About Kati Kati Camp
In the heart of the Serengeti, the no-frills Kati Kati feels very much at one with its environment.
Backed by a tree-covered hill, its 11 tents look out over the plains, their views unobstructed by vegetation, their canvas walls blending almost seamlessly into the soft greens and browns all around.
The simplest of creature comforts – solid cast-iron beds, subdued lighting, an en-suite flushing toilet and a basin of warm water on your veranda – set the scene, with a couple of directors’ chairs so you can soak up the view, and a cooling breeze courtesy of numerous vented tent flaps.
That said, time in camp is minimised; Kati Kati is very much a base to come back to after a full day exploring the plains by 4WD, as part of a privately guided safari; the camp has no guides of its own.
The perfect spot for seeking out wildlife, the central Serengeti is particularly known for its cheetah, for whom the vast open spaces are an ideal hunting ground.
Come the evening – perhaps after a hot bucket shower – it’s time to gather around the campfire to chat over the day’s adventures before settling down to a hearty dinner in the small mess tent. And then to a comfortable bed.
Our view
Kati Kati is not luxurious: it is a no-frills camp that is good value for money and in a well-positioned location. This is not somewhere to come for fancy furnishings, fine food, top-level service and pampering. However, it's a very good option if you're on a tighter budget and want to explore this area, with its abundance of game. Its small size and basic tents give a real feel of camping out in the African bush. It’s simple, but enjoyable!
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
11 tents
Children
Best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Kati Kati Camp
24 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 15 pictures of Kati Kati Camp to get the candid view.
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Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Hadeda Ibis Guided Safari
7 days • 3 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
This great-value safari, in a private 4WD with your own driver-guide, journeys through the stunning landscapes of northern Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, focusing on its three top national parks.
Visiting Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and 1 other area
US$4,980 - US$6,110 per person
Kati Kati Camp: Our full report
Kati Kati Camp is a simple tented camp in the Tanzania's central Serengeti, near to Seronera.
This area of the Serengeti has reliably good game viewing throughout the year, and is a great place to look for cheetah on the vast open plains.
There are 11 tents at Kati Kati, 10 of which are identical and can all be set up as doubles, twins or triples, and one of which is a large interconnected family tent. They stand in one long line in an open area and, as there is little vegetation, they don't have a great deal of privacy. Each tent has a small covered veranda at the front, with a couple of deckchairs facing out onto the plains. Out here, you'll also find a washbasin that the camp staff fill each evening with warm water, and a washing line (there is no laundry service at Kati Kati).
Inside, the tents certainly aren't luxurious, but they are furnished with all the basic comforts you need. Cast-iron bed frames can be moved apart or pushed together, depending on guests' wishes, and there is a luggage rack and small writing desk. At the back of each tent the small en-suite bathroom has a flush toilet and a 20-litre bucket shower, which is filled with hot water on request. There is very little privacy, but the toilet and shower canvas walls can be zipped to help a little. The tents are dimly lit but well-ventilated, a welcome feature as the central Serengeti can be incredibly hot during the day.
The communal areas at Kati Kati camp are equally simple – giving a real bushcamp feel. In the evenings, guests can gather around the campfire for a pre-dinner drink before moving to individual tables for dinner in the small dining tent. A table is set up with hot water and instant coffee and tea bags for self-service throughout the day. There's no lounge tent here and no real place to relax, just a few scattered directors' chairs – but as almost all guests staying here are likely to be out on full-day game drives, returning in the late afternoon or early evening, this is seldom an issue.
The central region of the Serengeti is one of the most visited parts of the park, and consequently can get rather busy with other vehicles, but this is because there is great game to be found in this area. It offers excellent opportunities for seeing cats close to the roads, as well as plenty of elephant, giraffe and plains game.
This camp does not have its own guides and so it needs to be visited as part of a privately guided trip.
Geographics
- Location
- Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- Two to three nights
- Directions
- The camp is a short drive from Seronera Airstrip, however most guests will drive here with a private driver guide.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- Much like the rest of the camp, the food is not fancy but it is hearty and plentiful.
Breakfast is a buffet, served from 06:00, with cereal, fruit and yoghurt. Eggs, sausage and bacon can be cooked to order and we especially enjoyed the pancakes on offer.
Lunch is usually a picnic, which is taken out by guests on a full-day game drive. A selection of items are laid out in the morning so guests can choose the contents of their picnic themselves; these are then packed up by the chef. On our last visit we had sandwiches, pizza, fruit, popcorn, quiche, cake and juice. For those who want to return to the camp, they offer a simple three-course menu served from 1:30pm.
