Can I self-drive in Serengeti National Park?

Yes, but you have to do enough research on the route, parking, driving rules, and local traffic rules. Be sure to bring your driver’s license and prepare yourself for a bumpy, rough drive. We recommend a 4WD vehicle like an SUV or a Toyota Land Cruiser. The park prohibits Suzuki Escudo, three-wheeled vehicles, and motorbikes.

Are night game drives permitted in the Serengeti?

No, not in the main park. The park strictly prohibits any wildlife viewing activity at night. However, you can go for night safaris in the private reserves surrounding Serengeti, such as Grumeti Reserve, Ikorongo Game Reserve, Mwiba Wildlife Reserve, and Loliondo Game Controlled Area.

What is the best time to see the Mara River crossings?

The wildebeest start to cross the Mara between July and September. However, this timeline is just an estimate, not actual every time. The wildebeest are unpredictable in their movements and mainly depend on the rain pattern. We suggest that you keep in touch with us for recent updates about river crossings and other migration events.

When should I visit Serengeti for the calving season safari?

The calving season usually starts in January and ends in March. Between November and December, the wildebeest head south and settle in the fertile plains of Serengeti South and Ndutu. They give birth to about 500,000 calves in just two months. Should you be lucky to be in this region at that time, you’ll witness over 5,000 calves being born and extensive predator actions.

What should I pack for a Serengeti safari?

Packing light is king when going to the Serengeti. We recommend you bring essential clothing (light clothing for dry season and heavy layers for wet season), gear like sunglasses, sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable sneakers, and binoculars. We also advise you to bring a good camera, a reusable water bottle, a first aid kit, and any medications.

What to wear in Serengeti National Park?

Neutral colors like beige, khaki, brown, and blue. Avoid bright colors like yellow, red, and white as they make you stand out. Also, avoid dark blue and black because they attract tsetse flies and other biting insects.

We recommend long-sleeved shirts, long pants, a sunhat, and closed-toe shoes for protection while you’re in the wild. Bring fleece or a jacket for cold mornings and nights, and a rain jacket if you’re traveling in the wet season (November-May).

Are there accommodation options in Serengeti?

Serengeti is home to accommodations for every budget. High-end, commercial lodges and hotels are available if you want to blend luxury and nature. Midrange tented camps and lodges are also abundant if you want relaxing, affordable places. Budget camps and lodges, or basic camping, offer an authentic safari experience at low prices, ideal for budget backpackers.

What are the entrance fees for the Serengeti?

The entrance fee for foreign adults is $82.6 (VAT included) per person, and for children (between 5 and 15 years) is $23.6 per child. Fees are valid for 24 hours and non-refundable once paid.

Is it safe to fly on a hot air balloon in the Serengeti?

Yes, the park allows only qualified, experienced pilots to operate a hot air balloon safari. The weather is friendly, especially during the dry season with clear skies and fewer rains. Also, the crew will be sure the balloon and basket are in better condition before you fly.

Is there any chance to witness a river crossing?

Yes, chances are high if you stay longer, at 2-3 days. The wildebeest cross the river when they feel ready to do it. It’s hard to predict when they’re going to do it (by the way, who wants to enter a cage of lions with their eyes open). So, to maximize your chances of spotting them, we’ll stay at the crossing point for a time being to wait, and it might not happen.

But our trackers and guides will do their best to make sure you satisfy your desire to see this event.

Do I have to book a safari to the Serengeti in advance?

Yes, no matter when you’re coming to the Serengeti, booking in advance is important. Lodges usually sell out months before. If you’re traveling in July, for example, start booking as early as December or January.

Which payment methods do you accept?

We process payments made in United States Dollars via wire transfer, debit, or credit cards. For cash payments, we access US Dollar notes issued no later than 2006. Also, we recommend bringing Tanzanian shillings for daily use in markets, stores, tips, etc.

How much does a Serengeti safari cost?

The exact figure depends on your budget and how long you plan to stay. But as per our estimates, a budget traveler spends about $150-200 per day, while a luxury traveler can spend above $1,000 per day. The daily budget we have for budget travelers applies if you’re sharing the cost of a safari vehicle with others. If you’re alone, it may go beyond that.