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Serengeti National Park

The word Serengeti means "endless plains" in the Maa language, spoken by the Maasai people who live around the Serengeti National Park. This vast park is covered with grassland plains, offering breathtaking views of distant landscapes. A safari in Serengeti provides the quintessential African wilderness experience, making it an award-winning destination and the best national park for an African safari. Established as a national park in 1951, Serengeti was originally a game reserve (big game hunting ground). It is located in northern Tanzania and extends to southwestern Kenya. Serengeti National Park covers an area of 5,700 square miles (14,763 square kilometers) and is often referred to as the great grassland range in Africa, characterized by its expansive vachellia woodland. The park stretches 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast from the shores of Lake Victoria and extends 100 miles (160 kilometers) south from the Kenya-Tanzania border. The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem includes several protected areas, such as Serengeti National Park, the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and numerous game reserves and conservation areas, including Ngorongoro, that surround the region.

The Great Migration

One of the most spectacular events in the Serengeti is the Great Migration. This annual phenomenon involves over 1.5 million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras, and gazelles making a perilous journey across the Serengeti and into the neighboring Maasai Mara in Kenya. Driven by the search for fresh grazing and water, these animals face numerous challenges, including predation by lions, leopards, and crocodiles, as well as the harsh conditions of the land. The migration typically follows a circular pattern, with the herds moving northwest from the southern Serengeti during the rainy season (April to June), then crossing the Mara River into Kenya around July to September. They return south around November to January. Witnessing the sheer number of animals moving in unison is a breathtaking experience that draws tourists from all over the world.

Wildlife Diversity

Serengeti National Park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife. In addition to the Great Migration, visitors can expect to see the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceroses. The park also boasts cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, and over 500 species of birds. Each species contributes to the rich tapestry of life in the Serengeti, making every game drive a unique adventure.

Ecosystems and Landscapes

The park is divided into several regions, each with its unique characteristics:

Serengeti Plains

These are the most iconic areas of the park, characterized by endless, treeless grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see. This region is the main stage for the Great Migration.

Western Corridor

Marked by the Grumeti River, this area is known for its riverine forests and is a hotspot for spotting crocodiles and large groups of hippos.

Northern Serengeti

This remote and less-visited area is a beautiful blend of open woodlands and hills, making it a perfect place for those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience.

Seronera Valley

Centrally located, the Seronera Valley is a prime area for spotting predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Its year-round water supply makes it a vital area for wildlife viewing.

The Great Wildebeest Migration: Nature’s Grandest Spectacle

The Great Wildebeest Migration is not only the largest mammal migration in the world but also one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. This awe-inspiring event features millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thundering across the vast plains of the Serengeti. For many travelers, the epic river crossings at the Grumeti and Mara Rivers are the highlight of the migration. If witnessing this natural spectacle is your primary reason for visiting Tanzania, it’s essential to know where and when to find the herds.

Understanding the Timing and Movement

The exact timing of the Serengeti wildebeest migration varies each year, dependent on rainfall patterns. However, our experienced Tanzania Specialist guides can offer accurate predictions to help you plan your trip.

Migration Calendar: When and Where to Go

December to April: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu Area)

During these months, the wildebeest migration is concentrated in the southern Serengeti, particularly in the Ndutu area. February is a particularly remarkable time as approximately half a million calves are born on these southern plains. This period also attracts numerous predators, eager to take advantage of the vulnerable newborns. As April approaches, the herds start moving towards the central and western parts of the Serengeti in search of fresh, long grass, marking the beginning of the rainy season and the mating season.

May to June: Central and Western Serengeti

By May and June, the migration heads further north, preparing for the perilous Grumeti River crossing. The herds face significant danger from the river’s giant crocodiles. Despite the risks, the journey continues as the wildebeest and their companions push forward in their search for greener pastures.

July to September: Northern Serengeti and Mara River

From July to September, the herds reach the Mara River. This period is both dramatic and visually spectacular, as the wildebeest brave the fast-flowing waters and lurking crocodiles. In recent years, however, almost two-thirds of the herds have not crossed the Mara River, as sufficient fresh grass was available in the northern Serengeti.

October to December: Return to Southern Serengeti

In the final months of the year, the migration leaves the northern Serengeti and makes its way back to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, passing through the central Seronera region. This completes the annual cycle, ready to begin anew.

Plan Your Safari

Eager to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration? Explore our Tanzania Safaris or contact us for personalized advice to ensure you experience this incredible natural event.

Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering unforgettable memories of nature's grandest spectacle. Plan your visit to ensure you catch this magnificent event at its peak.

Things to do in Serengeti National Park

Exploring Serengeti National Park: Africa's Premier Safari Destination

Walking Safari

Embark on a multi-day walking safari to truly immerse yourself in the Serengeti's wilderness. Experience the thrill of walking amidst lions, elephants, and giraffes in remote areas inaccessible to vehicles. Connect with nature as you feel the African breeze, hear the distant calls of elephants, and marvel at the sights and scents of the bush.

