Best places to stay in Northern Serengeti to see the Mara River crossings

Late July to August marks the peak of the spectacular Mara River crossing stage in the northern Serengeti with the raging Mara River the largest obstacle to the migration’s progress with millions of Hooves tormenting the ground a thunder-like Noise is hard with the dusty cloud as the herds bunch up on the riverbank before taking the plunge; The Nile Crocodiles wait for the drama as the ambitious wildebeest struggle to reach fresh grazing plains in the Masai Mara. Little do they know; the famous Mara lions form an intimidating viciously waiting across the plains.

If you are keen to see the river crossings then you will need to be careful when booking your lodge, as many places are 2-3 hours from the river crossings. The further away you are from the river, the more of your game drive time will be taken up by driving. 

Our recommended Lodges and Camps

• Acacia Migration Camp

Acacia Migration Camp nestled in the Kogatende area is a semi-permanent mobile tented camp perfect for anticipating movements of the great migration. It offers splendid views with a fresh breeze and it features first-class amenities that guarantee luxury accommodation even amid the wild. Listen to the sounds of nature and simply take in this once-in-a-lifetime experience of being in the wildlife setting of Africa.

• Ang’ata Migration – Bologonja Camp

Ang’ata Migration – Bologonja Camp is a large camp with 12 large Guest tents including a 2 tent Family unit, a lounge, and a dining tent. Each guest tent has an ensuite bathroom with a shower, vanity desk, and flush toilets.

• Kenzan Mara Tented Camp

Located on the edge of the Northern Serengeti wilderness in Tanzania, home to the greatest Wildlife reserves in Africa; the Kenzan Mara Tented Camp offers incredibly spectacular viewing of the naturally preserved ecosystem. The Camp is enriched with ever-present pleasing sounds and gives you a chance to explore the outdoor wilderness while connecting with hidden gems of nature.

• Serengeti Bushtops Camp

Under Serengeti Bushtops canvas lies the finest in seductive luxury and fifteen of the largest, most impressive tented ensuites imaginable. None of the tents are overlooked, but all look over the Serengeti. Each faces the sunset and is open on two sides, giving you an extraordinary panoramic view of nature’s living masterpiece. The 12 luxurious rooms under canvas are named after the animals that surround them. 

• Lamai Serengeti

Lamai Serengeti is an iconic camp set within the rocky kopjes of the northern Serengeti. Tucked into the iconic Kogakuria Kopje in the northern Serengeti, Lamai Serengeti commands never-ending views over the magnificent Mara River valley. Twelve carefully designed family-friendly tents are split between two separate camps, the Main Camp and the smaller Private Camp. 

• Serengeti Migration Camp

Serengeti Migration Camp is located next to the famous Grumeti River which is home to resident hippos that bark and wallow their days away. Hidden among the rocky outcrops, Serengeti Migration Camp sees the starting point of the Migration. Comprising 20 luxurious elevated tents, each with spacious and richly furnished bedrooms, Serengeti Migration Camp blends seamlessly into the environment.

• Klein’s Camp

In a remote corner of the game-rich Serengeti National Park, a 10,000-hectare (24,700 acre) wildlife concession leased from Maasai landlords offers guests an exclusive, Tanzanian safari at Klein’s Camp. Embodying the very soul of the Serengeti, this private and remote camp offers guests the spirit of wild Africa.

• Sayari Camp

Sayari Camp is based in the north of Serengeti National Park, with a prime location to witness thousands of wildebeest crashes across the Mara River as part of their Great Migration. Overlooking the golden plains, our 15 bright and spacious suites have a walk-in shower.