Serengeti National Park.

Serengeti National Park is one of the parks in Tanzania that is located in the Northern region making the area a popular tourist destination. The Northern part consists of over 4 national parks which include Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, the Norongoro Crater, and ultimately Tarangire National Park.

When you go on a safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, you will see millions of wildebeests migrate across the Maasai Mara River to Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s largest park, reaches almost to Lake Victoria and shares a border with Kenya’s Masai Mara. It has 14,763 square kilometers in total size.

Without visiting the breathtaking Serengeti National Park, a safari in Tanzania is not worth it. Infinite grasslands are what the Maasai refer to as the Serengeti. Because of its beauty and diversity, you will be forced to visit the park as soon as possible. Situated 1.5 hectares north of Tanzania and extending into southern Kenya, the park is composed of Savannah grassland.

The Grumeti River in the Serengeti is the annual crossing point for large herds of herbivorous species, such as gazelles, wildebeests, and zebras. This annual migration is one of the most spectacular events in the region. The richness of the park also includes numerous endangered species, such as the black rhinoceros and many others.

History of Serengeti national park.

Originally, the Serengeti grounds were used by the Maasai to pasture their cattle. The Maasai word “siringet,” which implies a location where the land goes on forever, is whence the Serengeti gets its name. Stewart Edward White was the first American to travel to the Serengeti. He first traveled the northern Serengeti in 1913 and returned with his colleagues in 1920 with the intention of lion-hunting.
The region was designated as a conservation unit when the British government noticed the sharp decline in the number of lions there. Aside from that, the Maasai were relocated to the Ngorongoro conservation unit in 1959, where they are still housed. Tanzania’s tourism economy is led by the park, which is regarded as the country’s oldest national park and a model for others to follow.

 

Tanzania’s Serengeti national park was established in 1952 and is home to the world’s largest animal display, the great migration of wildebeest and zebra. There are several accomodation alternatives available, ranging from luxurious resorts to portable campers, due to the popularity of the area and its remarkable resident lion, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, and bird populations. The park is at least 5700 square miles in size, larger than Connecticut, with only a few hundred automobiles on the road.

Recently, elephants from nearby reserves have moved into Serengeti National Park due to habitat degradation and population development. Serengeti safaris and basic Serengeti tours are the only ways to witness this occurrence.

Wild dogs have disappeared from the park since 1991, the last time they were seen in the Serengeti. Over 10 distinct antelope species, over 500 different species of birds, over a million wildebeest, hundreds of zebras, and two distinct primates—the olive baboon and the black-faced monkey—all call the park home.

Location.

Located in the northern region of Tanzania, 7 hours’ journey from the popular tourist destination Arusha, along a decent Tarmac Road that passes through several cities, including Karatu. As we continue our journey, we pass beautiful views of the Great Rift Valley in the Lake Manyara National Park—famous for its tree-climbing lions—and observe baboons playing by themselves along the road that has been dubbed “School boys going to school.”

The drive is well worth it because you can observe the huge cliffs created by volcanism, stop at the lake Manyara viewing area on a high cliff, and take plenty of aerial photos of the park. After arriving in Karatu, we will go to the Ngorongoro crater, where we will receive clearance and pay transit costs in order to travel through this exceptional and stunning park.

With a good camera and binoculars, you may spot animals below the crater, which rises to a depth of 600 meters, at our second stop, the Ngorongoro crater vantage point, where we have the best aerial views of the crater. Free internet is available courtesy to the management of the Ngorongoro Conservation location Authorities, who enable our beloved guests to post live footage at this time, particularly on social media. The location is currently incredibly picturesque as the woodlands cover it with cool, fresh air.

Species to adventure in Serengeti National Park on your Tanzania Safaris Tour.

Amazing wildlife abounds in the park; it’s estimated that over 3 million huge mammals roam the plains in quest of new grassland. You can see the yearly migration of millions of zebras and wildebeests looking for water and food as the seasons change in May or early June.

In addition to Patterson’s eland, Klipspringer, Dik-dik, impala, gazelles, waterbuck, bushbuck, and reedbuck, topis, kongoni, cotton’s oribi, grey bush dicker, and roan antelope, there are large herds of all types of antelopes, with an estimated one million or more of these animals. The following are examples of carnivores: lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, hunting dogs, and jackals. Vervet monkeys, Colobus monkeys, Patas monkeys, spring hares, warthogs, Hyraxes, baboons, and mongooses are examples of smaller mammals. Giraffe herds are among the larger mammals; rhinos, elephants, and hippos are next in size. About 500 different bird species have been identified, including vultures, storks, flamingos, martial and fish eagles, and ostriches. Crocodiles, a variety of different types of snakes, and lizards are examples of reptiles.

Wildlife living in Serengeti national park.

In Tanzania, the Serengeti National Park is regarded as the best because of the variety of animals and birds it is home to enormous buffalo and elephant herds, enormous herds of antelope, warthogs, zebras, spectacular herds of wildebeest, giraffes, hyenas, lions, cheetahs, hippos, leopards, and, if you’re lucky, black rhinoceroses, are just a few of the park’s easy spotting animals.

A total of 500 different bird species can be found in the park. These birds include the rufous-tailed weaver, the Kori bustard, the Fischer’s lovebird, and many other exquisite species.

Activities to do in Serengeti National Park on your Tanzania Safaris Tour:

One of Tanzania’s most thrilling wildlife viewing safaris can be found in Serengeti National Park. Additional activities include bird watching excursions and balloon safaris, which typically follow the Grumeti river. One of the primary draws is the wildebeest herds’ annual migration from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara during the dry season, where they stay from July until October. As a result, fauna is more concentrated between December and June.

Game drives.

A game drive is an excursion that involves seeing animals while relaxing in a 4×4 open-sided safari vehicle that may seat 4 to 6 people, giving you the sensation of a traditional safari. One of the most popular ways to see animals in the Masai Mara is on safari game drives.
At the crack of dawn and in the evening, the park offers its visitors the chance to embark on wildlife drives. On this journey, you will get the opportunity to see gorgeous birds as well as elephants, buffaloes, wildebeests, warthogs, zebras, antelopes, lions, hyenas, leopards, and many other creatures.

The wildebeest migration.

