Serengeti National Park

On Safari in Serengeti National Park

The word “Serengeti” is derived from the Masai word for “endless plains”. But actually, the landscape of the Serengeti offers much more variety then most people think. In reality, the ecosystem is comprised of a wide range of landscapes, with areas of acacia forest, riverine vegetation, soda lakes and granite mountains. Each area has its own different character and range of wildlife and it is often worth combining two or three different areas in a single safari in order to take advantage of this variety. It’s here where yearly more than 2 million animals migrate in a circle of about 800 km, following the rain, searching for water and food. Without a doubt, the vastness of the Serengeti will leave you breathless. When the grazing is good, you’ll be sure to spot wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, ostrich, cheetah, hyena, leopard, lion, jackal and vultures!

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Where It's Located

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania, extending into southwestern Kenya, and is part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. It covers an area of approximately 14,750 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national parks in Africa. The park is easily accessible from Arusha, and it's one of the most popular destinations for travelers looking to experience an authentic African safari.

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What Time of Year to Visit

The Serengeti is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you're hoping to experience.

• For the Great Migration: The best time to witness the migration is from June to October, when the herds are in the northern Serengeti, crossing the Mara River.
• For Calving Season: If you’re interested in seeing the dramatic birthing season, January to March is the best time to visit, especially around Ndutu Lake in the southern Serengeti.
• For Bird Watching: The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 species recorded. The best time for birding is November to April, when migratory birds are present, and resident species are nesting.

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Which Animals Are Prevalent

Serengeti National Park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. The most famous residents include:

• The Big Five: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhinoceros
• Great Migration Animals: Wildebeest, Zebra, and Gazelles
• Predators: Cheetah, Hyena, Jackal, and Crocodiles
• Other Wildlife: Giraffes, Impalas, Warthogs, and a variety of antelope species
• Birdlife: Over 500 bird species, including the Usambiro Barbet, Fischer's Lovebird, and Grey-Crested Helmet-Shrike

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Who Should Visit

Serengeti National Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a classic African safari experience. It is ideal for:

• Wildlife Enthusiasts: The Serengeti offers unparalleled opportunities to see a wide variety of animals, including the Big Five and the famous Great Migration.
• Photographers: With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and dramatic moments like river crossings, the Serengeti is a photographer's dream.
• Nature Lovers: If you appreciate the beauty of vast, untouched landscapes, Serengeti’s varied ecosystems—from grasslands to riverine forests—will captivate you.
• Birdwatchers: With over 500 bird species, Serengeti is a fantastic destination for those interested in birdwatching, particularly from November to April.
• Families and Adventurers: Whether you're looking for a relaxed safari experience or an action-packed adventure, the Serengeti offers something for everyone, from game drives to walking safaris.

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Game Drives in Serengeti

Game drives in the Serengeti offer an unforgettable way to explore the park’s vast landscapes and witness wildlife in action. From the iconic wildebeest river crossings to the majestic sight of a lion stalking its prey, Serengeti’s game drives provide the opportunity to see some of the world’s most famous wildlife.

• Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley): The Seronera Valley is the heart of the Serengeti, offering endless grasslands and abundant wildlife. Here, you’ll find large herds of wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and gazelles. The iconic granite “Kopjes” provide habitat for many animals, including lions, making this area perfect for game drives.
• Northern Serengeti: This area is known for the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. As wildebeest and zebras brave the Mara River, crocodiles lurk, waiting for an ambush. If you're lucky, you may also spot predators like cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards.
• Southern Serengeti (Ndutu Area): This region is especially famous during calving season, from January to March, when over 1.5 million wildebeest give birth. The abundance of newborns attracts predators, making it an exciting time for wildlife enthusiasts.

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Birding Safaris in Serengeti

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Serengeti is not only famous for its large mammals but also for its incredible birdlife. With over 500 bird species recorded, it’s a paradise for birdwatchers. The park is home to both migratory and resident species, including the Usambiro Barbet, Fischer’s Lovebird, and Grey-Crested Helmet-Shrike.

• Best Time for Bird Watching: The best time to visit for birding is from November to April, when migratory birds from Europe and North Africa are present, and resident species are nesting. This is when you’ll get the best chance to spot birds in their vibrant breeding plumage.

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Walking Safaris in Serengeti

For those looking to experience the Serengeti from a different perspective, walking safaris are an exciting option. Led by expert guides, these safaris allow you to explore the park on foot, giving you a deeper connection to the environment. You’ll learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, from tracking animal footprints to identifying plants and insects.

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The Serengeti truly offers something for every type of traveler, making it a top destination for those seeking an authentic, unforgettable African safari experience. Whether you're interested in witnessing the Great Migration, spotting the Big Five, birdwatching, or enjoying a walking safari, the Serengeti has it all.

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