Kogatende
Kogatende – Northern Serengeti – Travel Guide
Kogatende is a special place in Northern Serengeti, Tanzania. It is famous for its wildlife, open savannah, and the Mara River, where the Great Migration happens. If you have never been on a safari before, this is one of the best places to visit.
Here, you can see thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the river, with hungry crocodiles waiting in the water. It is a dramatic and breathtaking sight. But Kogatende is not only about the migration – it has lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and many other animals all year round.
Unlike the busier Central Serengeti, Kogatende is peaceful and uncrowded, making it perfect for a private safari experience.
Highlights
- Witness wildebeest and zebra river crossings at the Mara River.
- Spot the Big Five and other wildlife year-round.
- Beautiful savannahs, rolling hills, and the Mara River.
- A more remote, peaceful, and intimate safari experience.
- Explore the wilderness on foot with expert guides.
- Visit Maasai villages for cultural insights.
Why Visiting Kogatende in Northern Serengeti Is Unmissable
Kogatende is one of the most breathtaking safari destinations in Tanzania. Located in the Northern Serengeti, this remote wilderness is famous for its Great Migration river crossings, abundant wildlife, and untouched landscapes. Here’s what makes it a must-visit:
🦓 The Great Migration River Crossings
Witness thousands of wildebeests and zebras braving the Mara River, battling strong currents and crocodiles as they migrate in search of fresh grasslands. This is one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles.
🌿 Abundant Wildlife
Kogatende is home to a diverse range of animals, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, leopards, and giraffes. The area is less crowded, allowing for intimate game viewing experiences.
🏞️ Scenic Landscapes
Experience breathtaking endless plains, rolling hills, and acacia-dotted savannas. Kogatende’s untouched beauty offers a true wilderness experience, perfect for photography and relaxation.
🏕️ Exclusive Safari Lodges & Camps
Stay in some of the best luxury lodges and mobile camps, offering a front-row seat to wildlife action. Whether you prefer a classic tented camp or an upscale safari lodge, Kogatende has options for every traveler.
Where is Kogatende Located?
Kogatende is in the far north of Serengeti National Park, near the border of Kenya. It is about 6-7 hours by road from Central Serengeti or just 1 hour by flight from Arusha.
The Mara River flows through Kogatende, creating a perfect place for animals to gather. This means you can see a lot of wildlife in a small area.
Explore Kogatende in Northern Serengeti, the best place to see the Great Migration river crossings and incredible wildlife. Discover the best time to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.
If you are traveling with Seko Tours, we arrange both road and flight options to Kogatende, depending on your time and budget.
Kogatende Map
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Luxury & Budget Safari Packages to Kogatende, Northern Serengeti
8 Days Wildebeest River Crossing Safari
- 8 Days & 7 Nights | Wildebeest River Crossing Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
12 Days Tanzania Bush to Beach Classic
- 12 Days & 11 Nights | Bush to Beach Safari
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Per Person On Twin Sharing
Best Time to Visit Kogatende
The best time to visit Kogatende is during the dry season, from June to October, for optimal wildlife viewing and to witness the Great Migration.
July to October – The Great Migration River Crossings
This is the best time to visit Kogatende because it is when the Great Migration crosses the Mara River.
Over 1.5 million wildebeests and zebras move across the Serengeti every year in search of food and water. But when they reach the Mara River, they must cross dangerous waters filled with huge crocodiles. Some make it across safely, while others do not.
This is one of the most exciting wildlife experiences in Africa, and Kogatende is one of the best places to see it.
November to June – Great Wildlife, Fewer Tourists
Even after the migration moves south, Kogatende is still an amazing safari destination. The big cats (lions, leopards, and cheetahs) stay in the area all year, along with elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and many other animals.
If you prefer fewer tourists and a more peaceful safari, this is a great time to visit.
Wildlife in Kogatende
Kogatende is full of animals. Whether you visit during the migration or at another time, you will see incredible wildlife.
The Big Five
Kogatende is home to four of Africa’s famous Big Five animals:
- Lions – Often seen hunting during the migration.
- Leopards – Usually found in trees, resting during the day.
- Elephants – Big herds roam through Kogatende.
- Buffalos – These strong animals are everywhere in Serengeti.
The only missing Big Five animal is the rhino, which is mostly found in Ngorongoro Crater.
The Great Migration
- 1.5 million wildebeests travel through Kogatende every year.
- Thousands of zebras follow the migration, forming a beautiful black-and-white pattern on the plains.
- Gazelles and antelopes move with them, avoiding predators.
