SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
SERENGETI – Great Migration & Safari Guide
Discover Serengeti National Park
The word Serengeti means “endless plains” in the Maa language of the Maasai people, who have lived around the park for generations. True to its name, the park features vast open grasslands stretching as far as the eye can see, creating the ultimate African wilderness experience.
Widely recognized as one of the best safari destinations in Africa, Serengeti National Park was established in 1951, making it Tanzania’s oldest national park. It covers approximately 14,763 square kilometers (5,700 square miles) and extends toward southwestern Kenya, forming part of the larger Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
Notably, this ecosystem includes the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, creating one of the most important wildlife regions on Earth.
The Great Migration in the Serengeti
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the park’s most famous attraction and one of the greatest natural spectacles in the world.
Every year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains in search of fresh grazing and water. Along the way, they face dramatic river crossings, predators, and ever-changing landscapes.
As a result, visitors can witness this incredible journey throughout the year, depending on the season and location within the park.
History of the Serengeti
The Maasai people were the first to inhabit the Serengeti plains, grazing their livestock here for over 200 years. Later, in 1892, Oscar Baumann became one of the first Europeans to explore the region.
Initially, the area served as a hunting ground. However, due to declining wildlife populations, conservation efforts began in the early 20th century. Eventually, in 1951, the Serengeti was officially declared a national park.
Why Visit the Serengeti?
There are countless reasons to visit Serengeti National Park. First and foremost, it is home to the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.
In addition, the park hosts an incredible variety of wildlife, including:
- Zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest
- Cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals
- Hippos, crocodiles, and warthogs
- Primates such as baboons and monkeys
Moreover, the Serengeti is a bird lover’s paradise, with nearly 500 species, including ostriches, flamingos, eagles, and vultures.
Top Things to Do in the Serengeti
Walking Safari
For a more immersive experience, walking safaris allow you to explore the wilderness on foot. As you move through remote areas, you’ll connect deeply with nature and experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the African bush.
Balloon Safari
A hot air balloon safari offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the plains at sunrise. After the flight, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the wild an unforgettable highlight of any safari.
Game Drives
Game drives remain the most popular activity. With an experienced guide, you’ll explore different of the park in a 4×4 vehicle, spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.
Bird Watching
With its diverse habitats, the Serengeti supports hundreds of bird species. Therefore, it is one of the best birdwatching destinations in Africa.
Best Time to Visit the Serengeti
The Serengeti is a year-round destination; however, the dry season (June to October) offers the best wildlife viewing.
January – February
- Green season begins
- Calving season in Ndutu
- Excellent for birdwatching
March – May
- Rainy season starts
- Fewer tourists
- Migration moves toward central and western Serengeti
June – August
- Dry season begins
- Grumeti River crossings
- Peak safari season
September – October
- Migration moves toward Kenya
- Fewer crowds
November – December
- Short rains
- Migration returns south
How to Get to the Serengeti
By Road
Most safaris begin in Arusha. From there, it takes about 7 hours to reach the park by road, often with stops in other like Ngorongoro.
By Air
Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Arusha to one of the Serengeti airstrips, saving time and adding convenience.
Where to Stay in the Serengeti
The Serengeti offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget campsites to luxury lodges.
Types of Accommodation
- Public campsites
- Private (special) campsites
- Tented camps
- Mid-range lodges
- Luxury lodges
Because of its remote location, accommodation costs are generally higher, as supplies must be transported into the park.
Best Areas to Stay by Season
December – March (Ndutu – South)
- Calving season
- High predator activity
- Seasonal lodges and mobile camps
April – May (Central Serengeti)
- Rainy season
- Lower prices
- Fewer tourists
June (Western Corridor – Grumeti)
- River crossings
- Dry season
July – September (Northern Serengeti)
- Mara River crossings
- Dramatic migration scenes
October – November (Central Serengeti)
- Great year-round wildlife
- Wide range of accommodations
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Serengeti is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you come for the Great Migration, the Big Five, or simply the endless plains, every moment in the Serengeti offers something unforgettable.