Serengeti National Park

What you need to know about Serengeti National Park

Overview

The Serengeti is Tanzania’s most iconic safari destination and one of the world’s greatest wildlife reserves. Spanning 14,750 sq km (5,700 sq miles), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its endless golden plains, acacia woodlands, and abundant wildlife. The park is best known for the Great Wildebeest Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in search of fresh grazing, creating one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles.

The Serengeti is also home to Africa’s highest concentration of predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, making it a top destination for thrilling wildlife encounters year-round.

Wildlife & The Great Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration: The largest overland migration on Earth, where massive herds cross the Serengeti and Mara rivers in search of fresh pastures.
Big Five: Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and black rhinos.
Predators: Over 3,000 lions, one of Africa’s largest populations of leopards, and high numbers of cheetahs.
Other Wildlife: Giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, jackals, wildebeest, zebras, and 500+ bird species including ostriches and vultures.

Best Time to Visit

The Serengeti offers year-round game viewing, but the experience changes with the migration cycle:

December – March (Southern Serengeti & Ndutu): Calving season. Thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators.
April – May (Central Serengeti): Herds move north through Moru Kopjes; fewer tourists, lush scenery.
June – July (Western Corridor): Dramatic Grumeti River crossings with crocodiles waiting below.
August – October (Northern Serengeti): Famous Mara River crossings into Kenya’s Masai Mara.
November: Short rains, herds begin migrating south again.

Safari Activities in Serengeti

Game Drives: Morning and afternoon drives to spot predators and large herds.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Float above the plains at sunrise for breathtaking views (with champagne breakfast on landing).
Walking Safaris: Guided bush walks in designated areas with armed rangers.
Cultural Visits: Interact with the Maasai people in villages around the park.
Birdwatching: Especially rewarding during the green season (Nov–April).

[ FAQ ]

Common Questions

Where is Serengeti National Park located?

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania, forming part of a vast ecosystem that extends into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

What is Serengeti famous for?

The park is best known for the Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in search of fresh grazing.

What animals can I see in Serengeti?

You can see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), along with cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and a wide variety of bird species.

How do I get to Serengeti National Park?

You can reach the park by road from Arusha or by domestic flights to various airstrips within the park.

How many days should I spend in Serengeti?

A stay of 3 to 5 days is recommended to fully experience the park and increase your chances of seeing diverse wildlife.

Is Serengeti suitable for families?

Yes, it is suitable for families, though some lodges may have age restrictions for safety reasons.

Are game drives safe?

Yes, game drives are safe when conducted by professional guides who follow park regulations and wildlife safety guidelines.

Can I see the migration all year round?

Yes, the migration is a continuous cycle, but its location changes throughout the year within the Serengeti ecosystem.

Can I combine Serengeti with other destinations?

Absolutely. Many travelers combine it with Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, or a beach holiday in Zanzibar.

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