Olakira Migration Camp, Serengeti

Olakira Migration Camp — Following the Great Migration Across the Serengeti

Olakira Migration Camp is one of two Asilia Africa mobile camps that track the Great Wildebeest Migration through the Serengeti — the other being Ubuntu. What distinguishes Olakira is its northern location: from June to October, the camp positions itself in the Kogatende region near the Mara River, so close to the crossing points that guests can sometimes watch the herds plunge into the water from the comfort of the lounge tent. From December to March, Olakira relocates to the Ndutu plains in the southern Serengeti, where two million wildebeest gather to calve on the short-grass plains while predators circle.

This twice-yearly relocation is the entire point of Olakira. A permanent camp can only catch one phase of the migration. A mobile camp that moves intelligently puts guests at the centre of the action regardless of season — river crossings in the north, calving drama in the south.

Camp and Accommodation

Olakira has nine tented suites in the south and ten in the north, including one or two family tents depending on the location. Each tent is raised off the ground on a platform and features a king-size bed with quality linen, an en-suite bathroom with flush toilet and hot-water safari shower, and a veranda with a chaise longue. The defining design feature is the stargazing roof: a retractable panel above the bed that allows guests to fall asleep watching the Milky Way — an option that gets used almost every clear night.

The communal area includes a comfortable lounge and bar tent, a dining tent that opens on one side to the bush, and a fire pit for evening drinks. Meals are prepared on-site by resident chefs using fresh produce and South African wines. The atmosphere is sociable and intimate — with fewer than 20 guests at capacity, everyone knows each other by the second evening.

Activities

Morning and afternoon game drives in custom open-sided 4x4 vehicles are the core activity, led by experienced Asilia guides who know both the northern and southern Serengeti terrain. Full-day drives with bush picnics are available during peak migration periods. Hot-air balloon safaris can be arranged at additional cost. Cultural and community visits are possible from the northern location, including visits to Kuria homesteads and local markets. Walking safaris are not offered at Olakira.

Who Is Olakira Best For?

Olakira is the right choice for travellers whose primary goal is the Great Migration — whether the river crossings (July–October) or the calving season (January–March). The stargazing tents add a romantic touch that makes it popular with honeymooners. Families with children aged five and above are welcome, and the family tent provides connected bedrooms. The camp closes in April, May and November during the seasonal transitions.