Where to Stay in the Northern Serengeti: Mara River Camps and Remote Bases

Rolling hills, riverine forest and open plains make the north feel quite different from central Serengeti. Wildlife is plentiful, tourism is lighter and the roads between camps are long.

Choosing the right camp here depends on timing, access and how much privacy you want.

This guide is part of our where to stay in Uganda guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

How the Area Is Laid Out

The north stretches towards the Kenyan border and the Masai Mara. The area around the Kogatende airstrip and the Mara River is the most visited, and camps spread out along river valleys and ridges. Distances between camps and crossing points can be significant, so location matters. Wilderness is the main attraction, and the sense of space is greater than in busier central areas. For the wider picture, see Serengeti regions.

Accommodation Types

Accommodation is mostly tented camps, ranging from simple mobile camps that move with the season to permanent camps with raised tents and private bathrooms. A few lodges and public campsites exist further south. Camps are small by design, with a limited number of tents, and are run to low-impact standards. Large hotels are not found here. Expect good food, a campfire and the sounds of the bush at night.

Which Option Suits Whom

Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who want river crossings, predators and fewer vehicles will like a camp near the Mara. Couples seeking privacy and a sense of remoteness will appreciate small camps with only a handful of tents. Families with older children can enjoy the adventure, though the long drives and the early starts suit patient travellers. Budget-conscious visitors may prefer a public campsite on a camping safari or a base further south and drive north for a day.

Location Trade-offs

A camp close to the crossing points saves hours of driving, while a camp deeper in the hills offers solitude but longer transfers. Mobile camps place you where the herds are expected, but the herds do not follow a fixed timetable. Permanent camps provide comfort and reliability but may sit away from the action in some weeks. See Serengeti migration calendar.

What to Ask When Booking

Ask how the camp reaches the crossing points, how long the drive is, and whether a packed breakfast or lunch can be arranged for a full day out. Check whether the camp is permanent or seasonal and which dates it is open. Confirm how you arrive, by air or road, and what the luggage limit is on light aircraft. Ask about walking, night drives and which guides will accompany you.

Seasons and Availability

The north is busiest during the second half of the year when herds are expected near the river, so camps often sell out early. Outside that window, some camps close and the herds are elsewhere, though resident wildlife remains. Plan well ahead and keep dates flexible. See best time to visit the Serengeti.

Combining the North With Other Stops

Many itineraries pair the north with central Serengeti or Seronera and finish at Ngorongoro, or cross to the Masai Mara in Kenya. See how to get to the Serengeti, where to stay in the Serengeti and flying safaris.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team