About Lemala Kuria Hills
Opened in 2013, Lemala Kuria Hills is one the more luxurious of Lemala's camps in Tanzania.
It is located in the scenic Wogakuria Hills, in the northern Serengeti, about a 30-minute drive from the Mara River. The great wildebeest migration passes through this part of the Serengeti usually between July and October and this is a great camp to be based during this period.
Lemala Kuria Hills offers modern, luxurious, hotel-like accommodation for travellers hoping to witness the migration. As it is in the higher price bracket, it would suit honeymooners or first-time safari travellers prepared to pay a relatively high price for real comforts and a little separation from the natural world.
Our view
Lemala Kuria Hills offers modern, luxurious, hotel-like accommodation for travellers hoping to witness the migration. As it is in the higher price bracket, it would suit honeymooners or first-time safari travellers prepared to pay a relatively high price for real comforts and a little separation from the natural world.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
15 tents
Children
Suitable for 10+
Open
1st June to 31st March
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Lemala Kuria Hills
8 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 136 pictures and 1 videos of Lemala Kuria Hills to get the candid view.
View galleryLemala Kuria Hills: Our full report
Opened in 2013, Lemala Kuria Hills is one the more luxurious of Lemala's camps in Tanzania.
It is located in the scenic Wogakuria Hills, in the northern Serengeti, about a 30-minute drive from the Mara River. The great wildebeest migration passes through this part of the Serengeti usually between July and October and this is a great camp to be based during this period.
Lemala Kuria Hills is set on the brow of a hill with lovely views of the Serengeti plains below. The landscape is dominated by huge boulders and rocky outcrops known as kopjes.
The camp's main area comprises two permanent tented structures on different levels, both raised clear of the hillside. In the first tent is a spacious lounge, decorated in a modern style, with sofas and chairs in neutral colours and rugs scattered on polished wooden floors. Contemporary chandeliers, hanging from the tented ceiling, complete the look. Fireplaces at each end of the lounge provide cosy meeting places for guests on chilly evenings and there is a substantial bar at one end and when we last visited we could easily imagine whiling away an evening here swapping safari stories.
Accessed from the lounge by a wooden walkway, the dining area is furnished in the same clean and modern style, with lots of dark wood and neutral cream colours. Individual dining tables are covered with white tablecloths and surrounded by high-backed chairs. On one side of the area there's another fireplace decorated with African artefacts.
It's worth noting that while the managers are always available, Kuria Hills is not a hosted camp and guests usually eat at their own tables.
Outside, a large faux-wood deck runs high above the hillside, linking the lounge and dining areas. Tucked away at one end, a sandy-floored firepit, surrounded by canvas chairs, is a popular spot for pre-dinner drinks or an early-morning tea or coffee.
Sandy paths lead from the main areas to the 15 spacious tented rooms, all of which can be set up as triples, and four of which can be quads. These are quite spread out, which means that each is completely private, with views to the north, east or west. Some are a fair walk from the main area, though, either up or down relatively steep inclines; guests with mobility issues should request a room close to the main areas.
The tented rooms are entered through a small hallway at the back, where there's built-in clothes storage, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a fridge stocked with water and soft drinks. In front of this area, a mosquito-netted double bed, or twin beds, face the view through sliding glass doors. There is a lounge area with a sofa, chair and coffee table to one side. The canvas walls of the rooms are relatively solid (these are certainly not traditional safari tents) and are hung with striking African prints, while stylish modern sculptures are dotted around the room.
More sliding glass doors lead from the bedroom to the en-suite bathroom, where two square basins are set atop a wooden plinth, with large round mirrors above. A deep, free-standing bath stands in front of the window and separate cubicles house a funky, glass-enclosed shower and a flush toilet.
In front of the tent is a decent-sized deck, with a table and chairs, sunloungers and a private plunge pool. An outdoor shower is tucked around the corner.
Lemala Kuria Hills has a lovely private spa area a short walk from the central area. Massages, manicures and pedicures are offered in an open-fronted room looking over the bush where buffalo frequently wander; when we were here massages started at around $40 for 30-minutes.
A glistening swimming pool affords welcome respite from the afternoon heat. Set beneath a high rocky outcrop that attracts birds and rock hyrax it has decking on three sides dotted with sunloungers and umbrellas, and it also has its own changing room and toilet.
Activities at Lemala Kuria Hills centre on 4WD game drives. These focus either on the resident game or, when the wildebeest migration is passing through, on the predator interactions with the herds and the crossings along the Mara River.
