Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp

In the heart of the Serengeti National Park, this luxurious tented camp offers a front-row seat at one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events – the great migration. Indeed, the next-door Grumeti River, with its resident hippos, is among the best spots to catch the action. Here, in around June each year, thousands-strong herds of wildebeest, gazelle and zebra gather before beginning their long and perilous journey north, crossing the vast plains of northern Tanzania to arrive in Kenya’s Masai Mara.

The camp itself is a triumph of both substance and style – a collection of canvas tents complete with polished wooden floors, super-king-sized beds and 360-degree verandah decks offering views across the national park. These private sanctuaries provide the perfect spot to relax between activities, perhaps spotting any passing wildlife while sipping cocktails as the sun sets over the African bush.

There are also all the practical elements you’d expect – en-suite showers, flushing toilets and solar-heated running water – alongside a host of elegant extras, from wooden writing desks to luxurious soft furnishings embellished with local designs.

It all makes for a wonderfully comfortable stay, enhanced further by the stylish main lounge, replete with comfy leather sofas, and the dining room, where guests are served, either under canvas or al fresco, delicious full-board meals inspired by the tastes of the region. And, it’s all raised above the ground to showcase more of those sweeping Serengeti views.

But, of course, a stay here is all about the activities, with everything from game drives to walking safaris bringing guests out to spot Africa’s wildlife icons, including the Big Five. The camp’s day-long game drives are a special highlight, kicking off with a champagne picnic breakfast before a full morning in the bush. Then, following a delicious picnic lunch, the adventure continues right on towards sunset.

Alternatively, a walking safari in the company of an expert safari guide is a superb way to take in the national park’s unique flora and fauna, as well as some of its human intrigue. Then, there are the extras, such as sundowner cocktails and optional balloon rides for the chance to take it all in from above. These need to be booked well in advance.