Migration chasing from the Serengeti’s original mobile camp.

More than 20 years of studying the migration and shadowing its movements through the Serengeti have taught us that it rarely conforms to those nice little maps you so often see. Our objective is always to have Serengeti Safari Camp in the best available position for the migration, it may not always be where it's "supposed" to be.

Serengeti Safari Camp is open year-round because there is always some element of the migration to see as it moves throughout the Serengeti National Park, changing location to follow the movements of the migration (it will not move during your stay). It's always important to remember that the herds can be unpredictable, and their movements are always dictated by local weather patterns which are by their very nature changeable. Our camp movements are pre-planned to be within reach of the herds, but this cannot always be guaranteed.

January – March

April – May

June

July to October

November to December

The calving

Rains in the southern Serengeti have drawn the wildebeest south in search of fresh grazing on the nutrient rich short grass plains. This is where the wildebeest would love to call home, and where a million wildebeest start their life every year.

This is when the wildebeest calving season starts, a real bonanza for predators. In the woodland, giraffe, elephant and buffalo are generally easy to locate.

When the wildebeest calving season is in full swing now, you’ll have a good chance of witnessing a birth. It is often quite dry at this time and the herds might split into smaller units scattered around the southern plains in search of the best conditions.

January and February see warm sunny days often with afternoon thunder showers. As we move into March localised rain continues to fall on the short grass plains.

Prices from $1,375 per person per night
January – March

The rut

April is one of the best times to explore the eastern part of the ecosystem, especially the beautiful Gol Mountains. The scenery is spectacular, and the vast numbers of animals add to the drama.

In early May the migration is still to be found on the southern plains. Later in May, they start moving north and west, searching for sweet grass and water around Moru and then Seronera.

Warm sunny days with more regular scattered showers. Nights begin to cool.

Prices from $960 per person per night
April – May

Big game and moving herds

With the ecosystem continuing to dry out, the herds continue westwards, towards the Grumeti River in the Western Corridor. The riverine forest here harbours plentiful buffalo and elephant, while there are many hippo and huge crocs in the river.

Scattered rainfall throughout the Serengeti get the herds moving.

Prices from $1,375 per person per night
June

Mara River crossings

All those hungry mouths rapidly deplete the grass and water in the western corridor and soon they start to move on. The migration can be spread over a huge distance, with the first zebra herds arriving in the north Serengeti in early July.

Come August the dry season is well under way. The migration now moves into the north in a big way, with the herds criss crossing between the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti. The dry conditions mean that they congregate near water.

September and October see the wildebeest continually cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing.

Rain on either side of the Mara River keep the wildebeest crossing between the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti.

Prices from $1,375 per person per night
July to October

On the move south

The perfect season to combine Serengeti Safari Camp with Lamai as the migration is so spread out this month.

It is time for the wildebeest to start heading south in preparation for the arrival of the next generation. Our camp casts off from Lamai and begins its own odyssey south. Wherever rain happens, the change is dramatic.

Normally the Short Rains start in November. Dramatic thunder clouds herald the onset of this changing season, giant thunder clouds rolling over distant Serengeti horizons add to the drama.

Into December, the herds start to gather in the southern Serengeti. Days are generally warm and humid cooling down after a rain storm.

Prices from $960 per person per night
November to December

Northern Tanzania safaris

Our Northern Tanzania camps are in enviable locations that mean we can take you deeper into this epic wilderness and create life changing experiences.
 

Reviews

M. Broz

Review for serengeti safari camp

Favorite Places Visited

One of the favorite places I have visited. The accommodations were both in nature and luxurious. The staff, the food, and the atmosphere were amazing!! Our guides we have had the last 4 days (Masa and Musa) were unbelievably knowledgeable, talented, able to spot things far far away, and most im...

J. Kandel

Review for serengeti safari camp

True African Experience

A slice of heaven. So amazing to be right in the middle of nature. A true African experience!

A. Rubin

Review for serengeti safari camp

Phenomenal Safari Experience

The most phenomenal safari experience. The service is beyond exceptional with every detail meticulously thought of and planned. The food is outstanding. Even the bucket showers are a treat. Can’t recommend Nomad highly enough

L. Diamond

Review for serengeti safari camp

Exceptional Safari Experience

Our stay at the Serengeti Safari Camp was an exceptional experience. The care and attention to detail is superb. I highly recommend this stop on your safari trip.

FAQs

How do you get to your safari lodge?

The transport networks in Tanzania are very good with internal flight schedules across the country. It is possible to fly into the parks and land at one of the bush airstrips. From there, most lodges will arrange for a transfer journey from airstrip to the lodge. Depending on the lodge location, this can vary in journey time. Or, if you opt for a driving safari in northern Tanzania, your guide (included as standard with Nomad) will transport you from location to location.

Can I go on safari and visit Zanzibar in one trip?

Yes absolutely, Tanzania has superb transport links from the mainland to Zanzibar as well as neighbouring islands too. Many travellers choose to spend some time in the wild on safari before heading to the coast for some R&R.

What to wear on Safari in Tanzania?

Pack lightweight is the first tip. Next neutral colours are great - khaki, beige and olives - however not every item needs to be khaki by any means. There is no harm in a splash of colour in the bush. Long sleeves and trousers are a necessary addition to protect you from the sun and insect or mosquitoes in the evening. You are on the move a lot so always have a pair of comfy, sturdy shoes whether that be walking boots, trainers or safari style boots. This is especially important if you are embarking on a walking safari. Bring a light, warm jacket for those early mornings and sometimes even a beanie may be required depending on the time of year. Finally, do bring a good hat - wide brimmed or just a baseball cap - needed to protect you from the African sun.

What should I take on Safari in Tanzania?

This is the trip of lifetime so you must have a good camera (or phone) to capture those wonderful memories. More importantly is a decent pair of binoculars - essential for your time in the bush. Sunscreen and insect repellant should be in the bag as well as a good water bottle, although you will be provided with a Nomad water bottle as part of your stay - hydration is really important on safari and in dry climates. Check your luggage restrictions with your tour operator as there are restrictions on luggage allowance for domestic flights in Tanzania. Also, if you react to insect bites be sure to bring antihistamines. It is a good idea to carry loperamide (commonly sold as Imodium) just in case.

What is the difference between Serengeti National Park and Nyerere National Park?

The first difference is terrain. The Serengeti is all vast plains and iconic kopjes, whereas Nyerere is riverine wilderness where variety in activity becomes ever possible, boating, fishing etc. Both areas are wild with superb game but very different in landscape.

How much does a safari cost?

The cost of a safari does vary, from simple bush camps or tented camps to high-end luxury or private houses. In Tanzania, there is a wide spectrum of accommodation allowing travellers to mix and match, building tailormade itineraries to suit a budget. Specialist tour operators are able to advise on the best options for your budget. Included in the safari cost is access to the wild, expert guides and unique experiences.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Tanzania?

We advise against drinking the tap water in Tanzania and as such, we provide safe drinking water in all camps and vehicles so guests can remain well hydrated throughout their trip.

Are there age restrictions for safaris?

Yes, some camps have minimum age limits, in camp and especially on walking safaris. But there are many brilliant private or family properties that can tailor the age restrictions.

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