Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park: The Heart of Africa's Great Migration
At a glance
Useful facts for planning
In this guide
Why go
Serengeti National Park: The Heart of Africa's Great Migration
Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is one of Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations. Renowned for its vast savannahs, abundant wildlife, and the world-famous Great Migration, the Serengeti offers an unparalleled safari experience. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast or adventure traveler.
Where Africa's Heart Beats Wild
Key attractions
What to look for
The Great Migration
The Serengeti is globally renowned for the Great Migration, an awe-inspiring natural event where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds. This epic journey, driven by seasonal rains, creates dramatic river crossings and predator-prey interactions that offer spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. The migration typically takes place from June to October, with the herds moving from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara in Kenya and returning between November and May.
Serengeti Plains
The Serengeti Plains, a vast expanse of open grassland, are the heart of the park's ecosystem. This iconic landscape provides the perfect backdrop for game drives and wildlife photography. The plains are home to large herds of grazing animals, including wildebeest, zebras, and antelope, as well as their predators, such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Serengeti Ecosystem
The Serengeti National Park encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including woodlands, kopjes (rock outcrops), and riverine forests. These diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife and plant species. The park's varied environments create opportunities for spotting different species, from elusive leopards in the trees to herds of elephants in the woodlands.
Kopjes Kopjes
are unique rock formations scattered across the Serengeti Plains. These rocky outcrops provide vantage points for predators and offer shelter and nesting sites for various bird species. The kopjes also create interesting landscapes and are popular spots for wildlife viewing and photography.
Birdwatching Serengeti National Park
is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 500 recorded bird species. Notable species include the secretary bird, the kori bustard, and the lilac-breasted roller. The park's diverse habitats offer excellent opportunities for spotting both resident and migratory birds.
Practical planning
Useful before you go
Best time
The Serengeti can be visited year-round, but the best time to witness the Great Migration is from June to October. The dry season is also ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. The wet season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists but can involve heavy rains.
Getting there
The Serengeti is accessible by road from Arusha, which takes approximately 8-10 hours, or by air via scheduled flights to several airstrips within the park. Many visitors choose to fly for convenience and time efficiency.
Packing
Bring lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for both hot days and cooler evenings. Sturdy walking shoes, a camera, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat are essential. It's also advisable to pack a light rain jacket if visiting during the wet season.
Stay
Serengeti National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges and tented camps to more budget-friendly choices. Many lodges and camps are strategically located to provide easy access to key wildlife viewing areas and the Great Migration. Whether you prefer the comfort of a high-end lodge or the adventure of a mobile camp, there are options to suit all preferences. Accommodation options within and around the Ngorongoro Conservation Area range from luxury lodges and tented camps to more budget-friendly choices. Many lodges and camps offer stunning views of the crater or the surrounding highlands and provide convenient access to key attractions. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Gallery
A sense of place
Experiences
Ways to experience the place
Description:The quintessential Serengeti experience – guided by expert driver-guides who know the park's rhythms intimately. Witness lions lounging in the shade, cheetahs sprinting after prey, giraffes silhouetted against the horizon, and massive herds grazing under watchful skies.
Description:Follow one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles – the movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebra and gazelle, in their timeless cycle between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. Depending on the season, this can mean calving season in Ndutu (Jan-Feb) or river crossings in the Grumeti/Mara River areas (June-July).
Description:Float silently over the Serengeti plains at sunrise, watching herds move like rivers across the grasslands. The experience concludes with a bush-side champagne breakfast under the acacias – a rare and romantic safari indulgence.
Description:Step out of the vehicle and experience the Serengeti on foot with a professional walking guide and armed ranger. Learn to track wildlife, read animal signs, and connect with the smaller wonders of the savannah – from bird calls to medicinal plants.
Description:Visit a traditional Maasai boma (village) and learn about one of East Africa's most iconic cultures. Participate in traditional dances, observe beadwork craftsmanship, and hear stories of the Maasai's deep relationship with the land and wildlife.
3. Ngorongoro Crater Although technically a separate location, the Ngorongoro Crater is often visited in conjunction with the Serengeti. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a massive caldera that harbors a diverse array of wildlife within its lush, fertile basin. The crater's unique environment provides excellent game viewing opportunities and a striking contrast to the Serengeti's open plains.
3. Olduvai Gorge Olduvai Gorge, often referred to as the "Cradle of Mankind," is a key archaeological site within the conservation area. The gorge has yielded some of the world's most important fossil discoveries, including early human ancestors and ancient tools. Visitors can explore the Olduvai Museum to learn about the area's paleontological significance and view exhibits on early human evolution.
Serengeti National Park offers an unparalleled safari experience with its vast landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration. Whether you're witnessing the movement of millions of wildebeest or exploring the park's diverse ecosystems, the Serengeti promises a truly unforgettable adventure in one of Africa's most iconic natural settings.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers a captivating combination of geological wonders, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. With its stunning crater, abundant wildlife, and significant archaeological sites, the conservation area provides a truly memorable adventure and a deep connection to both nature and human history.
Plan the full journey