Pros & cons
PROS
- Big, sweeping views over the plains
- Clean bathrooms and showers (cold water)
- Ample space for rooftop tents and overlanders
CONS
- Cold-water showers only
- Rough spur road in; 4x4 expected
- Occasional noise from large tour groups
Overview
Unfenced and wonderfully wild, Lobo Public Campsite sits among the kopjes and open plains of the northern Serengeti. It feels remote—in a good way—with huge horizons by day and star‑splashed skies at night. Expect animals to wander past camp and the sounds of the bush after dark.
Facilities & comfort
This is a simple, well-sited public campsite: level ground for ground tents and rooftop rigs, a protected picnic/cooking area, and a big, clean washroom block with running water and cold showers. Power is hit‑or‑miss (some plugs exist, usually tied to a generator), so don’t count on charging unless your vehicle or operator provides it.
Wildlife & what you’ll see
Buffalo, antelope, hyena—and occasionally lions—are regulars in and around camp. The broader Lobo area is strong for big cats and elephants, with permanent water keeping resident game around year‑round. When the northern herds swing through, you’ll see wildebeest and zebra flowing across the plains from roughly July to October; by late November–December, migratory herds are often moving south, but resident predators and plains game remain active.
Getting there & using it as a base
The access track off the main route can be rough, especially after rain—come in a proper 4x4 and take it slow. Self‑drivers with rooftop tents will find plenty of space. From here, day trips farther north are doable; when the migration is at the Mara River (typically July–September), many use Lobo as a base to explore that zone.
Fees & booking
Recent traveler reports cite about $30 + VAT per person per night, paid at the park gate. The public site is typically first‑come, first‑served. Policies and prices can change—confirm current TANAPA fees before you go.
Best time to visit
For peak wildlife density in the north, aim for July–October. If you’re here in December (early wet season), expect fewer migratory herds but good resident game. For photography, plan sunrise and late‑afternoon golden light—those kopjes and plains glow. Nights are often windy and can be chilly, so bring warm layers and enjoy the stars.
Safety & practicalities
It’s unfenced: don’t walk after dark, keep food sealed, and use a headlamp for bathroom runs. Pitch away from the common area if a big group rolls in. Bring a power bank, flip‑flops for the showers, and your own towel and paper.
Where it is
-2.0000, 35.1694Tips for Lobo Public Campsite
- 01Pitch your tent away from the common area if you want a quiet night.
- 02Bring warm layers and a solid sleeping bag—nights can be windy and cold.
- 03Carry a headlamp and avoid walking around after dark; animals pass through.
- 04Bring a power bank or 12V charger—generator power and plugs aren’t guaranteed.
- 05Expect cold showers; pack flip‑flops, a towel, and your own paper.
Amenities
Near Lobo Public Campsite
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayLobo HillGranite kopje ridge with big cats and migration viewsScenic Viewpoint
0.9 mi awayLobo AirstripTiny bush airstrip for easy access to Lobo’s wild northRestroom
11.2 mi awayKlein's GateQuiet northeast gate for Natron and Lobo accessEntrance Station
11.5 mi awayElewana Serengeti Migration CampLuxury tents above the Grumeti with hippos and seasonal migration viewsLodging · Restaurant
32.6 mi awayRetina Hippo Pool WalkDrive-up hippo spectacle with short, easy stroll and big photo payoffEasy · 0.3 mi · 30 min
58.4 mi awayMoru Kopjes Gong Rock TrailShort scramble to Maasai rock art and the Serengeti’s ‘gong’ rockEasy · 0.3 mi · 30 min
58.7 mi awayNaabi Hill Nature TrailShort kopje walk with sweeping Serengeti plains views and wildlife scanningEasy · 0 mi · 30 minLamai Kopjes WalkGuided kopje walk to big sky views and sundowners over the plains.Moderate · 0 mi · 0 min
