The mobile Olakira Migration Camp follows the wildebeest migration around the Serengeti, from the epic river crossings in the north to the southern plains where they give birth to thousands of calves each year. Stay with us to witness the greatest animal migration in the world.

About Olakira Migration Camp

Between June and October, Olakira is in the north to witness the crossing of the Mara River. Here, watch thousands of wildebeest take a leap of faith into the water, facing hungry Nile crocodiles and cantankerous hippos. When the herds are on the move, the air is full of grunting, thudding hooves and billowing dust. From December until March, we move camp to the southern plains of the Serengeti, where the wildebeest go to give birth and graze on lush grass, and predators such as lions and cheetahs gather to prey on the young.

Even at night, the Olakira Migration Camp experience is special. Our mesh-covered stargazing tents allow guests to sleep under a sky of glittering stars.

Open: June to October, December to March

Closed: April, May, November

Closest airstrip: Kogatende (in the north – June to November): 45-minute drive from camp. Ndutu (in the south December to April): 20-minute drive from camp

Families: children aged five and older

Accommodation

Olakira Migration Camp follows the migration throughout the year, offering the closest possible view of the action. The canvas tents are designed to blend into the bush without leaving a trace,  though that doesn’t mean we scrimp on comforts. Admire the sprawling plains of the Serengeti or Ndutu region from the dining tent, or spend a leisurely afternoon in an armchair, watching zebras or Thomson’s gazelles pass by. After dark, dinner is served under the stars.

Rooms

There are nine tents at Olakira Migration Camp, including one with two bedrooms ideally suited to families. The tents have king-sized beds (twins are also available) and en suite bathrooms with flushing toilets and hot-water bucket showers. Our tents have been perfectly designed for stargazing; a portion of the tent boasts a 270°-view from beneath a net, offering you the best of the outdoors while remaining indoors. At night, roll your bed into the meshed area to spend the night with the stars glittering above while dreaming about the day’s adventures. It truly is an experience you don’t want to miss.

Location

Location of Olakira Migration Camp As a mobile camp, our location changes with the seasons. We pack up camp and move twice per year. Note that the camp does not operate in April and May.

Olakira Migration Camp North: June to October

Between June and October, we are in the Bolongoja region in the northern Serengeti, watching the wildebeest herds crossing the Mara River. Watch hundreds of thousands of wildebeest plunge into the water and hurry across in a bid to avoid the crocodiles that lie in wait.

Olakira Migration Camp South: December to March

From December, we move to our southern base in Ndutu, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here, the camp is conveniently close to an airstrip, besides being well positioned for excellent wildlife viewing. From here, we look across grassy plains, on which the wildebeest gather to give birth around February each year. Watch thousands of wobbly-legged young finding their feet, something they have to do quickly to avoid the watchful big cats that stalk these plains.

The ultimate Migration camp

Olakira Migration Camp follows the migration throughout the year, offering the closest possible view of the action. The canvas tents are designed to blend into the bush without leaving a trace,  though that doesn’t mean we scrimp on comforts. Admire the sprawling plains of the Serengeti or Ndutu region from the dining tent, or spend a leisurely afternoon in an armchair, watching zebras or Thomson’s gazelles pass by. After dark, dinner is served under the stars.

A typical day on safari at Olakira Migration Camp

The best time to see wildlife is at dusk and dawn, when the temperatures are cooler and nocturnal animals are either beginning their night’s activities or winding down. We head out on our first game drive just as it begins to get light, so the time differs slightly depending on the season. If you have booked a private safari vehicle, you can plan your schedule with your guide.

Start the day bright and early with a wake-up call and tea or coffee. Enjoy breakfast before you depart for a morning game drive (or have it packed as a picnic to take with you). You’ll arrive back at camp mid-morning, with a chance to freshen up before lunch.

After a leisurely lunch, enjoy some down time. Read a book or just relax and soak up the atmosphere. Refuel with afternoon tea before we depart for an afternoon/evening game drive with sundowners. Return in time for a relaxing evening of drinks around the campfire and dinner.