About Kusini Camp
Standing on top of a kopje in a remote and very quiet corner of Tanzania’s south-west Serengeti, Kusini Camp ...
... is an exclusive permanent tented camp with 12 luxurious tents. Opportunities for wildlife viewing are excellent, with lion and buffalo regularly seen around camp.
Although our last visit to Kusini was fairly brief, the staff were friendly and the atmosphere welcoming. The tents are fairly simple in terms of design and furnishings, but retain an air of luxury and comfort. It is worth noting that tsetse flies were quite numerous in the surrounding areas, although not majorly bothersome once you are within the camp’s buildings.
Our view
Although our last visit to Kusini was fairly brief, the staff were friendly and the atmosphere welcoming. The tents are fairly simple in terms of design and furnishings, but retain an air of luxury and comfort. It is worth noting that tsetse flies were quite numerous in the surrounding areas, although not majorly bothersome once you are within the camp’s buildings.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
12 luxurious tents
Children
Best for 12+
Open
Closes in April and May
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Kusini Camp
4 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryKusini Camp: Our full report
Standing on top of a kopje in a remote and very quiet corner of Tanzania’s south-west Serengeti, Kusini Camp ...
... is an exclusive permanent tented camp with 12 luxurious tents. Opportunities for wildlife viewing are excellent, with lion and buffalo regularly seen around camp.
Kusini Camp is very similar to its sibling, Swala Camp in Tarangire. It is one of the more exclusive and remote places to stay in the Southern Serengeti, and offers opportunities for great wildlife viewing. The manager told us that they regularly see lion and buffalo around the camp.
Although we only dropped in briefly on our most recent visit, in February 2018, the staff were friendly and welcoming, and there appeared to be a good atmosphere about the camp.
The camp’s 12 tents, each named after a local bird, are raised on polished wooden decks and nicely spaced out from each other, offering sufficient privacy from other guests. The tents are not huge, but they are perfectly spacious and very comfortable.
Inside, although they’re fairly simple in terms of design and furnishings, they.
are tastefully decorated, with a very large double bed (which can be split into two singles) draped in a mosquito net. Stripy cushions and pale green bedding add a splash of colour, as does the local beadwork hanging delicately on the wall. An armchair and free-standing lamp can be found in one corner, with a dark wooden dressing table and large lockable wooden trunk opposite.
At the back of each tent is an en-suite bathroom, with two basins and, through a separate door, a flushing toilet and plumbed-in shower. You’ll find Molton Brown and Africology toiletries, as well as towelling bathrobes and slippers. Wellington boots and umbrellas are provided for wet days.
Each tent has a wooden veranda at the front, where you can relax on the lounging chairs after a game drive. All of the tents have a good view, of the surrounding bush but tent number 8 – which is often reserved for honeymooners – probably has the best.
The tents are connected by a serious of footpaths to the central lounge and dining area. This is bright and airy, and a relaxing place to sit with a drink, or chat with other guests – or you could draw up a leather stool to the small bar. Bright orange drapes hang from the ceiling above clusters of cream and brown sofas and armchairs, and the walls are tastefully decorated with large wildlife photos and local artwork. There are local handicrafts and maps are on sale in the little gift shop.
Each evening, sundowner drinks and light snacks are served on the beautiful kopje next to the lounge tent. It’s a stunning spot and is definitely one of Kusini’s highlights.
Guests can either stay at Kusini on a full-board package, arriving with your own guide and vehicle, or can fly in and stay on a game package. For fly-in guests, the camp has its own driver-guides and exceptionally comfortable vehicles.
Geographics
- Location
- Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- 2-3 nights
- Directions
- Kusini is a 15-minute direct drive from Kusini airstrip. A light aircraft flight will take just over an hour to Arusha.
- Accessible by
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- Although we didn’t have time to eat at Kusini when we last visited in February 2018, the food here is reportedly very good.
Breakfast is typically served from around 6.00am. As well as a buffet of cereals, breads and fruit, hot dishes can be cooked to order.
The lodge will prepare a bush lunch for guests out on game drives, and a packed lunch on your day of departure. For those in camp over lunchtime, a set menu is available from around 12.30pm.
A three-course dinner is usually served from 7.00pm, with a barbecue arranged once a week. The menu changes daily, and lodge prides itself on the variety and quality of the food they serve. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available on request with advance notice. Special private sundowners can be arranged in advance from US$10pp.
- Drinks included
- All drinks are included except premium wines and spirits.
Drinking water is supplied in all rooms.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Well-behaved and supervised children are welcomed at Kusini, although the managers do not feel that it is suitable for families with very young children, or those with lots of energy.
- Property’s age restrictions
- No official age restriction, but suggested to be best for children aged 6+
- Special activities & services
- No special activities or services for children. Children’s meals are possible if arranged in advance
- Equipment
- No equipment provided.
- Generally recommended for children
- The camp is open and unfenced, and has some high, unsecured platforms. There are no games or distractions to keep young children occupied, so we would recommend this camp only for older children.
- Notes
- Kusini is situated in an unfenced wildlife area, with arge and dangerous game known to walk through the camp. Children must be supervised at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- 24-hour electricity and charging points in all tents. There is a back-up generator.
- Communications
- The camp’s main form of communication is radio, but they have a satellite phone for emergencies. WiFi is available in the common areas.
- TV & radio
- No.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- All tents have plumbed-in showers and flushing toilets.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a first-aid kit on site and a number of staff members are first-aid trained. The nearest hospital is in Arusha and the camp has access to the flying doctors service.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Askaris (traditional Masaai guards) guard the camp at night, and guests are always accompanied to and from their tents after dark.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are positioned in every tent; there’s also a large fire hose on site.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Complimentary laundry service, returned within same day. Please note that for cultural reasons the camp will not wash ladies’ underwear, but washing powder is provided in the tents for this purpose.
- Money
- Each tent has an electric safe for storing valuables.
No currency exchange service is offered. - Accepted payment on location
- Most major currencies are accepted, including US dollars, euros and GB pounds, as well as Tanzanian shillings. Mastercard, Visa and American Express are all accepted but there is a minimum spend of US$50 for card payments and a 5% surcharge. Although it is possible to add staff gratuities to your credit-card bill, we would always recommended leaving these in cash if possible.
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Kusini Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kusini Camp.
Excursions from Kusini Camp
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Kusini 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
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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
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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
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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.
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
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Serengeti Green Camp
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Sasakwa Lodge
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Serengeti Sopa Lodge
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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
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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
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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
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Seronera Wildlife Lodge
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Mara Kati Kati
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Nasikia Naona
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Kirawira Camp
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Nyikani Central is a comfortable tented camp located in the game-rich Seronera area of the central Serengeti.
Mbuzi Mawe
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Laba Migration Camp
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Serengeti Pioneer Camp
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Taasa Lodge
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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 Kusini 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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