The migration is one of the most breathtaking examples of animal behavior in the entire globe. The wildebeest migration is the largest animal movement known to exist on Earth. It is an exciting, captivating, and magnificent sight.

Every year, a large number of people travel from all over the world to witness this migration in the hopes of taking in this breathtaking sight. The sight of such massive animals creating enormous waves and splashes in the water as they move in quest of greener pastures is worth the visit, making this action mind-blowing and mouth-gaping.

Masai Mara people.

The indigenous population of the Serengeti National Park is known as the Maasai Mara. These folks have been residing in this park for more than 200 years and engage in a number of fascinating rituals and traditions. For those who enjoy history and culture, seeing these folks will be a fun adventure.

Olduvai Gorge.

Within the boundaries of the Serengeti National Park, there is yet another unique attraction. The remains of the first early man from roughly a million years ago were discovered here by archaeologist Dr. Louis Leaky. When visiting the Serengeti, this site is remarkable since it displays human history.

Moru Kopjes.

The black rhino can be easily seen here, and there are other predators that call this area of rocky terrain home. As a result, going there is exhilarating.

Retina Hippo pool.

As implied by the name, this is a body of water renowned for its massive hippos pods. You can observe various hippos fighting and swimming in the water at this location.

Grumeti River.

This body of water is inhabited by crocodiles on the coasts and in the water. It is entertaining to see various creatures, like wildebeests and zebras, risk their lives by crossing waters where predators are waiting to pounce on them. The river can occasionally be a serene and beautiful sight.

Seronera river valley.

With flowing rivers, grasslands, gorges, and plains, as well as animals grazing inside the park, this location is an incredibly attractive place to visit. The park’s distinctive vegetation and fauna are encapsulated in the valley.

Hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti.

This allows you the chance to observe the stunning scenery from a bird’s eye perspective. At first light, the hot air balloon will provide you a perspective of the entire Serengeti, complete with its fascinating reliefs and wildlife.

The Bologonja Springs.

The northern portion of the park is where you may find these lovely springs. Some of the Serengeti’s most beautiful views may be found at the Bologna springs. Water from the springs enables flora to flourish all year round. As a result, many different kinds of small primates, birds, migrating animals, giraffes, elephants, steenbok, mountain reedbuck, and many other plant-eating creatures are drawn to the area. You can tour them without encountering the sizable crowds found in the middle Serengeti due to their remoteness.

The Lobo Valley.

The Serengeti’s Lobo valley is the ideal location to see lions and other big cats. The valley’s plentiful prey and ongoing waterholes draw the big cats there. Along with large cats, other animals that frequent the Lobo Valley include baboons, elephants, and giraffes. The valley serves as the focal point of the huge migration between July and November. Visitors throng the valley to see zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles grazing on the region’s beautiful green grass.

Moru Kopjes.

Don’t forget Pride Rock from The Lion King. What a Kopje that was. The Serengeti plains are covered in rocky outcrops known as kopjes. Small lakes, flora, and shade can all be found there. In order to keep an eye out for prey, lions and other predators rest here. The most famous and stunning features of the Serengeti are the Moru Kopjes. Old Masai paintings might be found there as well. With binoculars, you may look out across the horizon from the summit of the Kopjes and enjoy stunning views of the lowlands’ fauna. Black Rhinos can be found most easily in the Moru Kopjes.

The Retina Hippo Pool:

This is where hippos wallow; it is not a swimming pool. Hundreds of hippos go to the pool, which is located in the Seronera area of the park. In the Serengeti, buffalo and hippos may be the two most deadly animals for people. You can watch them and get some nice pictures by the pool. Visitors are welcome to stroll around the pool while they observe the hippos squabbling for the best viewing areas. You can have lunch at the picnic area after viewing the creatures and taking pictures there.

Lake Natron:

The distance between Lake Natron and the Serengeti is four hours. Within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is where it is located. The lake is salty and over run with algae. Nevertheless, many creatures that enjoy salt have adapted to it. Numerous species, including more than 2 million lesser flamingos, are also seen around the lake. Here, flamingos thrive due to the profusion of algae and lack of predators or humans to interfere with their breeding cycles. If you love birds, the outdoors, or just want to try something new, this is a destination you should add to your bucket list.

Accommodation in the park.

The accommodation options at Serengeti national park is interesting, attractive and in abundance therefore there is no more worrying about where you will stay while you are in this park. The accommodations options are cheap and affordable to all the clients who might have approached this park. They are all budget, midrange and luxury.
NOTE: These accommodations have well experienced staff, welcoming, loving and caring.

Budget accommodations include.
Serengeti Simba:
This is a 4 star lodge property among all the Simba properties. Serengeti national park has got both outdoor poor and inside.
It is has also got a restaurant where clients converge while having their meals.

Serengeti Kati Kati Tented camp.

One of the Tanganyika Wilderness camps, it is a movable camp that can be found in the Serengeti and can be found in Kimarinshe, Makoma5, or the center of the Serengeti. It provides cozy lodgings with the chance to experience a true safari in the Serengeti plains, complete with animals and plants, including life in a tent.

Grumeti Migration camp.

It is situated in the Grumeti Wildlife Reserve, which is a part of the Serengeti National Park. There are ten distinct tented suites, as well as separate dining, lounge, and bar areas.

Ikoma Tented Camp.

It is a 3-star hotel with a restaurant and complimentary breakfast. The camp is roughly 8 miles from the Serengeti visitor center in the Robanda region of the Serengeti National Park. It features a garden and a bar.

Lobo Wildlife Lodge.

It is situated in the North Serengeti National Park, home to a wide variety of species, and it improves views of migration from the comfort of a sun lounger. It takes place along the migratory path of more than a million wildebeest as they try to survive. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is around 28 kilometers from the first lodge along the route from Kenya to Tanzania.

Luxury Accommodation in Serengeti National Park.

Four Seasons Safari Lodge.

It is situated in the Seronera region, in the Serengeti National Park’s central sector. With wooden pathways connecting the lounge, restaurants, reception area, pool, and spa, it stands slightly above the plains of the game fields and allows year-round game viewing. The Seronera region is renowned for its amazing wildlife. It also contains a man-made waterhole that draws wild animals, making it possible to sit back and see creatures from afar. It offers a variety of room styles, including terrace suites and waterhole views.

