How far in advance should I book?

Book 6-12 months ahead for peak migration times (June-October). You can sometimes find availability 2-3 months out for shoulder seasons, but the best camps fill up early.

Are all-inclusive lodges worth the extra cost?

Usually yes. All-inclusive removes the stress of budgeting and ensures quality meals in remote locations. The alternative is very limited and expensive food options.

Should I stay in one lodge or move around?

Moving between 2-3 lodges gives you different ecosystems and better migration following. But factor in packing time and domestic flight costs ($200-400 per person per flight).

What's the difference between a lodge and a camp?

Lodges are permanent buildings with hotel-style rooms. Camps are tented accommodations that can be mobile or permanent. Tented camps often provide a more authentic safari experience.

How to choose the right safari lodge in the Serengeti

Choose based on location (Central Serengeti for year-round game, Western Corridor for migration crossing), budget ($300-2000+ per night), and style (luxury tented camps vs permanent lodges). Book 6-12 months ahead for migration season.

Decide on location within the Serengeti. Central Serengeti offers year-round game viewing and is closest to airstrips. Western Corridor is best for river crossings (June-July). Northern Serengeti has dramatic crossings but is remote. Southern Serengeti is perfect for calving season (January-March) but limited other times.
Set your budget range. Budget lodges run $300-600 per night. Mid-range options are $600-1200. Luxury camps start at $1200 and go up to $3000+ per night. All prices are per person sharing and include meals and game drives. Park fees ($70 per day) are usually extra.
Choose between mobile and permanent camps. Mobile camps follow the migration and offer the best wildlife access but have basic amenities. Permanent lodges have better facilities, spas, and pools but animals may be further away depending on season. Semi-permanent camps offer a middle ground.
Check what's included. Most lodges include meals, game drives, and airport transfers from local airstrips. Verify if drinks, laundry, and cultural visits are included. Some luxury camps include private vehicles and guides. Always confirm park fees are separate.
Read recent reviews for wildlife sightings. Look at reviews from the last 12 months on TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings. Pay attention to game drive success rates, not just lodge amenities. Check if guides are knowledgeable and vehicles are well-maintained.
Book through a reputable safari operator. Use established operators like Asilia Africa, Elewana Collection, or local operators like Coastal Aviation. Avoid booking directly through lodge websites unless you're experienced. Operators can arrange multi-park itineraries and handle logistics.

How far in advance should I book?: Book 6-12 months ahead for peak migration times (June-October). You can sometimes find availability 2-3 months out for shoulder seasons, but the best camps fill up early.
Are all-inclusive lodges worth the extra cost?: Usually yes. All-inclusive removes the stress of budgeting and ensures quality meals in remote locations. The alternative is very limited and expensive food options.
Should I stay in one lodge or move around?: Moving between 2-3 lodges gives you different ecosystems and better migration following. But factor in packing time and domestic flight costs ($200-400 per person per flight).
What's the difference between a lodge and a camp?: Lodges are permanent buildings with hotel-style rooms. Camps are tented accommodations that can be mobile or permanent. Tented camps often provide a more authentic safari experience.