Budget: Economy
Mara Kati Kati Camp
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Overview About Mara Kati Kati Camp
Mara Kati Kati is a mobile bush camp closest to the Mara River, strategically located in the northern Serengeti, offering an authentic safari experience in the heart of the Mara Ecosystem. The camp immerses guests in the rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of the area, providing a perfect base for exploring the wonders of the Serengeti, including the famous Great Migration. With its blend of traditional safari ambiance and modern comforts, the camp ensures a memorable stay for all adventurers. Designed to cause minimal impact on the environment, this camp has a mobile infrastructure and an eco-friendly philosophy.
Facilities and other details about Mara Kati Kati Camp
- Dining tent: The camp operates on a full-board basis, serving three meals daily in the dining tent. You will receive a complimentary welcome drink upon arrival.
- Power: The camp is eco-friendly, with solar-powered electricity available 24 hours a day and a backup generator.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi: Stay connected with free Wi-Fi, ensuring you can share your safari adventures in real time.
- Payment: Guests can pay for any extras using cash or card, with all major cards like MasterCard and Visa accepted (a 5% surcharge applies).
- Additional facilities: Laundry services, free parking, first aid kit, housekeeping, happy hour, kid friendly buffet.
Additional Information:
- Guests can check in at 12:00 and check out by 10:00.
- Children of all ages are welcome.
- Open from June to November.
Services:
- Game drive in Serengeti National Park: Experience game drives in the morning and late afternoon to observe the distinct wildlife behaviors that vary from dawn to dusk. A late afternoon to early evening game drive offers a chance to spot nocturnal animals. Standard game drives typically last between two to three hours, but they can also arrange an all-day drive that includes a bush picnic.
- Hot air balloon safari: Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot-air balloon safari, offering aerial views of the wildlife and landscapes, with a bush breakfast upon landing.
- Sundowner: Unwind with a cocktail and appetizer while taking in the stunning landscape at day’s end.
- Campfire: Enjoy cozy evenings by the campfire, perfect for storytelling and stargazing.
What can be expected:
- Wildlife viewing: Guests at Mara Kati Kati can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, eland, elephants, giraffes, hippos, leopards, lions, spotted hyenas, wildebeests, and zebras.
- Best location during migration: The camp’s location provides excellent opportunities to witness the Great Migration, particularly the dramatic Mara River crossings.
- Olduvai Gorge Visit: Your stay may also include a visit to the Olduvai Gorge museum, renowned for the archaeological work of Louis and Mary Leakey, especially when traveling from Ngorongoro Crater.
- Cultural Experience: Visit a local Maasai village before heading to Serengeti to learn about the traditions and beliefs of this indigenous Tanzanian tribe.
Seasonal Weather:
- January: Variable weather, clear or cloudy with some rain.
- February: Hot and dry; lush green parks.
- March to May: Rainy season with potential storms.
- June to September: Mostly dry with warm days; best time for wildebeest migration.
- October to December: Clear, dry or occasional rain and thunderstorms.
Room type
- The camp features 11 tents (2-3 guests each), including one family tent (3-4 guests), all designed to provide comfort while minimizing environmental impact. The family tent consists of two interconnected tents with a shared bathroom and private porch, ideal for small families.
- Each tent is equipped with a private porch overlooking the savannah, ensuring guests are fully immersed in their surroundings.
- The camp offers several room configurations, including double, twin, and triple tents.
- The tents offer plush bedding, soft linens, ensuite bathrooms with bucket showers, mosquito nets, and mineral water.
Approximate Price range
For 2024, the rates at Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp vary based on the season.
- From January 1st to March 31st, June 1st to October 31st, and December 16th to December 31st, the cost for a single occupancy is US $315 per person, per night.
- From April 1st to May 31st, the rate for a single occupancy drops to US $255 per person, per night.
- From November 1st to December 15th, the rate is US $285 per person, per night.
- Inclusions: These rates are based on per person, per night and include accommodation, full board with three meals a day, drinking water, and complimentary tea and coffee.
- Exclusions: However, please note that special camping fees are not included. These additional fees are US $59 per adult per night and US $11.80 per child (aged 2-15.99 years) per night, inclusive of VAT. Additionally, any activities within the park are not covered by the accommodation rate.
Location and How to reach
Mara Kati Kati is located in the Mara Triangle area of the Serengeti National Park, close to the Mara River, making it an ideal spot for witnessing the Great Migration.
By air: The nearest airstrip is Kogatende Airstrip, approximately 20 minutes away by road. Daily charter flights are available from Arusha to various airstrips in the Serengeti, with flight times averaging around 50 minutes.