Roving Bush top Camp.

Roving Bush top Camp is a mobile camp that is available seasonally to serve the guest by viewing our attractive wildlife, vegetation and so on and ensure guests to get high chances of seeing the migration birthing season after which the camp moves back to sport of central Serengeti. The camps are easily accessible and too cheap to be afforded by any guest.

Lemala Nanyukie Tented Lodge.

The Eastern Serengeti location of Lemala Nanyukie offers guests a light contemporary interior 15 miles from Seronera Airstrip and 45 minutes by car. Visitors will also have an excellent possibility of observing the wildebeest migration at the Eastern Serengeti national park. It provides opulent services.

Siringit Serengeti camp.

For visitors arriving by road from the Ngoro Ngoro National Park, it is 6 km east of Seronera Airstrip and a one-hour drive from Nabi Hill Gate. It includes roughly eight luxurious canvas tents built to provide visitors with an upscale glamping experience.

Sayari camp.
It is a luxurious camp that is situated in the far north of the Serengeti National Park. The Mara River runs through the area from east to west, and the area is also known for the annual wildebeest migration when it is expected that the animals will be in this area. It provides excellent food and individualized services.

Midrange Accommodation in Serengeti National park.

Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge.
The lodge is one of Tanganyika Wilderness Camps’ properties and is situated in close proximity to several Serengeti attractions, including the Olduvai George Museum, the Seronera River, and the Grumeti River, which allows for year-round game viewing thanks to water availability and Maasai Kopjes. Additionally, it allows guests to watch the great migration from the comfort of their tents. There are 25 rooms total, including 5 family units with 2 connected beds, 2 quadruple rooms, and 13 double rooms. The resort is also reachable by plane and transfer, allowing guests to fly from Arusha or any other airport to Seronera airport before being driven to the inn in the rental car they have reserved.

Melia Serengeti lodge.

It is situated in the Mbalageti River Valley and 36 kilometers from Seronera Airstrip at Nyamuma Hills. It has a spa, a 24-hour front desk, and restaurants serving both traditional recipes and international food that are occasionally combined in a breathtaking environment. Additionally, the lodge has a mini-bar, free Wi-Fi, a safety box, coffee and amenities, and a swimming pool.

Serengeti Serena lodge.

Serengeti Serena lodge is located in Serengeti National Park. It provides a pool overlooking the Serengeti grasslands, individually decorated suites with balconies, and a traditionally carved dining room. When the timing is appropriate, it offers the chance to visit the Oldvai George Museum and be able to witness a variety of species at Grumeti River in Serengeti National Park because it is situated close to the Western Corridor, where the beest migration is possible. Arusha and Serengeti Serena Lodge are separated by about 335 kilometers. The lodge can also be reached by flying into a nearby airfield.

Serengeti Sopa lodge.

It is one of the Sopa lodges that is situated on the edge of an escarpment and offers views of the Serengeti National Park’s southern plains, which is home to a variety of species. Visitors have the opportunity to contact with species that are not present anywhere else while enjoying the stunning views of the park from the lodge. Children of all ages can stay at Serengeti Sopa Lodge because to its entertainment options, which also includes special meals for kids.

How to get to Serengeti National Park.

Serengeti National Park is easily reachable despite being situated in a somewhat distant area of our globe.

Most tourists begin their Serengeti safari journey at either the busy Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport. From here, you can take a quick transfer airplane or a safari vehicle to reach your choice resort. Additionally, you can combine the two to get the best of both worlds.

Travelling to Serengeti National Park.

The Serengeti is quite simple to visit, despite being one of the few locations where nature’s prehistoric laws and seasonal cycles have remained mostly unmodified. Flying to one of the park’s seven airstrips from Arusha is the most practical choice. An overland safari in a 4×4 safari vehicle from Arusha to Serengeti National Park can also be planned, stopping at one or more parks along the way. Of course, it’s also feasible to combine these choices; arrange a one-way overland safari in the Serengeti and take a flight back to Arusha. On going on a safari in Serengeti National Park, you may find out more about the many safari options.

Getting to Serengeti by air.
International air travel.

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is situated between the cities of Moshi and Arusha, is the suggested point of entry. The distance between the airport and the southern entrance of the park is roughly 200 miles/320 kilometers. There are a few possibilities for international travel, including KLM. Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Royal Dutch Airlines all fly often. Additionally, Kilimanjaro International Airport has daily connections with Nairobi (NBO), which provides extra options for international travel. British Airways, Emirates, and other airlines also fly into Tanzania’s capital city of Dar es Salaam (DAR). Please be aware that getting to Dar es Salaam can necessitate an additional overnight stay and a domestic flight on a small regional carrier with luggage limitations.

Regional air travel.

Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) are the preferred airports for Serengeti fly-in safaris. From here, a flight to one of the seven airstrips located inside Serengeti National Park will take between one and five hours. Local airlines like Grumeti Air or Coastal Aviation run all of the flights. When you land at the airport, a staff member from the lodge will pick you up and take you to your destination, where a cold drink will be waiting (please allow an additional 45 minutes to 2 hours for the road transfer, depending on the resort you have selected).

Another option is to take a flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport (WIL) or Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). The preferred airport for travelers coming from the Lake Victoria region is Mwanza Airport (MWZ). Additionally, there are direct flights from the Serengeti to Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, and other Tanzanian national parks like Tarangire and Lake Manyara.

Serengeti fly-in safaris (private air strips).

Want to get to the Serengeti quicker and more conveniently? The best option is a scheduled or private charter flight. Some of the more upscale hotels have their own airstrips, and direct scheduled flights as well as private charter flights can be arranged from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) to their airstrip.

Getting to Serengeti National Park by road.

Drive-in safaris are the most common way to get to Serengeti National Park by car. The drive-in safaris often begin in the town of Arusha. The journey from Arusha to the Serengeti National Park will take roughly eight hours, therefore an overnight stay at one or more wildlife spots in route is typically included in your safari itinerary.

Serengeti self-drive safaris.

The Serengeti National Park is reachable by (rental) vehicle, albeit it is not advised. Please be aware that driving alone through Serengeti National Park requires cautious planning. To be able to access all roads all year long, a 4×4 vehicle is necessary. In the Southern Serenget, Seronera is where gasoline is sold.