Geographics
- Location
- Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- During the migration you could easily spend four nights in this part of the Serengeti following the movements of the wildebeest. Out of season, about three nights here would provide a quiet, offbeat experience with some good resident game and far fewer people.
A stay here can be combined with Lemala Kuria Hills’ sister camps: Lemala Ngorongoro, the seasonal Lemala Mara and Ndutu camps, Lemala Ewanjan, and Lemala Manyara. - Directions
- Lemala Kuria Hills is a 20-minute drive from Kogatende Airstrip, in the northern Serengeti.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- We enjoyed the food here on our recent stay, it was fresh, plentiful and very tasty – a step up from the meals served at the other Lemala properties. Most dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice.
Breakfast, served from 6.00am, is usually a buffet with a selection of fresh fruit, cereals, porridge, tea, coffee and fresh fruit juices, plus a cooked option of bacon, eggs and sausage. Picnic breakfasts are available too.
Lunch and dinner are served from around 12 noon and 7.00pm respectively. Expect a choice of three starters – we had the choice of herb bread with red bean dip, chilled avocado soup or tomato, avocado and mango with grilled chicken. For the main course the choice was beef burger with bacon, cheese and fries, or a vegetarian burger with fries or fish and chips with tartare sauce and salad. This is finished off with a choice of two desserts which was chocolate tart or mango sorbet.
When there is a large number guests, Lemala Kuria Hills like to offer themed evenings including barbecues, Indian dining and pizza nights (there is a pizza oven on the veranda).
Afternoon tea, with freshly baked cakes, can be served on request before heading off on an evening game drive. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available on request – Kuria Hills has phones in the rooms.
- Drinks included
- Most drinks are included, including sparkling wine. Champagne and premium wines and spirits are extra. Drinking water passes through the camp's reverse-osmosis water purification system and is excellent.
Special interests
- Luxury
- Lemala Kuria Hills is perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious hotel-like safari. It is smart and contemporary with excellent service and varied dining. After returning from safari, there are indulgent opportunities to relax, either at the peaceful spa or whilst enjoying the views from your private plunge pool.
- See ideas for Luxury in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Lemala Kuria Hills welcomes children over the age of four.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Lemala Kuria Hills welcomes children over the age of four.
- Special activities & services
- There are a few board games in the main area and the swimming pool will keep many kids happy. Lemala Cubs is a programme designed for younger guests, offering a range of locally inspired activities around the camp such as making bows and arrows and going on nature walks, but there is no formal childcare. Early meals can be arranged.
- Equipment
- There is no specific equipment such as cots or high chairs, babies are not accepted.
- Generally recommended for children
- Although Lemala Kuria Hills welcomes younger children we feel that it is more suitable for older, mature children aged over 10.
- Notes
- Parents need to be aware that the camp is not fenced and that dangerous big game wanders around it day and night. It is the camp's policy that children may not be left unattended in their rooms at night.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Lemala Kuria Hills
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Lemala Kuria Hills have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
86% success
86% success
83% success
83% success
50% success
40% success
25% success
20% success
20% success
20% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The camp is run mainly by solar power but there is a back-up generator. Power is available in the rooms day and night.
- Communications
- WiFi is available in the rooms but not in the communal areas. There is a telephone in each room in order to contact the main area – either in case of an emergency or to order drinks.
- TV & radio
- There are no TV’s or radio here.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Water for washing comes from a borehole and is solar-heated. Flush toilets and hot and cold running water are provided in all tents. The camp has a reverse osmosis system and this meets international standards.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a first-aid box in camp. The nearest clinic is at Migumu, two hours’ drive away, just outside the park. In an emergency, patients can be airlifted to Arusha, which is a flight of about 90 minutes.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Askaris (guards) are on duty 24 hours a day and there is also a park ranger based in the camp. Guests are escorted after dark.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are located at all the tented rooms as well as in the main areas. All staff have fire safety training.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is available and included in the cost and takes around 24 hours. It is done by machine and so the camp also washes underwear.
- Money
- There are safes in each tented room.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash payments may be made in US dollars and Tanzanian shillings. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at an additional 5% cost.
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Lemala Kuria Hills's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Lemala Kuria Hills.
Excursions from Lemala Kuria Hills
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Lemala Kuria Hills. 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 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
Kirawira Camp
Set high on a hill, in the Serengeti's western corridor, Kirawira is a relatively large tented camp in the Serena group.
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 Lemala Kuria Hills 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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