Lodges in Northern Serengeti
The Northern Serengeti spans a vast, hilly landscape dotted with kopjes (rocky outcrops), acacia woodlands, and the Mara River, where wildebeest and zebras face crocodile gauntlets during the migration. It’s roughly 350 km from Arusha (a 7-8-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight to Kogatende Airstrip), making it the park’s most remote section. Lodges here range from mobile tented camps chasing the herds to permanent luxury retreats, offering prime access to migration action and serene escapes.
The Northern Serengeti’s lodges thrive on their remoteness and migration focus. From July to October, the Mara River crossings steal the show, but year-round, resident game—cheetahs on kopjes, leopards in woodlands—keeps it alive. The region’s hilly terrain and riverine drama contrast with the flatter Central Serengeti, while private concessions (like Taasa’s) add exclusivity. Mobile camps follow the herds, while permanent lodges offer stability, catering to varied safari styles.
Before diving into the bush—often after a flight to Kogatende or a long drive—you’ll want a lodge that balances rest with proximity to game-rich zones like the Mara River or Lamai Wedge.
Serengeti Mara Camp (by Sanctuary Retreats)
In the Kogatende area near the Mara River (around $500-$900/night), this semi-permanent tented camp offers 8 spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas. Pre-safari, its location—just minutes from prime crossing points—puts you in the migration’s orbit (July-October), while the lightweight setup and sundowner views of the river build anticipation. It’s a 10-minute drive from Kogatende Airstrip, making it a smooth entry point after travel.Sayari Camp (by Asilia Africa)
North of the Mara River in the Lamai Wedge (around $800-$1200/night), this luxury camp features 15 tented suites with hardwood floors, soaking tubs, and sweeping plains views. Before a safari, its remote perch—15 minutes from Kogatende Airstrip—offers peace after a flight, and the pool and lounge ease you in. Twice-daily game drives launch you into the Northern Serengeti’s wild heart, teasing you with resident lions or early migrant herds.
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Near the Mara River in the Lamai Wedge (around $1500-$2500/night), this eco-luxury camp offers 6 minimalist tents with outdoor showers and river views. Post-safari, the solar-powered setup, infinity pool, and farm-to-table meals (served under canvas or stars) feel indulgent yet grounded. Its off-the-grid vibe—far from crowds—and night drives in the private concession cap your trip with exclusivity. The river’s hippo chorus adds a wild lullaby.Serengeti Migration Camp (by Elewana)
Hidden among kopjes near the Grumeti River’s northern reach (around $600-$1000/night), this luxury tented camp has 20 elevated tents with 360-degree views and hardwood decks. After a safari, the plunge pool, sundowner bar, and gourmet bush dinners soothe you, while the kopje setting—alive with rock rabbits—offers a serene backdrop. It’s a bit south of the Mara but still catches migration tail-ends, blending comfort with wilderness.
