About Kirawira Camp
Open since 1998, Kirawira Camp is part of the East African chain of Serena Hotels.
It is the smartest and smallest of their properties in northern Tanzania and is designed to be a high-end, colonial-style tented camp.
Kirawira Camp is reminiscent of the early colonial days of the explorers, with an antique style and standards of service which are very good. However as well as having 'old-world' décor by design, it was looking a little old and tired when we visited in April 2015, and we felt that Kirawira had missed the 'classic safari' look that other camps have achieved so well. Although Kirawira is a relatively small tented property, it hasn't managed to shake off the hotel nature of the 'Serena' chain – and this showed itself in the atmosphere which was quite stiff and formal at times even though the staff were friendly.
Our view
Kirawira Camp is reminiscent of the early colonial days of the explorers, with an antique style and standards of service which are very good. However as well as having 'old-world' décor by design, it was looking a little old and tired when we visited in April 2015, and we felt that Kirawira had missed the 'classic safari' look that other camps have achieved so well. Although Kirawira is a relatively small tented property, it hasn't managed to shake off the hotel nature of the 'Serena' chain – and this showed itself in the atmosphere which was quite stiff and formal at times even though the staff were friendly.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
25 tented rooms
Children
Best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Expert Africa's gallery
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 Kirawira Camp to get the candid view.
View galleryKirawira Camp: Our full report
Open since 1998, Kirawira Camp is part of the East African chain of Serena Hotels.
It is the smartest and smallest of their properties in northern Tanzania and is designed to be a high-end, colonial-style tented camp.
The most noticeable thing about Kirawira Camp is its location. Atop a high hill, Kirawira looks down over the plains of Serengeti National Park's Western Corridor. On a clear day, the views are spectacular, and a Swarovski spotting scope in the lounge area makes game viewing possible without leaving the lodge!
Kirawira Camp faces west, and relaxing by the lodge's swimming pool, watching the sun set over the Serengeti plains, is one of the highlights of staying here.
In the main areas of Kirawira Camp a colonial-Victorian style predominates: you will find polished wooden floors, Persian rugs and leather-bound travelling cases. The floral-patterned furniture and stud-backed leather smoking chairs look as if they come straight out of an English country home and give a sense of style that is fairly unusual in a safari destination (even if the chairs are a little worn).
The main lounge is a cool, spacious room, dotted with antique-style sofas and chairs clustered round coffee tables. Old hat stands, leather trunks and antique record players add character and a style reminiscent of the Victorian era. You will also find a games cabinet here, with Scrabble, chess, backgammon and other classic games. During the day guests might want to sit out on the shaded veranda, which looks out over the plains below; there is a Swarovski spotting scope here for game viewing.
The dining room at Kirawira Camp is split between two different tented rooms, which gives the impression that the camp is smaller than it really is. White cotton tablecloths hang over solid wood tables set with silver cutlery and starched white napkins. It's simple, yet what is there is high quality. You can expect to be served tasty food by formal waiters who are well-trained in silver service. The silver cutlery is polished to a high shine, and the tablecloths are white and spotlessly clean. We found the service during meals to be friendly and of a high standard – although it did feel strange, almost 'staged', to be in a tented safari camp surrounded by attentive waiters wearing starched white uniforms.
Kirawira also has a well-stocked gift shop selling a variety of curios and gifts – like wooden carvings, jewellery and fabrics. There are also some lovely coffee table books as well as wildlife and bird books. If you have forgotten any toiletries there is also a small selection on sale here.
Down a flight of steps, on a lower level from the lounge and dining room, is Kirawira's cool and inviting swimming pool. A small waterfall from a higher plunge pool adds style to the pool area and gives it a natural-spring feel. Sunloungers sit under shades and look out across the Serengeti plains. The swimming pool is a popular place for sundowners in the evenings, when staff come down to make cocktails.