Serengeti National Park access gates.

Naabi Hill Gate.

The main gate, and consequently busiest, of the Serengeti. Seronera is located about 45 kilometers from Naabi Hills Gate. The gate is open daily from 6:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Ndabaka Gate.

Main entrance for the Western Corridor region; 145 kilometers from Seronera and 1.5 hours’ journey from Mwanza. Please be aware that last access is at 16h00 despite the gate being open daily from 06h00 to 18h00.

Klein’s Gate.

Klein’s Gate is situated in the Serengeti’s far northeast. Please be aware that last access is at 16h00 despite the gate being open daily from 06h00 to 18h00.

Bologonya Gate.

When traveling to or from Kenya, Bologonya Gate is located, but the border is currently closed and is not anticipated to open anytime soon.

Weather & climate Serengeti National Park.

The Serengeti is a sizable habitat with several seasonal variations in the weather and climatic conditions.
In general, the months of May through August are cool and dry; September and October are dry and warmer; and November through April are wetter and hotter.
However this weather has increasingly attracted a number of clients all over the country which has increased on the income that comes in to the country.

Temperatures in Serengeti.

Despite the stereotype that Africa is primarily an extremely hot continent, the climate in Serengeti is actually fairly pleasant and mild. Temperatures drop overnight and in the early morning hours, and it rarely reaches very hot. Seasons affect the minimum and maximum temperatures, with the wet season having the highest temperatures. In the dry season, temperatures in the Seronera region rarely fall below 13 °C on a chilly early morning and rarely rise over 37 °C on a hot day during the wet season.

Elevation affects the highest daily average temperature, which ranges from 15 °C near the crater highlands to roughly 30 °C near Lake Victoria. Serengeti National Park is a “cool island” in a considerably hotter area because of its height.

Rainfall periods in Serengeti.

In Serengeti National Park, there are two wet seasons. The first to loosen the hold of the dry season are the little rainfall in November and December. Although unexpected, your safari is not likely to be hampered by these rains. In the period from March through May, which are the months with the maximum rainfall, the long rains come after the short rains. Although it rarely rains all day, keep in mind that it does typically rain. The effect is that the landscape turns green, earning this season the moniker “green season.” Sometimes, especially in the north, the rains last for an extended period of time. Or the brief rains could completely fail, especially in the Serengeti’s southeast.

Rainfall gradient.

The northwest, close to the Kenyan border and the Masai Mara, receives up to 1,200 mm of rain annually, which is substantially more than the average 400 mm of rain that falls annually in the parched southeast plains. The Meru-Kilimanjaro mountain range and the Ngorongoro Crater Area cast a rain shadow over the Serengeti plains, resulting in little rainfall there. Winds from the Indian Ocean that are blowing south-easterly are pushed to rise over these mountains. The water in the air rains out as the air cools and condenses the moisture. Shifting winds, however, can bring moisture back inland from Lake Victoria, negating this effect and causing this variation in rainfall.

When to visit Serengeti National Park.

The Serengeti is always full of surprises, regardless of the year, and we don’t say that lightly.
Serengeti national park can be visited all the year round. Therefore, do not hesitate coming to visit the park because of the time.

With good reason, the Great Migration is the main focus of most tourists’ planning. We do, however, encourage you to explore the Serengeti’s numerous attractions in addition to “just” the Great Migration.

Whether you choose to schedule your Serengeti safari around the Great Migration is entirely up to you. As we’ve already mentioned, the Serengeti is a popular travel destination all year round because of its size and unmatched wildlife viewing opportunities. It is extremely unlikely that you will be present when the Great Migration herd crosses the Mara or Grumeti rivers. Furthermore, the timing of herd migrations is not always predictable.

Large herds of wildebeest and their companions, however, should be simple to spot if you choose the right area of the Serengeti: the southeast and Ndutu from December through to May, the Western Corridor from May through to July, the Serengeti Mara area from July through to October, and the northern Serengeti and Lobo area in October and November.

Follow the Great Migration.

Throughout the year, Serengeti National Park provides exceptional opportunities for animal viewing; all you need to do is know when and where to go to see one of nature’s last truly spectacular events, the Great Migration. For instance, the Southern Serengeti’s winter months are ideal for viewing the herd, whilst the summer and fall are ideal times to visit the Western Corridor and Northern Serengeti. It’s important to keep in mind that nature will be unexpected anywhere, including in this region of the planet.

As a result, chance plays a significant role in seeing the famous river crossing, which involves two million animals crossing a river while being jostled by rapids and crocodiles biting at their hooves. Having said that, enormous herds are typically visible in the Serengeti when the time is appropriate, and there is a good chance of witnessing an impressive migrational movement. Study up on the Great Migration.

Beyond the great migration.

Even though the majority of tourists are eager to witness the wildebeest’s breathtaking migration, Serengeti National Park has a lot more to offer. A few of the Serengeti’s spectacular animals include golden-maned lions lazing on rocks, an elusive leopard unwinding on an acacia tree branch, and a cheetah chasing a gazelle at full speed over the endless sunbaked plains.

There are several compelling justifications for avoiding the Great Migration. First, locations where the Great Migration may be viewed get crowded with tourists, which can interfere with your Serengeti safari experience. There is no need to follow the crowds because most predatory species—as well as most other wildlife species, with the exception of zebra and wildebeest—are territorial and do not stray too far from their homes. Additionally, throughout April and May, the majority of Serengeti safari camps and lodges offer significantly reduced prices (commonly called to as “green season” prices). Last but not least, the Serengeti (as well as the other national parks, including the Ngorongoro Crater Area) is far less crowded outside of peak times, yet the opportunities for wildlife viewing are still excellent.

Avoid the crowds.

You could find the center of the migration to be a little congested—with human species, that is—due to the large number of spectators attracted to unusual spectacles like the Great Trek. Particularly visitors who only stop by the Seronera region could believe that the Serengeti is congested, sometimes even uncomfortable congested. A big cat sighting in the wild, such as a leopard, cheetah, or lion pride, quickly draws a large number of safari vehicles. Many tourists, and as a result, their guides, are infatuated with big cats (including the Big Five) and believe that missing out on a sighting would be a loss. All cars will converge on a single sighting as soon as a big cat sighting is reported on the radio.

