Serengeti National Park

Experience the endless golden savannahs where the Great Migration unfolds. Home to Africa's Big Five and the greatest wildlife spectacle on Earth, the Serengeti is where dreams of African safari come alive.

14,763 Square Kilometers
2M+ Migration Animals
500+ Bird Species
1951 Established

Serengeti Quick Facts

The word Serengeti comes from the Maasai language meaning "endless plains." Discover fascinating facts about one of Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations and home to the greatest show on Earth.

Location

Northern Tanzania, bordering Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve

Visitors

350,000 visitors per year from around the world

UNESCO Status

World Heritage Site since 1981

Famous For

The Great Wildebeest Migration

Serengeti Wildlife

The Serengeti is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the famous Big Five, over 500 bird species, and some of the largest concentrations of animals on the planet. Experience nature at its wildest and most spectacular.

Lions - Kings of the Savannah

Home to the largest density of lions in Africa with around 3,500 lions in over 300 prides. Witness tree-climbing lions in the Seronera region and observe fascinating pride behavior across the golden plains.

Leopards - Masters of Stealth

The elusive and graceful leopards can be spotted resting on sausage trees along the Seronera River. With patience and expert guides, witness these magnificent spotted cats in their natural habitat.

Cheetahs - Speed Champions

The southeastern grasslands provide perfect hunting grounds for cheetahs. Watch these incredible speed machines in action as they pursue their prey across the open savannahs.

Elephants - Gentle Giants

Over 7,000 elephants roam the Serengeti, often seen near waterholes and dense woodlands. Observe family groups as they navigate the endless plains in search of water and food.

Cape Buffalo

Imposing herds of Cape buffalo gather around waterholes throughout the park. These mighty beasts, known for their intense gaze and powerful build, are among Africa's most formidable animals.

500+ Bird Species

A birdwatcher's paradise featuring secretary birds, Kori bustards, Fischer's lovebirds, and five endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Best viewing from November to April.

The Great Migration

Witness the greatest wildlife spectacle on Earth as over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles embark on their epic 800-kilometer journey in search of fresh grazing and water. This ancient cycle of life and death has continued for millennia.

Migration Timeline

December - March
Calving Season in Southern Serengeti

The great herds gather in the Ndutu plains for the calving season. Over 400,000 calves are born in just a few weeks, creating a feeding frenzy for predators. This is the beginning of the epic journey.

April - May
Preparing for the Journey

As the long rains end and grass becomes scarce, the herds prepare for their northward migration. Witness massive columns of animals up to 40 kilometers long moving across the plains.

June - July
Western Corridor & Grumeti River Crossing

The herds face their first major challenge crossing the crocodile-infested Grumeti River. Many animals perish in this dramatic test of survival where the circle of life is most evident.

August - September
Mara River Crossings

The most iconic and dangerous part of the migration. Thousands of wildebeest plunge into the treacherous Mara River, facing massive crocodiles and strong currents in their bid to reach the northern plains.

October - November
Return Journey

With the short rains beginning, the herds start their journey back to the southern Serengeti. This quieter period offers exclusive viewing opportunities in the northern plains and Lobo hills.

Safari Activities

Experience the Serengeti through various exciting activities designed to showcase the park's incredible wildlife and landscapes. From classic game drives to hot air balloon safaris, each activity offers unique perspectives of this magnificent ecosystem.

Game Drives

Game Drives

Explore the endless savannahs in a 4WD safari vehicle. Morning and evening game drives offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active. Experience the thrill of spotting the Big Five up close.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Float silently above the Serengeti at sunrise for breathtaking aerial views of the migration and landscapes. Enjoy champagne breakfast after landing and witness the park from a unique perspective.

Great Migration

Migration Tracking

Follow the great herds during their epic journey. Experience river crossings, calving season, and witness the raw drama of survival in one of nature's most spectacular events.

Cultural Tours

Maasai Cultural Tours

Visit traditional Maasai bomas and learn about the indigenous culture that has coexisted with wildlife for centuries. Experience traditional dances, crafts, and ancient customs.

Walking Safaris

Walking Safaris

Available in select areas like Grumeti Game Reserve. Experience the bush on foot with armed guides, learning about smaller wildlife, tracking skills, and bush craft.

Kopjes Exploration

Kopjes Exploration

Explore the iconic rocky outcrops scattered across the plains. These granite formations provide vantage points for predators and shelter for various wildlife species.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti

The Serengeti offers spectacular wildlife viewing year-round, but different seasons provide unique experiences. Choose your timing based on what you most want to see and experience.

Dry Season (June - October)

The peak safari season with excellent wildlife viewing conditions and the famous Mara River crossings.

Advantages
  • Excellent game viewing
  • Animals gather at water sources
  • Clear, sunny days
  • River crossings occur
  • Minimal rainfall
Considerations
  • Peak season crowds
  • Higher accommodation rates
  • Dusty conditions
  • Cold nights

Wet Season (November - May)

The green season featuring calving, fewer crowds, and spectacular birdwatching opportunities.

Advantages
  • Calving season spectacle
  • Lush, green landscapes
  • Fewer tourists
  • Excellent birdwatching
  • Lower rates
Considerations
  • Afternoon rains
  • Some roads challenging
  • Denser vegetation
  • Higher humidity

Serengeti Accommodations

From budget-friendly camps to ultra-luxury lodges, the Serengeti offers accommodations for every taste and budget. Wake up to the sounds of the African bush and fall asleep under a canopy of stars.

Budget Options

Authentic bush camping experiences with basic amenities and incredible value for money.

  • Embalaki Authentic Camp
  • Serengeti Wild Camp
  • Tanzania Bush Camp
  • Ang'ata Serengeti Camp
  • Bougainvillea Safari Lodge

Mid-Range Options

Comfortable lodges and tented camps offering excellent service and prime locations.

  • Serena Safari Lodge
  • Acacia Migration Camp
  • Sopa Lodge Serengeti
  • Karibu Safari Camps
  • Wayo Africa Green Camp

Luxury Options

Ultra-luxury lodges with world-class service, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences.

  • Four Seasons Safari Lodge
  • Lemala Ewanjan Camp
  • &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas
  • Asilia Namiri Plains
  • One Nature Nyaruswiga

Ready to Experience the Serengeti?

Join us for an unforgettable journey to witness the Great Migration, spot the Big Five, and experience the raw beauty of Africa's most iconic safari destination. Our expert guides will ensure you experience the very best of the Serengeti.