The 25 bedrooms at Kirawira are tented en-suite rooms raised on wooden platforms, each with a private veranda. The rooms are well spaced apart, and so are peaceful and quiet. Click here to read more about the tented rooms at Kirawira Tented Camp
The activities at Kirawira Camp focus on 4WD safari drives, and most travellers visit here with their own private guide and 4WD. Then you'll either head out for a full day's safari to explore deep into the park, taking a packed lunch with you; or you’ll go on a morning game drive, returning for lunch at the lodge, before going out on another drive in the late afternoon.
From May to July this camp is perfectly located for the great wildebeest migration. The plains around the camp fill with animals heading north as they prepare to cross the dry Grumeti River. For an idea of where the migration is and when, look at our moving map of the Serengeti migration.
You can also arrange to visit Lake Victoria, which is only 45km away. This day trip costs about US$100 per person. Whilst there you can also visit a local fishing village, and you’ll need to pay a small fee direct to the village to do this.
Geographics
- Location
- Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- Stay here for three or four nights, exploring the surrounding area with your driver and guide.
- Directions
- The lodge is approximately 14km from Grumeti airstrip. Alternatively, you may access it on a longer guided safari driving from Arusha and visiting wildlife areas such as the Ngorongoro Crater along the way.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- The food at Kirawira Camp was good when we were last there. The menu was varied and imaginative and there were plenty of options to suit different tastes.
Breakfast is a variety of continental choices such as cereals, fruit, yoghurt and fresh baked bread. There is also a full English breakfast and toast on offer.
Lunch is quite formal, with a four course meal and silver service. There is a menu card for lunch with a number of options for each course. Start your meal with a fresh salad, then for the second course there is a choice between two soups (cream of carrot soup or mutton broth soup when we last visited in 2015).
The main course has four options; red meat, chicken, vegetarian and fish. The options where all very differently cooked, the red meat was grilled beef steak, the vegetarian option was a curry, the fish was poached snapper and the chicken was roasted. There was something to suit most palettes.
Desert has three options, ranging in heaviness – when we were there we could choose between fresh fruit salad, chocolate brownies or malva pudding.
There is the option of a lighter midday meal for those not hungry enough to face all these courses!
Dinner follows the same pattern as lunch – with silver service and a four course meal, with a variety of choices for each course. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Kirawira Camp offer room service, and with some advance notice can usually do private meals on the terrace of your tent.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included in the price of the accommodation. These will be added to your bill for you to settle before you depart. The cost of a mineral water or a soda is about US$3, a beer is about US$5 and a glass of wine is about US$7.
Special interests
- Wildlife safaris
- Between May and July, the Western Corridor teems with the great wildebeest migration that is heading north across the Serengeti plains and the Grumeti River; Kirawira Camp is then a good base for exploring. At other times of year, there is some resident game in the area.
- See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Kirawira Camp welcomes older children.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Kirawira Camp has a minimum age of 7 years.
- Special activities & services
- Kirawira Camp offers child-minding is from their housekeeping team; there is no charge for this but it is customary to leave a tip. It is important to note that the 'baby sitters' are usually one of the camp staff members and not trained child minders.
- Generally recommended for children
- The camp has a selection of activities to keep children occupied when they are not out on safari activities. There is a swimming pool and a few board games. Meal times are flexible for families with young children and there is a children's menu to choose from.
- Notes
- The camp is not fenced in and so wild animals can, and sometimes do, pass through the grounds. Children must be under their parent's supervision at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is 24-hour power supply, with British style three-pin plugs, in all of the rooms which can be used for charging batteries.
- Communications
- There is free Wi-fi in the main area and by the swimming pool.
- TV & radio
- There is no TV or radio here.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Bottled water is supplied in the rooms which should be used for drinking and brushing teeth.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is usually a doctor on site, as well as a small clinic. For more serious cases Kirawira Camp has links to the flying doctors.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There is a central safe for valuables – just hand your valuables to the manager on arrival. At night you will be escorted between your tent and the main areas, incase of wild animals in camp.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in rooms and main areas.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is available at an additional charge of US$1-2 per item. The lodge uses washing machines so a quick turnaround service is available on request but more usually takes about 12 hours.
