Top 10 Places To Stay To See The Wildebeest Migration

The wildebeest migration is a natural wonder that draws visitors from all over the world to witness the awe-inspiring sight of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing animals making their way across the plains of East Africa.

Are you looking for the best place to stay to see the wildebeest migration? Look no further as our Travel Experts have curated a list of the top 10 places to stay to see the wildebeest migration.

From luxurious lodges to mobile tented camps, each offers a unique vantage point to view the great wildebeest migration in all its glory...

1. Serengeti Under Canvas, Tanzania

The luxurious, andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas moves five times a year to anticipate the movements of the great migration. This brings you as close as possible to the wildebeest action.

With 9 tents, this mobile luxury camp offers exclusivity and intimacy in secluded campsites. The tents are luxuriously appointed with en-suite bathrooms, outdoor bucket showers, and elegant furnishings such as chandeliers and Persian rugs. Guests can enjoy delicious cooked meals outside under a ceiling of stars.

Insider tip: "This is the ultimate digital detox. Enjoy evening drinks around the campfire, dine under the stars and fall asleep to lions roaring and the peace of the African bushveld, removed from the chaos of the world."

2. Angama Mara, Kenya

With its ideal location, guests can enjoy a front-row seat to witness the wildebeest migration at Angama Mara, which takes place at the main river crossing site just 45 minutes away from the lodge.

The tented suites are designed with 11-metre, floor-to-ceiling glass facades that offer magnificent views, even from the comfort of your bed! At certain times of the year, guests can witness mega herds of wildebeest congregating right below the lodge, providing an unparalleled vantage point to take in the true scale of the great migration.

Insider tip: "Feeling romantic? Arrange an intimate picnic for two on the crest of the Out of Africa kopje that is featured on the movies poster."

3. Nyasi Migrational Camp, Tanzania

Nyasi Migrational Camp follows the wildebeest migration and sets up in two locations throughout the year: Lamai savannah in the northern Serengeti and the short grass plains in the southern Serengeti.

The camp offers eight en-suite tents and a family tent with two en-suite rooms and a shared lounge. All guests receive private safari vehicles and guides for an exclusive safari experience at their own pace.

Insider tip: "The north and south camps differ in their opening dates and activities offered. Your travel expert will be able to explain which camp is best for you at which time of year. Expert knowledge will maximise your safari experience."

4. Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge, Tanzania

Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge, situated in the Wogakurya Hills of the Northern Serengeti, offers breathtaking views of the great migration. The lodge's strategic location near the Mara River, which is part of the main corridor of the wildebeest migration between July and October, makes it an ideal destination to witness this natural phenomenon.

The lodge features 15 glass-fronted tented suites offering magnificent panoramas of the grassy plains and open woodland. Each suite has its own private plunge pool, ensuring a luxurious and unforgettable stay.

Insider tip: "The Lemala Cubs program offers nature-based activities for kids including tracking with guides, listening to African fables around the campfire and learning to throw a spear with a local Maasai warrior."

5. Bateleur Camp, Kenya

Located at the base of the picturesque Oloololo escarpment in Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve, Bateleur Camp is a classic and sophisticated accommodation that offers excellent opportunities to witness the wildebeest migration.

With only two intimate camps, each consisting of nine luxury tents and a luxury family tent, guests can expect personalised and bespoke services from the highly experienced staff.

Insider tip: "Between August and October, there is no more memorable way in which to experience the Great Migration than by enjoying a hot air balloon flight over the boundless plains."

6. Lamai Serengeti, Tanzania

Found in the remote North of the Serengeti, Lamai Serengeti is a great place to stay to witness the wildebeest migration. The camp is conveniently located just a short distance away from the Mara River, where the wildebeest make their annual crossing from Kenya to Tanzania. Here they face the daunting challenge of navigating through waters teeming with crocodiles.

Open-fronted rooms boast private verandas with wonderful views of the surroundings and each room blends seamlessly into the rocky Kopjes.

Insider tip: "From July to October, the wildebeest gather in their millions and cross over the Mara River. A river crossing is a phenomenal sight, truly the stuff of wildlife documentaries."

7. Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Tanzania

Singita Sasakwa Lodge is set in the 350,000-acre private Singita Grumeti Reserve. Here, guests have exclusive access to the area’s prolific wildlife, including the great wildebeest migration. Experience spectacular views from the lodge veranda over the sweeping Serengeti plains and enjoy casual game viewing at your leisure.

The lodge itself exudes the perfect blend of charming East African décor and sophisticated colonial influences. Each accommodation option boasts its own private infinity pool, making it the ideal spot to relax and watch the wildebeest migration.

Insider tip: "Join a community visit - it's the perfect way to experience the local culture and learn about the positive impact that tourism has made in the region."

8. Kichakani Serengeti Camp, Tanzania

The Kichakani Serengeti Camp, Swahili for 'in the bush', is a movable camp that follows the annual migration cycle of the Serengeti. Generally the camp will be located in the Western Serengeti from June to July, Northern Serengeti from August to November and then the Southern Serengeti from December to March each year, depending on actual migration movements.

With only ten luxury safari tents, the Kichakani Serengeti Camp is the epitome of exclusivity. You’ll have a front-row seat to ‘the greatest show on earth’, while enjoying all the comforts of modern luxury in the heart of the African wilderness.

Insider tip: "Guests celebrating their honeymoon will receive special surprises during their stay such as a private bush picnic, romantic turndowns and private dinners."

9. Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge, Tanzania

Nestled in the remote western reaches of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge boasts a prime location along the banks of a tributary to Grumeti River, a critical point in the annual wildebeest migration.

The lodge's ten exquisite guest suites are steeped in old-world charm and offer ample space, featuring a king-size bed, indulgent bath, indoor shower with sweeping views, and a luxurious private plunge pool. From this vantage point, guests can witness the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration spectacle, up close and personal.

Insider tip: "The lodge is situated in one of the most remote corners of the Serengeti with far fewer crowds and vehicles, wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts can largely enjoy their own private Serengeti."

10. Asilia Olakira Migration Camp, Tanzania

Asilia Olakira Migration Camp is another exceptional camp that traces the path of the wildebeest migration across the vast expanse of Serengeti. From the epic river crossings in the north to the southern plains, where thousands of calves are born each year, the camp follows the great migration as it unfolds.

Olakira offers an immersive safari experience, allowing guests to witness firsthand the sheer magnitude of the migration and the diversity of wildlife that it supports. There are nine tents, including one with two bedrooms ideally suited to families, offering a perfect blend of luxury and adventure for wildlife enthusiasts.

Insider tip: "Combine Olakira with its sister camp Dunia for a more comprehensive exploration of the Serengeti."