Sayari Camp
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Set on the untouched plains of northern Serengeti, this stylish, award-winning camp is perfectly located near the famous Great Migration route and several crossing points along the Mara River, where sightings of herds plunging into the water are frequent and spectacular.
About Sayari Camp
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Open: June to March
Closed: April to May -
Closest airstrip: Kogatende, 20-minutes drive from camp
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Families: Children aged five and older
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June to October
Accommodation AT Sayari Camp
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Accommodation
Accommodation & Amenities
15 bright and spacious permanent structure suites, with king-size beds, walk-in showers, luxurious tub and a veranda overlooking the golden plains of the Serengeti, provide the perfect space to unwind.
Sayari’s rim-flow pool is set between natural rock formations for guests to cool off in while watching elephants or zebras ambling past camp. After a dip, treat yourself to a calming massage or a beer at the solar-powered microbrewery before an afternoon game drive and sundowners around the campfire.
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15 tents (including 1 family tent)
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En-suite bathrooms
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Hot-water showers and bath
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Flushing toilets
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Private decked verandas
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Swimming pool
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Suitable for disabled guests – please contact us
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In-room lockable box
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Complimentary laundry service
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Solar and generator power
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Battery-charging facilities
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WiFi
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Spa
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Microbrewery
accommodation
Rooms
The beautifully furnished interiors are spacious and comfortable, with mahogany flooring and sliding doors running the width of the room, opening onto an expansive private viewing deck.
The suite interiors are decorated in traditional colour pallets and have large comfortable beds with fine linen and draped netting. Each bathroom enjoys a view over the plains and has a standalone tub and a large walk-in indoor and outdoor shower.
accommodation
Sayari Retreats
The Retreats deliver an elevated level of exclusivity and flexibility, creating a personal space for a family or group of friends, complete with a private guide and vehicle, Retreat host, and dedicated chef.
The two individual Retreats share a separate pool and lounge, with an additional dining room for larger groups occupying both Retreats.
LOCATION
Location of Sayari Camp
The northern Serengeti is one of Africa's most popular safari destinations, and for good reason. From mid-June to November, the great herds of wildebeest gather on the banks of the Mara River in the northern Serengeti, ready to brave the crocodile-infested waters and hungry predators on the other side. Dramatic and exciting game viewing awaits as the wildebeest thunder across in their millions and the northern Serengeti is transformed into a pulsing hub of activity. Sayari, situated near the Tanzanian side of the Mara River, is a great choice for accommodation at this time of year.
Once the migrating herds have travelled back south, experience having these vast plains to yourself, where wildlife is abundant and sightings of lion and cheetah are frequent. You might see elephant, rhino and even leopards lurking in the riverine forests. Birders can spot some of the European migrants that arrive over this season, too.
Experiences
Blending seamlessly with the outdoors
Sayari has been carefully designed to include two lounges and dining areas. Both blend seamlessly with the outdoors, with large glass sliding doors that allow for uninterrupted views of the rolling Serengeti plains. Both the lounge and dining areas provide a place for you to unwind in nature and enjoy a delicious meal shared with fellow guests. Choose to dine indoors or al fresco, depending on the setting you prefer.
Framed by natural rock formations, the camp’s beautiful infinity pool boasts impressive views of the Serengeti and is the ideal spot to escape the heat and spend a lazy afternoon gazing at the game-filled plains.
Experiences
A typical day on safari at Sayari Camp
We take advantage of the cooler conditions and head out on game drives in the early mornings and late afternoons. This is when the wildlife, especially predators, are more active. Start the day bright and early with a wake-up call where tea or coffee is delivered to your suite. Enjoy breakfast before you depart for a morning game drive (or have it packed as a picnic to take with you). You'll arrive back at camp late morning, with a chance to freshen up before lunch.
After a leisurely lunch, enjoy siesta time. Take a dip in the pool, unwind with a massage or enjoy some retail therapy in our safari shop. Refuel with afternoon tea, then depart for an afternoon/evening game drive followed by sundowners around a campfire. You'll be back in time for drinks at the bar and dinner under the stars.
If you have booked a private vehicle, your guide will quickly get to know you and your preferences, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of exclusivity and flexibility.
Experiences
Game drives
Game drives are typically enjoyed twice per day: in the early morning and late afternoon. Our robust, custom-modified 4×4s and highly trained driver-guides cover rough terrain to discover incredible new slices of nature, crossing low rivers and overcoming steep gullies to cruising over vast, open plains. We have closed and open-sided game vehicles specially fitted with charging points for your phone or camera, and fridges for refreshing drinks on the go.
Experiences
Walking safaris
Experience the thrill of observing Africa's magnificent wildlife on foot while walking through its breathtaking landscapes on a walking safari.
A walking safari offers a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the behaviours of animals in their natural habitat. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you'll have the chance to get close to smaller animals and birds and even discover fascinating insects along the way.