Seronera, which is the most accessible area of Serengeti National Park, is home to numerous lodges and campsites, therefore there is a solid reason for this. It has the effect of making the road network around Seronera, which is 10 kilometers away, quite active with safari vehicles. Simply said, if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time, you might believe that the Serengeti is overcrowded. It is not necessary to travel much farther to escape such sightings; one merely needs to meander (or rather drive).

We advise splitting your safari itinerary in two: one part during the migration action (and yes, you will experience heavier vehicle traffic), and the other part in a remote, off-season location, in order to avoid the crowds and experience Serengeti National Park as it should be experienced. The Western Corridor between August and October or the Mara Serengeti region between November and June are possibilities for the latter. The quality of wildlife viewing is virtually as good as in the Seronera area, but you will find much less tourists in these locations. Even at the height of tourist season, it is entirely possible to visit the Serengeti and encounter no (or almost any) other tourists.

Low season travel is your best bet if you like to have the Serengeti all to yourself. Mid-March to Mid-May (long rains), Early November to Mid-December (short rains), and the final two weeks of January are times when visitor numbers are low and camp prices are significantly reduced.

Seasonal Serengeti.

The dry season, which lasts from late June through October, is when most visitors choose to go on safari in the Serengeti National Park. For water, animals congregate near rivers and watering holes. You have the best opportunity of seeing an iconic river crossing now that the Great Migration is at its peak. The majority of lodges will stay open during the calmer “wet season,” when the rains transform the arid terrain into a lush, green sanctuary and the beginning of the birthing season. Learn more on this page about the weather and climate in the Serengeti.

Here are some benefits and drawbacks of the dry and wet seasons.

June to October – dry season.

PROS:

Wildlife converges around the water holes and rivers to take water.
The dense foliage thins out, making it simpler to see wildlife.
Expect bright, sunny days with afternoon temperatures of about 25°C (77°F).
Because there are fewer mosquitoes, there is a lower risk of malaria.
The Great Migration is simpler to observe, including, if you are lucky, these famous river crossings

CONS:

The Seronera portion of the park is very congested.
With minimum temperatures around 14°C/57°F at night and early in the morning, it gets pretty chilly.
Temperatures around freezing are possible with sporadic cold fronts.

November to May – wet season.

PROS:

The Southern Serengeti’s calving season runs from late January to early February, making it a great opportunity to observe predator activity.
A beautiful, green setting.
Lower prices and fewer visitors, particularly in April and May.
Observing birds is at its finest.

Rainfall occurs largely as brief afternoon storms from November through February, which hardly ever affects travel plans.

CONS:

The rainiest months are March to May, when it usually rains most days but not always all day. It’s frequently cloudy.
Around Seronera, it might get congested from January to March.

The Great Migration.

The approximately two million wildebeest, the main participants in the Great Migration, begin their journey in the southern Serengeti, where over 500,000 calves are born between January and March. Many seasoned Serengeti guides consider this to be their favorite time of year because there is so much activity and new life in the air. On this website, you may read all about the largest wildlife festival in Africa.

Why do wildebeest migrate?

The enormous wildebeest herd’s 800-kilometer journey is the world’s longest animal migration. The migration occurs when the short-grass plains’ nutrient-rich grasses become green during the rainy season. Because predators can be quickly identified, these locations are safer, making them the best places for calving. Wildebeest are compelled to migrate to the western corridor in search of greener pastures due to the drying of the plains. Although the ecosystem’s northern portion receives the most rain, the grasses there are the least nutrient-rich. Until the south turns green again, this is where the wildebeest seek refuge during the dry season. A clockwise rotation from the south, west, north, and back to the south is the end result.

The Great Migration in short.

There is probably no other place in the world that offers a more accurate illustration of the circle of life. When wildebeest calves are being born, the migration begins in the southern Serengeti. Thousands and thousands of calves are born within a few weeks of one another, providing a feast for the eyes of true wildlife fans. Predators like lions and hyenas are continuously looking for infants.

The herd heads north, towards the Masai Mara in Kenya, to feed on the tall green grass when the drought strikes in May. The gazelles and zebras follow shortly after. Risks associated with the journey include having to cross rivers in front of roughly 3,000 crocodiles that are waiting eagerly for a kill. Not to mention the lion population in the Serengeti, which is by far the largest in Africa. Despite the quantity of hoofed meat in the region, these huge cats struggle to survive in this harsh environment. However, witnessing a pride of lions working together to hunt down a wildebeest is an incredible sight.

The migration then returns to the Serengeti in late October with the start of the brief rains. By December, the circuit is complete as the herds wander past Seronera, a small village in the center of the Serengeti where the official Serengeti Visitors’ Centre is situated.

The Great Migration in detail.

You should probably aim to witness the Great Migration while on your Serengeti safari. So how can you make sure that you are present when it occurs? The short version is that you can’t. Realize that there is always a danger involved when choosing a time to visit the Serengeti. Although this is typically what happens—we’ve covered the Great Migration in depth below—keep in mind that there are no assurances.

The largest wildlife display of its kind in Africa, and possibly the entire world, is the annual migration of two million ungulates through Serengeti National Park, including huge herds of zebra, Thomson’s, Grant’s, and eland. Although there are fluctuations from year to year, the Serengeti migration has a fairly predictable annual cycle that is determined by regional rainfall patterns. The periods of the Great Migration cycle are as follows:

December-April.

The primary calving grounds are located southeast of Seronera, where typical Serengeti grasslands extend as far as the Ndutu region, close to Ngorongoro. The brief rains in November and December are what led them to relocate to this region. The wildebeest remain in this region until the lengthy rains finish, towards the end of April or the beginning of May. The good news is that this area of Serengeti National Park is open to visitors and that at this time the environment gets lush. The greatest time to explore the Ndutu region and the southeast plains is in February, which is often calving season.

Predators are drawn to the spectacle because there are so many ungulates, such as wildebeest and zebra, giving birth to so many offspring. The herd may re-locate in pursuit of better pastures as early as March or April. Although it is more challenging during this time to see the actual migration, you are likely to come across quite huge herds traveling.

May-July.

