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Esirai Migration Camp
Esirai Migration Camp
Esirai Migration Camp
Esirai Migration Camp
Esirai Migration Camp
Esirai Migration Camp

Esirai Migration Camp: Our full report

Previously the Matembezi mobile camp, Esirai now falls under Matembezi’s sister company, Entara Camps and Lodges.

This has not changed the camp’s unique character, operating as an efficient and comfortable migration mobile camp.

The camp’s location when it is set up in northern Serengeti is a welcome change from iconic plains. Palm trees that pepper the river banks inspire an image of the tucked-away oasis in the heart of a quaint acacia woodland. A delightfully intimate camp, Esirai blends in with its natural surroundings and is also located close to the Rhino protection area of the Nyamalumbwa hills.

The camp is made up of two separate main tents and eight guest tents. A quaint cube-shaped lounge tent with an eye-catching woven awning which fills the back wall of the lounge tent gives it a cosy and homely feel. Maps are hung on the canvas wall, directly above a small library filled with nature books and an interesting rock collection, all of which can be enjoyed from the comfort of the small sofas, leather pouffe cushions and deck chairs placed around the lounge tent. As the camp is powered by solar, charging of all devices is done at a central charging station, which is located in the lounge.

All the tents face towards the Bologonja river, which allows the camp a view of the lush riverine vegetation of palms. and exquisite birdlife.

The dining tent is just a few steps from the lounge tent. On one side there is a large buffet table, which throughout the day is stocked with tea, coffee and other drinks. Dining is usually private, however, when we visited a large table had been set up for a large group, lined with leather deck chairs draped with traditional Maasai shukas and an impressive display of palm leaves in a recycled glass vase.

The guest tents are situated on either side of the communal areas, spaced out to offer an element of privacy. The interiors are simple and sufficient for a mobile camp experience, however large enough to adequately accommodate a large double or twin beds which are decorated with terracotta tie dye, woven blankets and throw pillows. Leather strap luggage racks are provided alongside a wooden hanging rack, fitted with a simple canvas shelf and foot rack.

The bathroom facilities are in keeping with the mobile camp tradition of compost loos and bucket showers of 50 litres – plenty of water for a good shower. Just order your shower whenever you want it and an attendant will fill the tank with warm water.

The family unit consists of two standard tents, linked by an enclosed corridor.

The main activites at Esirai are game drives in open game-viewing vehicles. However, the camp plans to start offering walking and fly-camping which complement this camp very well.

Esirai is located in the northern Serengeti from June to November, before following the migration south, where its location is near Naabi from December to the end of April.


Our view

Esirai is a great option for travellers who are keen to keep up with the migration and who enjoy a taste of traditional safari. With its minimal frills, we feel Esirai offers comfort and convenience, while retaining the under-canvas experience that so many travellers appreciate.

Jessica Plumb

Jessica Plumb

Country manager: Tanzania

Geographics

Location
Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
3-plus nights
Directions
In the north, the camp is around 40km from Kogatende Airstrip. When it is in the south, it is close to Naabi Hill
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
We had lunch during our visit in 2023, which was a lovely honey mustard glazed chicken, herb rice and avocado, with a side of butternut and spinach stew. The ingredients were deliciously fresh and the serving portions were just right
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service is available.
Drinks included
Soft and house alcoholic drinks are included in your stay.

Children

Attitude towards children
Children friendly provide board games and small nature walks around the camp with a member of staff
Equipment
None
Notes
Children must be supervised by parents

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Esirai Migration Camp

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Esirai Migration Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Buffalo

100% success

Cheetah

100% success

Eland

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Lion

100% success

Spotted Hyena

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Oryx

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Roan antelope

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back-up generator
Communications
Wifi is available in the main areas only. There are charging stations only in the lounge, not in the guest tents.
TV & radio
Nones
Water supply
Transported in
Water supply notes
Water is sourced from the Bologonja spring. The showers at Esirai are safari (“bucket”) showers, with warm water brought in quantity to your tent whenever you request a shower. They operate just like ordinary showers, with the proviso that you should be sure. to rinse off before your water runs out.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The nearest doctor is at the Four Seasons.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
Askaris patrol the camp during the night and escort guest to and from the tents.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in all the tents and main areas and a firebreak around the camp.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry is included in your stay at no extra charge, however underwear will not be accepted and soap provided to wash your own.
Money
There are no room safes. Any valuables that you cannot keep on your person should be given to the manager for safe-keeping.
Accepted payment on location
Credit cards are not accepted. Cash can be used for an extras – US Dollars, Tanzanian Shillings, or UK Pounds.

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