Northern Serengeti Safari (Kogatende)
Where is the northern Serengeti?
The northern Serengeti covers the top of the park, up to the Tanzanian side of the Mara River and the Kenyan border. Kogatende is the main area here, the heart of the crossing country. It is a long way from Seronera in the central Serengeti, so most guests fly in rather than drive.
The land is greener and more hilly than the south, which surprises guests who expect open plains. Fewer camps and fewer vehicles make the north feel more private than the center.
The Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti
The river crossings are the reason most people plan a northern Serengeti safari. The herds reach the north from late June and July, and the crossings continue until about mid November. August to October is the reliable stretch.
At a crossing, thousands of wildebeest gather on the bank, then plunge across the river while crocodiles wait in the water. No day is guaranteed, because the herds move on their own schedule. For the full month by month picture, see our great migration guide.
Wildlife in the northern Serengeti
The migration is seasonal, but the north has wildlife all year. Resident lions, elephants, giraffes and hyenas stay here through every month. The riverine bush and hills hold leopards, and the open ground suits cheetahs. When the herds arrive, the predators follow, so July to November brings the most action. Birdlife is strong along the river and in the woodland.
Best time for a northern Serengeti safari
The best time for the crossings is July to mid November, with August to October the most reliable. These are dry season months, with clear mornings and thinner grass that makes animals easier to spot. Outside the crossing season the north is greener and even calmer, and the resident game stays put. For the full timing breakdown across the park, see our best time to visit the Serengeti page.
Safari activities at Kogatende
Game drives run morning and afternoon in our own 4×4 vehicles. In crossing season, guides hold crossing vigils at the river, waiting for the herds to move. A hot air balloon safari lifts off at dawn over the hills and the river. Evening drives and bush dinners are available with advance notice. For how game drives work and what they cost, see our game drives page.
Getting to the northern Serengeti
Most guests fly into Kogatende Airstrip, with daily flights from Arusha and connections from Zanzibar. The transfer from the airstrip to camp is a game drive of about forty minutes. Guests combining regions usually fly between camps, which saves a long drive. Road travelers can break the journey at Karatu, near Ngorongoro, on the way up.
Where to stay in the northern Serengeti
Our camp in the north is Gnu Mara River Camp, at Kogatende on the Tanzanian side of the Mara River, inside the park. It has ten tents and full board rates from $262 per person per night, and it is open 1 June to 15 November. The camp is 40 to 45 minutes from the crossing points.
To compare all our Serengeti camps by region and season, see our Serengeti safari camps page.
How many days, and combining regions
Two to three nights in the north covers the crossings well, because you want time for the herds to move. Many guests pair the north with the central Serengeti or with Ndutu in the south, and fly between the two. That way one base gives you the crossings and the other gives you resident game. Our Serengeti destination guide sets out the regions, and our Tanzania safari itineraries show how the nights fit together.
Cost of a northern Serengeti safari
A stay at the northern camp starts at $262 per person per night, full board. Park fees, drinks, activities such as balloon flights, transfers and tips are extra. You can book the camp on its own, or as a full safari with the guide, vehicle and logistics included. For the full pricing picture and current park fees, see our Tanzania safari cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the northern Serengeti?
The northern Serengeti is the top of Serengeti National Park, along the Tanzanian side of the Mara River. Kogatende is the main area, and it faces the crossing points.
When is the best time to see the Mara River crossings?
The herds are in the north from July to mid November, and August to October is the most reliable stretch for crossings.
Are the river crossings guaranteed?
No. The herds move on their own schedule, so no single day is certain. Staying two to three nights in crossing season raises your chances.
How many days should I spend in the northern Serengeti?
Two to three nights works well for the crossings. Many guests add the central Serengeti or Ndutu and fly between the camps.
Is the northern Serengeti less crowded?
Yes. The north has fewer camps and fewer vehicles than the central Serengeti, even in peak season.
Where do you stay in the northern Serengeti?
Gnu Mara River Camp is at Kogatende, 40 to 45 minutes from the crossing points, open 1 June to 15 November.
Tanzania · Northern Circuit
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