Leading conservation organization Great Plains is well versed in creating exceptional holidays, honeymoons, renewal of vow ceremonies and bespoke wedding celebrations in the most idyllic hideaways at their Kenya properties. Great Plains ol Donyo Lodge, Mara Plains and Mara Nyika Camp all make extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime romantic venues to honor and celebrate a couple’s tailormade nuptials, union, and commitment to one another under the eternal African sky.
“As we all emerge from lockdowns, it is time to renew our vows with nature and with each other. It is the perfect time to reflect on who we want to be in the future, the best versions of ourselves, or just as we were before. For couples just getting married or on honeymoon, they are full of hope for being that best version, and for those with more experience of being reflective, now is the time,” commented Dereck Joubert, CEO and co-founder of Great Plains.
The Great Plains team is on hand to help curate unforgettable moments in the African bush for their guests – whether they are arranging a private honeymoon à deux, or renewing vows in the open with views of Mount Kilimanjaro amongst family and friends. Guests celebrating their union at ol Donyo Lodge can celebrate their special day in true Kenyan tradition, with a traditional Maasai ceremonial blessing. This intimate affair takes place in front of a gathering of Maasai men, women and warriors all dressed in their most delicate beadwork, followed by celebratory leaps into the air and traditional song.
“Africa is still one of the top honeymoon destinations because camps like those at Great Plains offer the adventure that guests want, but also with the luxurious seclusion we offer. You can be alone but can also choose when to be out doing something great like a walking safari together, or getting up close to cheetahs. A safari is a spiritual journey and sharing that with someone you love as you start your life together really sets the tone, for life” said Dereck Joubert.
Wedding parties that hire camps exclusively can have a sensational celebration late into the night with delicious food and chilled champagne catered to their every desire. The highly trained camp chefs are available to create custom menus for the big day or are happy to suggest signature tasting menus and dishes. Mara Plains Executive Chef Benjamin Maritim suggests: Boran beef steak au poivre with butternut puree and chili broccoli, baked almond enchiladas with red kidney beans served with berry sauce, and the delicious raspberry fool served with hot fudge gluten-free brownies. After dancing the night away under the twinkling African stars, couples can reflect on their special day before drifting off in a star bed to the sound of rumbling elephants. Newlyweds have the opportunity to begin their new marital journey by floating in a hot air balloon over the spectacular scenic Maasai Mara the following morning.