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Serengeti National Park Tanzania Africa

When they talk of a living fauna paradise, one ought to see it in their lifetime! They mean Serengeti National Park Tanzania in Africa.

Located in northern Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most famous fauna destinations. The park spans over 14,763 km² (5,700 sq mi), bigger than Yellowstone National Park in the USA.

Serengeti National Park in Africa offers an unforgettable African safari experience, boasting endless plains of vast, open grasslands, the great annual migration of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles, and diverse fauna.

These include the Big Five, elephants, and many more; breathtaking golden light at sunrise and sunset, dramatic rocky outcrops, life-giving rivers and streams, teeming birdlife with over 500 species, and unspoiled wilderness, all steeped in cultural significance as the home of the Masai people for centuries.

The Serengeti in Africa is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem, which covers 12,000 square miles (30,000 sq km). The park is contiguous with the Ngorongoro Conservation Unit and Maswa Game Reserve and is considered one of the most productive ecosystems on earth.

Serengeti is a must-visit travel destination for wild animal enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, offering the thrill of witnessing the great annual migration, spotting the iconic Big Five, and capturing breathtaking photography moments amidst the untamed beauty of Africa’s most spectacular wilderness.

Where Is Serengeti Located in Africa?

Serengeti, one of the protected areas, is located in northern Tanzania, East Africa, spanning 14,750 km².

It’s situated in the Mara and Simiyu region, approximately 300 km northwest of Arusha, and borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

The park is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem, covering over 30,000 km², and is home to the largest unaltered animal annual migration on Earth, featuring over six million wildebeests and other ungulates like zebras and gazelles.

The park’s unique landscape of endless plains, rocky outcrops, rivers, and woodland provides a breathtaking backdrop for this phenomenon.

With its diverse predator-prey interactions, it’s a haven for animal enthusiasts and photographers and home to four globally threatened species: black rhinoceros, elephant, wild dog, and cheetah.

As one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa, Serengeti is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about fauna and the wonderful outdoors.

Untainted Serengeti National Park History

Tanzania Serengeti National Park has a rich history that spans over a century.

In 1930, a game reserve was established in the southern and eastern Serengeti parts, covering an area of 2,286 km².

It was named “Serengeti,” a word that comes from the Maasai people’s word “siringet,” which means “the place where the land runs on forever.”

In the 1930s, the Tanganyikan government established a system of national parks, leading to the creation of the Serengeti National Park Board of Trustees in 1948, aimed at administering the park and ensuring its protection.

The park was officially designated as a national park in 1951 and was granted strict protection.

The park’s boundaries were finalized in 1951, and in 1959, the eastern part of the park was split off to create the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which was intended to accommodate the traditional land use interests of the Maasai people.

The Serengeti gained international recognition after Bernhard Grzimek and his son Michael produced a book and documentary titled “Serengeti Shall Not Die” in 1959.

Today, the Serengeti is one of the most famous wild animal destinations in the world, known for its incredible migration of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles.

It is home to an astonishing array of fauna and has a unique landscape that provides a breathtaking backdrop for the incredible fauna that calls the Serengeti home.

Park Management of Serengeti National Park in Africa

The administration and management of Serengeti National Park in Africa is a complex process that involves various stakeholders and organizations.

Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) is the government agency responsible for managing and conserving the park, with a focus on conservation, sustainable tourism, community involvement, and research.

TANAPA works closely with non-governmental organizations, local communities, and international organizations to protect the park’s ecosystem and fauna.

The park management implements various conservation initiatives, regulates tourism activities, engages with local communities, and collaborates with stakeholders to promote conservation and sustainable development.

Effective park management is crucial for conserving the Serengeti’s unique ecosystem and fauna and requires collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders to promote sustainable development, community engagement, and sustainable tourism practices.

Stunning Geology of Serengeti National Park in Africa

Serengeti National Park in Tanzania boasts a diverse and complex geology, shaped by ancient rocks, volcanic ash, and recent sediments.

The park’s bedrock consists of Precambrian rocks, including granites and gneisses, formed over 2.5 billion years ago.

Volcanic ash from the Kerimasi and Ol Doinyo Lengai volcanoes has created layers of calcareous tuff and calcitic hardpan soil, supporting rich vegetation and diverse fauna.

The park’s geology has been influenced by tectonic processes, including faulting, folding, and volcanic activity, resulting in features like the crater highland (volcanoes, calderas), the Serengeti Plain, and the Great East African Rift Valley.

