Serengeti National Park
Explore Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park Safaris
The Serengeti, an ancient animal sanctuary spanning 14,763 square kilometers, is renowned for its lush plains and the Great Migration, a colossal journey of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other species seeking greener pastures. Divided into three sections, this ecosystem hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including the big five and over 500 bird species. From witnessing the wildebeest birthing to the treacherous river crossings and predator-prey dynamics, it’s a year-round spectacle. The park offers game drives, hot air balloon trips, and stunning sunset views. The best time to visit varies for specific events, but exploring the north during off-peak months can be surreal. With moderate temperatures year-round, it’s a haven for diverse species, including predators, giraffes, crocodiles, and hippos.
Highlights
- Witness the iconic Great Wildebeest Migration
- Quintessential savannah landscape with acacia woodlands and rocky kopjes
- Watch the sunrise on a hot-air balloon safari
- Stay in ultra-luxury accommodation or mobile tented camps
- Sensational game viewing and safari activities, including night drives
Interesting Facts about Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park stands as a captivating testament to the wonders of the natural world, drawing visitors from across the globe to its mesmerizing landscapes. Beyond its reputation as one of the most popular wildlife attractions globally, the park offers a profound connection to history.
As herds of wildebeest gracefully traverse the Serengeti valley, juxtaposed against the remnants of German forts from the First World War, a unique narrative unfolds. This juxtaposition creates an unforgettable spectacle, where the animal kingdom intersects with human history.
The vast expanse of the Great Rift Valley, adorned with extinct volcanoes and mountain ridges seamlessly merging into expansive plains, paints a picturesque panorama that extends towards the horizon in the West. These plains gradually transform into tropical forests, eventually leading to the shores of Lake Victoria, one of the largest lakes on Earth.
The harmonious coexistence of these diverse elements, both natural and historical, creates an enchanting experience that undoubtedly leaves visitors with a profound sense of magic and awe.
Why visit Serengeti National Park
The Great Wildebeest Migration
The Great Migration happens every year when about 1.5 million animals like wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles come together in one big group and move through the park to find fresh grass. It’s the biggest group of large animals in the world. They start in the south and move in a circle toward the north, with the most exciting part being when they cross the Grumeti and Mara rivers.
THINGS TO DO
Discover the Best of Serengeti National Park
Hot air balloon safari
Drones are not allowed in the Serengeti, so the only way to see the savanna from the sky is by taking a hot air balloon ride. From up high, you can enjoy beautiful views and take amazing wide-angle photos. The Serengeti’s endless plains, which inspired Disney’s ‘The Lion King’, look even more stunning from above.
Hot air balloon rides usually happen early in the morning, giving you a chance to see the sunrise over the plains. As the sun rises, animals like zebras, wildebeest, and elephants can be spotted roaming below. It’s a peaceful and unforgettable way to experience the Serengeti from a different angle.
Breakfast and dinner in the Serengeti Savanna
Many lodges in the park can set up breakfast or dinner outdoors in the Serengeti. This lets visitors enjoy a meal in one of the most beautiful places on earth, with the natural sounds of the savanna all around.
Eating under the open sky adds something special to the experience. You can watch the sunset or gaze at the stars while hearing the calls of nearby wildlife, making it a memorable and peaceful moment during your trip.
Serengeti National Park Photography
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Where to stay in Tanzania
Luxury Accommodation in Serengeti National Park
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Serengeti
By Safari Vehicle
Most safaris in Northern Tanzania start in Arusha, the nearest big city from Kilimanjaro International Airport. After arriving in Arusha, travelers rest and start their safari the next day.
Before getting to the Serengeti, visitors usually go through smaller parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro, which are on the way. Going straight to the Serengeti from Arusha can be tiring and takes about 8-9 hours. If you drive directly, you might not see many animals and would arrive at the Serengeti around 4-5 PM. You need to be at your hotel by 6 PM because staying out in the park after that is not allowed.
It's better to combine your Serengeti visit with other parks in Tanzania. This way, you can see the main safari spots of Northern Tanzania and end your trip in the Serengeti.
By Plane
If you only want to visit the Serengeti, flying is the best way. There are regular flights from Arusha and Kilimanjaro airports directly to the Serengeti. You can also book a charter flight that departs when you want and is only for you. The flight takes about 1-2 hours. When you arrive, a safari guide will meet you and start your adventure in the famous park.
The Serengeti has several airstrips. If you’re going to the central part of the park, you'll land at the Seronera airstrip. For the western part, use the Grumeti airstrip. The northern part has the Kogatende and Lobo airstrips.
Traveling from Lake Victoria
Most travelers go from Lake Manyara to Tarangire, then Ngorongoro, and finally the Serengeti. However, some start from Lake Victoria in the west and visit the Serengeti first. If you’re coming from Mwanza near Lake Victoria, it takes about 2-3 hours by off-road vehicle to get to the Ndabaka gate, the western entrance to the Serengeti.
The Serengeti is Tanzania’s third-largest national park. It’s usually split into four areas: Seronera (the central part), the Western Corridor, the southern part, and the northern part. To explore the park comfortably, it’s best to plan for four to six days. Spend two to three days in Seronera and the rest in areas where the Great Migration happens, depending on the season.
This time allows you to visit all the important spots and enjoy the most interesting places. You might want to add an extra day for relaxing at the hotel, especially if you have kids, as safaris and game viewing can be exciting but tiring.
If you just want to see Tanzania’s wildlife, you don’t need to go to the far-off parts of the Serengeti where the Great Migration isn’t happening. Most animals can be seen around the Migration areas, so a safari in these parts will give you a great experience without traveling too much across the park.
A safari can cost from $1,500 to $5,000. The price depends on how many days you go, where you stay, and what you do. Some safaris are cheaper and some are more expensive.
You can visit the Serengeti any time of the year, but it’s good to know how the seasons affect your trip:
Rainy Seasons
Tanzania has two rainy seasons. The "short rains" are from early November to early January, and the "long rains" are from late March to the end of May. Rain usually starts in the late afternoon when people are heading back to their hotels. Some days might be dry, while others can be rainy all day. During these times, the savanna becomes lush and green with new waterholes, and animals spread out across the park. However, thick vegetation can make it harder to spot smaller animals like servals, caracals, and dik-diks.
Safari lodges often offer discounts during the rainy season, making trips cheaper and less crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, this might be a good time to visit.
Christmas Holiday Season
The holiday season starts on December 20th in Tanzania. Even though it might rain, hotel prices are highest during this time, and it’s best to book your stay six months in advance.
Dry Seasons
From mid-January to the end of February and from mid-June to early October, Tanzania has dry seasons. Animals usually gather around water sources during these times. The Great Migration peaks in July and August, with many wildebeests and zebras crossing the Grumeti and Mara rivers.
Dry seasons are popular with visitors, so expect to see many other safari vehicles alongside yours.
Interseason
In March and June, the weather is relatively dry and clear, with fewer visitors compared to the dry seasons. This period offers a mix of both wet and dry season benefits and can be a great option if your travel dates are flexible.
Yes, it is safe if you go with a good guide and a trusted safari company. They know the area and the animals. Always follow the guide's instructions.
A good safari lasts 5 to 10 days. This gives you enough time to see different animals and visit different places without feeling rushed.
The Serengeti National Park is very famous. It has many animals and the Great Migration happens there. The Ngorongoro Crater is also amazing. It is a big volcanic crater with lots of animals inside. Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park are also good places to visit.
Yes, you can see the Great Migration in the Serengeti. It is a huge movement of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. They move to find fresh grass and water. The best time to see the migration is from June to July and from October to November.
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