The wildebeest begin preparing for their 800-kilometer journey during this time, after having gorged on the short, green grasses of the southeast Serengeti and after having given birth to their young. Anywhere between late April and early June may serve as the actual commencement date. The opportunity to witness one of nature’s most amazing spectacles—more than a million creatures walking in a column as long as 40 kilometers—occurs right now.

The herd will go towards the Western Corridor during their migration, where they will encounter their first significant challenge: navigating the Grumeti River. Many animals don’t make it over since the region’s population of large crocodiles are waiting for them and are ready to pounce on them. Before crossing the river, the herd may assemble on the southern bank and remain there for up to two weeks.

August-September.

The herd travels further north after overcoming the Grumeti River challenge, beginning to cross the Mara River in July or August. Many famous images of the Great Migration were captured near the Mara River crossing. Following this crossing, the herd migrates to Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and the northwest plains. If you want to view the Great Migration as the herd migrate into the Masai Mara in Kenya, you should avoid going to Serengeti National Park between the months of August and September.

However, travel patterns reveal that around half of the herd remains in the Mara Serengeti region on the Tanzanian side. Smaller herds of wildebeest—well, consider them small—frequently cross the Mara River back and forth during this time for no obvious reason. Herds can range in size from 500 to thousands of animals. A stay at one of the Serengeti Mara campgrounds is ideal right now.

October-November.

The herd must at some point cross the Mara River again before beginning the journey back in a southerly direction. This is because the herd is traveling northward over the river. Normally, this occurs in October, although it can also happen earlier. The herd will go via the Lobo region and northern plains during this time. If you want to view the migration in comparatively peace and quiet, now would be the time to visit this area of Serengeti National Park because it is less frequently visited. In late November, the wildebeest make their way back to the calving grounds and short-grass plains near Ndutu. The Great Migration then restarts from this point.

Wildlife in the Serengeti.

The main draw of visiting Serengeti National Park is the opportunity to observe wildlife in a wide, untamed natural setting. You won’t be disappointed in the least, we guarantee it!

There is a lot to see and learn about in the Serengeti that it is difficult to include all the highlights in terms of wildlife viewing. From the fabled Big 5 of Africa to limitless herds of zebra and wildebeest, hundreds of different bird species, and many smaller critters like the endearing dung beetle.

The Big Five in the Serengeti.

The Big Five are the epitome of the African safari experience; witnessing these amazing animals, including the lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and Cape buffalo, free to wander in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. However, you might be curious as to why those particular species are included in the Big Five. A giraffe is quite large, too. ‘Big Five’ was not formed from the size of the animals; it was a term that big game hunters came up with. These creatures proved to be the most challenging to hunt, largely because of how fierce they become when trapped.

It’s a good thing that the Big Five in the Serengeti are now only “shot” by cameras. You can cross the Big Five off your list with the assistance of your guide and tracker. (And in the interim, let’s not forget that other wildlife, like giraffes or hippos, are just as fascinating to spot.)

Lion.

The experience of viewing a pride of lions in their natural habitat will stay with you forever. Lions are the kings of the African savannah. The Serengeti is home to some exceptionally sizable prides of lions, and they are relatively simple to see. Being highly gregarious creatures, lions live in prides. The females in a group hunt more frequently than the males, although the majority of them will cheerfully scavenge if given the option because sleeping under a tree is their favorite hobby, which they like doing for roughly 20 hours a day.

Leopard.

The leopard, sometimes known as “The Prince of Darkness,” has a magnificent coat and a graceful gait. This is the Big Five animal that is the shyest and most elusive. Leopards are great at the game of hide and seek because they can blend in with their surroundings flawlessly if they don’t want to be observed. The most likely place to see a leopard in the Serengeti is curled up on a branch of a tree. Their preferred location is among the sausage tree’s huge branches. In order to avoid being bothered by lions and other predators, a leopard may be eating lunch in a tree high above.

Buffalo.

The buffalo is not at all the lazy bush cow you may assume; rather, it is one of the most deadly creatures in Africa with few natural predators. Lions may attempt to attack a calf, but they will probably pay a price later when the herd exacts its vengeance. Buffalo frequently hang out near waterholes since they must drink every day. Although they have a reputation for having nasty tempers, especially when hurt, their knowing gaze—which one novelist famously put this way: “They look at you like you owe them money”—makes them fascinating to see. Buffalo are abundant in the Serengeti; there is a strong possibility you may witness herds of at least 1,000 of these fascinating creatures.

African elephant.

It’s the world’s largest land animal, and seeing one in its natural habitat is simply thrilling. In the Serengeti, these grey giants roam the plains and disappear into the woodlands. Female elephants live in close-knit clans and family bonds can last for 50 years. Males often leave the clan after 12 years to roam singly or form bachelor herds. Elephants frequently visit waterholes close to lodges. They are peaceful when left alone, but if an elephant feels threatened, get out of the way. Nothing scarier than being chased by an animal that weighs 7,000 kilos (imagine the weight of seven stacked cars) and trumpets loudly.

Rhinoceros.

The rhino, which weighs 2,500 kg, was a heavyweight in prehistoric times. African rhinos come in two varieties: black rhinos and white rhinos. As you might anticipate, the white rhino is grey like the others, not white. Early Dutch immigrants used the word “wijd” (wide), alluding to its large lips, which led to the name “white” being misunderstood. Unluckily, the rhino has a horn that is more valuable than gold. Poaching has severely harmed the Serengeti ecosystem’s rhino population over the past few decades, with rhino populations falling from 1,000 to less than 70 individuals.

The rhino is one of the most difficult creatures to see in Serengeti National Park because the female gives birth only once every five years. However, if you have a knowledgeable guide on your side, you might have luck.

Other wildlife in the Serengeti.

Because it is a special place of transition, the Serengeti is home to a wide range of wildlife. A wide variety of species and ecosystems may be found throughout the park as a result of the noticeable transition from the rich flat soils in the south to the poor hilly soils in the north.

The riverine woodlands are a special habitat and a favorite hangout for hippos and crocodiles. Long-neck giraffes and numerous other ungulates (creatures with hooves), including eland, zebra, topi, kongoni, impala, and Grant’s gazelle, are additional common animals. As previously said, all three huge cats are visible. Lions are common and frequently seen hunting prey. In contrast to leopards, which are normally seen relaxing in one of the large trees along the Seronera River, cheetahs are quite frequent on the south-eastern plains. Wild dogs are sadly uncommon, although hyenas are frequently seen. Learn more about various animal species.

