Every year, millions of wildebeests and zebras in the Serengeti region of Tanzania gradually make their way to Kenya’s Maasai Mara – and plenty of action ensues along the way.
Nicknamed ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’, the Great Migration involves adorable baby animals finding their feet, dramatic, crocodile-infested river crossings, predators in hot pursuit of the herds, and much more.
The only catch? The Great Migration is relatively unpredictable.
So, how can you ensure a front-row seat? Embark on a Great Migration mobile safari with Team GILTEDGE!
What is a Great Migration mobile safari?
A Great Migration mobile safari means staying at a camp that moves with the action. The camp follows the herd as they progress along their route, so you won’t miss a beat. Plus, most mobile camps are small and exclusive, making it possible to avoid the crowds while granting you the ultimate freedom and flexibility when deciding how to spend your time. In fact, many are available for exclusive-use bookings.
READ RELATED CONTENT: The ultimate guide to your Great Migration safari in 2023
Here’s a closer look at some of the best Great Migration mobile camps.
andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas
Why we love it: Moving with the Great Migration herd five times a year, andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas offers an unforgettable classic tented safari experience combining the charm of camping with unparalleled comfort.
What makes it stand out: With just nine tents at each private campsite, you’ll experience unrivaled luxury and exclusivity. A private butler service, chandeliers, silverware, crystal, en-suite flush WC, outdoor heated bucket-style showers, and comfortable beds with fluffy duvets create a lavish oasis in the heart of the wilderness.
andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas prioritizes the environment in conjunction with the guest experience. The camp operates a battery inverter system approximately 50% of the time, monitors water usage, and avoids single-use plastic.
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Wilderness Usawa Serengeti
Why we love it: The newly-opened Wilderness Usawa Serengeti adapts with the herd, moving within the Serengeti National Park throughout the year – often at short notice – to ensure guests are always in the right place, at the right time. It’s also family-friendly, welcoming children from ages six and up.
What makes it stand out: While Wilderness has designed the six en-suite safari tents (accommodating up to 12 guests) to make it easy to pack up and move as needed, the camp doesn’t compromise on luxury. Plus, it always moves within close proximity to the national park’s walking zones to allow for immersive guided walks straight from the campsite. Another bonus? It’s eco-conscious, relying on solar power and rechargeable lights.
Legendary Nyasi Migrational Camp
Why we love it: Legendary’s Nyasi Migrational Camp operates as a seasonal camp across two locations within the Serengeti. It’s great for both couples’ and family safaris, offering eight en-suite tents and a family tent. Book just a few of the tents, or book the entire camp for your travel party’s exclusive use.
What makes it stand out: Along with getting you close to all the heart-stopping Great Migration action, Nyasi Migrational Camp offers various other memorable activities, from night game drives (when in the southern Serengeti) and all-day safaris to bush picnics and cultural encounters with the Datoga tribe (again, only when in the region’s southernmost stretches).
Singita Explore Camp
Why we love it: It’s ‘roughing it’ in the wild without giving up too many creature comforts. Singita configures the exclusive-use camp according to each travel party’s requirements, offering up to six one-bedroom custom tents with functional luxury touches.
What makes it stand out: Part of the Singita Grumeti collection, Singita Explore Camp organizes experiences to suit you, punctuated by hours spent watching the Great Migration unfold before your eyes. Itinerary must-dos include community visits, wine experiences, bush yoga, and a visit to the nearby anti-poaching observation post.
Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp
Why we love it: Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp is a low-impact, luxury tourism gem in Tanzania and another Great Migration go-to. Enjoy accommodation under canvas in one of 10 elegantly adorned classic campaign tents. All the tents have an en-suite bathroom and a wooden deck for game viewing.
What makes it stand out: The en-suite bathrooms feature authentic bucket showers, and round-the-clock personal tent attendants are on call to fill the showers with warm (or cold) water whenever required.
Olakira Migration Camp
Why we love it: The Olakira Migration Camp boasts nine tents with king-sized beds, flushing toilets, and solar-heated hot water showers for an ultra-luxurious yet authentic bushveld experience. The camp moves twice a year – to the Bolongoja region in the northern Serengeti between June and October and to its southern base in Ndutu, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, between December and March.
What makes it stand out: The camp’s unique mesh-covered tents make it possible to sleep under the stars without being exposed to the elements. The camp also offers a family tent (suitable for parents traveling with children over the age of five) and a complimentary laundry service.
The mobile safari trend is still relatively new, so mobile camps are few, far between, and booking up fast! If you haven’t managed to snag yourself a spot to catch the Great Migration in 2024 (don’t hesitate to start booking for 2025 already!), there are still many world-class migration camps that await.
Contact GILTEDGE today for help planning your front-row encounter with the Greatest Show on Earth. We’re here to plan your Great Migration safari down to every last detail.