bird nest hotel room lets safari guests sleep above the trees

guests visiting one of kenya’s best known safari resorts can now spend a night in a giant bird’s nest, elevated above the trees. the exclusive accommodation has been built alongside a river at the heart of laikipia, a region that contains a host of safari lodges and camps. offering panoramic rooftop views, the entire nest has been constructed using raw materials, such as farmed wood and tree branches that have been woven together by local community members.

all images by jimmy nelson, courtesy of segera retreat and NAY PALAD

the project is the collaborative work of segera, a wildlife sanctuary situated in central laikipia, and NAY PALAD, a company led by carolin dekeyser that creates both objects and destinations. the duo joined forces to launch the one-of-a-kind structure, which was conceived as a ‘peaceful jewel at the very heart of the natural world’. the team also enlisted architect daniel pouzet, who worked with the team to bring their idea to life.

the bird nest is designed to sleep two guests

after enjoying a day on safari, guests arrive at the bird nest just before sunset to see the structure illuminated with lanterns. the experience includes champagne and a picnic-style dinner on the top deck. after sundown, visitors can either gaze at the sparkling african sky or move indoors where they are met with luxurious linens and comforting hot water bottles. the following morning, guests are left a picnic breakfast on their doorstep, which can be enjoyed while watching the elephants and giraffes at the river below.

the structure offers panoramic rooftop views

‘as close friends and supporters of segera, we were delighted to work with the talented NAY PALAD team to bring this incredible vision to life,’ says segera GM, jens kozany. ‘we cannot wait to welcome our guests to this peaceful haven and to offer them a truly authentic and unique sleep-out experience, one that is sure to surpass expectations. to wake up to the magical sound of wildlife and birds, surrounded by pristine nature as far as the eye can see, is a life-changing experience; this is a place of true, untouched wonderment.’

the exclusive accommodation has been built alongside a river at the heart of laikipia

the bird nest is designed to sleep two guests, but could also host a family with children or more adventurous guests able to sleep out on the top deck. the experience is included in the rate for guests staying at segera retreat for five nights or more, while for those on a shorter stay, the cost starts at $1,150 USD per night.

prices for a night’s stay start at $1,150 USD