Sanctuary Kusini is not only ideally situated to take in the thundering migration of hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, it also has their calving season right on its doorstep. Each year, between mid-December and March, these magnificent beasts gather on the grassy plains, bringing with them stalking predators that include the rare cheetah. It’s a sight taken full advantage of by Sanctuary Kusini, built around an elevated kopje rocky outcrop. They’re views taken in by the generously sized wooden verandahs of the camp’s twelve luxury tents. They either overlook wooded bushland or the plains themselves – ideal for some casual game watching. Back inside, each offers 48 square metres of space, host to oversized beds, plush furnishings and polished-wood floors.
But, the Serengeti features much more than wildebeest. Your included, twice-daily game drives will bring you out to spot everything from elephant and buffalo to hyena, giraffe and lions. If that’s not enough, the scenery is an attraction in itself, with sweeping grasses dotted with lonely trees and crossed by rushing rivers. It all makes for iconic African sunsets before the skies open up to giant starscapes; the camp even puts on included stargazing sessions, with guides pointing out cosmic constellations on bush walks. However, it’s perhaps the last included activity that’s the most intriguing. You’ll head out in a 4WD to contribute to the Serengeti Cheetah Project, tracking these majestic creatures and noting their behaviour and location.
Back at base, you’ll also be treated to superb, all-inclusive dining. Each tent has a personal attendant, who’ll wake you with freshly brewed teas and coffees before full English or Continental breakfasts are served at the lodge. In turn, lunches and dinners are either taken as an evocative bush picnic or an indulgent three-course meal at the camp. Whatever you choose, you’ll be delighted with ever-changing, seasonal menus. It’s all washed down with complimentary drinks; climbing up the main kopje is ideal for sunset cocktails and snacks, while the campfire is perfect for swapping safari stories.