SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA…
An Endless World of Wildlife

Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous and largest national parks in Tanzania, covering a massive area of approximately 14,763 square kilometers. That’s 5,700 square miles – close to 4 million acres. The park is located in the northern part of Tanzania, bordering Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, and is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem. The park is divided into three distinct areas, each with its own unique features: the Seronera Valley, the Western Corridor, and the Northern Serengeti.

Serengeti Wildlife

The Serengeti National Park is known for its vast, open plains that are home to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, including the famous Big Five – elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes. However, the park is best known for its annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazers move through the park in search of fresh grazing pastures. The migration is considered one of the most incredible natural spectacles on earth, and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Why the Serengeti is the Ultimate Safari Destination

Despite its size, Serengeti National Park is also known for its intimate safari experiences, as the park’s many lodges and camps offer a range of activities, including guided walks, hot-air balloon safaris, and night game drives, that allow visitors to explore the park’s vast expanses up close. Additionally, the park is home to a diverse range of habitats, from acacia woodlands to riverine forests, each with its unique wildlife species, offering visitors a rich and diverse safari experience.

The fastest and most convenient way to get from Nairobi to the Serengeti is by plane. The flight time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

But if you are looking to see all the wildlife of the Serengeti and beyond, starting with a pickup from Nairobi, take a Africa Kenya Safari tour such as our Best of Kenya & Tanzania Safari – we’ll collect you from anywhere in Nairobi for a magnificent tour of the Masai Mara, Serengeti National Park, and many more stunning East African safari destinations!

The Serengeti National Park is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary located in northern Tanzania, East Africa. Covering an area of approximately 30,000 square kilometers, it is one of the largest and most diverse game reserves on the continent. The park is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem, which encompasses adjacent protected areas such as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. With its expansive savannahs, rolling hills, and vast herds of wildlife, the Serengeti is a true African icon and a must-visit destination for any safari enthusiast.

The Annual Wildebeest Migration

One of the key attractions of the Serengeti National Park is the annual wildebeest migration, which sees millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the plains in search of water and grazing. This natural phenomenon is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the incredible spectacle. The migration typically takes place between June and November, although the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions.

Discover Diverse Wildlife in the Serengeti National Park

Aside from the migration, the Serengeti National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the iconic “big five” (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceroses, and Cape buffalos). Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and hot air balloon rides to observe the animals in their natural habitat. The park also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to basic campsites, making it accessible to a wide range of budgets and travel styles. Overall, the Serengeti is a truly magical destination that is sure to leave visitors awe-inspired and inspired by the natural beauty of Africa.

The annual migration of wildebeest and other herbivores in Serengeti National Park is one of the most spectacular natural events in the world. It is a continuous cycle of animals moving in search of water and fresh grazing areas. The migration is triggered by the rains, which determine when the herds will move to different areas of the park. Typically, the migration takes place from December to July, with the exact timing depending on the weather patterns each year.

What happens during the Serengeti migration?

From December to March, the wildebeest and other herbivores are usually found in the southern part of the Serengeti, where they give birth to their young. This is also the calving season, and visitors to the park can witness thousands of newborn animals taking their first steps. From March to May, the herds start to move northwards, crossing the Grumeti River and heading towards the central Serengeti. In June and July, the wildebeest reach the northern Serengeti and cross the Mara River into the Masai Mara in Kenya, where they stay until October before starting the journey back to the southern Serengeti.

Plan a Serengeti Migration Safari

Visitors who want to witness the migration in Serengeti National Park should plan their trip carefully to coincide with the best times to see the herds. The exact timing of the migration can vary from year to year, so it’s important to consult with our safari experts to determine the optimal dates for a visit. Our knowledgeable guides can take visitors to the areas of the park where the herds are most likely to be found and provide insight into the behaviour and movements of the animals.

The word Serengeti is derived from the Maasai language, which is an Eastern Nilotic language spoken in Kenya and Tanzania. In the Maasai language, “siringet” means “endless plain,” which is an accurate description of the Serengeti’s vast savannah landscape that stretches for over 30,000 square kilometres. The Serengeti is one of the most iconic and celebrated wilderness areas in the world, renowned for its incredible wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural significance.

Why is the Serengeti famous?

The Serengeti is located in Tanzania and is home to one of the most spectacular wildlife shows on the planet – the great wildebeest migration. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles make a perilous journey across the plains of the Serengeti in search of fresh grass and water. The migration is a natural wonder of the world, attracting visitors from all over the globe to witness this incredible spectacle.

Who lives in the Serengeti?

The Maasai people have lived in the Serengeti for centuries and have a deep connection to the land and its wildlife. They have a unique way of life that revolves around their cattle, which they graze alongside the wildlife in the vast grasslands of the Serengeti. The Maasai are one of the few remaining tribes in Africa that have managed to maintain their traditional way of life and are an integral part of the Serengeti’s rich cultural heritage.

The Serengeti National Park is famous for its diverse and abundant wildlife, making it one of the most sought-after safari destinations in Africa. The park is home to the Big Five – lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino – as well as numerous other species of animals, birds, and reptiles.

Animals of the Great Migration

One of the most famous wildlife spectacles in the Serengeti is the annual wildebeest migration, which sees millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the plains in search of food and water. This migration also attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and crocodiles, making it an incredible sight for visitors to witness.

More Animals of the Serengeti

Other animals that can be found in the Serengeti include giraffes, hippos, impalas, warthogs, baboons, and various species of antelope. The park is also home to over 500 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Overall, the Serengeti is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering an unforgettable safari experience with its incredible biodiversity.

