This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
Lake Masek Tented Camp
Lake Masek Tented Camp
Lake Masek Tented Camp
Lake Masek Tented Camp
Lake Masek Tented Camp

Lake Masek Tented Camp


3°1’50.9"S 35°2’47.0"E

About Lake Masek Tented Camp

Lying just south of the Serengeti National Park, in the north-west corner of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, ...

... Lake Masek Tented Camp stands on a slight rise in the scrubby acacia bush overlooking Lake Masek. During the dry season, the vast plains around are very dusty. Then the water here, and in the neighbouring Lake Ndutu, sustains a good population of resident wildlife, especially cheetah. With good rains, typically from December to April, these short-grass plains are transformed into the green calving-grounds for the vast herds of the Serengeti's wildebeest migration.

Lake Masek is a relatively well-priced tented camp with a good balance of design and rustic safari ambience. During the 'green season', this is a prime spot for viewing the migration's vast herds spread across the plains. Out of season, it's quieter here, but the opportunity to drive off-road makes this area worth considering for wildlife, birding and photography enthusiasts en route to or from the central and northern Serengeti.

Our view

Lake Masek is a relatively well-priced tented camp with a good balance of design and rustic safari ambience. During the 'green season', this is a prime spot for viewing the migration's vast herds spread across the plains. Out of season, it's quieter here, but the opportunity to drive off-road makes this area worth considering for wildlife, birding and photography enthusiasts en route to or from the central and northern Serengeti.

Parita Masani

Parita Masani

Tanzania expert

Accommodation

20 tents

Children

Best for 12+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Lake Masek Tented Camp

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


100%
1 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
1
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Miss S & Mr LfromDC

Arrived 21 Jul 2012, 1 nights

"AWESOME."

"This was the most luxurious of all our stays in the bush. Our tent was as …" Read Miss S & Mr L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Lake Masek Tented Camp reviews

Lake Masek Tented Camp: Our full report

Lying just south of the Serengeti National Park, in the north-west corner of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, ...

... Lake Masek Tented Camp stands on a slight rise in the scrubby acacia bush overlooking Lake Masek. During the dry season, the vast plains around are very dusty. Then the water here, and in the neighbouring Lake Ndutu, sustains a good population of resident wildlife, especially cheetah. With good rains, typically from December to April, these short-grass plains are transformed into the green calving-grounds for the vast herds of the Serengeti's wildebeest migration.

Lake Masek Tented Camp is simple but cleverly designed. There are no showy luxuries here but the tent layouts are well thought out, the tasteful décor is well coordinated and the living areas are spacious and uncluttered.

The camp has 20 spacious tents – including four family room tents – each specially designed and set on wooden platforms about a metre off the ground. Linked by gravel paths and staggered for privacy, the tents overlook acacia and terminalia woodland characteristic of this part of the Serengeti.

Each tent has three parts: a large bedroom area, a bathroom separated by a wooden partition, and a private veranda, which is completely enclosed by a zipped gauze mesh. This keeps the tents cool and insects out, but it also makes the tents a little dark.

Inside, dark-wood four-poster beds are hung with mosquito nets and flanked by matching bedside tables. A wardrobe, dresser and writing desk complete the set. White curtains, white linen and stylish cane furniture with white cushions balance the dark wood, whilst red-stained floorboards and soft furnishings in burnt oranges and natural browns lighten the effect.

In the bathroom, twin basins on wrought-iron stands sit below mirrors in carved frames. There is a flushing toilet in a separate cubicle, as well as a free-standing bath flanked by metal palm sculptures and an outside separate, open-air shower paved with tanga stone.

Each tent is fitted with a phone to contact reception, a safe, a hairdryer, a plug points for charging batteries and a large water cooler. Outside, solar panels generate power to heat the water for readily available hot showers.

The main thatched building at Lake Masek Tented Camp has a good view over Lake Masek, broken by the occasional flat-topped acacia. The majority of the building is taken up by a large lounge and dining area, which opens out onto a sizeable wooden deck; its elevation gives great views out towards the lake. The main building also houses a small gift shop, mostly stocked with Maasai jewellery.

Stylish cane chairs with comfortable white cushions are scattered with burnt-orange and natural brown cushions; tall-backed iron chairs sit around long wooden dining tables; leather directors' chairs offer seating in select viewing points; a spotting scope is available on the deck; and natural wood is used for railings throughout.

Lake Masek Tented Camp faetures a beautifully positioned swimming pool, offering guests a refreshing retreat in between game drives.

Although technically located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ndutu is considered part of the Serengeti. This means it's one of the few areas in northern Tanzania's wildlife parks where vehicles can go off-road and get closer to animal sightings – making it a particularly good spot for photographers. While the camp is often used by safari groups, the team is adept at looking after individuals; it is spacious enough that there's no feeling of being side-lined.