By road: The camp is also accessible from Zanzibar and other national parks. Depending on the camp’s location at the time, the drive from Arusha can take approximately 8 to 10 hours.
Why choose Mara Kati Kati
Nestled in the heart of the Serengeti National Park, this lodge provides an unparalleled opportunity to be amid nature’s grandeur. One of the most significant advantages of choosing this camp is its strategic location, which allows guests to experience the Great Migration firsthand, as the wildebeest and zebras pass right by the camp during their journey. This proximity means that guests can witness the migration without the need for long drives.
In addition to its prime location, Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp offers an authentic safari experience that blends comfort with adventure. The camp’s intimate size ensures personalized service, with staff members who go above and beyond to cater to your needs, making you feel like you are part of a close-knit safari family.
From early morning and late afternoon game drives that let you observe wildlife during the most active parts of the day, to the possibility of all-day game drives with bush picnics, the camp provides many ways to explore the Serengeti. Moreover, the camp’s proximity to cultural and historical sites, such as the Olduvai Gorge and Maasai villages, allows guests to enrich their safari with cultural and educational experiences.
Finally, Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp’s commitment to sustainability and low environmental impact ensures that your stay contributes to the conservation of Serengeti’s unique ecosystem.
Heritage Ndutu migration camp
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Overview About Heritage Ndutu Migration Camp
Heritage Ndutu Migration Camp is a seasonal mobile camp located in the Ndutu region of the southern Serengeti and Northern Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This camp offers a front-row seat to the Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events, and is ideally positioned for witnessing the calving season.
Facilities and other details about Heritage Ndutu Migration Camp
- Dining: The camp features a restaurant serving a variety of dishes, with options for special dietary requirements upon request.
- Bar: A well-stocked bar offers a wide selection of beverages, including wines, spirits, and soft drinks.
- Lounge Area: Cozy lounge spaces are available for guests to relax and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.
- Bonfire: The camp offers a bonfire area where guests can gather in the evenings to share stories and enjoy the ambiance.
- Grilling stations: Savor freshly grilled dishes prepared to your liking at dedicated stations.
- Electricity and Connectivity: Tents have electricity outlets for charging devices, and 24-hour walkie-talkie connectivity ensures guest safety and communication.
Additional Information:
- Guests can check in at 10:00 and check out by 15:00.
- Open all year round.
Services:
- Guided Game Drives: Experienced guides lead game drives in the Ndutu region, offering insight into the wildlife and natural surroundings.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Available upon request, providing a unique perspective of the Serengeti and its inhabitants.
- Cultural Experiences: Guests can visit nearby Maasai villages to learn about the local culture and traditions.
- Private Dining: Special arrangements can be made for private dining experiences under the stars.
- Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris offer a more intimate exploration of the terrain and wildlife.
- Bird Watching Tours: Specialized tours for bird lovers, with the opportunity to spot a wide variety of species.
- Photography Safaris: Tailored for photography enthusiasts, ensuring the best opportunities to capture migration and other wildlife.
What can be expected:
- Proximity to Wildlife: The camp is strategically located near Lake Ndutu, a prime spot for game viewing, especially during the migration.
- Calving Season: From December to April, witness thousands of wildebeest calves taking their first steps, often under the watchful eyes of predators.
- Bird Watching: The surrounding trees and shrubs attract a diverse array of bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Seasonal Weather:
The weather at Heritage Ndutu Migration Camp in Tanzania typically follows the patterns of the Serengeti region:
- Dry Season (June to October): Expect warm and dry conditions with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
- Wet Season (November to May):
- Short Rains (November to December): Light showers are common, with temperatures between 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F).
- Long Rains (March to May): Heavier rains are more frequent, and temperatures generally range from 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F). Humidity levels are higher during this period.
Visitors should be prepared for varying temperatures, especially during early mornings and evenings, and light rain during the wet seasons.
Room type
- Each tent includes an en-suite bathroom with a flush toilet and hot shower, providing a comfortable and private experience.
- Each tent is equipped with electrical outlets, mosquito nets, tea/coffee facilities, en-suite bathrooms with showers and flush toilets, pure cotton linen sheets, and 24-hour communication via walkie-talkies.
Approximate Price range
- Prices vary depending on the season, with peak rates during the migration and calving periods.
- Rates generally include accommodation, meals, game drives, and some activities. Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris may incur additional charges.
Location and How to reach
- Ndutu, is in the southern Serengeti and Northern Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania.
- By air: The camp can be accessed via a flight to Ndutu Airstrip, followed by a short drive.
