Nimali Mara
Set in the extreme north of Serengeti National Park, close to the Kenyan border and the legendary Mara River, Nimali Mara is an intimate luxury safari lodge positioned in one of the most dramatic wildlife areas in Tanzania.
This is where the Great Wildebeest Migration reaches one of its most spectacular stages. Between approximately July and October, huge herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in Northern Serengeti and attempt the famous Mara River crossings, navigating steep banks, strong currents and some of the largest crocodiles in Africa.
Tucked naturally into rocky kopjes, Nimali Mara blends into its surroundings and offers sweeping views across grassy plains and rolling acacia-covered hills. The lodge features eight luxury tented suites and two honeymoon suites, each with a private deck and expansive views over the Serengeti. An infinity pool built among the natural rock formations provides a beautiful place to relax between safari activities.
Quick Facts – Nimali Mara
- Location: Northern Serengeti National Park, close to the Mara River and the Kenya border
- Accommodation: 8 luxury tented suites plus 2 honeymoon suites
- Room Features: Private decks, en-suite bathrooms, luxurious bathtubs and sweeping Serengeti views
- Camp Facilities: Infinity pool, lounge and dining areas, spa treatments and campfire experiences
- Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest, zebra, lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, crocodiles and abundant plains game
- Migration Highlight: Mara River crossings, typically peaking between July and October
- Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives, migration viewing, bush dinners, sundowners, spa treatments and hot-air balloon safaris
- Access: Approximately 35 minutes by road from Kogatende Airstrip
- Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, photographers and travelers wanting a luxurious base close to the Mara River migration action
Wildlife & Seasons
- January – March: The main migration herds are generally far to the south around Ndutu and Southern Serengeti. Northern Serengeti is much quieter at this time, but resident wildlife remains in the region.
- April – June: The migration begins moving north through the Serengeti. Wildlife viewing remains rewarding as the landscape transitions from greener conditions into the drier months.
- July – October: This is the defining season for Nimali Mara. Large concentrations of wildebeest and zebra arrive in Northern Serengeti and may cross the Mara River, creating some of the most dramatic wildlife encounters in Africa.
- November – December: As seasonal rains return, the migration begins moving south again. The Northern Serengeti becomes quieter, while resident elephants, predators and plains game remain.
- Year-round: The area is known for elephants and predators, and Northern Serengeti continues to support resident wildlife outside the peak migration months.
Activities
Why Stay Here?
- Prime Mara River Location: Positioned in the far north of Serengeti National Park near one of the migration’s most important crossing areas.
- Great Migration Access: One of the strongest choices for travelers visiting between July and October to experience the northern migration.
- Intimate Luxury Camp: Just ten suites create a quieter, more exclusive safari atmosphere.
- Spectacular Setting: Built among natural kopjes with expansive views across Northern Serengeti.
- Infinity Pool: A beautifully positioned pool set into the surrounding rock formations.
- Excellent Wildlife: Strong populations of elephants, predators and plains game complement the seasonal migration.
- Honeymoon Friendly: Dedicated honeymoon suites and a remote setting make it especially attractive for couples.
- Easy Fly-In Access: Kogatende Airstrip is only around 35 minutes away.
- Perfect Migration Circuit Stop: Combines naturally with Central Serengeti and other Northern Circuit destinations.
Best For: Couples, honeymooners, photographers and safari travelers seeking a luxurious Northern Serengeti camp with excellent access to the Great Migration and Mara River crossings.
Location
Northern Serengeti, Mara River
Nimali Mara is located in the remote northern section of Serengeti National Park, close to the Kenyan border and the Mara River.
The landscape here is noticeably different from the open plains farther south, with rolling green hills, grassy savannah and acacia-dotted scenery. The Mara River cuts through this region and becomes the focal point of the Great Migration during the northern dry-season months.
Between approximately July and October, enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in this area and may attempt to cross the river, creating some of the most dramatic wildlife encounters of the migration cycle. Crocodiles, predators and the sheer concentration of animals make Northern Serengeti one of Tanzania’s most exciting safari regions during this period.
Nimali Mara is approximately 35 minutes by road from Kogatende Airstrip, making it convenient for guests flying into Northern Serengeti. By road, it is approximately a four-hour game drive from Nimali Serengeti, allowing the two properties to be combined for a Central and Northern Serengeti safari experience.
Its remote setting, proximity to the Mara River and intimate lodge design make Nimali Mara particularly appealing for travelers looking to experience the Great Migration away from the busier central areas of the Serengeti.