Balloon Safari

For a unique perspective, take to the skies in a hot air balloon at dawn. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti’s endless plains and witness wildlife below as the sun rises. After your scenic flight, celebrate with champagne and a sumptuous English breakfast—a perfect culmination to this unforgettable adventure.

Great Migration

The highlight for many visitors, the Great Migration is a spectacle of nature where millions of mammals, including wildebeest and zebras, traverse the plains in search of fresh grass and water. Witness dramatic river crossings and predator-prey interactions, an experience that unfolds in different parts of the Serengeti throughout the year.

Game Drive

Explore the Serengeti’s diverse wildlife from the comfort of a 4x4 safari vehicle. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, embark on game drives to spot the Big Five and other iconic species roaming the park’s vast savannahs.

Bird Watching

With approximately 500 bird species, the Serengeti is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Spot the colorful lilac-breasted roller and endemic species like Fischer's lovebird, grey-rumped spurfowl, and Rufous-tailed weaver amidst the park’s open grasslands and acacia woodlands.

Serengeti National Park offers unparalleled opportunities to witness Africa’s natural wonders, making it a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast or nature lover. Whether on foot, in a balloon, or on a game drive, each experience in Serengeti promises to leave an indelible mark of adventure and discovery.

The Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park

The best time to visit the park is during the dry season (late June to October). However, the Serengeti is visited throughout the year, and some travelers prefer different durations as they can be best suited to match your interests. Here is a month-by-month guide to visiting Serengeti National Park:

January to February

• Beginning of Tanzania’s green season. Suitable for birdwatching.
• The famous Great Wildebeest Migration is concentrated in the Ndutu area and gives birth (calving season).

March

• This is a grey time, not clear if it will be dry or perhaps the rainy season will begin.
• Almost the end of the wildebeest calving season.

April to May

• It is expected to be rainy season, therefore very difficult to move around or enjoy the sun.
• Migration expected to be in south/central Serengeti.
• Less travelers.

June to August

• This is the beginning of the dry season and the peak season for safari visitors.
• Great Migration crossing Grumeti (west Serengeti) river in June.
• Great Migration making its way north towards the Mara river for the dramatic river crossings into the Masai Mara reserve.

September to October

• Still dry season.
• Travelers reduce.
• The migration is expected to be in Maasai Mara, Kenya.

November to December

• Short rains.
• Few travelers (small peak season from late December to early January).
• The migration is back, making its way to south Serengeti & north Ngorongoro.

Getting to Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania and extends to southwestern Kenya. The park can easily be reached either by ground or by air. You will first need to take international flights to Tanzania (Dar es Salaam airport, Zanzibar airport, or Kilimanjaro airport). From these airports, you can take a second flight to Serengeti National Park or travel to nearby towns like Arusha or Mwanza and then drive to Serengeti.

Getting to Serengeti National Park by Road

The most popular way to travel to Serengeti National Park by road is by booking a drive-in safari. Typically starting from the town of Arusha, the journey takes around 7 hours (318 km). Overnight stays at wildlife sites along the route are usually part of your safari itinerary.

Serengeti Access Gates

• Naabi Hill Gate: Main and most heavily trafficked access gate if coming from Arusha; 45 km from Seronera.
• Ndabaka: Main gate for Western Corridor; 1.5-hour drive from Mwanza and 145 km from Seronera.
• Klein’s Gate: In the far northeast, it allows a loop trip combining Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Natron.
• Ikoma Gate: Located between Tabora B and Ndabaka Gate.
• Tabora B Gate: Mostly used by those driving from north Tanzania regions (Mwanza) and heading to north Serengeti.
• Bologonja Gate: Not in use yet.

Serengeti Fly-In Safaris (Airstrips)

This form of getting to the park is dedicated to those looking for a faster and more convenient option. Arranged or private charter flights are ideal, and scheduled flights are available year-round from Arusha, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam.

Places to visit & Stay in Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park Zones

Serengeti National Park is a vast ecosystem mostly categorized into four zones: north, west, central, and south Serengeti. Each zone has distinct vegetation and experiences the Great Migration cycle, making each zone favorable at different times of the year. However, most animals are residents, so both zones offer great wildlife viewing year-round.

In the Serengeti, there are various accommodation options, with many located in central Serengeti. Seasonal lodges follow the migration cycle, moving between south, west, and north Serengeti to maximize wildlife sightings.

Accommodation Options in the Serengeti:

• Public Camping: Budget option available only in central Serengeti (Seronera) and northeast (Lobo).
• Special Camping
• Seasonal Lodges: Follow the migration cycle, located in south, west, and north Serengeti.
• Tented Lodges
• Lodges

Accommodation for a Serengeti safari tends to be expensive due to the need to import food and supplies from outside the park, along with various licenses and taxes.

Visiting Serengeti is an incredible experience, but choosing the right place to stay at the right time can be overwhelming due to the park's size and the seasonal variations in activities.