- Money
- Kirawira Camp can exchange small amounts of money - USD, GBP, EUR, ZAR and Kenyan shillings can all be exchanged.
- Accepted payment on location
- Kirawira Camp accepts cash in GBP, EUR, USD and Tanzanian shillings. They also accept Visa, MasterCard and Amex credit cards; there is no additional fee for using a credit card.
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Kirawira Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kirawira Camp.
Excursions from Kirawira Camp
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Kirawira 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.
Olakira Camp
Comfortable, friendly and relaxed, Olakira Camp moves between the Mara River and the southern Ndutu area, in line with the wildebeest migration.
Nomad Serengeti Camp
Serengeti Safari Camp is a well-appointed tented camp that moves several times a year to follow the predicted path of the migration.
Sayari Camp
In the northern Serengeti, near the Mara River, luxurious Sayari Camp offers excellent wildife all year – boosted further by the wildebeest migration.
Dunia Camp
Dunia Camp is well located for the migration from December to March, and has excellent game viewing for the rest of the year.
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
Set high in the kopjes with fantastic views, Lamai Serengeti offers top service and guiding and good migration sightings from Jul-Oct.
Ubuntu Camp
Ubuntu Camp has several locations in the Serengeti, following the wildebeest migration, so it is often in a great location to see the herds.
Kati Kati Camp
Kati Kati is a small, very simple bushcamp, which is well-positioned to explore the wildlife-rich Seronera area.
Ndutu Safari Lodge
Large and economical, but not luxurious, Ndutu Safari Lodge is well located in the southern Serengeti, so book early to get space.
Serian Serengeti
Serian Serengeti is a mobile tented operation run by Alex Walker which moves between two locations following the wildebeest migration.
Klein's Camp
Klein's Camp, in a private area of the northern Serengeti, sets high standards. Activities include walks, nights drives and Maasai village visits.
Serengeti under Canvas
Two of the three Serengeti under Canvas camps move through the Serengeti National Park every few months to follow the wildebeest migration.
Grumeti River Camp
Grumeti River Camp offers a laid-back atmosphere combined with top service, first-rate food, expert guiding and an excellent location.
Lemala Mara-Ndutu
Lemala Mara-Ndutu is a semi-permanent camp that moves between the north and south of the Serengeti to witness the wildebeest migration.
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.
Lemala Ewanjan
Lemala Ewanjan is a comfortable and stylish tented camp in the Seronera area of the central Serengeti National Park.
Lemala Nanyukie
Lemala Nanyukie is a stylish camp located in the quieter part of the central Serengeti.
Kubu Kubu
Kubu Kubu is a contemporary, tented lodge, well located in the central Seronera area of the Serengeti National Park.
Lobo Wildlife Lodge
The large Lobo Wildlife Lodge has simple, functional rooms in a stunning location. It's a good base for exploring the north-eastern Serengeti.
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai is a fully staffed private house in the Wogakuria Kopjes district of Serengeti National Park.
Mbalageti Lodge
Mbalageti is a well-run lodge in a quiet part of the Serengeti's western corridor – an ideal location during the Apr-Jun migration.
Serengeti Serena
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
Kusini Camp is permanent, luxury camp located on a beautiful kopje in a quiet, wildlife-rich corner of the south-west Serengeti.
Serengeti Walking Mobile
This fairly simple camp offers only walking activities, but it's very well done and combines well with more conventional camps or lodges.
Olmara Camp
With just eight guest tents, including two family tents and three signature stargazer tents, Olmara is a simple, family-friendly camp with a wonderfully attentive team. The camp captures an authentic bush experience, welcoming travellers of every kind.
Serengeti Green Camp
Serengeti Green Camp is a comfortable camping experience, in your own private safari camp and at the heart of a great wildlife area.