Other Animals You Will See
- Hippos – Found in large groups inside the Mara River.
- Crocodiles – Hide under the water, waiting for animals to cross.
- Cheetahs – The fastest land animal, often hunting in the open plains.
- Giraffes – Graceful and tall, eating leaves from acacia trees.
Things to Do in Kogatende
Kogatende offers amazing safari activities that let you see wildlife up close.
1. Game Drives
A game drive is when you explore the park in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a guide. In Kogatende, you can do:
- Morning Game Drives – Best for spotting big cats.
- Afternoon Game Drives – Great for elephants, buffalos, and birds.
- Full-Day Game Drives – Explore deeper into the park for a complete safari experience.
2. Watching the River Crossings
During the Great Migration, thousands of animals try to cross the Mara River. This is one of the most exciting safari experiences in the world.
Your guide will take you to the best viewing spots, where you can watch the wildebeests jump into the river and swim to the other side.
3. Hot Air Balloon Safari
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you can float over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon. From the sky, you will see:
- The Mara River winding through the plains.
- Herds of elephants, giraffes, and buffalos moving below.
- The golden sunrise over the Serengeti.
4. Walking Safaris
If you want a more adventurous experience, you can go on a walking safari with a trained park ranger. You will learn about:
- Animal footprints and tracking.
- The different plants and trees of the Serengeti.
- How the Maasai people live in harmony with nature.
Where to Stay in Kogatende
Kogatende accommodation
Kogatende has several accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget campsites.
- Nasikia Mobile Migration Camp
- Kogatende - Northern Serengeti
From: On Request Per Person
- Nyikani Migration Camp
- Kogatende - Northern Serengeti
From: On Request Per Person
How to Get to Kogatende
By Road
- From Central Serengeti – 6-7 hours by safari vehicle.
- From Arusha – 10-12 hours by road.
By Air
- Flights from Arusha to Kogatende Airstrip take about 1 hour.
- Seko Tours arranges fly-in safaris for those who prefer to travel faster.
Safari Tips for Visiting Kogatende
- Wear neutral-colored clothes – Avoid bright colors that scare animals.
- Bring a good camera – You will see amazing wildlife moments.
- Use sunscreen and wear a hat – The Serengeti sun is very strong.
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
Includes
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
Excludes
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
Feature Travel Tips
See Our Basic Tanzania Travel Info
Popular questions about Kogatende
Kogatende is a region in the northern part of Serengeti National Park, renowned for its scenic beauty, vast savannahs, and as a prime location for witnessing the wildebeest migration.
The best time to visit Kogatende is during the dry season, from June to October, when the wildebeest migration is in full swing. The herds move through Kogatende between July and September.
Kogatende can be accessed by light aircraft from Arusha or other nearby airstrips. You can also drive from the central Serengeti, though the road can be challenging.
Kogatende is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). It’s also a hotspot for cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and numerous bird species.
Yes, Kogatende is located within the Serengeti National Park, specifically in the northern region of the park.
Kogatende is a key area for the Great Migration, particularly for the wildebeest and zebra herds that cross the Mara River. This makes it a fantastic destination for observing dramatic river crossings.
Yes, Kogatende offers luxury lodges, mobile camps, and tented camps, providing comfort and proximity to wildlife and the Great Migration action.
The main safari activities in Kogatende include game drives, river crossings (during migration), walking safaris, and birdwatching.
Yes, walking safaris are available in Kogatende, offering a unique and intimate way to experience the wilderness with experienced guides.
Kogatende is approximately 150 kilometers (about 93 miles) from the central Serengeti. Travel time by car can take around 4 to 6 hours, but it's much faster by plane.
While it is possible to visit Kogatende during the rainy season (November to May), it may be less ideal for the Great Migration, and some areas could be inaccessible due to the weather.
Pack lightweight clothing in neutral colors, comfortable footwear, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, and a good jacket for the cooler mornings and evenings.
Yes, nearby villages offer cultural visits, where travelers can learn about the traditions and way of life of the Maasai people who inhabit the region.
Yes, it is safe to visit Kogatende. However, it’s important to follow all safety guidelines provided by your safari guide and tour operator for a secure and enjoyable experience.
Kogatende is unique for its remote location, providing a more exclusive safari experience, especially during the migration. The area also offers spectacular views of the Mara River and its dramatic river crossings.
Yes, many itineraries combine visits to Kogatende with other regions of the Serengeti, such as the central and southern parts, allowing visitors to explore different wildlife and landscapes.
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