About Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
The Serengeti National Park is one of the best wildlife destinations in Africa – attracting so many visitors ...
... that some roads become congested. However, only a small portion of this vast park is accessed by road by the majority of safari operators. Thus with a little know-how, it is possible to explore the Serengeti on an almost 'private' basis. Sizeable sections of the Serengeti National Park have been designated wilderness areas where only walking safaris are allowed. Three nights or more in one of these wildernesses can be an amazing part of a safari to northern Tanzania.
As part of a longer trip to northern Tanzania, we can highly recommend a walking mobile safari of at least three-nights for those who enjoy the outdoors, and don't mind relatively simple camping. These camps are private and exclusive, but not particularly costly. A trip like this is easily combined with time visiting the region's more conventional fixed camps and lodges. These mobile camps and walking safaris are a great way to experience the Serengeti National Park in a more adventurous and intimate way than is possible by vehicle; you get very close to nature whilst still enjoying a good level of comfort.
Our view
As part of a longer trip to northern Tanzania, we can highly recommend a walking mobile safari of at least three-nights for those who enjoy the outdoors, and don't mind relatively simple camping. These camps are private and exclusive, but not particularly costly. A trip like this is easily combined with time visiting the region's more conventional fixed camps and lodges. These mobile camps and walking safaris are a great way to experience the Serengeti National Park in a more adventurous and intimate way than is possible by vehicle; you get very close to nature whilst still enjoying a good level of comfort.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
Private Camp
Children
Best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Traveller reviews of Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
4 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 48 pictures and 1 videos of Serengeti Walking Mobile to get the candid view.
View gallerySerengeti Walking Mobile Camp: Our full report
The Serengeti National Park is one of the best wildlife destinations in Africa – attracting so many visitors ...
... that some roads become congested. However, only a small portion of this vast park is accessed by road by the majority of safari operators. Thus with a little know-how, it is possible to explore the Serengeti on an almost 'private' basis. Sizeable sections of the Serengeti National Park have been designated wilderness areas where only walking safaris are allowed. Three nights or more in one of these wildernesses can be an amazing part of a safari to northern Tanzania.
From about December to May the conditions in Kilimafeza, a wilderness area north- east of Seronera, become perfect for a walking mobile safari. By late May, and depending on the weather patterns and wildlife movements, this area becomes dry and hot, so the focus changes to Kogatende, a wilderness area south of Lamai, bordering the Mara River in northern Serengeti. This is best visited between about June to November. Speak to us at Expert Africa for a recommendation on the best wilderness area to visit during your safari dates and for suggestions on how to build a walking safari into your itinerary.
If, before you travel, the weather patterns and wildlife movements mean that these recommendations change, then we will suggest that your itinerary is altered to get for you the best wildlife experience. So we ask that you retain a sense of adventure and flexibility when booking these walking safari mobile camps. Strictly speaking, these wilderness walking areas are not 'private'. That said, there are only a handful of safari operators who have the authority to offer walking safaris in the 1,500km2 wilderness area east of Seronera so your time here is almost guaranteed to be exclusive. It's a remote and wild area, perfect for exploring on foot.
Each Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp accommodates guests in simple canvas dome tents. These are usually 2.5m x 2.5m with windows on three sides and a zip-up door to the front. The tents each have a thick mattress on the floor fitted with sheets, duvets, pillows and a blanket. A small box forms the bedside table and holds a bottle of mineral water and a solar-charged reading lantern. Sewn in above the door is a discreet battery-operated light pack with a switch that's easily accessible as you enter the tent. A canvas 'bathroom cupboard', resembling a wash bag, hangs from the ceiling and comes with a spare bar of soap and roll of toilet paper.
Thick netting is pegged down outside each tent creating a porch which is covered by a canvas awning. Camp chairs are set up here to allow guests to relax with a book and enjoy the view between walking activities. Nearby, a canvas washbasin suspended from a wooden frame is regularly replenished with fresh water – warm in the mornings and cool in the afternoons. A second canvas 'bathroom cupboard' fitted with a small mirror hangs on an outside tent pole.
At the heart of each mobile camp is a mess tent which has one open side. The tent is set up to provide shade and sheltered dining when it's needed and to store readily available drinking water and cool drinks. Breakfast and dinner are often enjoyed by the nearby camp fire which is also usually the location for pre-dinner drinks. Lunch is often set out under a shady tree and at night, the camp is lit by paraffin lanterns hung on metal stakes.
Each mobile camp has at least one large bathroom tent with two compartments and with thick netting pegged down to create a floor. One side encloses a bucket shower overhanging a wooden shower mat. The bucket is filled with warm water on request and at any time of the day. The other side encloses a wooden box with a 'proper' toilet seat sitting over a short drop. Toilet paper is supplied and the toilet is 'flushed' with small buckets of dirt. The bathroom tent is shared by the group. If your group numbers more than six people, a second bathroom tent will be set up.
Each walking safari is led by an armed guide and accompanied by an armed national park ranger. Led by this knowledgeable and informative pair, you'll appreciate the change from being a casual observer in a game-drive vehicle to becoming part of the environment – it's a heady experience. The game viewing can be very good, but you will also learn about the smaller things too – the eco-system, animal behaviour, insects, birds and plants. During the wildebeest migration the experienced guides love to head out on foot and walk alongside the vast herds of wildebeest - which can be quite an exhilarating experience!
