This month, travelers can once again watch in awe during one of the greatest animal shows on Earth, the Great Migration. Each year from July through October, millions of zebra, wildebeest, and Thomson’s Gazelle venture from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya’s sprawling Maasai Mara National Reserve, making way for one of the most amazing natural spectacles in the world.
Kenya offers a host of options for viewing this annual wonder. From the supreme luxury of Kichwa Tembo Camp to the intimate safari experience of Little Governor’s Camp, and the world-class safari drives at the Kicheche Mara Camp, Kenya boasts a myriad of accommodations ideal for game viewing. Here is our roundup of five fantastic properties not to miss during the Great Migration:
1. THE CLASSIC SAFARI ESCAPE – Royal Mara Safari Lodge
Situated directly on the wildebeest “Great Migration” route, near two world famous wildebeest migration Mara River crossing points, including the popular Hippo Bend Lagoon, the Royal Mara Safari Lodge is ideal for an unforgettable safari experience. With eight intricately carved riverfront suites, Royal Mara offers a blend of the classic tented safari camp with all the amenities of a lodge. For more information, visit www.royalmara.com.
2. THE ‘OUT OF AFRICA’ EXPERIENCE – Kichwa Tembo Camp
Located in the heart of the Maasai Mara, this 40-tent luxury camp is ideal for first time travelers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Made famous by Robert Redford and Meryl Streep who stayed here while filming ‘Out of Africa,’ Kichwa Tembo Camp features a swimming pool, fine-dining restaurant, and specialist guides fully equipped to offer guests an exhilarating safari experience. For more information, visit www.kichwatembo.com.
3. THE INTIMATE GETAWAY – Little Governor’s Camp
With just 17 luxury en-suite tents tucked around a large watering hole, Little Governor’s Camp offers travelers a friendly respite for game viewing. The camp is reachable by boat across the Mara River and a quick escorted walk through the Riverine Forest. Its recently renovated guest tents feature beautiful wooden decks with large verandahs, ideal for constant game viewing around the camp. For more information, visit www.governorscamp.com.
4. THE HEART OF AFRICA – Mara Serena Safari Lodge
The Mara Serena Safari Lodge offers a ringside seat to the Great Migration. Set high on a bush-cloaked hill with sprawling views of the savannah and the hippo-filled Mara River, it stands centre-stage to one of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife arenas. The lodge features 74 traditionally Maasai-decorated rooms, a swimming pool, bar, and a restaurant. For more information, visit www.serenahotels.com.
5. THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S PARADISE – Kicheche Mara Camp
Hidden in a beautiful acacia valley overlooking the Olare Orok stream, Kicheche Mara Camp features eight stunning luxury tents amidst serene surroundings. Renowned for its excellent food and guides, the camp is very popular with photographers, especially during the Great Migration season. For more information, visit www.kicheche.com.
About the Kenya Tourist Board:
The Kenya Tourist Board (KTB) is an organization representing Kenya’s public and private tourism sectors. The KTB is charged with the responsibility of marketing and promoting Kenya as a preferred tourist destination internationally, while encouraging development of Kenya’s domestic tourist market. The KTB fosters quality service and sustained excellence of tourist facilities and amenities. In addition, the KTB works with national and regional authorities to ensure protection of the environment and wildlife, and also works closely with various relevant organizations to promote quality of service and excellence. The Board members are representatives of Kenya’s various tourism organizations, including Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism, Kenya Association of Tour Operators, Kenya Association of Travel Agents, Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers, Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association, Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Airways. The KTB is headquartered in Nairobi and has U.S. offices in Los Angeles and New York. For more information, visit www.MagicalKenya.com.