Experiences
Photographic safaris
Sayari is home to one of our specially modified photographic vehicles. The open vehicle allows keen amateurs and professional photographers alike to shoot at eye level with wildlife. It is equipped with all the gear to ensure award-winning images — from beanbags and camera rests to 360° swivel seats.
Please enquire to ensure the availability of the vehicle and confirm any additional fees.
Experiences
Cultural and community visits
If you'd like to learn more about local Kuria culture, we can take you to the nearby Merenga village. Stop off at the community vegetable gardens — part of a sustainable development programme managed by Asilia — and collect fresh produce for your dinner.
Experiences
Hot-air balloon safaris
A hot-air balloon safari sees you soaring above the Serengeti plains as the sun rises in the early morning. During migration season, this is a great way to appreciate the full scope of the herds. Hot-air balloon trips are at extra cost and are weather dependent.
Experiences
Asilia Spa
Our wellness offerings are specially developed to enhance the well-being of both your body and mind, including massages and treatments that are based on the natural healing methods of local traditions. Join us for a rejuvenating experience at the Asilia Spa at Sayari. A little bit of extra indulgence and pampering compliments any safari trip. Please note that spa treatments are charged at an additional cost.
Experiences
Microbrewery
Join us for a drink at the Serengeti’s first solar-powered microbrewery. The brewery produces four unique beers for Asilia – perfect for safari sundowners! It also has the ability to produce soft drinks, as well as purify water and produce sparkling water using solar power. Our brand-new brewery also means that there is no longer a need to bring plastic bottles and aluminium cans into camp, ultimately reducing our plastic waste as well as our transport impact on the environment.
Experiences
Library and information centre
Sayari features a library and information centre with a cultural focus on the Kuria tribe. Music is integral to Kuria culture, playing a key role not just in ceremonies and celebrations but also in daily life. There will also be plenty of interesting facts about The Great Migration to be found in our new information centre. The migration passes by Sayari during the months of June through to October, and the camp is in a prime location for witnessing thousands of wildebeest crash across the Mara River as part of their Great Migration.
Experiences
Family safaris
We welcome families with children over 5 years old.
Sayari has three triple tents that sleep up to three family members each and one family tent that sleeps up to five. Should you require suits for large families please see our Sayari Retreats.
Sayari does not have a specific programme for children. For information about booking a private vehicle, please speak to your safari consultant.
Experience
Meals and refreshments
We pride ourselves on having a dedicated and innovative team of chefs who enjoy creating interesting and healthy menus of the highest standard.
Breakfast can be received in camp or packed as a bush picnic, with a choice between a continental or a full English. Lunch is prepared as a light buffet with a main course, salads and fresh bread while dinner is a three-course meal with a choice of starters, mains and dessert.
Meals are served as opt-in communal dining and can be enjoyed in the dining areas or al fresco. If you would like some privacy or to dine separately, individual dining can be arranged.
When to go
What to expect during the year
The Serengeti is a year-round destination, with great wildlife-viewing opportunities during both the dry and wet seasons. Most tourists arrive in July and August for the famous wildebeest migration herds in the northern Serengeti that can usually be seen until October. With relatively dry conditions and less crowds, January, February, September and October are great months to travel.
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January - March
Why travel at this time
There’s a break in the rains over January and February, before the long rains begin in March. The migratory birds are in the region and photographic conditions are perfect, with lush grasses and clear skies. There are fewer tourists in the north at this time.
Climate
The average high temperature is 27°C/81°F and the average low is around 15°C/59°F. Expect some showers in January and February. The long rains begin in March.
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Low temp: 15°C / 59°F
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High temp: 27°C / 81°F
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Rainfall: 135mm / 5.3in
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April - June
Why travel at this time
Sayari is closed throughout April and May. June is dry and a good time to travel, just before peak season. This is when the wildebeest herds begin moving into the north.
Climate
June is the start of the dry season. The average high is 25°C/77°F and the low is 14°C/57°F.
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Low temp: 14°C / 57°F
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High Temp: 25°C / 77°F
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Rainfall: 30mm / 1.2in
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July - September
Why travel at this time
This is peak season for travellers who want to see the wildebeest herds gathering around the Mara River, which they must cross to reach Kenya’s Masai Mara. The river crossings take place throughout this period, though seeing one is not guaranteed. The dry season is a wonderful time to travel and the conditions are perfect for spotting wildlife.
Climate
The high temperatures of the dry season ranges from 24°C/75°F in July to 26°C/79°F in September. The low dip to around 13°C/55°F.
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Low temp: 13°C / 55°F
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High temp: 25°C / 77°F
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Rainfall: 23mm / 0.9in
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October - December
Why travel at this time
The Serengeti crowds thin out from late September as the wildebeest herds make their way southward. There’s a chance of seeing the final river crossings in October, as the herds travel back to the Serengeti from the Mara. The short rains replenish the landscape and the migratory birds begin to arrive from Europe and Asia.