Always on the fly: birdlife in Serengeti National Park.

There’s a considerable chance that after seeing the Serengeti, even if you’re not naturally interested in birds, you will become one. This is a birding paradise with more than 500 different species of birds documented. The majority of guides will be happy to point out all the unusual species in this region, such as the Fischer’s Lovebird with its vivid green and yellow coloring or the Kuri bustard with its remarkable white beard. The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem has five bird species that are unique to Africa, half of which are restricted to the Tanzanian side of the ecosystem. It is also one of Africa’s Endemic Bird Areas (area crucial for habitat-based bird conservation).

Best time for bird watching.

Fortunately, you can enjoy viewing birds in the Serengeti year-round, although between early November and late April is when it’s greatest. Not only are migrating birds from Europe and North Africa present during this time, but resident species are also laying their eggs. As a result, it is simple to identify birds in their eye-catching breeding plumage. Find out when it ideal to visit the Serengeti by reading more.

Insects in the Serengeti.

The Serengeti has fewer stinging and biting insects than North America and Europe, which is good news for anyone who dislikes such creatures (and who doesn’t?). However, this park has a fantastically higher diversity of other insects. Numerous of these little critters are essential to the local ecosystem, and many guides will excitedly go into greater detail about the significance of insects. Dungeon beetles, grasshoppers, termites, butterflies, moths, and ants are five of these important insect groups.
More Serengeti animals.

The Serengeti is home to other amazing wildlife species in addition to the Great Migration and the Big Five.

Everyone who visits Serengeti National Park is urged to look beyond the Big Five alone. It might be challenging to grasp just how diversified the Serengeti is due to the enormous range of animals it supports. We’ve included some of the highlights below.

Wildlife on the plains.

The Serengeti has the world’s largest herds of migrating ungulates as well as the highest densities of predators. According to estimates, there are between 1.3 and 1.7 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebra, and about 500,000 Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles. Around 7,500 hyena, up to 4,000 lions, and 500 to 600 cheetahs are supported by these herds.

Eland, Thompson’s gazelle, wildebeest, and zebra are among species that migrate over extremely long distances. The Grant’s gazelle travels a similar distance, but little is known about its route. The plains provide food for the migrants during the rainy season, but during the dry season they are home to fewer Grant’s and Thompson’s gazelles and ostriches. Although oryx are found on the Salai plains, it is unknown how many there are.

Wildlife in the woodlands.

There are numerous resident animal species in the woodlands. Although they can be found in all wooded areas, topi only exist in the western corridor’s and the Serengeti Mara region’s wetter plains and do not exist in the east. The eastern forests and long grass plains are preferred by the kongoni, a near relative. Elephants, buffalo, dik-dik, impala, and steinbuck are active throughout the woodlands but stay away from the plains. Elephant populations in the Serengeti were low around the turn of the 2000, but an aerial survey conducted in 2014 found over 8,000 animals in the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, up from a total of about 2,000 in 1986.

No matter the cause, elephant populations are substantially higher than they were even ten years ago, with the highest concentrations seen in the north. Some sources relate this growth to increased persecution outside of protected regions. The results of the same survey suggested that there may be 50,000 or so buffalo in the Serengeti.

Although you might witness giraffe wandering across the plains to the Gol Mountains and the Ndutu forests, giraffe are also found throughout the woodlands. Waterbuck are only found along larger rivers that have grassland. Riverbanks may also contain Bahor reedbuck. During the wet season, they are widespread across the plains of long grass, but they are most active at night. Although they are common, warthogs are rare in woodlands and uncommon on plains. There are several oribi in the northwest, while a few can be found in the northeast close to Klein’s Camp.

In addition to the northwest, grey duiker can also be found in the hills elsewhere. The magnificent Roan antelope lives in two regions: the south, close to Maswa, and the northwest, where it may be found in Kenya’s Ikorongo, Lamai, and Mara Triangle. Greater kudu are also seen in Maswa’s extreme south.

Wild life in riverine forests.

When in the riverine woodlands, remember to look both up and down. The forest is a terrific place to watch animals and birds because of the variety and richness of insects and plants. There are insects and seed-eating animals like the huge marsh mongoose, shrews, and banded mongoose. Plant-eating animals like duiker and bushbuck hide in the dense vegetation. Tree hyrax, which appear to be enormous rodents in the canopy above, are actually more closely related to elephants than they are to mice. Colobus monkeys, which are black and white, can be observed in the Grumeti River’s forested regions. Olive baboons and vervet monkeys are both common in the woodlands near water; baboons are particularly common along the western corridor.

The enormous crocodiles of the Grumeti and Mara rivers are resting in the rivers themselves, protected from the sun by forest trees. During the dry season, hippos spend their days immersed in the river or in emerald pools. These two species coexist together in the same little waters.

Serengeti predators.

Cheetah, hyena, and lion are among the larger carnivores that can be found in nearly all Serengeti habitats. When it comes to big cats, Serengeti National Park rarely disappoints. Numerous resident lions roam the plains around Seronera, the Simba, Moru, and Gol koppies on the major Ngorongoro road, and the Simba, Moru, and Gol koppies on the Tanzanian side of the Serengeti ecosystem. These numbers represent the 3000–4000 remaining lions in Africa. In this area, it is not unusual to observe two or three prides during a single game drive. Although many Serengeti prides are increasingly prone to dozing off in the trees on hot days, we frequently spot lions resting low in the grass or sunbathing on rocks.

Because they are secretive and elusive, the number of leopards is unknown. The Seronera Valley frequently witnesses them, however they are prevalent in the Serengeti. There are approximately 1000 leopards in existence, according to estimates. The estimated 500–600 cheetahs in the park are most numerous in the wide grasslands near Seronera and farther east toward Ndutu. Cheetah sightings are common.

Spotted hyenas are one of the more frequent predators to be observed in Serengeti National Park, maybe even more so than lions. In wide-open spaces like the plains, hyena create sizable herds, but in most woods, they live alone. On the plains around Seronera, golden jackals and bat-eared foxes appear to be the most prevalent canid species, whereas black-backed jackals are very frequent in the denser vegetation toward Lobo.