Serengeti’s soils, called vertisols, are rich and support various grass species and the Western Corridor is adorned with unconsolidated sediments and alluvial formations.

The seasonal waterholes and rivers, like the Grumeti, Mara, and Oldupai Rivers, play a crucial role in shaping the park’s ecosystems.

The Serengeti’s geology has created a unique and dynamic environment, supporting an incredible array of fauna and vegetation.

Geography Of Serengeti

Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, East Africa, spans an area of approximately 14,763 square kilometers (5,700 square miles) with features:

1)      Plains: The Serengeti Plains are the dominant physical feature of the park, which is a vast, flat plain formed by the erosion of ancient rocks covered in grassland plains, savannas, and open woodlands.

2)      Hills: There are several hills and rocky outcrops in the park, including the famous Kopjes (granitic outcrops).

3)      Rivers: The park has several rivers, including the Mara, Grumeti, and Mbalageti, which flow into Lake Victoria.

4)      Lakes: There are several small lakes and wetlands in the park, including Lake Ndutu and the Serengeti Swamp.

Beautiful Serengeti Climate

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti experiences a varied climate, with a cool and dry season from May to August, a dry and warmer season in September and October, and a wetter and hotter season from November to April.

Temperatures are moderate, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), with minimal extreme heat or cold.

The park has two rainy periods: the short rains from November to December and the long rains from March to May.

The rainfall gradient varies from 400 mm per year in the dry southeast Serengeti plains to 1,200 mm per year in the wetter northwest near the Kenyan border.

The dry season (June to October) is the best time for a Serengeti safari, with animals gathering around rivers and waterholes and the Great Annual Migration at its peak. However, the park can be crowded, and temperatures can drop at night.

The rainy season (November to May) has its advantages, such as lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower rates. But it can also be rainy and cloudy.

Serengeti’s climate is pleasant and moderate, with vegetation of mainly grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands, making it an ideal destination for safaris and wildlife viewing.

Serengeti Human Geography

The park has a small population of humans, mainly consisting of Maasai people who live in the surrounding areas.

Additionally, the parkland is primarily used for conservation and tourism, with some areas being used for subsistence agriculture and livestock grazing.

Diverse Sections in the Serengeti

The park is divided into more than three regions, or main sections: Western, Northern, Southern, and Central corridors.

  • The Western Corridor is a remote area that runs parallel to the Grumeti River and stretches to Lake Victoria.
  • The northern section is remote and relatively inaccessible, with wooded hills, open grassy spots, and granite outcrops.
  • The Southern Serengeti section is where the great annual migration begins in the southern plains.
  • The Central Serengeti section is the most attractive part of the park, with classic savannahs and fauna.

Amazing Serengeti Safari Areas 

The park is home to several safari areas, including:

Seronera & south-centralSoutheastern & Ndutu
Grumeti Game ReserveSerengeti Mara
Northern Plains & Lobo.

Unique Serengeti National Park Attractions to See on Serengeti Safaris

Serengeti National Park in Tanzania offers visitors numerous attractions or things to see, with the major highlight being:

1)   Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti Africa

The Great Annual Wildebeest Migration is a phenomenon where over a million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrate in search of food and water, which provide them with the nutrients they need to survive.

Where The Migration Is Witnessed:

The best places to witness the great annual migration are the Serengeti National Park, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Grumeti National Reserve.

The wildebeests travel in large herds, following the rains and the growth of new grasses, and move in a circular pattern, led by the wildebeests, followed by the zebras and then the gazelles.

How The Migration Happens:

The migration is a spectacular sight, with hundreds of thousands of animals making their way across the Serengeti plains, navigating treacherous river crossings, and encountering predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas.

What To Expect During the Great Migration:

During the breathtaking spectacle of the migration, you can expect to see:

  • Huge herds of wildebeests, zebra zeal, and gazelles traverse the expansive land.
  • Heart-pounding River crossings unfold as animals bravely navigate treacherous waters and evade predators like the big crocodiles.
  • Breathtaking scenery characterized by rolling hills, vast Serengeti plains, and picturesque valleys provides a stunning picturesque backdrop
  • Thrilling fauna encounters await, featuring formidable predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas that try to grab a meal.
  • As new births and deaths occur during the great migration in the calving season, you witness the eternal cycle of life in action.

When to See the Migration:

To make the most of your safari experience, plan your trip during the peak season (July-August), choose a reputable tour operator or guide, be prepared for long days and early mornings, and bring binoculars, a camera, and sunscreen.

