Wonder starts with its name. This spectacular destination got its name from the Maasai word “Siringit,” which means endless plains. And of course, expansive Serengeti plains stretch farther than the eye can see.

The park spans about 14,763 square kilometers, contributing a fair share to the 30,000-square-kilometer Serengeti ecosystem. This huge, diverse area also includes the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Maswa Game Reserve, Grumeti and Ikorongo Reserves, Loliondo Game Controlled Area, and Kenya’s Masai Mara.

Since its establishment in 1951, Serengeti continues to be a top-notch wildlife destination in Africa, inspiring generations with to wonders. It also holds a special designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. This incredible place on earth suits every traveler, whether on a budget or ready to splurge.

Why Visit Serengeti National Park?

1.    Witness the wildebeest migration

No doubt you’ve come across a scene of thousands of wildebeest crossing a giant river. Or you haven’t, hang on! Here is the whole thing. Every year in the Serengeti, over 1.5 million wildebeest move across the ecosystem in search of greener pastures.

The journey begins in the south of the park and continues to the north, where animals cross the fenceless Tanzania-Kenya border into the Masai Mara. The animals return to the southern grazing grounds, and the circle restarts. Here are some of the unique events you should anticipate watching.

• Calving season (January-March). The southern plains and Ndutu welcome over 500,000 calves in just three months – that’s roughly 5,000 calves per day, and on some days, the number can grow up to 8,000 calves a day. That’s hard to imagine, but it’s true.
• Grumeti River crossings (May-July). The herd arrives at the banks of the Grumeti River and realizes that they have to cross it to follow the greener grazing grounds in the north. These crossings are less famous, but they have something to offer.
• Mara River crossings (July-September). Here is the famous wildlife scene of all time. It’s the one we mentioned earlier and probably the most documented one. The beasts have to face the violent currents and hungry Nile crocodiles waiting to nab and feast on their flesh. It’s a dramatic scene.

It should be noted that the wildebeest migration is unpredictable. So, these dates are merely estimates. We recommend keeping in touch with us on the recent updates of this spectacular event.

2.    Large predator population

No other park hosts many predators other than the Serengeti. The diversity is incredible, and the population is superb. The park hosts the world’s largest population of lions. Hosting about 4,000 lions, this park is home to over 300 lion prides. And it is where fierce fights between the ‘kings of the jungle’ happen.

Lions are plains animals. Each pride rules hectares of plains as its territory, and when another pride enters it, the war begins. The most famous fight happened in March 2023, when Bob Junior, the then king of the Serengeti, was attacked to death by two rivals.

Again, Serengeti is an excellent place to see all the big cats – lion, leopard, and cheetahs (no tiger here). A full day drive in the Seronera is enough to tick them off the list. And there are other predators like wild dogs, spotted and striped hyenas, wild serval, caracals, jackals, wild cats, and more.

3.    Encounter the Big Five

The Big Five are a lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The name has nothing to do with their size. By the way, is a giraffe not bigger than a leopard? How about a hippo? Is it not bigger than a lion? Well, the term Big 5 originates from the terrible fate of these five animals. Back then, trophy hunters went on foot to kill animals for a trophy. But it is extremely dangerous to hunt these five animals on foot. Because once injured, they would kill the hunter.

Serengeti hosts all five animals, with the black rhinos being the rarest of them. However, with an expert guide, you’ll locate this large, historical mammal. The leopard also requires special attention to spot as it hides in an acacia tree during the day. The best time to see it is in early mornings and late evenings when it comes for a hunt or basks in the sun.

The other animals – elephants, buffalo, and lions are very abundant. You can spot them on daily game drives in the park.

4.    Watch birds

If you’re a bird enthusiast, you’ll enjoy your time in the Serengeti. You can spot the grey-breasted fowl, which is resident in grasslands and only endemic to Tanzania. Other birds include secretary birds, Fischer’s lovebirds, kingfishers, yellow-billed hornbills, and eagles.

Just a tip for you: bring a good camera and a pair of binoculars. Birds are small and usually afraid of human beings. Technology can help you to have a record of them.

Top Regions To Explore

• Central Serengeti (Seronera) – Best for year-round game viewing and hosts the big cats and the Big Five. It has a myriad of lodges and is perfect for first-timers.
• Southern Serengeti (Ndutu) – Best for witnessing the calving season; perfect for watching predators in action and harbors resident animals besides migration.
• Western Corridor (Grumeti River) – Perfect for watching the Grumeti River crossings, quiet, and remote. Harbors resident animals and is a gateway to the private Grumeti Reserve.
• Northern Serengeti (Mara River) – Remote, having different habitats consisting of rolling hills. Best for viewing the famous Mara River crossings, home to a large elephant population, and borders the Masai Mara.

What to do on a Serengeti safari

Game drives – you can start them early in the morning or finish the day with a sunset drive. Whenever you drive across the Serengeti, there’s magic in it, as there are animals everywhere.

Hot air balloon safari – this exceptional aerial flight showcases the Serengeti plains from another angle. It starts as early as dawn and ends at breakfast time.

Birdwatching – watch eagles, rollers, vultures, and the beautiful secretary bird. You may also spot migratory species that settle in the Serengeti for breeding.

Photographic tours – enjoy every shot as you drive on a private jeep, capturing every stunning wildlife moment. Whether you’re a film crew or a picture-loving individual, Serengeti has gorgeous photos for you.

Best Time To Visit the Serengeti

Each season offers unique wildlife experiences in the Serengeti:

·       Dry season (June to October)

Offers better game viewing trips due to dry trails, thin vegetation, fewer mosquitoes, and clear skies. Additionally, the wildebeest migration is at its peak this time. You can witness both the Grumeti and Mara River crossings.

This is peak season. So, Serengeti gets more congested, especially in the Seronera. Prices are also higher than in other seasons.

·       Wet season (November to March)

The vegetation is lush and ideal for photographers. Also, the calving season happens during this time, from January to March, and there are so many birds. However, the thick vegetation makes it harder to locate animals. Be ready for rainfall interruptions and slippery roads.

·       Low season (April to May)

During this season, you can enjoy private game drives, fewer crowds, discounted rates, and green scenery. But be ready for heavy downpours and bugs.

Getting to Serengeti National Park

By air

Serengeti receives direct flights from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar. Its main airstrip, Seronera, is at the center of the park and receives more flights than the rest. Other airstrips include Ndutu in the south, Kogatende and Lobo in the north, and Sasakwa, Fort Ikoma, and Kirawira B in the west.

By road

You can drive from Arusha to central Serengeti for 6-7 hours. This journey passes through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Other regions can be best accessed from this region.

Safari Accommodation Options

Whether you’re traveling on a shoestring or want to unwind in a five-star lodge or camp, Serengeti caters to all:

• Budget backpackers can stay in adventurous public campsites. There’s Seronera Campsite in central Serengeti and Lobo Campsite in the north. Another option is to stay in basic mobile tents.
• Midrange safari-goers can enjoy comfortable lodges and tented camps. Most of them offer full board and activities like nature walks, bush meals, and guided game drives.
• If you’re a luxury traveler, you can select all-inclusive lodges and tented camps. These usually have plunge pools, private decks, personalized services like mealtimes, butler, etc., and exclusive safari experiences.

Whether you’re a couple searching for a honeymoon escape or a family seeking a beautiful place, Serengeti fits you perfectly. As experienced guides, we are proud to show you the wonders of this park. With expert guides and trustworthy lodges and camps that we work with, we promise you won’t forget the adventure you’re about to embark on.

Are you ready for an adventure? Give us a call and let planning begin.