Lemala Mara & Ndutu Tented Camp
Northern Serengeti (June–October) / Ndutu, Ngorongoro Conservation Area (December–March) — Lemala Camps & Lodges
Lemala Mara & Ndutu is a single mobile camp operating in two locations across the year, repositioned to give guests ringside seats to the wildebeest migration’s two defining chapters. From June to October, the camp sets up under large Euclea trees in one of the best game-viewing areas of the northern Serengeti, discreetly positioned near the Mara River without disturbing the herds’ crossing behaviour. From December to March, it relocates to the Ndutu region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, near the southern Serengeti border, for the calving season.
Location and Landscape
In its northern position, the camp’s exact site shifts slightly from year to year, always close enough to the Mara River for excellent crossing access while remaining discreet. Resident wildlife numbers stay high throughout, with the dramatic seasonal crossings adding considerable density during peak months. In its southern position at Ndutu, the camp sits within the classic flat grassland that draws tens of thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle from December, building toward the main calving season by February.
Accommodation
The camp’s twelve tents are spacious and furnished with two queen-size beds along with the comforts that distinguish Lemala’s mobile camps from more basic operations — proper bathrooms with hot showers, and communal lounge and dining areas decorated with leather sofas, chandeliers and rugs. Picnic breakfasts and lunches are arranged for guests undertaking extended full-day game drives.
Safari Experience
Game drives track the migration according to the camp’s current position, supported by guides experienced in reading the herds’ movement through each season. Evenings gather around the campfire for pre-dinner drinks and canapés before a freshly prepared dinner, with guests sharing the day’s sightings in the camp’s well-appointed communal areas.
When to Visit
June through October brings the Mara River crossings within reach of the camp’s northern position. December through March brings the calving season to the camp’s southern position at Ndutu, with the main calving activity typically concentrated in February. The camp relocates between these two windows, so confirming current position is essential when planning specific dates.
Combining Lemala Mara & Ndutu Tented Camp with Other Tanzania Destinations
This camp pairs naturally with Lemala’s other Serengeti and Ngorongoro properties, allowing travellers to combine both phases of the migration with resident game viewing elsewhere in the circuit under a single operator.
For Tanzania planning: Tanzania Safari Guide
For more accessible camps: Tanzania Safari Camps
If you are considering Lemala Mara & Ndutu Tented Camp as part of a Tanzania safari, we would be pleased to begin with a conversation.