Additionally, consider avoiding the crowds and taking advantage of lower rates during the green season (April-May).

Overall, the Great Wildebeest Migration is an awe-inspiring experience that highlights the natural world’s beauty and wonder.

While nature’s unpredictability may affect migration patterns, proper planning and preparation can help you witness this incredible spectacle and create lifelong memories.

Besides the Great Migration, there are other attractions you can see when on Serengeti safari tours, such as:

2)   Fascinating Animals of Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is a remarkable ecosystem, boasting the world’s largest herds of migrating wildebeest species and the highest concentration of predators, supporting over 500 bird species and numerous insects, and hosting dung beetles that bury up to 75% of the park’s dung. Serengeti animals include:

The Big 5

 

. 3,000+ Lions

. 1,000+ Leopards

. 5,000+ African elephants

. 53,000+ Buffalos

. 31+ Rhinoceros

 

Antelope Species

 

. About 1.3-1.7 million wildebeests

. 200,000+ Zebras

. 500,000+ Gazelles

. Impala

. Topi

. Hartebeest

. Waterbuck

. Greater Kudu (South Maswa)

. Kongoni

. Steinbuck

. Dik Dik

. Grey Duiker

. Roan (Ikorongo, Lamai, Mara Triangle)

 

Other Predators

 

. About 500-600+ Cheetahs

. 7,500+ Hyenas (spotted and striped)

. 250+ African wild dogs

. Serval

. Caracal

. civet

. African wildcat

 

Other Mammals

 

. Giraffe (Gol Mountains, Ndutu woodlands)

. Hippopotamus

. Warthog

. Olive Baboon

. Vervet monkey

. Mongoose

. Black and white colobus monkeys

. Tree Hyrax

. Bahor Reedbuck

. Oribi

 

Reptiles

 

. Giant Crocodiles

. Snake (various species)

. Lizard (various species)

. Leopard tortoise

. Serrated hinged terrapin

. Rainbow agama

. Nile monitor

. Jackson’s chameleon

. African python

. Black mamba

. Black-necked spitting cobra

. Puff adder

 

Insects

 

. Ants

. Beetles

. Grasshoppers

. Butterflies

. Dung beetles (over 100 species)

 

3)   Rare Bird Species in Serengeti Africa

The Serengeti is home to over 500 bird species, some raptors, waterbirds, waders, songbirds, and the endemics of the Albertine Rift, and they include

Masai ostrichSecretary bird
Kori BustardHelmeted guineafowl
Grey-breasted spurfowlBlacksmith lapwing
African collared doveRed-billed buffalo weaver
Southern ground hornbillCrowned crane
Sacred ibisCattle egret
Black heronKnob-billed duck
Saddle-billed storkWhite stork
Goliath heronMarabou stork
Yellow-billed storkSpotted thick-knee
Lesser flamingoShoebill
Abdin’s storkHammerkop
Hadada ibisAfrican fish eagle
Pink-backed PelicanTanzanian red-billed hornbill
Martial eagleEgyptian goose
African LovebirdSpur-winged goose
OxpeckerEagle (various species)
Vulture (various species)Stork (various species)
FlamingoPelican
Serpent eagleGoshawk
KestrelHarrier
BuzzardWeaver
SparrowStarling
HoopoeHornbill
Bee-eaterAfrican jacana
Greater FlamingoGrey heron
Black-headed heronPurple heron
African pipitYellow-billed shrike
Tawny eagleVerreaux’s eagle

Among several other species the park inhabits, these make this tourist place a birdwatcher’s paradise.

4)   Breathtaking Rivers and Lakes in Serengeti Plains

The Serengeti has several lakes, wetlands, and rivers that play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Here are some of the notable ones:

  • Lake Victoria: The largest freshwater lake in Africa and the source of the Nile River, located in the western part of the park.
  • Lake Eyasi: A saltwater lake located in the southwestern part of the park.
  • Lake Manyara: A shallow lake located in the northern part of the park.
  • Lake Natron: A saltwater lake located in the northeastern part of the park, known for its flamingo population.
  • Mara River: A major river that flows through the park and forms the border between Tanzania and Kenya (Masai Mara Game Reserve).
  • Grumeti River: A river that flows through the western part of the park and is known for its hippo population.
  • Mbalageti River: A river that flows through the eastern portion of the park and is known for its crocodile population.
  • Seronera River: A river that flows through the central part of the park and is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Ngorongoro River: A river that flows through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which is adjacent to the Serengeti.

