fundis, carpenters, welders, builders and camp staff have worked tirelessly over recent months. The project continues to provide employment, skills development and opportunities for local people while ensuring that the benefits of tourism remain closely linked to the surrounding community.
There is still plenty to do. Construction teams continue to work long days, furniture is being assembled, final details refined and new spaces brought to life. Yet with every passing week the vision becomes clearer.
As we prepare for the peak season beginning at the end of June, excitement is building. The rebuilt Lake Natron Camp will offer guests more comfort, more space and better views than ever before, while remaining true to the values that have defined the camp since its inception: community ownership, environmental responsibility and a deep connection to one of Africa’s most remarkable landscapes.
We look forward to welcoming guests back to experience the next chapter of Lake Natron Camp.