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Kirurumu Migration Camp

Kirurumu Migration Camp


1°48’10.8"S 34°56’2.8"E

About Kirurumu Migration Camp

Kirurumu Migration Camp is an authentic safari camp which moves twice each year to follow the wildebeest migration.

Having been in operation since the late 1990s, Kirurumu Migration Camp is one of the oldest mobile camps in the Serengeti. The camp was established by Peter Lindstrom, a Kenyan conservationist and experienced safari guide. A strong commitment to conservation remains one of the camp’s core values. In addition to sustainable practices such as solar power, the camp supports a number of charitable initiatives such as a de-snaring programme and also funds community projects, including the clinic and the provision of clean water.

This is a small, unpretentious camp with friendly staff and great guiding. While the term authentic is often overused in safari talk, here it’s justified. As one of the most economical tented camps in the Serengeti, Kirurumu Migration Camp is great value for money, giving you the chance to see the wildebeest migration without breaking the bank.

Our view

We really like Kirurumu Migration Camp. It is a simple and unpretentious camp, with friendly staff, hearty home cooking and game drives on the fringes of the wildebeest migration area. This is one of most economical camps in the Serengeti and we think it represents excellent value for money.

Lyndsey Marris

Lyndsey Marris

Country manager: Tanzania

Accommodation

8 tents

Children

Best for 8+

Open

1st June to 14 November; 1 December to 3

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Kirurumu Migration Camp

2 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


100%
2 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
2
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr & Mrs KfromUAE

Arrived 7 Sep 2022, 3 nights

"Kirurumu Migration Camp review"

"The camp setup was amazing. Facilities were impressive given the remote location …" Read Mr & Mrs K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

E & CfromSan Diego

Arrived 25 Jul 2021, 4 nights

"Serengeti North Wilderness Camp"

"As Kirurumu Migration Camp apparently did not open for the season, we were …" Read E & C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Kirurumu Migration Camp reviews

Kirurumu Migration Camp: Our full report

Kirurumu Migration Camp is a mobile tented camp which moves twice a year in order to follow the wildebeest migration.

Set up by the conservationist Peter Lindstrom, the camp aims to provide comfortable accommodation with an emphasis on great guiding and seeking out quieter areas in the Serengeti.

Kirurumu Migration Camp is a simple camp at heart, designed to be easily packed up and moved to a new location. Between June and October it occupies a site in the northern Serengeti, around 90 minutes’ drive from the Mara River. This a good location for seeing the wildebeest migration and possible river crossings, however as the site is set further back from the main river it can be much quieter here and you are likely to see relatively few vehicles in the vicinity of the camp. Between December and March the camp relocates to the Ndutu region in the southern Serengeti, which is where you are likely to see the wildebeest calving.

The seven safari tents are simple in design but provide a good level of comfort. They are pared down and unfussy, yet feel warm and cosy (important at night) and also a good size. By day, they feel fresh and bright, with cream fabric draped from the ceiling and rustic wooden furniture and reed mats on the floor. Each tent can be arranged as either a double or a twin, with four-poster metal bed frames covered by a mosquito net. One wall of the tents is constructed from insect screen, and when the tent flaps are rolled up this lets in plenty of light. Outside, a small veranda has a couple of directors’ chairs from where you can watch the passing wildlife.

To the side of each tent is an en-suite bathroom, with a single basin and mirror. To one side is curtained-off toilet, while to the other there is a plumbed shower with hot water from a solar heater. Complimentary shampoo and conditioner are provided.

In addition to seven standard tents Kirurumu Migration Camp has one family tent. This has two bedrooms, one set up as a double and another as a twin, sharing a central bathroom.

In the central areas of the camp, there’s a lounge tent featuring some impressive wildlife photography and an eclectic collection of sofas, a number of which have been hand crafted by the Kirurumu team. While the furnishings feel a little disjointed, it is a relaxing spot where guests gather in the evenings to chat about the experiences of the day. Next door is a dining tent where tasty buffet meals are served to individual guests’ tables.

The activities at Kirurumu Migration Camp focus around game drives in one of two closed-sided pop-top 4x4 vehicles. When you’re in the northern Serengeti there’s a good chance of seeing the wildebeest migration, and this a major attraction for many guests. When we stayed here in 2019 we were impressed with the guiding, and found the guides to be both highly knowledgeable and conscientious. This shone through particularly while watching a river crossing when our guide positioned the vehicle so as to ensure a clear path for the charging wildebeest, while still providing us and people in other vehicles an excellent view.

Geographics

Location
Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Kirurumu Migration Camp is in the northern Serengeti between June and October and in the Ndutu region between December and March.
Directions
When in the north the Kirurumu Migration Camp is located around a 90-minute drive from Kogatende Airstrip. When the camp is in the south it is around a 45-minute drive from Ndutu airstrip.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board
Food quality
The meals at Kirurumu Migration Camp are hearty home cooking, which is fresh, plentiful and surprisingly tasty. Meals are typically served as a buffet in the dining tent, although bush breakfasts and picnic lunches can easily be arranged.

Breakfast consists of a platter of fresh fruit followed by bacon, sausage, tomatoes and eggs cooked to order. Unusually they also serve sweat potato wedges, which makes a nice addition.

When we stayed here in 2019 we took a picnic lunch on an all-day game drive. This included a variety of dishes: quiche, vegetable samosas, chapatti wraps and chickpea salad.

For dinner we started with a spiced pumpkin soup, followed by baked aubergine accompanied by rice, fresh vegetables, potatoes and a savoury banana stew which is a local speciality. Dessert was a sticky chocolate cake.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service can be arranged in advance.
Drinks included
Soft drinks are included, however alcoholic drinks are at extra cost. Beer is around $4 and a glass of wine or shot of spirits is around $5.

Children

Attitude towards children
Kirurumu Migration Camp welcomes children of all ages
Property’s age restrictions
None
Special activities & services
Child-friendly activities such as short guided walks and animal tracking around the camp can be arranged.
Equipment
Cots are available on request.
Generally recommended for children
Kirurumu Migration Camp is relaxed and unpretentious and we liked the family tent. We feel that it would suit families with older children.
Notes
The camp is unfenced and wild animals regularly wonder through. Children will require supervision at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Kirurumu Migration Camp

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Kirurumu 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.

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

Leopard

50% success

Aardvark

0% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Buffalo

0% success

Cheetah

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 backup generator
Communications
There is no Wi-Fi or phone signal at Kirurumu Migration Camp.
TV & radio
There is no TV at the camp.
Water supply
Transported in
Water supply notes
Shower water and drinking water is trucked into camp. Both showers and toilets are plumbed, with solar water heaters providing hot water for the showers.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
Staff are first aid-trained and the camp has links with medical evacuation services.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
There are guards on duty 24 hours a day. Guests are escorted to and from their tents after dark.
Fire safety
There is a firebreak around the camp and fire extinguishers in the tents.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
Laundry is included at Kirurumu Migration Camp. Items are hand-washed and line-dried. For cultural reasons ladies’ underwear is not accepted.
Money
The manager can store valuables in the office. Small amounts of cash can sometimes be exchanged, but this cannot be relied upon.
Accepted payment on location
There are no credit card facilities at Kirurumu Migration Camp. All tips and extra payments need to be made in cash.

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Kirurumu Migration Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kirurumu Migration Camp.


Excursions from Kirurumu Migration Camp

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Kirurumu Migration Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

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 Safari
100% (20 reviews)

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When to go to Serengeti Migration Area

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Kirurumu Migration 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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