Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge

This place sits high on the Wogakuria Hills in northern Serengeti, giving you those wide-open views across rolling grasslands, rocky kopjes, and the plains stretching forever. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the Mara River, so when the Great Migration hits from July to October, you’re perfectly placed to catch the herds crossing – that chaotic, thrilling moment with wildebeest plunging in, crocs waiting, and predators circling. But even outside those months, the area’s alive with resident wildlife: lions on the rocks, leopards in the trees, cheetahs sprinting, elephants at waterholes, and birds everywhere – it’s a year-round hotspot. The camp keeps things modern and clean, with 15 tented suites spread along sandy paths for privacy (some are a bit of a hike up or down hills, so ask for closer ones if mobility’s an issue). Tents are spacious, with king or twin beds under nets, sliding doors to decks with plunge pools, sunloungers, and tables for chilling with coffee while watching the world go by. Inside, it’s comfy – ceiling fans, sofas, desks, mini-fridges with drinks, and en-suites with twin basins, deep tubs by windows, glass showers, and flush toilets. The main areas are two raised tents connected by walkways: a lounge/bar with neutral sofas, rugs, fireplaces, and a well-stocked bar, plus a dining tent with individual tables, fireplaces, and African touches. Outside, there’s a big deck, firepit for sundowners, and a pool under a rocky outcrop where hyrax sunbathe. There’s a spa nearby for massages (around $50 for 30 minutes), and the pool’s great for cooling off. Staff are friendly and on point, with game drives twice daily focusing on resident game or migration drama. Hot air balloons and walks are available extra. Kids over 4 are welcome (Lemala Cubs program for fun stuff like nature walks), but no babies, and parents need to watch little ones since it’s unfenced and wild animals wander through. Rates around $800-1000 per person full board, good value for the location and perks.

Location of Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge

Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge is on the brow of a hill in northern Serengeti National Park’s Wogakuria Hills area, with sweeping views over plains, kopjes, and the Mara River (30-minute drive). Prime for migration (July-October) and year-round resident wildlife. About 40 minutes from Kogatende Airstrip (fly 1.5-2 hours from Arusha via Sasakwa or direct), then staff transfer. Driving is possible, but flying is easier.

Accommodation

The camp has 15 spacious tented suites spread along paths for privacy, with modern design, ceiling fans, lounge areas, desks, mini-fridges, and private decks with plunge pools, tables, sunloungers, and outdoor showers.

• Standard Suites: King or twin beds, en-suite with twin basins, bathtub by window, glass shower, flush toilet. Can set up as triples or quads. Views north/east/west.
• Family Options: Interconnecting or larger setups for groups, same comforts.

Amenities

Infinity-style pool with decking/sunloungers under rocky outcrop, private spa for massages/manicures/pedicures, gym (not detailed), Wi-Fi (intermittent), 24-hour solar power. Firepit for drinks, lounge/bar with fireplaces, boutique/gift shop. Laundry extra, room phones for service, 24-hour escorts at night (unfenced). Children over 4 welcome with Lemala Cubs activities (bows/arrows, walks), no formal childcare or baby gear.

Dining

Full board with fresh, plentiful meals – breakfast buffet (fruit, cereals, cooked options), picnic breakfasts available, lunches three courses (soups, mains like veggie parcels or fish, desserts), afternoon tea with cakes on request, dinners multi-course (soups, meats/fish/veggie like lasagne, desserts/cheese). Themed evenings (BBQ, Indian, pizza) when busy. Individual tables, indoor/outdoor, room service on request. Most drinks included (sparkling wine), premium extra. Reverse-osmosis water.

What Makes It Unique

This hilltop camp stands out for its modern luxury in a prime northern spot – close to Mara River crossings during migration, high resident game (100% success on Big Five in some reports), and private plunge pools in every suite for that extra pamper. Contemporary style with fireplaces, chandeliers, and African prints feels fresh yet warm. Reviews highlight excellent food, staff surprises, and views from rooms/decks. Family-friendly for older kids, spa, pool, and offbeat feel away from crowds make it a relaxing, immersive base for Serengeti drama.