Serengeti National Park

Park highlight

Serengeti National Park is Tanzania’s most famous wildlife reserve, celebrated for its incredible biodiversity and the annual Great Migration. Spanning over 14,750 square kilometers, it features vast plains, rolling hills, and acacia woodlands. 

The park is home to Africa’s “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes – as well as countless other species. Its name, derived from the Maasai word “Siringet,” meaning “endless plains,” perfectly captures its breathtaking landscapes. Serengeti is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a bucket-list destination for safari enthusiasts worldwide.

Attractions

The Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events, sees over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing. The park is home to abundant predators, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, offering thrilling game-viewing opportunities. 

Scenic landmarks like the Seronera Valley and Moru Kopjes are teeming with wildlife and ideal for photography. Grumeti River, famous for its crocodiles, and Lobo Hills, a lush area in the north, are must-visit spots. Visitors can also marvel at the endless plains and vibrant sunsets that define the Serengeti’s iconic beauty.

Activities to Do:

Game drives are the most popular way to explore Serengeti, offering close encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat. Witness the Great Migration, a breathtaking spectacle of millions of animals on the move. 

Hot air balloon safaris provide a bird’s-eye view of the park’s vast plains, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Guided walking safaris allow you to connect with nature on foot and explore areas inaccessible by vehicle. Birdwatching is exceptional, with over 500 species, including vultures, eagles, and secretary birds.

Best Time to Visit:

The Serengeti is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. For the Great Migration, the dry season from June to October offers spectacular river crossings at Grumeti and Mara rivers. 

December to March is ideal for calving season in the southern Serengeti, attracting predators and providing dramatic wildlife interactions. The wet season, from November to May, brings lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching, though wildlife can be harder to spot. Each season offers unique experiences, making Serengeti an exceptional destination any time of the year.

Climate and Weather:

Serengeti National Park has a pleasant climate, with daytime temperatures averaging between 20–30°C (68–86°F). The dry season, from June to October, has sunny days and cool evenings, perfect for game drives. 

The wet season, from November to May, is characterized by short rains in November and long rains from March to May. Despite the rains, wildlife remains abundant, and the scenery is lush and vibrant. Temperatures in the Serengeti vary slightly due to altitude, with cooler conditions in the highlands and warmer climates in the plains.

How to get There:

Serengeti National Park is located approximately 335 kilometers (208 miles) from Arusha and is accessible by road or air. Most visitors travel by safari vehicle, passing through Ngorongoro Conservation Area on the way. For quicker access, there are daily flights from Arusha or Kilimanjaro airports to airstrips within the park, such as Seronera or Kogatende.