Most visitors to Lake Masek Tented Camp are on a wildlife safari as part of a group tour or with their own private guide and vehicle. However, it is possible to arrange a walk around the lake led by a camp guide and armed ranger for an additional US$40 or so. The walk lasts approximately an hour and should be arranged in advance to ensure a park ranger is available. Massages are also available on request, without notice, from about US$45 for 30 minutes.

Geographics

Location
Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Between about December and March, when the wildebeest migration is usually found in the southern Serengeti, we recommend two or three nights at Lake Masek Tented Camp, though note that space is at a premium during this period. For the remainder of the year, the camp makes an interesting and scenic one-night stopover between the Ngorongoro Crater and central/north Serengeti.
Directions
Lake Masek Tented Camp is approximately 40–45 minutes from the main southern Serengeti National Park Gate and a further 40 minutes to the productive Seronera region of the central Serengeti. The nearest airstrip is Ndutu, about 20 mins direct drive.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board
Food quality
When we last visited Lake Masek Tented Camp we didn't stay to sample the food, but we understand that breakfast and lunch are usually set out as a buffet, whereas the style of dinner varies.

Breakfast offers cereal, fruit, yoghurt, pancakes and pastries, and a cooked breakfast of your choice.

For lunch expect soup, two meat dishes such as curry or shepherd's pie, vegetables and salad items, with a dessert such as rice pudding. Many guests will take a boxed lunch to eat whilst on a full day game drive. This is a laid out buffet style so you can pack your own before you head out for the day, a concept we really like!

Dinner could be a buffet or à la carte, with a similar selection of dishes as at lunch. The chef explained that a typical dinner might include a soup (such as pumpkin), roast lamb or baked fish, two or three vegetable dishes, potatoes or a pasta dish, and a dessert such as crème caramel.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service can be arranged for no extra charge, with advanced notice given. Private meals can be arranged on the veranda on request.
Drinks included
Beer, house wine, soft drinks and mineral water are included in the accommodation price. All other beverages are extra.

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of all ages are welcome at the Lake Masek Tented Camp.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no official age restrictions, but the lodge said that they prefer children to be 5 years +
Special activities & services
There are no special activities for children.
Equipment
There are cots and highchairs available on request.
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 recommend the camp only to families with older children.
Notes
Lake Masek Tented Camp is situated in a wildlife area where there is big and dangerous game; it is not fenced so animals occasionally walk through the camp. Children must be under their parents' supervision at all times.

Communications

Power supply notes
There is electricity 24 hours a day but batteries can only be charged in the main area.
Communications
Each tent has a phone to contact the camp's reception area. There is cellphone reception in this area and free Wi-Fi in the central area.
TV & radio
There is no TV or radio.
Water supply
Transported in
Water supply notes
Showers have hot and cold running water, and the toilets are flushing.
Guests should not drink the tap water, water coolers are provided in each room for drinking and brushing teeth.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
There is a first aid kit in the main area and the nearest hospital is 55km away.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
The camp has a guard (askari) on 24-hour duty although this is mostly to keep an eye on wildlife movements. After nightfall, guests are escorted to and from their tents.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in the camp's main area. A water truck is stationed at the camp, which can quickly be manoeuvred into position if pumped water is required.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
No laundry service is currently available as the alkaline water pumped from Lake Masek is unsuitable for washing clothes. They hope to be able to introduce a laundry service sometime in the future.
Money
There is an electronic safe in each of the tents.
Accepted payment on location
Lake Masek Tented Camp accepts payment for extras in US dollars, British pounds, euros and Tanzanian shillings. Credit-card payments are also accepted, without surcharge. Currently Amex is not accepted.

Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa

All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call or email us now!
We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Lake Masek Tented Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Lake Masek Tented Camp.


Excursions from Lake Masek Tented Camp

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Lake Masek Tented 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)

Other lodges in Serengeti Migration Area

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Olakira

Olakira Camp

Comfortable, friendly and relaxed, Olakira Camp moves between the Mara River and the southern Ndutu area, in line with the wildebeest migration.


96% (73 reviews)
Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp

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.


97% (62 reviews)
Sayari Camp

Sayari Camp

In the northern Serengeti, near the Mara River, luxurious Sayari Camp offers excellent wildife all year – boosted further by the wildebeest migration.


97% (63 reviews)
Dunia Camp

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.


94% (53 reviews)
Namiri Plains Camp

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.


98% (46 reviews)
Lamai Serengeti

Lamai Serengeti

Set high in the kopjes with fantastic views, Lamai Serengeti offers top service and guiding and good migration sightings from Jul-Oct.


99% (41 reviews)
Ubuntu Camp

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.


99% (29 reviews)
Kati Kati Camp

Kati Kati Camp

Kati Kati is a small, very simple bushcamp, which is well-positioned to explore the wildlife-rich Seronera area.


92% (24 reviews)
Ndutu Safari Lodge

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.


91% (16 reviews)
Alex Walker's Serian Serengeti

Serian Serengeti

Serian Serengeti is a mobile tented operation run by Alex Walker which moves between two locations following the wildebeest migration.


93% (14 reviews)
Klein's Camp

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.