You have the highest chance of encountering nocturnal predators like servals, civets, and African wildcats while driving at nightfall or morning. African wild dogs, sometimes known as painted dogs, are a true rarity among predators. They were widespread until the 1970s, but a disease wiped out the entire population in the park in 1992. Since wild dog populations have been re-establishing in recent years to the northeast of the park in Loliondo, it is a blessing that they are a highly mobile and widespread species. Some traveling groups have even been spotted on the eastern plains. There have been numerous further importation from other regions of Tanzania, and the Serengeti’s wild dog population may number as many as 250 individuals.

Reptiles, amphibians & fish.

Many different species of creepy, crawly animals can be found in Serengeti National Park. The majority of these lizards, skinks, and serpents eat the numerous insects and rodents that are present in the grass, while some are only interested in the eggs of birds. Even larger animals like gazelles won’t stop a python from eating them. The leopard tortoise is one example of a crawler that also eats plants. Crawlers don’t all have to be tiny; the 1.5-meter-long monitor lizard lives in reeds and bushes. The huge freshwater crocodile of the Serengeti is the king of all crawlers, weighing over 800 kilograms and occasionally reaching lengths of over five meters. These extinct animals, who can live for more than a century, will gladly consume a wildebeest for dinner in its entirety.

The fish in Serengeti National Park are suited to exist in low-oxygen, muddy environments and can occasionally survive completely without water. a beneficial quality for the dry season. The catfish in the Mara and Grumeti Rivers, which may weigh up to 20 kilos, will occasionally drag themselves through the mud from pool to pool. Others, like the lung fish, totally bury themselves during the dry season, where they live in a cocoon beneath the cracked, dried mud. During the brief months of the rainy season, some smaller fish live to adulthood.

They reproduce and lay their eggs in the mud when the pools dwindle. When it rains again in December, the eggs somehow survive the hot, dry winds of August and September to give birth to the following generation.

Twenty different species of frogs have been identified through surveys, many of which are found in trees, grasslands, ponds, and other bodies of water. The chorusing of frogs trying to be heard over the background symphony of crickets and cicadas fills the nighttime sounds of the wet season. This is the soundtrack to the wet season in the African bush.

Insects.

Many visitors to Serengeti National Park are surprised by how few insects there seem to be. In reality, despite the fact that there are many less stinging insects than in North America or Europe, the diversity of insects is far greater. The Serengeti National Park is home to a wide variety of insects, including enormous rhinoceros beetles, swallow-tailed butterflies, and ants, beetles, weevils, and termites that live on the forest floor. Dung beetles, grasshoppers, termites, butterflies, and ants are just a few of the more prevalent insect species that are essential to the park’s ecology.

Dung beetles.

With over 400,000 (!) identified species, beetles are the most successful and diverse collection of creatures on Earth. Only a small portion of the Serengeti’s plains contain approximately 100 different kinds of dung beetles. Each of these species specializes on a particular sort of excrement during various seasons. The Serengeti would become inhospitable if dung beetles didn’t exist. The Serengeti receives several hundred tons of feces per day, which these wonderful creatures roll away and bury to the tune of up to 75% of it.

Their expertly made dung balls are buried, where they become homes for beetle larvae who consume the remaining nutrients, leaving a hollow earthen ball in their wake. On the Serengeti plains, when soil scientists dug pits, they discovered that 15 to 20% of the soil was made up of buried dung balls. The enormous volume of dung and soil that dung beetles transport helps to fertilize and loosen the soil and is a key factor in preserving the Serengeti ecosystem’s fertility.

Grass hopers.

The group of insects known as grasshoppers is diverse. Growing up causes physical shape and color changes, making it difficult to distinguish between the various species. Despite eating just fresh, green grasses, some people also consume flowers, seeds, and some even hunt other grasshoppers and other insects. According to estimates that take into account population size, grasshoppers may occasionally consume more grass in Serengeti National Park than any other animal population, including all wildebeest. In just a few collection points, scientists have discovered over 60 different kinds of grasshoppers in the Serengeti. The number of grasshoppers rises after the seasonal rains, luring huge groups of migratory birds to the Serengeti to feast on them.

Termites.
The Serengeti’s nutrition cycling depends heavily on termites. The majority of termite species are nocturnal, feeding on dead wood and grass. They develop and consume fungal forms that are supported in underground chambers by dead plant material. These chambers’ characteristic mounds are made from earth that has been combined with saliva. Some termite mounds have turret-like chimneys and can reach a height of three meters. Snakes, mongooses, and mice are just a few of the creatures that call the mount shafts home. Termite mounds are frequently used by cheetah, lion, and wildebeest to view the region from atop them. Even a slight climb of one meter on the plains provides a stunning perspective, making the effort to obtain food worthwhile.

Butterflies and moths.

Butterflies act as pollinators by feeding on flower nectar while flying low over the grass or darting from branch to limb in the woods. Because a sizable group of animals consume butterflies and moths, these insects have evolved outstanding defense mechanisms. These include concealment, radar detection, poisonous hairs, camouflage coloring, and big “eye” patterns on their wings that they flash to frighten predators.

Ants.

The most prominent ants in Serengeti National Park are biting red ants. Red biting ants are found in vast colonies. They don’t have a permanent abode like the majority of ants do. During the day, these ants prefer to hide in underground caverns or hollow tree trunks, but at night, they transform into ferociously marching predators. Huge armies of ants have the power to drive lions away from a slaughter while eating the remaining prey. The majority of the time, though, they seek simpler prey like insects, nesting birds, rodents, lizards, and geckos. Red ant roads periodically cross the road in the early hours of the morning during the rainy season as they make their journey home after their nighttime adventures.

Why does the Serengeti have so many animals?

The Serengeti is special because it is a place of transformation. From the rich flat soils of the southern plains to the -much poorer- hilly soils of the north, there is a clear transition. The south experiences significantly less rain than other regions due to a gradient in rainfall. Pockets of riverine woods that were left over from the Serengeti’s past as extensive lowland forests blanketed the area are also found there. Together, these factors cause a diversity of various vegetation types and habitats across Serengeti National Park. The diversity that underlies the wide variety of species that we see today (as well as their dynamics).