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Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai

Mkombe's House Lamai


1°38’34.0"S 34°55’11.2"E

About Mkombe's House Lamai

Mkombe’s House Lamai is a beautiful private house that opened in July 2015.

Set in Tanzania’s northern Serengeti, in the scenic Wogakuria Kopjes district, it has dramatic views looking east across the plains. The house is designed for up to ten guests, and is aimed at groups of friends as well as families. It is entirely self-contained and offers great flexibility.

Mkombe's House Lamai is a unique base for a safari in the northern part of Serengeti National Park, surrounded by superb landscapes and wildlife and close enough to the Mara River to witness the wildebeest migration. We are delighted that Nomad Tanzania is behind such a special place: it offers the best private-stay arrangements anywhere in the northern Serengeti.

Our view

Mkombe's House Lamai is a unique base for a safari in the northern part of Serengeti National Park, surrounded by superb landscapes and wildlife and close enough to the Mara River to witness the wildebeest migration. We are delighted that Nomad Tanzania is behind such a special place: it offers the best private-stay arrangements anywhere in the northern Serengeti.

Tamara Hoskyns-Abrahall

Tamara Hoskyns-Abrahall

Tanzania expert

Accommodation

4 bedrooms

Children

We think this a good choice for all ages.

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Mkombe's House Lamai

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


100%
4 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
4
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
SarahfromLondon

Arrived 6 Jul 2024, 3 nights

"Mkombe's House Lamai review"

"Witnessing the Great Migration firsthand was awe-inspiring. …" Read Sarah’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Gina DaifromNYC

Arrived 10 Oct 2023, 3 nights

"Mkombe's House is beyond amazing!"

"The location, design, food, everything about it was perfect! …" Read Gina Dai’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr&Mrs IfromSuffolk

Arrived 20 Feb 2023, 5 nights

"An experience that will stay with us forever"

"An experience that will stay with us forever...highly recommended …" Read Mr&Mrs I’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Miss RKfromUSA

Arrived 6 Oct 2017, 4 nights

"Amazing location and accomodations"

"Service and attention was impeccable …" Read Miss RK’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Mkombe's House Lamai reviews

Mkombe's House Lamai: Our full report

Mkombe’s House Lamai is a beautiful private house that opened in July 2015.

Set in Tanzania’s northern Serengeti, in the scenic Wogakuria Kopjes district, it has dramatic views looking east across the plains. The house is designed for up to ten guests, and is aimed at groups of friends as well as families. It is entirely self-contained and offers great flexibility.

The house is named after the late guide Mkombe Mniko, one of the founders of Nomad Tanzania, the high-quality camp operator that owns the property. The recommended occupancy of ten guests is ideally suited to four adults and six children, however groups of 6-8 adults can also be accommodated here. For guests with limited mobility, the house is a much easier prospect than the main camp, Lamai Serengeti, which lies 1.6km away on the south side of the kopje.

The deceptively modest entrance behind Mkombe’s House opens into a little lobby, with a large dining room off to one side. The adjacent lounge is furnished with chunky sofas, three armchairs and a big fireplace. Green-painted floorboards and soft rugs create a slightly bohemian feel; the house may be new but it doesn't feel modern. The rustic mood is accentuated by roofs draped with fito cane-thatch. This camouflages reliably waterproof steel panels while ensuring the clattering rain doesn't wake the guests.

Up a short flight of steps behind the dining room is a projection home-cinema room with a big comfy bunk and space for up to ten people to watch a DVD. The WiFi hub is in here too, along with some books and board games.

Mkombe’s House Lamai has four en-suite bedrooms, comprising two open-fronted double rooms and two enclosed bedrooms (ideal for children) that can be configured as either twins or doubles. One of the enclosed bedrooms is next to the master bedroom on the south side of the house and faces east. The other, behind the master bedroom on the north side of the house, doesn't have a view but is perfectly fine otherwise. The master bedrooms have outside showers and star-beds that can be wheeled onto the deck to sleep under the night sky. Extra beds can be added to any of the rooms in advance, if required.

As well-appointed, stylish and comfortable as the inside areas are at Mkombe's, we thought on our most recent visit, that it was the outside space which really set this place apart. Outside you will find an extensive deck built around the rocks jutting up from the kopje underneath that overlooks this beautiful area of the Serengeti. As well as shaded dining areas there are numerous seating options forming very pleasant chill-out areas. There are also two glistening and inviting pools set amid the decks, on different levels. At the higher level there is a small plunge pool perfect for children staying at the house and on the lower deck is a larger swimming pool. All benefit from beautiful eastward views across the Serengeti plains.