Climate
The short rains start around late October or November and last for roughly a month. The most rainfall usually occurs in December. The maximum temperature is around 27°C/81°F and the average low is 15°C/59°F.
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Low temp: 15°C / 59°F
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High temp: 27°C / 81°F
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Rainfall: 43mm / 1.7in
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Guest reviews
Awards AND RECOGNITION
Don't just take our word for it
See Sayari Camp's industry recognition and awards
Rates
When would you like to go?
Below, choose your travel dates for an estimated accommodation cost per person sharing, or scroll down for a table of high and low season rates.
Additional information
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Rate includes
Full-board accommodation, house drinks, limited laundry service, game drives, short nature walks, transfer to/from nearest airstrip.
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Rate excludes
Park and concession fees, transfers other than to/from nearest airstrip, flights and airport taxes, gratuities and items of a personal nature, private vehicles
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Budget factors
Special offers may apply. Contact us for the best available rates. Last minute offers and long-stay rates may apply.
Rates and Seasonality
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Closed: 01 Apr 2024 - 31 May 2024 Rate: US$0
Seasonal camp closure.
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Low season: 01 Jun 2024 - 30 Jun 2024 Rate: US$937
What to expect
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Possible first crossings of the season in late June
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Few vehicles around, and great resident wildlife
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Plentiful cat sightings
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Good chances for black rhino sightings
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Low Temp: 14°C / 57°F
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High Temp: 25°C / 77°F
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Rainfall: 30mm / 1.2in
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High season: 01 Jul 2024 - 31 Oct 2024 Rate: US$1890
What to expect
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Last crossings of wildebeest moving south
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Great game viewing with fewer crowds
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Increased chance for black rhino sightings
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Low Temp: 15°C / 59°F
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High Temp: 27°C / 81°F
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Rainfall: 43mm / 1.7in
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Low season: 01 Nov 2024 - 19 Dec 2024 Rate: US$937
What to expect
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Few vehicles around
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Great game viewing
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Plentiful big cat sightings
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Good time for walking
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Good chance to see black rhino
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Low Temp: 15°C / 59°F
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High Temp: 27°C / 81°F
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Rainfall: 43mm / 1.7in
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High season: 20 Dec 2024 - 05 Jan 2025 Rate: US$1890
What to expect
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Great game viewing with fewer crowds
Good for walking
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Low Temp: 15°C / 59°F
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High Temp: 26°C / 79°F
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Rainfall: 109mm / 4.3in
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Green season: 06 Jan 2025 - 31 Mar 2025 Rate: US$937
What to expect
- Lower visitor numbers
- Good resident wildlife
- Increasing chance of afternoon showers
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Low Temp: 15°C / 59°F
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High Temp: 27°C / 81°F
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Rainfall: 135mm / 5.3in
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Closed: 01 Apr 2025 - 31 May 2025 Rate: US$0
Seasonal camp closure.
WILDLIFE
Serengeti National Park wildlife
Besides the herds, there’s a healthy population of predators, including lions and leopards. When the European migrant birds arrive, the number of bird species swells to 500, many of which can be spotted on game drives or walking safaris.
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Lion
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Cheetah
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Leopard
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Zebra
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Klipspringer
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Nile Crocodile
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Oribi
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Elephant
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Spotted Hyena
eBook Guide to the Great Migration
Learn everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Great Migration Safari in our eBook guide. Inside the guide you'll find: a month-by-month summary; a detailed map of how the migration moves; a selection of the best places to stay on safari; and expert tips for an unforgettable safari.
RUAHA ITINERARY
10 Day Exclusive Tanzania
Enhanced by the incredible beauty of the East African landscape, our Reserve Camps featured in this itinerary exude character and meticulous attention to detail. Every desire is beautifully met; from large, designer rooms, to libraries, plumbed raindance showers, and swimming pools with uninterrupted views. These camps also offer a spa service, a premium collection of wine and spirits, and food to tantalize the palate after a day out enjoying exceptional game viewing.
Most importantly they benefit from being situated in the most exclusive, sought-after destinations in Tanzania. On this journey you will travel from the exclusive predator paradise of the Serengeti’s eastern corridor where lion rule the plains and the cheetah pose on kopjes; through to the glorious northern Serengeti, onthe banks of the Mara river which offers year-round Big 5 viewing as well as providing the backdrop to the famous migration crossings from July – October; and lastly the jewel of the south, Ruaha National Park, offering superlative game viewing from our open-sided game vehicles or on a thrilling walking safari with our expert guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Sayari Camp suited for families?
Sayari has three triple tents that sleep up to three family members each and one family tent that sleeps up to five.
There camp does not offer a specific programme for children.