Serengeti Mara: The Northern Frontier of the Great Migration
The Serengeti Mara Area, located in the northernmost part of Serengeti National Park, is a breathtaking region characterized by its rolling grasslands, dramatic river crossings, and vital role in the Great Serengeti Wildebeest Migration. Bordering Kenya’s Masai Mara, this area serves as a natural funnel for hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles as they traverse the landscape in search of fresh grazing lands. Here’s everything you need to know about this iconic safari destination.
Key Features of the Serengeti Mara Area
Landscape
- Rolling Grasslands: golden savannahs dotted with acacia trees and rocky outcrops.
- Mara River: A lifeline for wildlife, especially during the dry season, and the site of dramatic river crossings.
- Kopjes: granite rock formations that provide habitat for predators and panoramic views of the plains.
Wildlife
- Great Migration: From July to October, the Serengeti Mara is alive with the movement of over a million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles.
- Predators: Lions, leopards, ch
eetahs, and hyenas follow the herds, creating thrilling predator-prey interactions. - Resident Wildlife: Elephants, giraffes, buffals, and even the elusive black rhino can be spotted year-round.
How to Access the Serengeti Mara Area
Primary Access Points
- Kogatende Airstrip: The main entry point, conveniently located near several luxury camps.
- Lamai Airstrip: Another key access point, ideal for exploring the Lamai Wedge area.
- Kogatende Rangers Post: A checkpoint for visitors entering the northern Serengeti.
Travel Options
- Fly-In Safaris: Quick and convenient, with flights from Arusha or other parts of Tanzania.
- Road Access: Possible but long and bumpy, especially during the rainy season.
Best Time to Visit
- July to October: The peak of the Great Migration, when herds cross the Mara River and the landscape is alive with wildlife.
- Shoulder Seasons (June & November): Fewer crowds but still excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Year-Round: Resident wildlife ensures rewarding safaris even outside the migration season.
Wildlife Highlights
The Great Migration
- River Crossings: Witness the dramatic and perilous crossings of the Mara River, where wildebeest face Nile crocodiles and strong currents.
- Predator Action: Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are constantly on the hunt, creating intense wildlife dramas.
Resident Wildlife
- Big Cats: The Serengeti Mara is home to some of Africa’s most famous lion prides, including the Black Rock Pride.
- Elephants and giraffes: commonly seen near the river and in the woodlands.
- Birdwatching: The Mara River and surrounding areas are rich in birdlife, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons.
Key Locations in the Serengeti Mara Area
Kogatende
- Gateway to the North: The Kogatende Rangers Post is a key entry point, offering access to quieter river crossings compared to Kenya’s Masai Mara.
- Wildlife Hotspot: Excellent for spotting lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
Lamai Wedge
- Secluded Beauty: A remote area with sweeping grasslands and fewer tourists, ideal for intimate wildlife encounters.
- Migration Hub: Herds gather here before crossing the Mara River.
Mara River Crossing Points
- Drama and Danger: The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Mara River crossings are the highlight of the migration, with wildebeest and zebras facing off against crocodiles.
- Natural Amphitheater: The northern slopes of the river provide perfect vantage points for witnessing the crossings.
Accommodation Options
The Serengeti Mara offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps. Here are some top picks:
Luxury Lodges
- Singita Mara River Tented Camp: Exclusive and luxurious, with front-row seats to the river crossings.
- Sayari Camp: Known for its eco-conscious design and stunning views of the plains.
Mid-Range Camps
- Serengeti River Camp by Karibu Camps & Lodges: intimate and affordable, with excellent wildlife viewing.
- One Nature Mara River: A blend of comfort and adventure, perfect for families and groups.
Budget Options
- Public Campsites: Basic facilities but unbeatable locations for wildlife enthusiasts.
Tips for Visiting the Serengeti Mara
- Book Early: Lodges and camps fill up quickly during the Serengeti wildebeest migration season (July-October).
- Avoid Crowds: Opt for early morning game drives or explore less-visited areas like the Lamai Wedge.
- Pack Smart: Bring binoculars, a good camera, and warm clothing for early mornings and evenings.
- Hire a Knowledgeable Guide: A good guide can enhance your safari experience by tracking wildlife and sharing insights.
A Serengeti Safari Experience Like No Other
The Serengeti Mara Area is the crown jewel of the Great Wildebeest Migration, offering unparalleled wildlife spectacles, stunning landscapes, and thrilling predator-prey interactions. Whether you’re witnessing the dramatic river crossings, exploring the secluded Lamai Wedge, or simply soaking in the beauty of the golden plains, this region promises an unforgettable safari adventure. Add the Serengeti Mara to your bucket list for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