Dinner is also a three-course menu, with a multitude of dishes brought to the table for the main course. Guests can help themselves to as much of each as they like. We were offered pumpkin soup to start, followed by beef stew, pork chops, rice and vegetables. Dessert was cake and watermelon. There is no choice for the starter and dessert, and this is certainly not fine dining, but all of the food was very tasty and hearty. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is not available.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included. When we last visited in 2018, a beer cost US$4, soda cost US$3 and a bottle of wine was about US$25. Drinking water is provided in each tent.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- The camp allows children of all ages.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no specific age restrictions at Kati Kati Camp.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- This camp is simple and wild; game can and does pass through it. Like any wild safari camp, it is only suitable for older children.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Kati Kati Camp
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Kati Kati 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.
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
91% success
91% success
82% success
82% success
30% success
18% success
9% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are plugs in the main area, which work when the generator is turned on first thing in the morning and in the evening. There are no plugs in the tents.
- Communications
- There is limited cellphone reception and WiFi is available.
- TV & radio
- No
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Hot water for bucket showers is provided on request. There are flushing toilets.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The camp has access to a dispensary at one of the large lodges in Seronera. The nearest hospital is in Karatu.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Guests are escorted to and from their tents by askaris (guards), who are on duty throughout the night.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in all the tents and the staff are trained in fire safety.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- The camp does not have the facilities to do laundry but does provide washing powder so guests can do their own laundry if they wish.
- Money
- There is a safe in the main area, in which guests can lock their valuables securely. There is no currency exchange in the camp.
- Accepted payment on location
- Kati Kati only accepts cash payments in US dollars, euros, British pounds and Tanzanian shillings.
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Kati Kati Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kati Kati Camp.
Excursions from Kati Kati Camp
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Kati Kati Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Balloon Safari over the Serengeti
Three hours - approx. one hour flight
As the sun rises over the Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania, climb aboard for an extraordinary adventure. For an hour you’ll float in a hot air balloon over beautiful savannah and woodland and a diversity of plains wildlife.
More about Balloon SafariOther lodges in Serengeti Migration Area
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
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Nomad Serengeti Camp
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Sayari Camp
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Dunia Camp
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Namiri Plains Camp
Namiri Plains is one of the best camps in the Serengeti and its remoteness ensures a fantastic wildlife experience away from the crowds.
Lamai Serengeti
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Ubuntu Camp
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Ndutu Safari Lodge
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Serian Serengeti
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Klein's Camp
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Grumeti River Camp
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Lemala Mara-Ndutu
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Lemala Kuria Hills
Lemala Kuria Hills is a luxury permanent camp that is ideally located for wildlife all year around, but especially during the wildebeest migration.
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Lemala Nanyukie is a stylish camp located in the quieter part of the central Serengeti.
Kubu Kubu
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Lobo Wildlife Lodge
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Mkombe's House Lamai
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Mbalageti Lodge
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The Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is a large, hotel-style lodge and a good family-friendly base from which to explore the central Serengeti.
Kusini Camp
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Olmara Camp
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Faru Faru Lodge
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Sabora Tented Camp
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Taasa Lodge
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Nimali Serengeti
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Nomad Walking Camp
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When to go to Serengeti Migration Area
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Kati Kati Camp in Serengeti Migration Area
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Serengeti Migration Area in January
January marks the start of the Serengeti’s short dry season. In the southern plains, the wildebeest calving season takes centre stage, drawing both predators and eager wildlife enthusiasts. The weather is generally clear and sunny, with rising temperatures, though occasional rainfall may still occur in the southern areas. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during this time, with resident species in their breeding plumage and migratory birds adding to the variety.
The far southern plains of Ndutu coupled with the central Seronera area remains a reliable choice for game viewing, with lions and cheetahs frequently sighted on the hunt. While the park can be busier early in the month due to New Year visitors, it often becomes quieter later, providing excellent value and a more peaceful experience. Patience may be needed during game drives, as some wildlife becomes more dispersed.
- Variable weather: clear, dry or rainy
- Thunderstorms may occur occasionally
- Prime birding season with migrant species
- Wildebeest gathering in southern Serengeti
- Busy early, quieter later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Serengeti Migration Area in February
February in the Serengeti is hot, with daytime highs reaching around 33°C/91°F, but cooling down significantly in the evening and overnight. It's an excellent time to visit as the northern circuit is comparatively quieter than during peak seasons. The wildebeest calving season, typically occurring in a two-three week window in early-mid February, is a major attraction. Thousands of calves are born daily, attracting a significant number of predators, creating an intense yet fascinating spectacle.