These waterways support a wide range of aquatic life and provide water for the fauna in the park, offering incredible scenery, and are a great place to spot fauna, such as the elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

Other Unique Serengeti Landscapes

The Serengeti is a haven of diverse landscapes, featuring open grassland plains, woodlands, riverine forest, hills, and mountains.

This varied terrain supports a wide range of ecosystems, each home to unique fauna. Explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes, including:

  1. Endless plains, woodlands, acacia trees, and whistling thorns are scattered throughout the broken and open sun-drenched savannas and grasslands, perfect for spotting the Big Five.
  2. Gol Mountains comprise hills and mountains that stretch across the northern part of the park.
  3. Central Ranges consist of a series of hills and mountains that run through the center of the park.
  4. The Nyaraboro-Itonjo plateau forms the western boundary of the park.
  5. Moru Kopjes: A series of rocky outcrops and hills that are ideal for spotting fauna (lion herds, leopards, elephants, and black rhinos).
  6. Simba Kopje is a prominent rocky outcrop that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  7. Lobo Hills offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Serengeti plains.
  8. Kisaru Hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  9. Nyamuma Hills form part of the park’s western boundary.
  10. Retina Hippo Pool is a popular spot for watching hippos and taking photos.
  11. Seronera River Valley is home to a variety of animals.
  12. Olduvai Gorge is a significant attraction and archaeological site.

These offer perfect opportunities for visitors to partake in a range of activities at these places of attraction, such as photography, wildlife viewing, game drives, etc.

6)   Outstanding Maasai People in Serengeti Tanzania

Masai in Serengeti National Park

These welcoming people are another major attraction to see when visiting Serengeti National Park.

The Masai people are an indigenous tribe living in Serengeti Africa, known for their warm smiles and rich cultural heritage.

They have a long history in the area, dating back almost 4 million years, and have learned to coexist with the fauna.

The Maasai are a semi-nomadic tribe, expert herders who rely on their livestock for survival and possess a profound understanding of the Serengeti’s ecosystem.

While their traditional pastoralist culture is gradually evolving due to modernization, they remain an essential and iconic part of the Serengeti’s cultural heritage and identity.

They are involved in conservation efforts and offer community visits, allowing visitors to learn about their way of life and support local economies.

The Maasai have a unique culture, with their language, customs, and traditions, including their famous traditional clothing and jumping dance, and have a significant presence in the Serengeti.

The Serengeti area has a long history of human occupation, with various indigenous tribes, including the Kuria, Ikoma, and Sukuma people, living in the area.

By visiting Maasai communities and supporting their ecotourism initiatives, you can help preserve the Maasai culture and contribute to the local economy, thereby supporting the Serengeti’s ecosystem and cultural diversity.

Things To Do in Serengeti National Park on Serengeti Safari Tours

To experience the thrill of the Serengeti when on safari tours, you need to partake in the various activities offered, such as

1)      Game Drives in Serengeti

Explore the park’s vast plains and witness the Great Migration, Big Five, and other fauna in the morning, afternoon, or evening when on a tourist 4×4 vehicle.

2)      Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Take a breathtaking ride over the Serengeti plains at dawn for a bird’s-eye view of the fauna and the park in a hot air balloon.

3)      Wildlife Viewing
Serengeti National Park-Wildlife

See an incredible variety of animals, including lion herds, leopards, elephant families, giraffes, and wildebeests, among others, when on fauna spotting adventures on foot or in-game rides.

4)      Birdwatching

Spot over 500 species of birds, including ostriches, eagles, and vultures, among others, when on a birding safari in Serengeti.

5)      Guided Walking Safaris in Serengeti

Embark on an exhilarating multi-day walking safari, designed for the more adventurous person, to delve into the heart of the Serengeti wilderness and experience the thrill of exploring the fauna and unspoiled natural beauty on foot.

6)      Cultural Tours

Visit nearby Maasai villages and learn about their traditional way of life, and witness them performing their famous jumping dance, among other things.

7)      Visiting The Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Explore the nearby Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and get to see the stunning caldera and walk around the crater rim, among other things done here.

8)      Photography Safaris

Capture stunning images of the park’s landscapes, such as the Grumeti River, Mara River, Ngorongoro Crater, Moru Kopjes, Olduvai Gorge, Seronera, and Retina Hippo Pool, and fauna like wildebeests, elephant families, wild dogs, lion herds, etc.

9)      Serengeti Night Game Drives

Go on a guided night drive to spot nocturnal animals in the night with experienced tour guides for a memorable safari experience in Serengeti.

