The Bush Telegraph of Lemala Kuria Hills, Serengeti, Tanzania
02 October 2024
One of our staff member’s recently visited Lemala Kuria Hills in the northern Serengeti in Tanzania, and read below for her feedback. Lemala Kuria Hills opened in 2013 and is one of the most luxurious properties within Lemala Camps & Lodges.
Location
Lemala Kuria Hills is nestled in the northern Serengeti, Tanzania, near the Mara River. Located within the Wogakuria Hills, part of the vast Serengeti National Park, this area is famous for its prime position along the route of the Great Migration, especially during the thrilling river crossings. The camp offers excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year, with panoramic views over the Serengeti plains. It is also situated near the Kenyan border and the Masai Mara National Reserve, enhancing the safari experience.
As there had been a lot of rain, the main road up to the lodge wasn’t accessible, however I was impressed that there were a few people working on the road and they provided us with an alternative way to get to the lodge, with minimal inconvenience.
Arrival and Check-In
Upon arriving at Lemala Kuria Hills, you are immediately greeted by the breathtaking scenery of the northern Serengeti. The welcoming staff assisted with the luggage and a welcome drink. While the paperwork was being completed, I looked around the well stocked boutique curio shop. One of the manager’s explained how the items go towards local charities.
We were shown through to the main lounge public area, where a lodge briefing was provided and offered another refreshing beverage, including a mocktail or cocktail. The rates are fully-inclusive and the staff do not shy away from providing you with plenty of refreshments of your choosing. There is a substantial bar. It wasn’t chilly when I stayed, but there are fireplaces which provide cosy meeting places for guests.
Once all the formalities were smoothly completed, I saw a comfortable pod swing set under a large shady tree and I sat here for a while to soak in the atmosphere and the views of the surrounding landscape. The staff do not rush you to and this start ensured that there was tranquillity and a tone was set for my stay.
On site was the group head ranger and trainer and he cordially introduced himself and provided us with some great wildlife insights.
Accommodation
When I was ready, the hostess swiftly showed me via a wooden walkway to the accommodation. She gave me a tour of the elegant and luxurious en-suite tent which leads out to a large private deck and a private plunge pool. There are 15 tents in total at this 5-star lodge. There are also expansive floor to ceiling large glass doors that provide uninterrupted views. She highlighted the spacious layout and pointed out the en-suite bathroom, which boasted a rain shower and deep bathtub, perfect for unwinding after a day of exciting game drives or after an early morning hot air balloon safari.
The extra large king-size bed was draped in fine linens and from the bedroom, the view of the savannah was nothing short of spectacular.
Some of the suites can be set up as triples, and four of which can be quads.
Although I do not want to mention this, the wifi was super fast and if you do need to check in with home or reply to the odd work email, then the suites are perfect.
Dining
As the sun was setting, we met in the outdoor boma area which is the start to a highlight of dining. There is an extensive wine list with both international and local wines. The knowledge staff can recommend pairings. After a sundowner beverage, we were shown to our beautiful set table under the stars at the Kuria main dining area. There were twinkling candle lights on the table and fairy lights in the trees. Those who know me, know that I love fairy lights, so I was definitely in ‘safari heaven’. The a la carte menu features a variety of options inspired by traditional African cuisine. I should also mention that you will sit at your own table and not with other guests or hosts.
The tour culminates in a tasting session, where you can savour freshly brewed coffee and appreciate the distinctive flavours of Tanzanian coffee.
Facilities
There is an in-house spa called Melengali Spa and they offer beauty treatments and massages. If I had time I would have definitely enjoyed the 60-minutes deep tissue massage for $80.
For families Lemala does provide a kiddies club for those under 12. Lemala Cubs is a unique children’s program offered at Lemala Camps in Tanzania, specifically designed to engage and entertain young travellers. The program focuses on nature-based activities to help children learn about the African wilderness in a fun and interactive way.
My USP’s
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Absolutely the location with the proximity to Mara River, a key point for witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration.
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The eco-friendly nature of the camp, with solar energy and other sustainable practices. The commitment to sustainability did not go unnoticed.
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Private plunge pool.
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The staff at Lemala Kuria Hills were exceptional, providing warm hospitality and ensuring a personalised experience. When I checked in, the concierge who showed me to my tented suite asked me what my favourite wine was and I said I only drink Sauvignon Blanc - not thinking anything further about it. Probably 10 minutes later there was a knock on the door and there was the friendly staff member who presented me with a chilled bottle of Warwick Wine Estate ‘First Lady’ and a glass. Wow was my first thought, what amazing and customised service this is!
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The food was outstanding, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I had put vegetarian as dietary requirements when I originally booked and the staff knew about this when dinner and breakfast was served.
Thank you
Thank you to James and Halima for arranging our stay, it was greatly appreciated. Also to express my gratitude to John Gregory the General Manager of Lemala Kuria Hills and your entire team for your hospitality and the incredible safari experience! From the moment we arrived, we felt so warmly welcomed, and every detail of our stay was handled with such care and thoughtfulness
Overall, I highly recommend the lodge for those seeking a luxurious and immersive safari experience in one of the best wildlife areas in the Serengeti. The expert team at African Safari Excellence looks forward to including this for your clients.
Contact African Safari Excellence to start planning your client’s East Africa experiences.