Birdlife is equally vibrant, as migratory species from the northern hemisphere join the park's resident birds. The Ndutu region is especially active, hosting an abundance of wildlife. Hot air balloon safaris offer unparalleled views of the action below. Despite the midday heat, early morning game drives remain comfortable and highly rewarding.
- Hot and dry weather conditions prevail
- Wildebeest calving in southern plains
- Southern Serengeti busy for migration
- Lush, green landscapes across the park
- Ideal for wildlife photography
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in February
Serengeti Migration Area in March
March typically sees the arrival of the long rains in the Serengeti, though the exact timing can vary each year. With water becoming more plentiful, migratory animals begin to spread out, making wildlife spotting a bit more challenging in certain areas. The Seronera Valley remains a reliable choice for sightings, thanks to its consistent water sources.
The rains bring a dramatic transformation to the landscape, with lush greenery emerging across the plains, offering stunning photographic opportunities. Birdwatchers are in for a treat, as many species are in their vibrant breeding plumage. Although some mobile tented camps begin winding down operations in preparation for the next season, visitors can still enjoy the park’s quieter atmosphere and its renewed natural beauty.
- Hot with increasing humidity pre-rains
- Wildlife viewing varies as rains begin
- Park quieter with lower visitor numbers
- Excellent time for bird watching
- Green vegetation provides scenic backdrops
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Serengeti Migration Area in April
April tends to be the wettest month in the Serengeti, with rainfall averaging around 250mm. The park is transformed into a verdant oasis, alive with birds, insects, and smaller wildlife. However, the dense vegetation can make spotting animals more difficult. Visitor numbers are at their lowest, allowing for a more exclusive safari experience and there can be some good emerald season bargains to be had.
The wildebeest migration typically begins slowly moving toward the Western Corridor, and patient travellers can witness fascinating sights such as newborn animals and predators on the hunt. Rising water levels make the Retina Hippo Pool particularly active. Birdwatching continues to be excellent, and many lodges offer reduced rates, making it an appealing time for those willing to brave occasional downpours.
- Heavy rains with impressive thunderstorms
- Some camps closed due to weather
- Lowest rates and fewest tourists
- Vibrant greenery, wildlife more dispersed
- Not ideal for general wildlife viewing
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Serengeti Migration Area in May
As the month of May progresses, the rains start to taper off across the Serengeti and temperatures drop slightly. Visitor numbers remain low, and lodge rates are often highly competitive, making it a great time for more value-conscious travellers. The wildebeest migration usually still heading towards the Western Corridor, with some herds nearing the Grumeti River and others still milling around the central area of the park. Predator-prey interactions become more frequent as animals navigate the changing environment.
The Moru Kopjes region offers particularly rewarding wildlife encounters, including the chance to spot black rhinos. The park’s vegetation is at its lushest, providing breathtaking backdrops for photographers. Balloon safaris during this time give a spectacular view of the green plains and migrating herds.
- Rains continue, creating dramatic skies
- Quiet period, great for avoiding crowds
- Lush landscapes with long grasses
- Wildlife more dispersed, fewer sightings
- Affordable safari options available
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in May
Serengeti Migration Area in June
June signals the end of the rainy season in the Serengeti, with the landscape beginning to dry out. Wildlife starts to gather around permanent water sources, and the Grumeti River becomes a key location for dramatic river crossings. Before the wildebeest migration heads north, the Western Corridor remains a hub of activity.
Many camps will offer shoulder season rates in June, meaning that this is also a more affordable time to visit than later in the year. The Lobo Valley in the north also becomes a productive area for wildlife viewing. With shorter grasses and clearer conditions, June is an excellent time for walking safaris in designated areas. The balance of good weather, exciting wildlife action, and moderate tourist numbers makes it a great month to visit.
- Weather varies: clear, dry or some rain
- Migration moving from west to north
- Parks still green with high grasses
- Wildlife becoming more concentrated
- Good value shoulder season prices
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Serengeti Migration Area in July
July is the start of peak season in the Serengeti, with little to no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. As the park dries, wildlife congregates in fewer areas, improving game viewing opportunities. The wildebeest migration typically reaches the northern Serengeti, with herds beginning to cross the Mara River. This spectacle draws many visitors, making the northern areas busier.