98% (12 reviews)
Serengeti under Canvas

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.


98% (11 reviews)
Grumeti River Camp

Grumeti River Camp

Grumeti River Camp offers a laid-back atmosphere combined with top service, first-rate food, expert guiding and an excellent location.


93% (9 reviews)
Lemala Mara-Ndutu

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.


100% (8 reviews)
Lemala Kuria Hills

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.


100% (8 reviews)
Lemala Ewanjan

Lemala Ewanjan

Lemala Ewanjan is a comfortable and stylish tented camp in the Seronera area of the central Serengeti National Park.


97% (7 reviews)
Lemala Nanyukie

Lemala Nanyukie

Lemala Nanyukie is a stylish camp located in the quieter part of the central Serengeti.


100% (7 reviews)
Kubu Kubu

Kubu Kubu

Kubu Kubu is a contemporary, tented lodge, well located in the central Seronera area of the Serengeti National Park.


100% (6 reviews)
Lobo Wildlife Lodge

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.


72% (5 reviews)
Mkombe's House Lamai

Mkombe's House Lamai

Mkombe's House Lamai is a fully staffed private house in the Wogakuria Kopjes district of Serengeti National Park.


100% (4 reviews)
Mbalageti Lodge

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.


93% (3 reviews)
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

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.


90% (4 reviews)
Kusini Camp

Kusini Camp

Kusini Camp is permanent, luxury camp located on a beautiful kopje in a quiet, wildlife-rich corner of the south-west Serengeti.


65% (4 reviews)
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp

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.


85% (4 reviews)
Olmara Camp

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.


85% (4 reviews)
Serengeti Green Camp

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.


93% (3 reviews)
Sasakwa Lodge

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.


100% (3 reviews)
Serengeti Sopa Lodge

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.


100% (3 reviews)
Singita Mara River Tented Camp

Singita Mara River

Singita Mara River Tented Camp is a luxurious camp in the isolated and rewarding Lamai wedge region of the northern Serengeti.


87% (3 reviews)
Serengeti Migration Camp

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.


93% (3 reviews)
Faru Faru Lodge

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.


100% (3 reviews)
Sabora Tented Camp

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.


100% (2 reviews)
Kirurumu Migration Camp

Kirurumu Migration Camp

Kirurumu is a rustic tented camp which moves around the Serengeti twice a year to follow the wildebeest migration.


100% (2 reviews)
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

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.


100% (1 review)
Nimali Mara

Nimali Mara

Nimali Mara is a luxurious safari lodge in a quiet region of the northern Serengeti with good access to the wildebeest migration.


100% (1 review)
Mara Mara

Mara Mara

Mara Mara is a smart tented camp in the northern Serengeti, situated on a small hill close to the Mara River.


100% (1 review)
Esirai Migration Camp

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.


80% (1 review)
Mwiba Lodge

Mwiba Lodge

Mwiba Lodge is a luxurious property located on a private concession on the edge of the southern Serengeti.


100% (1 review)
Serengeti Bushtops

Bushtops

Serengeti Bushtops is a permanent luxury camp in the northern Serengeti, with spacious and private tents with their own hot tubs.


100% (1 review)
Ndutu Kati Kati

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.


80% (1 review)
Olduvai Camp

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.


60% (1 review)
Seronera Wildlife Lodge

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.


80% (1 review)
Mara Kati Kati

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.


No reviews yet
Nasikia Naona

Nasikia Naona

Naona Camp is a small tented camp, located in the Moru Kopjes, west of the Serengeti central area


No reviews yet
Kirawira Camp

Kirawira Camp

Set high on a hill, in the Serengeti's western corridor, Kirawira is a relatively large tented camp in the Serena group.


No reviews yet
Nyikani Camp Central Serengeti

Nyikani Central

Nyikani Central is a comfortable tented camp located in the game-rich Seronera area of the central Serengeti.


No reviews yet
Mbuzi Mawe

Mbuzi Mawe

Mbuze Mawe is a comfortable tented camp in a convenient, central-north location when driving through the Serengeti.


No reviews yet
Laba Migration Camp

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.


No reviews yet
Serengeti Pioneer Camp

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.


No reviews yet
Taasa Lodge

Taasa Lodge

Taasa Lodge is a slightly quirky option offering guided walks and night game drives, which are not permitted in Serengeti National Park.


No reviews yet
Nimali Serengeti

Nimali Serengeti

Opened in July 2017, Nimali Serengeti is a smart, permanent tented camp located in the Seronera area of the central Serengeti.


No reviews yet
Nomad Expeditionary Walking Camp

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.


No reviews yet

When to go to Serengeti Migration Area

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Lake Masek Tented 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

Inspire me

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?

Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure

Inspire me

Login to Expert Africa

Login or create an account below.

Forgotten your details?

Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to re-set your password.

Create wish-lists, send enquiries, make and manage your safari bookings, and more...

It's free & quick to set up

Benefits from creating an account.

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online and manage your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Enhanced features

Need some help? Talk to our team
Africa