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Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp

Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp


2°22’40.3"S 34°56’31.3"E

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.

Elizabeth Chapman

Elizabeth Chapman

Tanzania expert

Accommodation

Private Camp

Children

Best for 12+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Traveller reviews of Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp

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


85%
4 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
2
Good
1
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Rusty HudakfromStow, OH

Arrived 11 Jul 2023, 2 nights

"Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp review"

"This was the only location / activity that not Asilia. While it was still …" Read Rusty Hudak’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Family TfromLondon

Arrived 31 Dec 2012, 2 nights

"Fascinating natural history walks"

"Mark was an extremely knowledgeable walking guide. He took us on 4 hour walks …" Read Family T’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs GfromHuntingdon

Arrived 28 May 2012, 3 nights

"Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp review"

"Hard to put into words just how incredible this was! An amazing experience …" Read Mr & Mrs G’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr G & Ms MfromUSA

Arrived 28 Jun 2011, 3 nights

"Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp review"

"The only part of trip that didn't quite work. We took one 4-hour walk …" Read Mr G & Ms M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

See all Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp reviews

Serengeti 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.

Buffalo

100% success

Eland

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Giraffe

0% success

Hippo

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Lion

0% success

Oryx

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Roan antelope

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Wildebeest

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

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Hot air ballooning

    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

Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Three hours - approx. one hour flight

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

More about Balloon Safari
100% (20 reviews)

Other lodges in Serengeti Migration Area

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


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Dunia Camp

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Namiri Plains Camp

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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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