Lemala Kuria Hills Tented Lodge

Glass-fronted suites with plunge pools by the migration corridor
Lemala Kuria Hills Tented Lodge, Serengeti National Park
InsideSerengeti National Park

Overview

Set among the Wogakuria kopjes in the far north, Lemala Kuria Hills feels like a sleek, hotel‑level hideout dropped into big‑cat country. It’s quiet, scenic, and designed for indulgence—think private plunge pools, wall‑to‑wall views, and sunset cocktails on granite boulders.

Location & Setting

You’re roughly 30 minutes from the Mara River, right on the Great Migration corridor between July and October. The hilltop position looks over rolling grasslands, open woodland, and tree‑lined watercourses, with wildlife commonly moving through the area.

Suites & Amenities

There are 15 spacious, glass‑fronted tented suites—private decks, plunge pools at every unit, indoor and outdoor showers, freestanding tubs, and 24‑hour solar power (with backup). Expect Wi‑Fi, a fan, and an in‑room refreshment setup. The central area brings a lounge/bar, indoor–outdoor dining, reception and gift shop, and a main swimming pool; the Melengali Spa handles massages and manicures. Laundry and house drinks are typically included, with premium labels extra.

Activities

Expert‑guided 4x4 game drives run in the early morning and late afternoon into the evening. Seasonal walking safaris add a slower, track‑and‑sign perspective, and hot‑air ballooning (extra cost) gives a sunrise look at the plains. Bush meals and classic sundowners are very much part of the rhythm here. Families can tap into Lemala Cubs activities for kids under 12.

Wildlife

Traveler reports from this area put lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, and zebra at "very likely" levels, with leopard often seen and cheetah more occasional. During migration season, expect big wildebeest and zebra numbers and attendant predator action near the river.

Best Time to Visit

  • July–October for the headline migration and potential river crossings.
  • Year‑round resident predators make it worthwhile outside peak months.
  • For photography and wildlife behavior, plan dawn and late‑afternoon drives; save sunset for kopje‑top sundowners.

Practicalities

Most guests fly in; the Kogatende airstrip transfer is about 45 minutes by 4x4. Inclusions can differ by package—some listings bundle game drives while others don’t—so confirm what’s covered before you book. Children 6+ are welcome.

Pros

  • Every suite has a private plunge pool and panoramic glass front
  • Prime base for July–October Mara River crossings

Cons

  • Remote; about a 45‑minute drive from Kogatende airstrip
  • Inclusions vary by source—confirm if game drives/transfers are included

Tips

  • Fly to Kogatende; budget about 45 minutes for the lodge transfer.
  • Confirm inclusions—game drives and airstrip transfers may or may not be bundled.
  • Book hot‑air ballooning well ahead; it’s at additional cost.
  • Time drives for early morning and late afternoon for light and animal activity.
  • Traveling with kids under 12? Ask about Lemala Cubs activities.
The Parkwolf tour guide sitting on a phone mounted in a car

Parkwolf Tour Guide

Like a tour guide in your car.

Save the places you found around Serengeti, then let Parkwolf guide the drive between them.Download Parkwolf on the App Store