During your stay here you will be well-looked-after by the staff. The house comes with a private driver/guide (two if you're a large group), a butler, a chef and a housekeeper. A groundsman, who also acts as an askari (security man), is often quite busy during the migration season ensuring the local megafauna don't invade the premises. If you're doing a privately guided safari, accompanied by your own driver/guide, you can drive up to the house; there's also accommodation here for drivers.

The kopje landscape around the house is entrancing, but there are plenty of activities at Mkombe's House Lamai, too, with the main focus on private game drives. Resident wildlife that can be spotted all year round, both on game drives or from the decks of the house itself, includes lion, cheetah, leopard, elephant, buffalo and other plains grazers. Crocodile and hippo may also be sighted in the Mara River. One of the biggest attractions, however, is the wildebeest migration that passes through this region on an annual cycle, roughly between July and October. Parts of the ‘mega-herd’ periodically mass on the banks of the Mara River and make perilous crossings. Seeing one of these events can't be guaranteed; you have to be lucky and in the right place at the right time. But they do take place on enough occasions throughout the season to give you a reasonable chance of witnessing this natural spectacle.

Other activities include guided walks (minimum age 12), bush picnics and, of course, sundowners. Guests may also be driven up to Lamai Serengeti’s main camp to visit its curio shop if they wish.

Geographics

Location
Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
3-4 nights
Directions
The house is 1.6km from the main camp, Lamai Serengeti. It can be reached by daily plane from Arusha, Dar es Salaam and other locations in northern Tanzania, taking 2-3 hours. Alternatively, you can drive in from other camps in the northern Serengeti.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
The menu at Mkombe’s House is based on that at the main Lamai Serengeti. Judging by our experience at the main lodge next door, you can expect fresh produce, home-baking and some delicious flavours.

The chefs can accommodate dietary requirements and special requests in advance, and are more than happy to tailor the menus based on guests’ preferences and what’s in the kitchen. Meals times are flexible and the chefs welcome guests’ input into the menu choices.
Dining style
Group Meals
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
There is more flexibility regarding dining locations and times at Mkombe's than at the main Lamai Serengeti Camp.
Drinks included
All soft drinks and house alcoholic drinks are included. Champagne, premium wines and luxury spirits are extra.
Drinking water comes from a borehole and is exceptionally high-quality. Bottled water is also provided.

Special interests

Family holidays
Mkombe's House Lamai is the perfect solution to a family safari in Tanzania. There is superb wildlife in the area and, with its memorable views and two swimming pools, this fully serviced private house caters well for both adults and children.
See ideas for Family holidays in Tanzania
Luxury
Mkombe’s House Lamai is perfect for families or groups. Striving to maintain the highest standards of service, in a homely yet luxurious setting, whilst offering privately guided safaris with total flexibility. This is what an exclusive safari is all about.
See ideas for Luxury in Tanzania

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of all ages are welcome.
Property’s age restrictions
Although there is no minimum age, some activities are restricted (the minimum age for walks is 12).
Special activities & services
A babysitter can be provided from housekeeping staff.
Equipment
Cots, high chairs and car seats are available.
Generally recommended for children
As a private house let on an exclusive basis, Mkombe’s House is a very family-friendly option.
Notes
As game can be found in the vicinity of the property, children should be supervised at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Mkombe's House Lamai

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Mkombe's House Lamai have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Eland

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Leopard

100% success

Lion

100% success

Spotted Hyena

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Black Rhino

67% success

Buffalo

67% success

Cheetah

33% success

Roan antelope

33% success

Wild dog

33% success

Aardvark

0% success

Oryx

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
The house has electricity available at all times.
Communications
There is WiFi in the main areas and an intermittent cellphone signal.
TV & radio
There is a TV/projection room with a collection of DVDs. You can also download movies fairly easily.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
The borehole water is exceptionally high-quality, but bottled drinking water is provided.
There are flush toilets and plumbed in showers.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
There are first aid kits in the vehicles and also in office at Lamai, and links with the flying-doctor service. All staff are trained in first-aid.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
An askari is at hand to look after the premises.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers are installed.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry is included and done in the main Lamai Serengeti lodge. It is handwashed and line dried, and ladies' underwear is not accepted.
Money
There are safes in all the bedrooms in the house.
Accepted payment on location
Payment is accepted in US dollars, Euros, pounds and Tanzanian shillings cash. The main lodge also accepts credit card payments for any extras, but there is a 7% surcharge.

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Mkombe's House Lamai's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Mkombe's House Lamai.


Excursions from Mkombe's House Lamai

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Mkombe's House Lamai. 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 Mkombe's House Lamai 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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