The Serengeti National Park
Overview:
The Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is one of the most famous wildlife parks on Earth. The name “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai word “Siringet”, meaning “endless plains” a perfect description of this vast, awe inspiring landscape.
Covering over 14,700 square kilometers, Serengeti is world-renowned for:
- The Great Migration
- Rich biodiversity
- Dramatic predator-prey interactions
- Iconic African scenery
Key Highlights of Serengeti
The Great Migration
- One of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa
- Over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate annually in search of fresh grazing and water.
- A continuous cycle between Serengeti (Tanzania) and Maasai Mara (Kenya).
Key moments:
- Calving Season (Jan–March): Southern Serengeti
- River Crossings (June–August): Grumeti & Mara Rivers (central & northern Serengeti)
- Return South (Oct–Dec)
Incredible Wildlife
- Home to the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino (though rhinos are rare).
- Other animals:Cheetahs, hyenas, jackals, crocodiles,Giraffes, hippos, antelopes, ostriches,Over 500 bird species
Stunning Landscapes
- Endless grass plains, acacia woodlands, kopjes (rocky outcrops), riverine forests, and seasonal swamps.
- Iconic African scenes perfect for photography.
Regions of Serengeti
Southern Serengeti Flat plains, calving area (Jan–Mar), Ndutu region.
Central Serengeti Heart of the park, year-round wildlife, known as Seronera area. Western Corridor River crossings (Grumeti River), migration passes here (May–June). Northern Serengeti Bordering Kenya; famous for Mara River crossings (July–Oct).
Getting There
- By Air: Daily flights from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar to airstrips within the park.
- By Road: 6–8 hours from Arusha (often combined with Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro).
Best Time to Visit
- Year-Round: Serengeti offers excellent game viewing all year.
- For the Great Migration:
- Jan–Mar: Calving season (Ndutu, Southern Serengeti)
- May–June: Grumeti River crossings (Western Corridor)
- July–Oct: Mara River crossings (Northern Serengeti)
- Dry Season (June–Oct): Best for general wildlife viewing
- Green Season (Nov–May): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, best for bird watching
Why Visit Serengeti?
- Experience the Great Migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth.
- See large predator populations in natural settings.
- Explore vast, untouched wilderness with minimal human presence.
- Opportunity for luxury, mid-range, or budget safari options.
Top Activities
- Game drives (sunrise, full-day, or sunset)
- Hot air balloon safaris over the plains
- Walking safaris (with armed guides in selected areas)
- Photographic safaris
- Cultural visits to Maasai communities near the park