The legendary Serengeti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the stage for the epic Great Migration and home to the densest concentration of large mammals on Earth.
Overview
The Serengeti ecosystem is one of the oldest and most scientifically significant on the planet. Its name, derived from the Maasai word "Siringet" meaning "endless plains," perfectly describes its vast, treeless grasslands that stretch to the horizon. It's most famous for the annual circular Great Migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebra, and antelope. However, its resident populations of predators (lions, cheetahs, leopards) and diverse landscapes from kopjes to rivers make it spectacular year-round.
Photo Gallery
Attractions
The Great Migration: The park's defining phenomenon.
Big Cat Populations: Arguably the best place in Africa to see lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
Seronera Valley ("The Big Cat Capital"): Riverine area rich in resident wildlife.
Moru Kopjes & Retina Hippo Pool: Famous rock outcrops and a dense hippo concentration.
Balloon Safaris over the plains.
Activities
Game Drives (Standard, full-day, and private)
Hot-Air Balloon Safaris (Departs from Central Serengeti)
Guided Walking Safaris (In designated areas/outside park)
Photographic Safaris & Workshops
Visit Olduvai Gorge ("Cradle of Mankind" archaeological site nearby)
Best Time to Visit
For the Migration: Varies by region: Dec-Mar (Southern Serengeti/Calving), May-July (Western Corridor/River Crossings), Jul-Oct (Northern Serengeti/Mara River).
For General Wildlife: Year-round. Dry season (Jun-Oct) offers easier game viewing as animals congregate.
How to Get There
By Air: Fly from Arusha (ARK) or Kilimanjaro (JRO) to one of several airstrips (Seronera, Grumeti, Kogatende, Ndutu). Primary access.
By Road: A long but scenic 8-hour drive from Arusha via Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Accommodation
Extremely wide range.
Luxury: Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Singita Grumeti, &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas
Mid-Range: Serengeti Serena Lodge, Kati Kati Tented Camp
Budget: Public campsites, Ikoma Safari Camp.
Location is Key: Choose your lodge/camp based on the time of year and the region you want to explore (South, Central, West, or North).
Local Culture
The park lies within the ancestral lands of the Maasai. While they no longer live inside the national park, their cultural presence is strong in the surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Weather Information
Dry Season (Jun-Oct): Sunny days, cool nights. Average 25Ā°C (77Ā°F). Very little rain.
Wet Season (Nov-May): "Short rains" (Nov-Dec) and "Long rains" (Mar-May). Hotter, humid, with afternoon showers. Lush and green.
Safety Tips
Tsetse flies are present; wear neutral-colored clothing and use repellent.
Never get out of your vehicle except at designated picnic sites.
Malaria prophylaxis is recommended.
Travel Tips
Book accommodation far in advance, especially for peak migration seasons.
The park is massive; plan to spend at least 3 nights to experience different areas.
A 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-top is essential.
Location Map
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Quick Information
Tanzania
Mara, Simiyu, and Arusha
-2.333300, 34.833300
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