Serengeti Tracker is a revolutionary app that has been developed by the Frankfurt Zoological Society, in partnership with the Serengeti National Park and Tanzania National Parks. This app allows visitors to the Serengeti to track the movements of the park’s various wildlife species in real-time. The app is available for download on Android and iOS devices, and provides information on the location and movements of animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and wildebeests.

How does the Serengeti Tracker work?

The Serengeti Tracker app utilizes data that is collected by GPS collars that have been fitted onto various animals in the park. The collars transmit data on the animal’s movements, and this information is used to update the app’s database in real-time. The app provides a detailed map of the park, with the various animal species displayed as icons that can be clicked on for more information. Users can also search for specific animals, and receive notifications when those animals are sighted within the park.

Why is the Serengeti Tracker important?

Serengeti Tracker has been hailed as a game-changer in the way that visitors experience the Serengeti. By providing real-time updates on the movements of the park’s wildlife, visitors can plan their game drives more effectively, and have a higher chance of seeing the animals that they are interested in. The app also promotes conservation efforts by allowing users to learn more about the animals and their behaviour, and by fostering a greater appreciation for the importance of protecting the Serengeti’s wildlife and natural resources.

Serengeti National Park offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to basic camping sites. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose to stay inside the park or outside in the neighbouring areas. Some of the most popular accommodations include Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, and Singita Faru Faru Lodge. These lodges provide luxury facilities and offer a wide range of amenities to make your stay comfortable.

Stay in Serengeti Tented Camps

For those who prefer a more authentic experience, there are several tented camps available in the park. The Serengeti Under Canvas is a luxury mobile camp that moves around the park, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience the wildlife up close. The camp is set up in secluded areas, providing an intimate and exclusive experience. Another option is the Serengeti Migration Camp, which is located in the northern Serengeti and offers stunning views of the Mara River.

Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Serengeti

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are several public campsites available in the park. These campsites are basic, but they offer a chance to stay inside the park and experience the wildlife without breaking the bank. Some popular campsites include Lobo, Seronera, and Ndabaka Gate. Keep in mind that these campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to arrive early to secure your spot.

The Serengeti is a hot and dry destination throughout the year, with temperatures varying depending on the season. From December to February, the Serengeti experiences its warmest temperatures, with average highs reaching around 85°F (29°C) and lows of 60°F (16°C). March to May brings the start of the rainy season, with average temperatures hovering around 80°F (27°C) during the day and 60°F (16°C) at night.

Serengeti Dry Season Climate

The dry season from June to October is one of the best times to visit the Serengeti, as the temperatures are slightly cooler, with average highs of 75°F (24°C) and lows of 55°F (13°C). The coolest months are June and July, and temperatures start to rise again in August and September, with highs reaching around 80°F (27°C) and lows of 60°F (16°C). The months of October and November are the start of the short rainy season, with temperatures ranging between 75°F (24°C) and 60°F (16°C).

Serengeti Temperatures During a Typical Day

It’s important to note that temperatures can vary throughout the day in the Serengeti, with early mornings and evenings being cooler than midday. It’s also important to come prepared with appropriate clothing for the varying temperatures and the potential for rain during the wet season. Dressing in layers and bringing a waterproof jacket are recommended.

The Serengeti Plain is a vast grassy plain that spans over 30,000 square kilometres (12,000 square miles), and it is located in Tanzania. The Serengeti National Park is part of this plain, and it is famous for its annual wildebeest migration, which is considered one of the world’s most significant natural spectacles. The Serengeti Plain is also home to various species of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and numerous species of birds. The plain is an integral part of the Serengeti ecosystem and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Tanzania.

Wildlife of the Serengeti Plain

Many safaris visit the Serengeti Plain to see the wildlife and experience the vast open grasslands. Some of the popular safaris that visit the plain include hot air balloon safaris, walking safaris, and game drives. Hot air balloon safaris offer a unique perspective of the plain from above, allowing you to see the animals and the landscape from a different angle. Walking safaris, on the other hand, allow you to get up close and personal with nature and experience the Serengeti Plain on foot. Game drives are the most common safari activity and offer an opportunity to see the wildlife up close and personal from the comfort of a safari vehicle.

Stunning Landscapes of the Serengeti Plain

In addition to the wildlife, the Serengeti Plain is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Tanzania. The vast grasslands stretch out as far as the eye can see, and the changing light of the day creates a stunning array of colors and textures. The sunrise and sunset in the Serengeti Plain are especially beautiful, with the golden light of the sun reflecting off the grass and casting long shadows. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone who loves nature, the Serengeti Plain is a destination that should not be missed.

The Serengeti National Park is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa, and for good reason. The park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. It’s also the site of the Great Migration, one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on Earth.

So, when is the best time to visit the Serengeti?

The Dry Season (June to October)

The dry season is the peak safari season in the Serengeti. The weather is warm and sunny, with little to no rain. This makes it ideal for game viewing, as the animals are easier to spot when the vegetation is not as dense. The Great Migration also takes place during this time, so you’ll have the chance to see millions of wildebeest and zebras on their annual migration.

The Wet Season (November to May)

The wet season is the low season for safaris in the Serengeti. The weather is hot and humid, with frequent rains. This can make game viewing more challenging, as the animals are more spread out and the vegetation is more overgrown. However, the wet season also has its advantages. The landscape is lush and green, and the birdlife is abundant.

The Shoulder Seasons (March to April and September to October)

The shoulder seasons offer a good compromise between the dry and wet seasons. The weather is still warm and sunny, but there is a chance of rain. This can make game viewing more challenging, but it also means that the park is less crowded.

No matter when you decide to visit the Serengeti, you’re sure to have an unforgettable safari experience.