Best migration camps and lodges in Kenya & Tanzania: Where to stay during the Wildebeest Migration Safari?
Where to stay during the Wildebeest Migration Safari? The Great Wildebeest Migration, also sometimes referred to as “the greatest show on Earth” is a must witness for any wildlife enthusiast visiting Africa. There is nothing quite as spectacular as the great wildebeest migration and once you witness this annual event on the vast plains of East Africa, you’ll understand why it is the greatest show on the animal kingdom. The migration sees nearly two million animals – including blue wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem in a circular pattern as they search for fresh grazing ground and water.
Annually, thousand if not even millions of visitors from all over the world visit Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to witness this natural wonder. When planning a migration safari tour, we recommend staying in some of the premier accommodations that offer front-row seats to the show. You might however wonder what are the Best migration camps and lodges in Kenya & Tanzania or Where to stay during the Wildebeest Migration Safari? In this guide, we have carefully selected some of the best safari lodges and camps in both Kenya and Tanzania that offer the front raw experience of this natural phenomenon.
The Best migration camps and lodges in Kenya & Tanzania
Where to stay during the Wildebeest Migration Safari? The list of accommodations in both Masai Mara and Serengeti is long however, here we have selected the accommodation facilities that offer a front-row experience of the great wildebeest migration.
Governor’s Camp: Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
The Governor’s Camp in Masai Mara National Reserve is nestled in a forest along the winding banks of the Mara River that will give you the premium experience of the wildebeest migration. The Governors’ Camp is one of Africa’s first permanent luxury tented camps, offering a seamless experience to visitors in Masai Mara especially those on the quest to witness the spectacular wildebeest migration. Although this camp is made in canvas, it is one of the camps that offer the comforts of a luxury hotel in the Mara.
The tents are designed in a classic safari style, featuring en-suite bathrooms, electric lights, plug points, Wi- Fi, and private verandas – all that will give you a premium experience. This camp also features a bar tent with a deck overlooking the Mara River and a dining tent with spectacular views of the vast Mara plains. The Camp also features a spa tent with a wide range of treatments incorporating local ingredients. Beyond comfort the lodge also offers opportunities to engage in different activities like boat safaris on Lake Naivasha and lion tracking in the Mara Plains.
Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp: Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
The Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp is a remarkable spot for to stay during wildebeest migration safari in in Kenya, set on a private concession within the game-rich Masai Mara National Reserve. The Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp is known for its dining under starry skies and hot air ballooning at dawn – during the wildebeest migration season the camp is a superb spot to witness this spectacular event as vast herds of wildebeest gather nearby and you’ll enjoy up-close guided encounters with the wildebeest.
This safari camp features twelve classic tents, twenty superior tents, and eight superior view tents – all with Maasai-inspired interiors, laid out in immaculate grounds that boast a large number of animals including the warthogs that feed right outside your door. The camp features massive windows in the spacious guest areas that will invite the Mara inside and incorporate split-level spaces where guests can unwind.
Great Plains Mara Nyika Camp: Masai Mar National Reserve, Kenya
The Great Plains Mara Nyika Camp is situated in a deep valley within the Naboisho Conservancy, the second-largest conservancy in the Maasai Mara. This safari camp features raised, light-colored canvas suites designed to sit under the canopy of the umbrella-thorn trees that are found near a small river. It features a raise walkway that links the different guest suites to the camp’s main area – evoking the feeling of a treehouse and allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature. Since it is situated in the heart of Masai Mara National Reserve, the Great Plains Mara Nyika Camp gives access to some of the most wildlife concentrated areas.
For travelers visiting to witness the Great Migration unfold, this safari camp allows you acess to some of the hotspots where you can witness the large herds of migrating mammals. The safari camp features an on-site wine cellar, a library, and safari tents.
Asilia Africa Rekero Camp: Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
This safari Camp is situated in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve – featuring nine comfortable decked-out tents. The Rekero Camp is situated 150 meters away from the Talek River at one of the most popular crossing spots. For those looking for the dramatic crossings, this is a perfect spot to stay during your wildebeest migration safari tour.
While here, you can easily access the best spots for witnessing the great migration herds as they cross the Mara. The safari camp features muted khaki-hued tents with modern amenities that blend perfectly into the landscape, encouraging wildlife to venture into the surrounding area. While at the camp, you can spot several wildlife species including the big cats. It also features other facilities including a curio gift shop.
Sanctuary Olonana: Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
The Sanctuary Olonana is a permanent lodge located in Masai Mara National Reserve on one of the private stretches of the Mara River. This lodge seamlessly blends luxury and nature to give guests the best experience in Masai Mara National Reserve. The lodge offer an opportunity to witness the diverse range of animals in the Reserve as you’ll be able to see hippos wading in the murky waters – possibly waking up to their sounds in the morning! The lodge features 14 glass-sided suites that offer guests sweeping views of the river and beyond – super luxury Geoffrey Kent Suite features a spectacular terrace, two private bedrooms, a private lounge and bar, and a private infinity pool.
Sanctuary Olonana is the epitome of luxury in the Maasai Mara, and its traditional spa treatments and gourmet dining complete the package.