Sasakwa Lodge
On a hill looking over the Serengeti plains, Sasakwa Lodge is grand, luxurious safari camp, one of the most opulent properties in Tanzania.
Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Serengeti Sopa Lodge is an international-style hotel offering good-value accommodation in the central Serengeti, with lovely views of the plains.
Singita Mara River
Singita Mara River Tented Camp is a luxurious camp in the isolated and rewarding Lamai wedge region of the northern Serengeti.
Migration Camp
Serengeti Migration Camp is a smart tented camp, good for the wildebeest migration from Jul–Aug, or to explore the Lobo Kopjes any time.
Faru Faru Lodge
On the north bank of the Grumeti River, Faru Faru is a small, chic hideaway in this exclusive corner of the Serengeti.
Sabora Tented Camp
Sabora Tented Camp is a smart tented camp – one of the most luxurious, professional and stylish properties to be found in Tanzania.
Kirurumu Migration Camp
Kirurumu is a rustic tented camp which moves around the Serengeti twice a year to follow the wildebeest migration.
Four Seasons Serengeti
The Four Seasons Safari Lodge is the only hotel in the Serengeti offering international facilities such as a gym, spa and children’s club.
Nimali Mara
Nimali Mara is a luxurious safari lodge in a quiet region of the northern Serengeti with good access to the wildebeest migration.
Lake Masek Tented Camp
Ideally located for the wildebeest migration from Dec–Apr, Lake Masek Tented Camp is a good, mid-market safari camp.
Mara Mara
Mara Mara is a smart tented camp in the northern Serengeti, situated on a small hill close to the Mara River.
Esirai Migration Camp
A season migration camp, with only 8 tents and 1 family tent and plenty of character. Esirai is ideally placed for excellent wildlife and enjoys a simplistic and comfortable under-canvas experience.
Mwiba Lodge
Mwiba Lodge is a luxurious property located on a private concession on the edge of the southern Serengeti.
Bushtops
Serengeti Bushtops is a permanent luxury camp in the northern Serengeti, with spacious and private tents with their own hot tubs.
Ndutu Kati Kati
Ndutu Kati Kati is a seasonal tented camp, based in the southern Serenget from Dec-Mar, ideal for the migration as it passes through.
Olduvai Camp
Olduvai Camp lies between Ngorongoro and the southern Serengeti plains. It's a good base for the southern plains during the rainy season.
Seronera Wildlife Lodge
Seronera Wildlife Lodge is large hotel-style safari lodge in the heart of the Serengeti, offering good value and a great location.
Mara Kati Kati
Mara Kati Kati is a simple bush camp in the northern Serengeti, based from Jul-Oct near the Mara River for the wildebeest migration.
Nasikia Naona
Naona Camp is a small tented camp, located in the Moru Kopjes, west of the Serengeti central area
Nyikani Central
Nyikani Central is a comfortable tented camp located in the game-rich Seronera area of the central Serengeti.
Mbuzi Mawe
Mbuze Mawe is a comfortable tented camp in a convenient, central-north location when driving through the Serengeti.
Laba Migration Camp
A luxury mobile camp that moves between the Western Corridor, Mara River and the southern Ndutu area, in line with the wildebeest migration.
Serengeti Pioneer Camp
Serengeti Pioneer Camp is a luxurious tented camp in the central Serengeti, styled on African explorers' camps of the early 20th century.
Taasa Lodge
Taasa Lodge is a slightly quirky option offering guided walks and night game drives, which are not permitted in Serengeti National Park.
Nimali Serengeti
Opened in July 2017, Nimali Serengeti is a smart, permanent tented camp located in the Seronera area of the central Serengeti.
Nomad Walking Camp
Nomad Expeditionary Walking Camp is a simple camp of up to three tents, plus infrastructure, that changes location to allow guests to do substantial walks between campsites.
When to go to Serengeti Migration Area
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Kirawira 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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