- By road: Guests can drive from Arusha, which takes approximately 6-7 hours.
Why choose Heritage Ndutu Migration Camp
Heritage Ndutu Migration Camp offers a prime location in the heart of the migration path, providing unparalleled access to witness one of nature’s most spectacular events. The camp’s limited number of tents ensures an exclusive and intimate wilderness experience, far removed from the crowds, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the serene landscape. Expert guides enrich this experience by sharing in-depth knowledge of wildlife behavior and ecology, making each safari memorable and educational. Additionally, the camp’s seasonal operations and eco-friendly practices reflect a commitment to minimizing environmental impact while preserving the natural beauty of its surroundings.
Ndutu Kati Kati
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Overview About Ndutu Under Canvas
Located between the center and south of the Serengeti, Ndutu Under Canvas offers a prime vantage point to witness the Great Migration from December to March. This luxury mobile camp ensures proximity to the heart of the migration spectacle, allowing guests to explore remote areas and enjoy breathtaking settings with abundant resident wildlife. With just ten exclusive tents, the camp provides an intimate and private safari experience.
Facilities and other details about Ndutu Under Canvas
- Dining: Enjoy meals and complimentary welcome drink in a dedicated dining tent or lounge tent. Evenings are marked by a campfire, where guests can unwind with appetizers and drinks while soaking in the day’s end.
- Breakfast in the Bush: Start your day with a bush breakfast, experiencing the African wilderness in its full splendor. Picnic lunches can be arranged for day-long safaris.
- Sundowners: Conclude your day with cocktails and appetizers at a scenic sundowner spot.
- Campfire: Enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of a campfire each evening, perfect for relaxing and sharing stories under the stars.
- Swimming pool: Each camp features an inviting swimming pool, offering a refreshing retreat with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Power: Benefit from round-the-clock electricity for your comfort and convenience.
- Additional facilities: Free parking, 24*7 security.
Additional Information:
- Open from December to March.
- Families are welcome, with special arrangements available for children.
- Check-in at 12:00 PM and check-out by 10:00 AM.
- Ndutu Under Canvas emphasizes minimal environmental impact, operating with solar panels and bucket showers. The camp’s mobile infrastructure allows it to be packed up and relocated with minimal footprint, preserving the pristine wilderness.
- Ndutu has opted out of Wi-Fi and air conditioning to offer guests a genuinely authentic safari experience, allowing them to fully connect with the natural surroundings.
Services
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: For a unique perspective, take a hot-air balloon ride (available December to March) and enjoy stunning aerial views of the migration. Please note they are available at an extra charge and are subject to weather conditions. The duration of the flight ranges from 50 to 90 minutes, depending on the weather. A bush breakfast is served upon landing.
- Game Drives: Explore the Serengeti’s rich wildlife, including wildebeest, zebras, and more.
- Walking Safaris: Discover the Ngorongoro Crater and Oldupai Gorge with guided walking safaris.
What can be expected:
- Front-row seats to migration: This mobile camp offers an unparalleled location for witnessing the awe-inspiring Great Migration from December to March.
- Excellent game viewings: Tracking the Great Migration, Ndutu Under Canvas Camp ensures outstanding views of wildebeest, zebras, and other wildlife as they traverse the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.
- More than wildlife: Staying at Ndutu also allows you to explore two of Tanzania’s most captivating and well-known sites: the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater and the historic Oldupai Gorge.
- Big 5 sightings: Witness the majestic Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitat for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
- Bird Watching: Enjoy exceptional bird watching with a variety of colorful and exotic species inhabiting the region’s diverse landscapes.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local Maasai communities and learn about their way of life.
Seasonal Weather:
- Wet season: Temperatures vary between 15°C and 26°C (59°F and 79°F), with the wet season being the warmest.
Room type
- The camp features ten spacious tents, including a family tent with two interconnected rooms.
- Each tent (2-3 guests) provides a comfortable and private retreat with options for either double or twin beds, and a bathroom equipped with a bucket shower.
- Family tent (4 guests) accommodates up to 4 guests with two interconnected rooms, a shared bathroom, and a private porch.
- Each room has room service, mosquito nets, and mineral water.
Approximate Price range
- From $470 per person sharing, including all meals, selected beverages, and various safari activities.
Location and How to reach
- By Air: Several airstrips in the Serengeti serve scheduled flights from Arusha, with approximately 50-minute flights. Charter flights are also available and connect to Zanzibar and other national parks.
- By Road: Depending on the camp’s location during the migration, the drive from Arusha takes approximately 5-10 hours.
