Overview / About

Stretching across the vast plains of northern Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife destinations a land where the rhythm of life follows the ancient pulse of migration. Covering nearly 14,750 square kilometers, the park is a mosaic of golden savannas, riverine forests, and acacia woodlands.

Established in 1951, Serengeti is Tanzania’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its name comes from the Maasai word “Siringet,” meaning “endless plains” a fitting tribute to its sweeping horizons.

The park’s greatest spectacle is the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebra, and gazelles move in a dramatic annual cycle across the plains, pursued by predators in a breathtaking display of nature’s balance.

Wildlife & Nature

Serengeti’s ecosystem supports one of the richest wildlife populations on Earth a timeless wilderness where life and survival unfold in raw beauty.

Key Species:

  • Big Five: Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros.
  • Predators: Cheetah, hyena, jackal, and African wild dog.
  • Herbivores: Wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, impala, giraffe, and topi.

Birdlife: With over 500 bird species, Serengeti is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Look for Kori bustards, secretary birds, marabou storks, lilac-breasted rollers, and African fish eagles.

Habitat:

  • Southern Plains: Endless grasslands where the Great Migration calves in January–March.
  • Central (Seronera) Region: Year-round predator action and the heart of most safari routes.
  • Western Corridor: River crossings and dramatic scenery along the Grumeti River.
  • Northern Serengeti: Home to the famous Mara River crossings (July–October).

Experiences & Activities

A safari in Serengeti is more than sightseeing it’s immersion in one of Earth’s last great natural theaters.

Top Things to Do:

  • Game Drives:
    • Early morning or evening drives reveal predators at their most active.
    • Night drives (in certain areas) offer glimpses of nocturnal species.
  • The Great Migration:
    • Witness wildebeest and zebra move across the plains, facing crocodile-infested river crossings one of nature’s most powerful dramas.
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari:
    • Float above the savanna at sunrise a surreal, unforgettable view of herds and horizons.
  • Walking Safaris:
    • Explore the park on foot with expert guides and rangers for a deeper, quieter experience.
  • Cultural Visits:

Meet the Maasai people living along the park’s borders to learn about their traditions and coexistence with wildlife.

Best Time to Visit

Serengeti is open year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to experience.

  • January–March: Calving season in the south; predators in abundance.

  • June–October: Dry season great visibility and dramatic Mara River crossings.

  • November–December: Short rains bring fresh grass and migrating herds returning south.

Best Months for the Great Migration:

  • April–June: Central and Western Serengeti.

  • July–October: Northern Serengeti (river crossings).

  • December–March: Southern plains (calving season).

  • Temperature Range: 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) year-round.

How to Reach & Park Entry

Location: Northern Tanzania, about 335 km from Arusha. By Air:
  • Seronera Airstrip (central Serengeti) and other smaller airstrips serve chartered or scheduled flights from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar.
By Road:
  • 6–8 hour drive from Arusha via Ngorongoro Conservation Area or Lake Manyara.
  • Roads are rough but scenic, offering glimpses of rural Tanzania.
Park Entry Fees:
  • Set by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA). Fees vary for citizens, residents, and foreign visitors.
Entry gates include Naabi Hill, Ndabaka, Klein’s Gate, and Seronera.

Where to Stay / Camping Options

Serengeti offers a wide range of stays from rustic camps to luxury lodges.

Luxury Lodges:

  • Four Seasons Safari Lodge: Elegant comfort in the heart of the park.
  • Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge: Panoramic views and classic safari ambiance.
  • Sayari Camp (Asilia): Luxury tented camp near the Mara River.

Mid-Range & Budget Options:

  • Seronera Wildlife Lodge centrally located with good access to game drives.
  • Kati Kati Tented Camp mobile camp following migration routes.
  • Public Campsites: Basic facilities for self-sufficient travelers, managed by TANAPA.

Travel Tips / Safety Notes

  • Book early: Especially during migration season, lodges fill up months in advance.

  • Clothing: Wear neutral colors; avoid white or bright tones.

  • Weather: Mornings and evenings can be chilly carry a light jacket.

  • Health: Carry insect repellent; malaria prevention is recommended.

  • Safety: Always follow your guide’s instructions never step out of vehicles without permission.

  • Connectivity: Limited cell and internet coverage inside the park.

  • Cash: Carry some Tanzanian shillings; cards may not always work.

Packing List

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing

  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

  • Binoculars and camera with zoom lens

  • Light jacket or fleece for cool evenings

  • Refillable water bottle

  • Insect repellent and basic medicines

  • Power bank or solar charger

  • Travel documents and park permits

Visitor Statistics

Serengeti National Park attracts around 400,000–500,000 visitors annually, making it Tanzania’s most visited park. Despite its popularity, the park’s vastness ensures that travelers can still find moments of pure solitude among the plains.

Conservation & Responsible Tourism

Serengeti’s ecosystem faces ongoing challenges from poaching and human-wildlife conflict to climate change. The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) and conservation partners like Frankfurt Zoological Society and WWF work tirelessly to protect wildlife and sustain the Great Migration. Travel Responsibly:
  • Stay in eco-certified lodges that support local communities.
  • Respect wildlife viewing distances.
  • Avoid littering or off-road driving.
  • Support Maasai artisans and community-run tourism projects.
The Serengeti remains one of Earth’s last true wildernesses a timeless landscape where life, struggle, and beauty flow endlessly across the golden plains.