Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s Wildlife Paradise

Home of the Great Migration and Africa’s Iconic Wildlife Experience

General Information

Serengeti National Park

Located in northern Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries. Covering approximately 14,750 km², the park forms the heart of the wider Serengeti ecosystem, extending into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Its vast open plains, rolling savannahs, and riverine forests are home to one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles — the annual Great Migration of over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.

Established in 1951, Serengeti is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is widely regarded as the crown jewel of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.

Facts About Serengeti National Park

  • The word “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai word “Siringet”, meaning “endless plains.”

  • It is home to over 70 species of large mammals and 500+ bird species.

  • Site of the world-famous Great Migration, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

  • Offers one of the highest concentrations of predators — especially lions and cheetahs.

  • Recognized as one of the oldest and most intact ecosystems on Earth.

Excursions and Activities

There’s more to Serengeti than just game drives. Popular excursions include:

  • Daily Game Drives – Morning, afternoon, or full-day wildlife safaris.

  • Hot Air Balloon Safaris – Glide over the savannah at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast.

  • Walking Safaris – Explore on foot with an armed ranger and guide for an up-close nature experience.

  • Cultural Tours – Visit local Maasai villages to experience traditional culture and hospitality.

  • Photography Safaris – Tailored trips for amateur and professional wildlife photographers.

  • Birdwatching Excursions – Ideal from November to April for spotting migratory species.

Best Time to Visit

Serengeti offers year-round wildlife experiences, but the best time depends on your interests:

  • Great Migration Calving Season:

    • December to March (southern Serengeti/Ndutu area)

  • River Crossings (Grumeti and Mara Rivers):

    • June to July (Grumeti), August to October (Mara)

  • Best Game Viewing (Dry Season):

    • June to October

  • Birdwatching & Scenic Landscapes (Green Season):

    • November to April

Most Common Animals in the Serengeti

Mammals:

  • Wildebeest (especially during the migration)

  • Zebras

  • Lions

  • Leopards

  • Cheetahs

  • Elephants

  • African buffalo

  • Giraffes

  • Hyenas

  • Hippos

  • Crocodiles (near the Grumeti and Mara Rivers)

Birds:

  • Ostriches

  • Secretary birds

  • Crowned cranes

  • Vultures

  • Eagles

  • Lilac-breasted rollers

Travel Time and Accessibility

By Air:

  • Scheduled flights available daily from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar to airstrips like Seronera, Kogatende, and Grumeti.

By Road:

  • Serengeti is about a 7–8 hour drive from Arusha via the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

  • Road travel offers scenic views and is commonly done as part of a longer safari circuit.

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