Why choose Ndutu Under Canvas
Ndutu Under Canvas offers an unparalleled safari experience that immerses you in the heart of Serengeti’s Great Migration. This luxurious mobile camp offers an exclusive vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of wildebeest, zebra, and other wildlife as they traverse Tanzania’s iconic landscapes.
With just ten tents, including a spacious family option, you’ll enjoy intimate and comfortable accommodation amidst the untamed beauty of the Serengeti.
Delight in unique experiences like hot-air balloon safaris, bush dining, and guided walks to the Ngorongoro Crater and Oldupai Gorge.
Ndutu’s commitment to minimal environmental impact ensures an authentic adventure, where you can disconnect from modern distractions and fully connect with nature.
Ngorongoro Farm House
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Overview About Ngorongoro Farm House
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Ngorongoro Highlands, Ngorongoro Farm House is a charming and exclusive retreat built on a sprawling 500-acre coffee plantation. This luxurious lodge offers an authentic Tanzanian experience, seamlessly blending comfort with the rustic charm of colonial-era farms. It’s an ideal stop-off during a safari on the Northern Circuit of Tanzania, offering convenient access to the Ngorongoro Crater and a variety of unique excursions.
Facilities and other details about Ngorongoro Farm House
- Dining: Ngorongoro Farm House is committed to sustainability and farm-to-table dining.
- The restaurant serves market-style dishes made with fresh, organic produce grown on the farm.
- Guests can enjoy meals in the restaurant, on the terrace with views of the Oldeani Volcano, or in a private setting.
- A complimentary breakfast and welcome drink are included, with options for special diets available.
- Delicious picnic lunches are prepared for you to enjoy during your full-day safari.
- Spa and Wellness: After a day of exploration, guests can indulge in a range of rejuvenating massages, including full-body, head massages, manicures, and pedicures.
- Swimming Pool: The outdoor swimming pool offers a refreshing escape with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and soaking in the beauty of the Ngorongoro Highlands.
- Souvenir Shop: Explore the on-site souvenir shop, offering unique mementos and local crafts to remember your stay.
- Wi-Fi Service: Stay connected with our complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your stay.
- Payment: We accept all major credit cards for a seamless payment experience.
- Power: Enjoy uninterrupted power with our 24-hour electricity service. The Lodge is powered by environmentally friendly electricity generated through solar panels, with a backup generator in place for added reliability.
- Accessibility: The lodge is wheelchair accessible and suitable for guests with special needs. For specific requirements, it’s recommended to inquire in advance.
- Additional facilities: Free parking, laundry service, banquet room, BBQ facilities, secured parking.
Additional Information:
- Open year-round.
- Ngorongoro Farm House welcomes families with children. The lodge offers various room configurations, including interconnected rooms for families.
- Check-in is at 12:00 PM, and check-out is at 10:00 AM.
- Eco-friendly
Services
- Farm and Coffee Plantation Walk: Take a guided tour of the farm and coffee plantation to learn about the organic farming practices and the journey of coffee from plant to cup. This walk is a relaxing way to enjoy the scenic surroundings and immerse yourself in the farm’s daily activities.
- Cultural Visits: Engage with local communities through organized cultural visits. Experience the rich heritage of the area and connect with the people who call this region home.
- Sundowners and Al Fresco Dining: End your day with a sundowner in the beautiful landscape, accompanied by cocktails and appetizers. Dinner can also be served on the terrace deck, providing a delightful al fresco dining experience under the African sky.
- Walking safaris: Enjoy activities like trekking safaris to the volcano or embarking on excursions to Lake Eyasi in the Rift Valley, where the Hadzabe tribe still calls home.
- Guided walks in the Ngorongoro Conservation area: The lodge offers guided walks providing an immersive experience to explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
What can be expected:
- Wildlife and surroundings: The area is home to a diverse range of animals, including elephants, lions, zebras, and a variety of bird species. The lodge’s proximity to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders, makes it an excellent base for exploring the wildlife and landscapes of Northern Tanzania.
- Cultural encounters: You also have the incredible opportunity to visit the Hazabe and Datoga tribes in the Lake Eyasi region.
Seasonal Weather:
Guests visiting the lodge can expect an average temperature of around 20ºC, providing a comfortable climate year-round. The temperatures typically range between 10ºC and 30ºC, so it’s wise to pack for varying conditions.
- Dry season: The dry season runs from June to October, offering clear skies and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and safaris.
- Wet season: Conversely, the wet season spans from November to May, when the area experiences occasional showers, refreshing the landscape and bringing lush greenery.
