Serengeti National Park, located in Tanzania, is one of the most famous wildlife conservation areas in the world. Renowned for its vast savannas, diverse ecosystems, and the annual Great Migration, the park offers an unparalleled safari experience with over over 2 million wildebeests, 4000 lions, 1000 leopards, 550 cheetahs and about 500 bird species encompassed in a 5,000 square kilometer area.
Serengeti National Park boasts of its abundant wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Serengeti National Park attracts thousands of visitors every year, making it a top destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Location Of Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is situated in the northern part of Tanzania, covering approximately 14,750 square kilometers (5,700 square miles).
It is bordered to the north by the Kenya-Tanzania border, where it adjoins the Maasai Mara National Reserve. To the southeast lies the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and to the west is the Ikorongo and Grumeti Game Reserves.
The park’s landscape varies from open grasslands and savannas to woodlands and riverine forests, providing diverse habitats for a wide range of wildlife species.
How To Get To Serengeti National Park Tanzania
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Serengeti National Park is by air. Several domestic airlines operate scheduled flights from major cities like Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar to various airstrips within the park. The main airstrips include Seronera, Kogatende, and Ndutu, with Seronera being the central hub. Flights are also available from Nairobi, Kenya, to the park’s airstrips, making it accessible for international travelers.
By Road: For those who prefer a scenic road trip, driving to Serengeti is an option. The journey typically starts from Arusha, a major safari hub in Tanzania. The drive to the park takes about 6-7 hours, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. While the roads can be rough and bumpy, the drive offers stunning views of the Tanzanian countryside and wildlife along the way. It is advisable to use a 4×4 vehicle for this trip, especially during the rainy season when the roads can be challenging.
By Train: While there is no direct train service to Serengeti National Park, travelers can take a train to Arusha from Dar es Salaam and then proceed by road or air to the park. The train journey offers a unique perspective of Tanzania’s landscapes and is an option for those looking for a more leisurely travel experience.
When is the Best Time Of The Year To Visit Serengeti National Park?
December to March & June through October are the best time to Visit Serengeti National Park, although it largely depends on the type of wildlife experience you seek as you plan your movement around the migration.
Dry Season (June to October)
The dry season is considered the best time for game viewing. During these months, the vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.
This period also coincides with the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores move northward towards the Maasai Mara in search of greener pastures. The river crossings, especially at the Mara and Grumeti rivers, are spectacular and a highlight for many visitors.
Wet Season (November to May)
The wet season, particularly from December to March, is ideal for those interested in bird watching and witnessing the calving season. The landscape is lush and green, and the presence of newborn animals attracts predators, offering dramatic wildlife interactions. While the rains can make some roads difficult to navigate, the park is less crowded, providing a more intimate safari experience.
Main Attractions In Serengeti National Park
The Great Migration
The Great Migration is the park’s most famous attraction. This annual event sees over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and numerous other herbivores undertake a perilous journey from the Serengetito the Maasai Mara. The sight of vast herds moving across the plains, coupled with the dramatic river crossings, is one of the most remarkable wildlife spectacles on the planet.
Seronera Valley
Located in the central Serengeti, the Seronera Valley is known for its rich biodiversity and high concentration of predators. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are commonly sighted here, making it a prime location for game drives and wildlife photography.
Grumeti River
The Grumeti River, in the western corridor of the park, is famous for its river crossings during the Great Migration. Crocodiles and other predators lurk in the waters, providing thrilling moments as the herds attempt to cross.
Mara River
In the northern Serengeti, the Mara River is another key crossing point for the migrating herds. The crossings here are particularly dramatic, attracting numerous predators and offering unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Ndutu Region
The Ndutu Region, situated in the southeastern part of the park, is a calving ground for wildebeest during the wet season. This area is also excellent for spotting cheetahs and other predators that follow the herds.
Best Things To Do In Serengeti National Park
Game Drives
Game drives are the most popular activity in Serengeti National Park. Guided by experienced safari guides, these drives take visitors deep into the park to witness its incredible wildlife. Both morning and evening drives are available, each offering unique sightings and experiences.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
For a bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti, hot air balloon safaris provide an unforgettable experience. Floating silently over the plains at sunrise, visitors can observe the park’s wildlife from a unique perspective and capture stunning aerial photographs.
Guided Walking Safaris
Walking safaris, led by knowledgeable guides, allow visitors to explore the Serengeti on foot. These safaris offer a more intimate connection with nature, as visitors learn about the flora, fauna, and smaller creatures that are often overlooked during game drives.
Cultural Visits
The Serengeti is home to the Maasai people, who have coexisted with wildlife for centuries. Cultural visits to Maasai villages offer insights into their traditional way of life, customs, and ceremonies. Visitors can interact with the Maasai, learn about their livestock-keeping practices, and even purchase handcrafted souvenirs.
Bird Watching
With over 500 bird species recorded in the park, Serengeti is a paradise for bird watchers. The diverse habitats support a variety of birds, including raptors, waterfowl, and migratory species. Guided birding tours can help enthusiasts spot and identify different species.
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Serengeti National Park is by air. Several domestic airlines operate scheduled flights from major cities like Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar to various airstrips within the park. The main airstrips include Seronera, Kogatende, and Ndutu, with Seronera being the central hub. Flights are also available from Nairobi, Kenya, to the park’s airstrips, making it accessible for international travelers.
This period also coincides with the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores move northward towards the Maasai Mara in search of greener pastures. The river crossings, especially at the Mara and Grumeti rivers, are spectacular and a highlight for many visitors.