The Seronera area remains excellent for big cat sightings. In the western corridor, resident game becomes easier to spot as vegetation thins. Balloon safaris are particularly popular this month, offering breathtaking views of the migrating herds. Despite the crowds, July offers some of the year's best wildlife viewing opportunities across the park.
- Dry days, chilly mornings and evenings
- Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
- Peak season with increasing visitor numbers
- Highest prices due to prime conditions
- Great Migration in full swing
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Serengeti Migration Area in August
August in the Serengeti is characterised by clear skies and sunny weather, though cooler nights and mornings call for layered clothing for early morning game drives. It's an extremely popular time to visit, with accommodation prices at their peak. The northern Serengeti is particularly busy as visitors hope to witness migration river crossings – with the Mara and Sand rivers becoming focal points for dramatic wildlife interactions.
In the central Serengeti, predator sightings remain good around the Seronera River. The park's southern regions are now much drier, home to excellent resident game and now fewer visitors. Balloon safaris provide stunning aerial views of the landscape and wildlife. While August is a very busy time, the consistent wildlife activity and reliable weather make it a fantastic month to visit.
- Dry climate, cool mornings and evenings
- Superb general wildlife viewing
- Exciting wildebeest migration period
- Very busy, camps fill up quickly
- Dramatic river crossings may occur
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Serengeti Migration Area in September
September continues the Serengeti’s dry season, with wildlife becoming increasingly concentrated around the few remaining water sources. The northern Serengeti still hosts the wildebeest migration, with river crossings at the Mara River offering dramatic predator-prey interactions. The Seronera Valley remains an excellent spot for sightings of resident predators, while the now-parched southern plains offer good chances to see cheetahs.
As the month progresses, visitor numbers begin to drop slightly, making it a quieter time to explore. Birdwatching remains rewarding, and walking safaris provide a more intimate wildlife experience. September’s pleasant weather and exceptional wildlife viewing make it a very good time to visit.
- Fantastic wildlife viewing conditions
- Slightly less crowded than peak months
- Parks becoming dry with less vegetation
- Pleasant temperatures throughout day
- Prices remain high for quality safaris
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Serengeti Migration Area in October
October marks the tail end of the dry season in the Serengeti. Wildlife gathers around the last water sources, creating fantastic viewing opportunities. The Mara River may still see some migration activity, while the central Seronera region continues to deliver reliable predator sightings. In the western corridor, large herds of elephants are a highlight, and the dry southern plains can sometimes offer very good opportunities to spot cheetah.
Birdwatching is rewarding, with many resident species easily spotted. Balloon safaris offer breathtaking views of the parched landscape – though photographers need to be prepared for dusty conditions. Prices remain high, but visitor numbers are lower than in July-Sept, providing a more exclusive safari experience.
- Mostly dry with comfortable temperatures
- Excellent game viewing opportunities
- Landscape may appear somewhat barren
- Lower visitor numbers than earlier months
- Chance to see predator action at its best
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Serengeti Migration Area in November
November usually signals the start of the short rains in the Serengeti. While lighter and more sporadic than the long rains, they rejuvenate the landscape with fresh grass growth. Wildlife begins to disperse as water becomes more readily available, but game viewing remains strong, particularly in the central Seronera area.
The wildebeest herds start their journey southward from the Mara region, creating opportunities for unique sightings. Birdwatching is excellent, with the arrival of migratory species adding to the variety. Some mobile camps in the north close temporarily, but those who visit in November can enjoy great value with lower rates and quieter conditions.
- Variable weather: clear, dry or rainy
- Parks quieter with lower-end prices
- Some camps close for maintenance
- Wildlife disperses as rains begin
- Migration movement less predictable
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Serengeti Migration Area in December
December is a transition month in the Serengeti, falling within the short rainy season. The rains bring life to the southern plains, attracting the wildebeest herds and the predators that follow them. The Ndutu region becomes a focal point for wildlife activity.
Temperatures are comfortable, averaging around 27°C/81°F, with the possibility of occasional thunderstorms. Birdwatching is outstanding, with many migratory species adding to the diversity. Early December offers good value, with lower prices and fewer visitors, but the festive season sees a surge in demand, requiring early bookings. Balloon safaris provide stunning views of the rejuvenated landscape, making December an exciting time to visit the park.
- Weather varies: dry, rainy, or stormy
- Good game viewing in central Serengeti
- Quiet early, extremely busy late month
- Prices rise sharply for holiday season
- Green season begins, landscapes refresh
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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