Whether in the dry or wet season, the lodge provides a welcoming atmosphere with weather suiting various preferences.
Room type
- Chalet-Style Rooms: The lodge features 52 chalet-type rooms, each situated at ground level with private terraces or balconies overlooking lush gardens or the expansive coffee plantation.
- The Standard Room comfortably accommodates 2 to 3 guests, offering a cozy and intimate stay.
- The Interconnected Rooms are ideal for groups, with the ability to host 3 to 5 guests, providing both space and privacy.
- The Suite Room is designed for two guests, perfect for a luxurious and relaxing experience.
- The Quadruple Room is tailored for families or small groups, with ample space for up to 4 guests.
- The family suite features two separate rooms connected by an adjoining door.
- All rooms are designed with ample space and comfort in mind, featuring hand-plaited thatched rooftops, colonial interiors, luxury beddings, en-suite bathrooms with showers, and modern amenities such as mosquito nets, tea and coffee-making facilities, and safes.
Mara Sopa Lodge
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - March 3, 2023
Masai Mara Sopa Lodge is a well-established safari lodge situated on the slopes of the Oloolaimutia Hills within the Masai Mara Game Reserve. As one of the first lodges to be built in the reserve, the property boasts of mature gardens and trees that provide a lush and inviting environment. The lodge’s architecture follows the traditional design of African round houses with conical roofs, which are situated along the hills’ line. At the center of the lodge, there are impressively large public areas, including a swimming pool.
The lodge offers 99 rooms that cater to different needs, including family rooms, honeymoon suites, and suite rooms. Whether you’re traveling with family, on a romantic getaway, or looking for luxurious accommodation, Masai Mara Sopa Lodge has you covered.
Mbweha Safari Camp
- byscarfacepride
- - December 27, 2022
Tucked away in the spectacular Great Rift Valley on the private 6400 acre Congreve Conservancy bordering Lake Nakuru National Park. The splendor of the destination is the driving force of Mbweha Camp, together with a commitment to environment.
10 Rustic lava-stone cottages with thatched roofs are surrounded by euphorbia candelabra, yellow barked acacia and other indigenous trees. Being situated outside a National Park allows many activities, including walking, mountain biking, and night game drives. A stunning property equipped with outdoor swimming pool, spa room and plenty activities to explore around the property.
Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
- byscarfacepride
- - December 27, 2022
Located on a range of hills that form the western limits of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, the lodge offers spectacular views over the vastness of Africa. The lodge also overlooks Lake Nakuru and its surrounding National Park, one that is a paradise for bird watchers and wildlife lovers alike. Lake Nakuru National Park is mainly a wooded and bushy grassland with a wide ecological diversity and characteristic habitats that range from the lake waters to the escarpment and ridges.
This 60-room property has single, double, triple, quadruple rooms setting. There are 2 interconnecting rooms, perfect for families or bigger groups. It is located very close to the Lake Nakuru national park, which is the perfect place to sight rhinos, one of the endangered species of giraffes and for Ornithologists for bird sighting.
Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge
- byscarfacepride
- - December 27, 2022
Set in one hundred and fifty acres of grassland studded with Acacia bushes and trees, the resort is not only home to our resident giraffe, waterbuck and both Vervet and Colobus monkeys, but also a night stop for the hippos when they leave the lake every night to come and trim the grass on our expansive lawns.
Located in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha is one of the quick pitstops as you maneuver from one park to another. This property is the perfect place to spend a night or two and enjoy the resident wildlife that roams the property. This 82-room property has single, double, triple, quadruple rooms setting. There are 6 interconnecting rooms, perfect for families or bigger groups. With Crescent Island only few kms away, explore the walking safari with the wild on this jaded-blue island accessible by a short boat-ride.
Ol Tukai
- byscarfacepride
- - December 27, 2022
Ol Tukai Lodge is renowned for having one of the best spots in the world to watch elephants. It is set at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain in the world and Africa’s tallest mountain. It is situated right in the heart of Amboseli National Park, one of East Africa’s captivating wildlife parks, with the eastern part of the lodge being home to several elephant families. Writers have described Ol Tukai as “the Home for the Gods!”
It was not until 1996 that the lodge opened its doors. It is designed to take full advantage of its rare environment. The endless plains dominate one side while the other is lavished with a forest of indigenous acacia trees.
The Lodge with its African style, wide-open and manicured lawns blends into its surroundings. Facilities include conference rooms, beauty spa, art boutique and an attractive multi denomination chapel for the most unique park weddings.