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Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara
Mara Mara

About Mara Mara

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

It opened in July 2019 and provides a good base for those looking to see the wildebeest migration as part of a private guided safari.

If you’re looking for a comfortable camp, with beautiful views, in close proximity to the Mara River then Mara Mara is a great choice. We like the spacious tents and pool (relatively unusual in this region) and it works well as part of a longer safari combining multiple areas of the Serengeti.

Our view

If you’re looking for a comfortable camp, with beautiful views, in close proximity to the Mara River then Mara Mara is a great choice. We like the spacious tents and pool (relatively unusual in this region) and it works well as part of a longer safari combining multiple areas of the Serengeti.

Jessica Plumb

Jessica Plumb

Tanzania expert

Accommodation

22 safari tents

Children

Best for 8+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Mara Mara

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
Wild dogsfromKinross

Arrived 9 Jul 2023, 3 nights

"Mara Mara review"

"Beautiful accommodation, and definitely the nicest of the lodges we stayed in. …" Read Wild dogs’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Mara Mara reviews

Mara Mara: Our full report

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

It opened in July 2019 and provides a good base for those looking to see the wildebeest migration as part of a private guided safari.

Mara Mara is the sister property of Kubu Kubu and also Maramboi in Tarangire. When we visited Mara Mara in 2018 it was clear that the camp had been finished to the same high standards.

We really liked the location of Mara Mara, situated in the north east of the Serengeti, and close to the Mara River. Its elevated position provides panoramic views over the surrounding plains and it is ideally located for the wildebeest migration between July and October.

Mara Mara is split into two identical sections, north camp and south camp, each of which operate independently. Each camp consists of ten tented rooms with a separate lounge/dining area and swimming pool for each camp.

The safari tents are all named after common Swahili words such as ‘Habari?’ (the common greeting, meaning as ‘What news?’) and ‘Nzuri’ (‘good’). It is a nice touch and a fun way to help you learn some of the local language. We found the tents surprisingly spacious, with wooden floors, kingsize beds, a writing desk and couple of comfy armchairs. They feel fresh and modern, with swaths of cream fabric accented by splashes of purple and pale blue. Each tent opens out onto a wooden veranda with a couple of directors’ chairs, where you can watch for wildlife. The tents can be requested as doubles, twins or triples, and their size means that even as a triple they don’t feel crowded.

The en-suite bathrooms have free-standing baths, single wash basins and indoor/outdoor showers. Fluffy white towels and complimentary toiletries are provided.

Mara Mara also has two 2-bedroom bungalows which are suitable for a family or two couples travelling together.

The lounge and dining areas, in both the north and south camps, are circular thatched structures, reminiscent of the central area at Kubu Kubu. They’re dominated by a flagstone patio, each with a quirky hippo sculpture at its centre. On one side there are plenty of cosy sofas and low coffee tables laid out with photo books, while on the other side there’s a buffet bar. Outside, the large veranda is a lovely spot for a drink while taking in the views over the Serengeti plains.

Each camp has a sizeable infinity pool with sun loungers.

Mara Mara provides accommodation only, and most guests arrive with their own vehicle and guide as part of a privately guided safari. As the camp is located in the northern Serengeti it is too far to drive from the Ngorongoro Crater to Mara Mara in a single day. People will typically stay here as part of a longer itinerary, with a night or two in the central Serengeti before driving north to the Mara River district of the park.

Activities at Mara Mara revolve around game drives in the beautiful northern Serengeti. You can explore the rocky kopjes in search of leopards, or drive through open plains and along the banks of the Mara River keeping an eye out for lions and wildebeest. Between July and October the northern Serengeti typically plays host to the wildebeest migration, with thousands of animals gathering along the banks of the Mara. This can be a great time to visit and if you’re lucky you may see a river crossing. Alternatively, if you choose to visit in the non-migration season, the area is likely to feel even wilder and more remote, with few other vehicles around and ever-impressive resident wildlife.

Geographics

Location
Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Stay three or four nights to explore the area and see the wildebeest migration
Directions
Mara Mara is around a four-hour drive from the central Serengeti and around a 30-minute drive from Kogatende airstrip.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board
Food quality
We didn’t have the opportunity to eat at Mara Mara on our most recent visit in 2018, however we have eaten at the camp’s sister property, Kubu Kubu, and we understand the food to be comparable. We would expect copious fresh produce and tasty dishes.

Breakfast normally consists of a selection of fruit and pastries, with cooked items served as a buffet. You can also order pancakes and eggs to order.

Lunch can either be eaten in camp or taken with you if you’re going on a full-day safari. There is a lunch station set up each morning with a selection of bread rolls, cakes and fruit where guests can create their own lunch boxes. If you’re having lunch in camp, it will either be à la carte or as a buffet depending on the number of guests in camp.

Dinner is normally served ‘family style’, with dishes served to your table from which you then help yourself. You can expect a selection of fresh salads, vegetables and then a fish or meat option. Dessert is typically fresh fruit, or maybe a sticky cake.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service can be arranged on request.
Drinks included
Filtered water is included. All other drinks are at extra cost, with soft drinks around $2, beer around $4 and a glass of wine around $5.

Special interests

Wildlife safaris
Located in the northern Serengeti, Mara Mara is in one of Tanzania’s best wildlife areas. You’ll see plenty of big cats and antelope throughout the year, and between July and October the camp is ideally located for the wildebeest migration.
See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Tanzania

Children

Attitude towards children
Mara Mara welcomes children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
None
Special activities & services
There are no specific facilities for children, although there are a number of board games to play and children are likely to enjoy the large swimming pool.
Equipment
Cots and high chairs can be provided on request.
Generally recommended for children
Mara Mara feels relaxed and unpretentious, and with two swimming pools and a couple of two-bedroom family bungalows we feel it works well for families with older children.
Notes
The camp is unfenced and animals regularly wonder through the area. Parental supervision is required at all times, particularly around the swimming pool.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Mara Mara

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

Buffalo

100% success

Eland

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Roan antelope

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Lion

0% success

Oryx

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
Mara Mara uses a combination of solar power and a generator to provide 24-hour electricity. Hairdryers can’t be used.
Communications
WiFi is available in the tents and central areas however this is restricted to 200MB of data per day unless you choose to purchase more via their network provider.
TV & radio
There are no TV’s at Mara Mara.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
There are flush toilets and plumbed showers.

Health & safety

Medical care
Staff are first-aid-trained and the camp has connections with a flying doctors service if needed.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
You are accompanied to and from your room after dark by Maasai guards and the same team are on duty throughout the night.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers are present throughout the central area and in the tented rooms.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry is available at a cost of around $1 per item. This is typically a 24-hour service.
Money
There are electronic safes in all the tents and small amounts of currency can be exchanged, including GB pounds and Euros.
Accepted payment on location
Mara Mara accepts all major currencies including US dollars, Euros and GB pounds. Most credit and debit cards are accepted, including MasterCard and Visa, although there is a surcharge of 5%.

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Mara Mara's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Mara Mara.


Excursions from Mara Mara

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


Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Three hours - approx. one hour flight

As the sun rises over the Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania, climb aboard for an extraordinary adventure. For an hour you’ll float in a hot air balloon over beautiful savannah and woodland and a diversity of plains wildlife.

More about Balloon Safari
100% (20 reviews)

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When to go to Serengeti Migration Area

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