10)  Bush Breakfasts

Enjoy a delicious meal in the middle of the bush and savannahs while taking in glimpses of some fauna like giraffes, antelopes, etc.

Other Tourist Activities to Partake in Include:

  • Camping
  • Sundowners
  • Visiting the Serengeti Visitor Centre
  • Visiting the Ngorongoro crater rim

Contact a reputable tour operator for customized safari packages that will allow you to partake in all these activities when on Serengeti safari tours.

Safari Lodges and Hotels in Serengeti National Park Tanzania

Serengeti National Park Lodges

When on Serengeti safari tours, you can stay at any of these safari lodges and hotels offering the best amenities, i.e.

Pumzika Luxury Safari Camp

 

Authentic safari adventure with luxury tents, from $629 per person per night

 

Namiri Plains Camp Serengeti

 

Remote camp with spacious tented suites, from $629 per person per night

 

Four Seasons Safari Lodge

 

 

Luxury lodge with great game drives, spa treatments, and gourmet food, from $902 per person per night

 

Dunia Camp

 

 

Extraordinary setting with breathtaking views, from $494 per person per night

 

Singita Mara River Tented Camp

 

Luxury tents overlooking the Mara River, from $2,045 per person per night

 

Olakira Migration Camp

 

 

Warm camp with luxurious safari tents, from $920 per person per night

 

Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp

 

 

Classic safari experience with private plunge pools, from $429 per person per night

 

&Beyond Klein’s Camp

 

 

 

Remote camp with a safari vehicle and walking safaris, from $1,050 per person per night

 

Singita Sasakwa Lodge

 

 

 

Grand and spacious lodge with private cottages, from $2,360 per person per night

 

One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti

 

 

Exclusive lodge with opulent accommodation, from $1,654 per person per night

 

Lemala Kuria Hills Tented Lodge

 

 

Remote location with glass-fronted tented suites, from $629 per person per night

 

Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp

 

 

Intimate tented retreat with mobile camp, from $745 per person per night

 

&Beyond Grumeti River Lodge

 

Luxury lodge with stunning views, from $1,250 per person per night

 

Taasa Lodge

 

 

Luxurious “camping” with incredible fauna sightings, from $819 per person per night

 

Mwiba Lodge

 

 

Ultra-luxurious designer tented suites, from $1,939 per person per night

 

Roving Bushtops

 

 

Glamorous luxury camp with mobile accommodations, from $2,174 per person per night

 

Serengeti Bushtops

 

 

Homely and pure safari destination, from $1,029 per person per night

 

Siringit Serengeti Camp

 

 

Basic but genuine Serengeti ambiance, from $547 per person per night

 

Entara Olmara Camp

 

 

Platform overlooking the Serengeti, from $659 per person per night

 

Kusini Safari Camp

 

 

Small camp with dedicated staff, from $945 per person per night

 

Singita Sabora Tented Camp

 

Vintage setting with luxury tents, from $2,045 per person per night

 

&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas

 

 

Mobile tented camp with luxury safari tents, from $1,005 per person per night

 

Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge

 

 

Perfect Serengeti family safari, from $370 per person per night

Singita Faru Faru Lodge

 

 

 

Luxury lodge with modern decorated suites, from $2,045 per person per night

 

Nomad Lamai Serengeti

 

 

Authentic and intimate fauna encounters, from $817 per person per night

 

Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp

 

Luxury safari lodge offering a memorable safari experience, prices from $1,000.

Sayari Camp

 

 

Luxury safari tented camp in Northern Serengeti, prices from $1,000 per person per night

 

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

 

The award-winning hotel, priced from $494 per night, offers panoramic views, a pool, and family-friendly activities.

Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp

 

luxury safari camp, prices from $945 per person per night

Serengeti Tented Camp

 

 

Offering luxury safari experience, prices from $659 per person per night

It is worth noting that booking these in advance with the help of a reputable tour operator will save you lots of disappointment.

How To Get to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania?

Getting to Serengeti is easier than you think! The Serengeti is open year-round and has four main entry and exit points: Naabi Hill Gate, Ndabaka Gate, Klein’s Gate, and Bologonya Gate, where you can access the park.

These are the available options on how to get to the game park:

1)      By Air

Fly into Tanzania via Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), then connect to a domestic flight or scheduled/private charter flight to one of the seven airstrips in Serengeti National Park, including Seronera Airstrip (SEU) or Klein’s Camp Airstrip (KLS).

Upon arrival, Park or Lodge staff will greet and transfer you to your final travel destination, ensuring a seamless and convenient travel experience.