Geographics
- Location
- Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- A three-night stay in a Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp is ideal. Combine your time here with stays in lodges and/or a stay in a Serengeti Private Mobile Camp.
- Accessible by
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- We found the meals served at the Serengeti Walking Mobile Camps wholesome and satisfying. All the dishes are prepared from scratch using fresh ingredients – quite a feat considering the remote locations and that everything is cooked over coals. Meat, vegetables and stews are usually cooked over an open fire whilst bread and cakes are baked in a specially crafted oven heated by coals placed both on top and underneath it. The chef welcomes guests to take a look around his bush kitchen.
Days often begin with a quick breakfast of fresh Tanzanian filter coffee or tea, hot porridge or muesli, toast with spreads and fruit. Part way through the morning walking safari you'll stop at a vantage point or under the shade of a tree for bacon and egg on a freshly made roll, home-made biscuits and fruit juice. If you don't head out for a morning walk on your last day, there's usually time for a hot breakfast of bacon and eggs.
You'll typically return to camp for lunch under a shady tree. During our stay in 2011 we enjoyed pizza with a freshly made base on one day and minced-meat pie the next. On our last day we had chicken and chips – simple but really delicious! Each was served with two salads: these included green salad, potato salad and coleslaw.
More home-made biscuits are laid out for afternoon tea and before you set off on your afternoon walk. Then at the end of each active day, you'll be served a three-course dinner. During our stay we had a curry night with tasty vegetable and chicken curries, rice, chapatis and condiments including finely chopped red onion, cucumber, tomatoes and capsicums. Pumpkin soup started off our next evening meal of marinated steak served with crunchy potatoes, mixed vegetables and a green salad. These meals were rounded off with a delicious apple fritter and a chocolate Swiss roll respectively. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Whilst in camp, tea, filtered or instant coffee, water, wine, beer and soft drinks are included, along with the ingredients for a G&T. Other spirits can be requested in advance but may incur an extra charge if they are 'top shelf' brands.
Special interests
- Walking safaris
- Serengeti National Park is a spectacular option for a walking safari in Tanzania. This private tented camp stands in a wilderness area within the park. Led by an engaging guide you'll explore parts of the Serengeti that are largely vehicle-free.
- See ideas for Walking safaris in Tanzania
- Private villas & houses
- A more rustic but still comfortable option for exclusive accommodation for groups and families is the Serengeti Private Mobile. It is pretty flexible in its location, moving between campsites for good game viewing and offers a real private safari feel for your group.
- See ideas for Private villas & houses in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Walking camps can take children over the age of 6 years.
- Special activities & services
- None.
- Equipment
- None.
- Generally recommended for children
- We would only recommend walking camps for families with children over the age of 12 years. This is both for safety reasons and because there is little to keep youngsters entertained between walking activities. If you have children under the age of 12 and would like to consider a Serengeti walking mobile, please speak to us at Expert Africa.
- Notes
- If you are travelling with children of any age please note that these camps are unfenced and animals do pass through them. Children must be under your constant supervision.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Serengeti Walking Mobile
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp 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
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Communications
- There is cellphone reception throughout almost all of the Serengeti and each of the camp teams carries a cellphone in case of emergency. If you travel with your phone you must have it switched off or on silent during any walking safaris.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- All the walking guides who lead these safaris have the highest level of first- aid training available and will always carry a first-aid kit with them. The flying doctors service out of Arusha is also just a phone call away.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Each walking guide carries a rifle and a GPS system. Each walk is accompanied by an armed national park ranger.
- Fire safety
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A simple laundry service is available on request. Clothes are hand washed and hung to dry – there is no iron available. However, as you're likely to be combining a stay at a private mobile camp in the Serengeti with time at hotels and lodges, it is best to wait until then to do your washing.
- Accepted payment on location
- For tips within the camp, US dollars are acceptable. You will not need money for anything else.
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Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Serengeti Walking Mobile.
Excursions from Serengeti Walking Mobile
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Serengeti Walking Mobile. 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 Kuria Hills
Lemala Kuria Hills is a luxury permanent camp that is ideally located for wildlife all year around, but especially during the wildebeest migration.
Lemala Ewanjan
Lemala Ewanjan is a comfortable and stylish tented camp in the Seronera area of the central Serengeti National Park.
Lemala Nanyukie
Lemala Nanyukie is a stylish camp located in the quieter part of the central Serengeti.
Kubu Kubu
Kubu Kubu is a contemporary, tented lodge, well located in the central Seronera area of the Serengeti National Park.
Lobo Wildlife Lodge
The large Lobo Wildlife Lodge has simple, functional rooms in a stunning location. It's a good base for exploring the north-eastern Serengeti.
Mkombe's House Lamai
Mkombe's House Lamai is a fully staffed private house in the Wogakuria Kopjes district of Serengeti National Park.
Mbalageti Lodge
Mbalageti is a well-run lodge in a quiet part of the Serengeti's western corridor – an ideal location during the Apr-Jun migration.
Serengeti Serena
The Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is a large, hotel-style lodge and a good family-friendly base from which to explore the central Serengeti.
Kusini Camp
Kusini Camp is permanent, luxury camp located on a beautiful kopje in a quiet, wildlife-rich corner of the south-west Serengeti.
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 Serengeti Walking Mobile 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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