Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is one of the most well-known national parks in the world, covering approximately 14,763 square kilometers of northern Tanzania. Serengeti, known for its vast plains and stunning wildlife, is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem that includes Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Maswa Game Reserve, and Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

The Serengeti is most famous for the Great Migration – the grandiose movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles. These animals migrate in a circular pattern across the ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water, creating one of the greatest spectacles in the natural world.

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania, bordering Kenya’s Maasai Mara to the north and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the southeast. The park is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Access to the park is possible via road from Arusha (about 6-8 hours) or by flights into several airstrips within the park. The closest town is Mwanza on the western side, and Arusha serves as the primary hub for safari tourists.

The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. For the Great Migration, visit between June and October (dry season). Calving season in the southern Serengeti is from January to March.

Here are some activities you can do in Serengeti National Park:

• Game Drives: Morning and evening game drives offer opportunities to spot the Big Five and witness dramatic wildlife interactions.
• Witness the Great Migration: Depending on the season, you can see the migration in different parts of the park – river crossings in the north (July–September), calving in the south (January–March).
• Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Experience the Serengeti from the sky with a sunrise hot air balloon ride, followed by a bush breakfast.
• Guided Walking Safaris: Explore the park on foot with a trained guide for a more intimate encounter with nature.
• Visit the Retina Hippo Pool: A favorite spot to observe large numbers of hippos wallowing in muddy water.
• Cultural Visits: Meet the Maasai communities living near the park and learn about their traditions and lifestyle.
• Photography: Capture breathtaking views, dramatic predator-prey encounters, and unforgettable landscapes.

Serengeti National Park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife:

• Mammals: Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, jackals, impalas, topis, elands, and more.

• Birds: Over 500 species, including secretary birds, ostriches, vultures, eagles, storks, and flamingos in the wetter areas.

• Reptiles & Amphibians: Nile crocodiles, lizards, snakes, and frogs can be found throughout the park, particularly near rivers and waterholes.

Some of the most iconic sightings include:

• Lions: The Serengeti is known for its large lion population and frequent sightings, including prides hunting or lounging in the sun.

• Wildebeest Migration: Over 1.5 million wildebeest migrate across the plains each year in search of pasture and water.

• Cheetahs: Often seen in the open grasslands, especially in the southeastern parts of the park.

• Leopards: Usually found in the Seronera Valley, where acacia trees offer good camouflage and lookout spots.

• Hyenas: Frequently encountered in large clans and are an essential part of the Serengeti’s predator hierarchy.

Here are some popular lodges and camps in the Serengeti:

• Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
  Location: Central Serengeti
  Description: A luxury lodge offering elevated views, infinity pool, and direct access to wildlife.
• Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
  Location: Western corridor
  Description: Blending African architecture with modern amenities, it offers panoramic views and prime wildlife access.
• Sayari Camp by Asilia Africa
  Location: Northern Serengeti
  Description: A luxury tented camp ideal for witnessing the Mara River crossings during the migration.
• Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
  Location: Central Serengeti
  Description: A stylish lodge with excellent game viewing opportunities and comfortable facilities.
• Serengeti Migration Camp
  Location: Northern Serengeti
  Description: Overlooks the Grumeti River and offers front-row seats to migration activity.
• Ndutu Safari Lodge
  Location: Southern Serengeti/Ndutu area
  Description: Popular during calving season, this lodge is great for photographers and nature lovers.
• Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp
  Location: Seronera Valley
  Description: Offers luxury tented accommodations with excellent game-viewing and sunset vistas.
• Ang’ata Serengeti Camp
  Location: Central Serengeti
  Description: A mobile tented camp with a classic safari feel and close wildlife proximity.
• Mbalageti Serengeti Lodge
  Location: Western corridor
  Description: Offers stunning views of the Mbalageti River and migration routes.
• Serengeti Under Canvas (by &Beyond)
  Location: Mobile, follows the migration
  Description: Luxury mobile tents that move seasonally to stay close to the Great Migration action.