Lamai Serengeti is a luxury permanent camp operated by Nomad Tanzania in the northernmost part of Serengeti National Park, just a few kilometers from the Mara River where the thunderous spectacle of the Great Migration occurs each year. Standing proud above the plains around a tumble of giant boulders on the Kogakuria Kopje, the camp offers enviable elevated views over the northern Serengeti and Lamai Wedge, affording guests breathtaking panoramas as over a million wildebeest cross the plains on their way across the Mara River.
Rooms
The camp consists of 12 open-fronted rooms split between the main lodge (8 rooms) and an exclusive-use residence called Lamai Private (4 rooms). All rooms are on raised wooden decks, completely open-fronted to maximize the vantage point, and discreetly spaced for maximum privacy. The style is rustic-chic with plaster walls, cream canvas, linen, pale wood floors, and gauzy mosquito netting draped over beds. Each room features writing desks, reading lamps, cosy rugs, day beds, and a private deck with table and chairs. Two rooms are family-friendly with two bedrooms and shared bathroom.
The en-suite bathrooms at the back of each room have hot and cold running water, flush toilets, and power showers with hot water. The communal areas include a lounge, library/map room, bar with upcycled Landrover seats, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, and a shady swimming pool. The style plays on rural simplicity with natural weave rugs, handmade lampshades, and white-washed walls. Meals are served around a long communal table with a roaring fireplace for chilling Serengeti evenings. A curio shop sells crafts, jewellery, coffee, and safari gear.
About
Lamai Private is very similarly styled on a smaller scale, accommodating a maximum of 10 guests with four rooms, adjoining rooms, and shared bathroom ideal for families with children. It's exclusive-use and strung around the bottom of the boulder-bound Serengeti base, communing completely privately with the bristling plains of the north – the annual site of the historical migration crossing. The camp is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large potentially dangerous animals pass through.
Activities
Activities revolve around expertly guided game drives during daylight hours in the northern Serengeti, with access to areas both north and south of the Mara River depending on water levels. The migration's river crossings (July to October) are a major viewing highlight, with immense numbers of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles pushing through Kogatende area. Predators include lion, leopard, and cheetah, while herbivores feature elephant, buffalo, giraffe, and antelopes. Walking safaris are also available, exploring rocky kopjes, rolling plains, river lines, and small valleys for close encounters with smaller species.
The camp is accessed by light aircraft from Arusha or Dar es Salaam to Kogatende Airstrip, followed by a 45-minute game drive transfer. It's booked on a full-board basis including all meals, selection of alcoholic and soft drinks (except champagne and premium wines), game drives, seasonal bush walks, laundry service, and road transfers. The camp closes during the rainy season (late March through April and May). Nomad Tanzania is locally sourced and hand-made in East Africa with a focus on positive impact and life-enhancing opportunities.
Destination
Tanzania Safaris
Style
Lodge
