Esirai Migration Camp: Our full report
Previously the Matembezi mobile camp, Esirai now falls under Matembezi’s sister company, Entara Camps and Lodges.
This has not changed the camp’s unique character, operating as an efficient and comfortable migration mobile camp.The camp’s location when it is set up in northern Serengeti is a welcome change from iconic plains. Palm trees that pepper the river banks inspire an image of the tucked-away oasis in the heart of a quaint acacia woodland. A delightfully intimate camp, Esirai blends in with its natural surroundings and is also located close to the Rhino protection area of the Nyamalumbwa hills.
The camp is made up of two separate main tents and eight guest tents. A quaint cube-shaped lounge tent with an eye-catching woven awning which fills the back wall of the lounge tent gives it a cosy and homely feel. Maps are hung on the canvas wall, directly above a small library filled with nature books and an interesting rock collection, all of which can be enjoyed from the comfort of the small sofas, leather pouffe cushions and deck chairs placed around the lounge tent. As the camp is powered by solar, charging of all devices is done at a central charging station, which is located in the lounge.
All the tents face towards the Bologonja river, which allows the camp a view of the lush riverine vegetation of palms. and exquisite birdlife.
The dining tent is just a few steps from the lounge tent. On one side there is a large buffet table, which throughout the day is stocked with tea, coffee and other drinks. Dining is usually private, however, when we visited a large table had been set up for a large group, lined with leather deck chairs draped with traditional Maasai shukas and an impressive display of palm leaves in a recycled glass vase.
The guest tents are situated on either side of the communal areas, spaced out to offer an element of privacy. The interiors are simple and sufficient for a mobile camp experience, however large enough to adequately accommodate a large double or twin beds which are decorated with terracotta tie dye, woven blankets and throw pillows. Leather strap luggage racks are provided alongside a wooden hanging rack, fitted with a simple canvas shelf and foot rack.
The bathroom facilities are in keeping with the mobile camp tradition of compost loos and bucket showers of 50 litres – plenty of water for a good shower. Just order your shower whenever you want it and an attendant will fill the tank with warm water.
The family unit consists of two standard tents, linked by an enclosed corridor.
The main activites at Esirai are game drives in open game-viewing vehicles. However, the camp plans to start offering walking and fly-camping which complement this camp very well.
Esirai is located in the northern Serengeti from June to November, before following the migration south, where its location is near Naabi from December to the end of April.
Our view
Esirai is a great option for travellers who are keen to keep up with the migration and who enjoy a taste of traditional safari. With its minimal frills, we feel Esirai offers comfort and convenience, while retaining the under-canvas experience that so many travellers appreciate.
Geographics
- Location
- Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- 3-plus nights
- Directions
- In the north, the camp is around 40km from Kogatende Airstrip. When it is in the south, it is close to Naabi Hill
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- We had lunch during our visit in 2023, which was a lovely honey mustard glazed chicken, herb rice and avocado, with a side of butternut and spinach stew. The ingredients were deliciously fresh and the serving portions were just right
- Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available.
- Drinks included
- Soft and house alcoholic drinks are included in your stay.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children friendly provide board games and small nature walks around the camp with a member of staff
- Equipment
- None
- Notes
- Children must be supervised by parents
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Esirai Migration Camp
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Esirai Migration Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
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100% success
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100% success
100% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is a back-up generator
- Communications
- Wifi is available in the main areas only. There are charging stations only in the lounge, not in the guest tents.
- TV & radio
- Nones
- Water supply
- Transported in
- Water supply notes
- Water is sourced from the Bologonja spring. The showers at Esirai are safari (“bucket”) showers, with warm water brought in quantity to your tent whenever you request a shower. They operate just like ordinary showers, with the proviso that you should be sure. to rinse off before your water runs out.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is at the Four Seasons.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Askaris patrol the camp during the night and escort guest to and from the tents.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in all the tents and main areas and a firebreak around the camp.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is included in your stay at no extra charge, however underwear will not be accepted and soap provided to wash your own.
- Money
- There are no room safes. Any valuables that you cannot keep on your person should be given to the manager for safe-keeping.
- Accepted payment on location
- Credit cards are not accepted. Cash can be used for an extras – US Dollars, Tanzanian Shillings, or UK Pounds.
Other lodges in Serengeti Migration Area
Alternative places to stay in this same area.