2)      By Road

Make the most of your safari experience by driving from Arusha to the Serengeti, a 5- to 6-hour journey, or by booking a drive-in safari that starts from Arusha and lasts about 8 hours, with overnight stays at animal sites along the way.

Remember to obtain a Tanzanian visa upon arrival or before your trip, ensure you have all necessary vaccinations and medications, and check with your tour operator or lodge for specific travel requirements and the recommended number of things to pack.

Serengeti National Park Entry Fees

Some of the costs, tariffs, and expenses involved in visiting Serengeti are:

1)      Entrance Fees

  • Non-residents ($83 adult, $24 child per day)
  • Expatriates/Tanzania residents ($41.30 per adult, $11.80 per child per day)
  • East African community citizens (18,000 Tsh per adult, 2,360 Tsh children per day)
  • Children under 5 years: Free

2)      Concession Fees

  • Peak season (July-September) $60 adult, $10 child per 24 hours
  • Low season (October-June): $50 adult, $10 child per 24 hours

3)      Additional Fees

  • Crater descent fee: $295 per vehicle
  • Motor vehicle permits: Based on vehicle tare weight
  • Balloon safari fee: $550 per person per flight (plus concession fee)
  • Guided walking safari fee: $75 per person per walk (plus concession fee)

Prices are subject to change. Check with park authorities or a reputable tour operator for the most up-to-date information.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park

Serengeti is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.

The dry season (June to October) offers pleasant weather, easy wild animal spotting, and the Great Migration. However, it can be crowded, especially in the Seronera area.

The wet season/rainy season (November to May) brings a lush landscape, fewer tourists, and lower rates, but also more rainfall.

To avoid crowds, consider visiting the Western Corridor in August and October or the Mara Serengeti area between November and June. If you prefer a more secluded experience, travel in the low season (mid-March to mid-May or early November to mid-December).

Additional tips:

To enjoy specific safari experiences, consider visiting at these specific times:

  • January to February is perfect for wildebeest calving in the Ndutu area.
  • June and July are perfect for wildebeest migration in the Western Corridor.
  • September is perfect for the wildebeest migration in the north, with the possibility of seeing the river crossings.

Explore beyond the great annual migration and discover the Serengeti’s other wonders, including golden-maned lions, elusive leopards, and the cheetah—the park is always full of surprises!

Threats Posed on Serengeti

The Serengeti faces numerous threats, including:

  • Habitat loss and fragmentation due to human settlement, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
  • Climate change, alters vegetation patterns, water availability, and fauna migration routes.
  • Pollution from agricultural chemicals, industrial waste, and plastic waste.
  • Overtourism, disrupts fauna behavior and damages habitats.
  • Invasive two species of plants, like Siam weed and prickly pear, outcompete native vegetation.
  • Disease transmission between domestic and wild animals.
  • Political and economic instability, reducing conservation efforts, and increasing The Mara River, the only perennial river in the park, faces multiple human-mediated cross-boundary threats.
  • Deforestation in the Mau Forest region has altered the river’s hydrology.
  • The human population on the western side of the park is growing at 4% yearly, leading to increased land conversion for farming and ranching.
  • Poaching in Serengeti remains a significant threat, with an estimated 200,000 high-value animals killed annually.

These threats require continued conservation efforts, sustainable tourism practices, and community engagement to protect the Serengeti’s fragile ecosystem.

Wildlife Conservation and Management in Serengeti

Serengeti management is taking several steps toward implementing their conservation strategies, such as:

  • Setting up anti-poaching patrols and law enforcement
  • Community outreach and education programs
  • Reintroduction of extinct species and conservation breeding programs
  • Sustainable tourism practices and revenue generation for conservation
  • Research and monitoring programs, including the Serengeti Biodiversity Program
  • Collaboration with local communities, stakeholders, and international organizations
  • Transboundary conservation initiatives and climate change adaptation

Organizations involved in these conservation efforts include Tanzania National Parks, Serengeti National Park authorities, Frankfurt Zoological Society, World Wildlife Fund, International Union for Conservation of Nature, African Wildlife Foundation, Serengeti Research Institute, Wildlife Conservation Society, Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, and local community-based organizations.

Conservation efforts in the Serengeti focus on protecting ecosystems, biodiversity, and ecological processes while also addressing human-wildlife conflict, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and building climate resilience.

By visiting the Serengeti, tourists contribute to the nation’s conservation efforts, animal research, and local community development, supporting a sustainable future for this unique ecosystem.

What To Wear for Serengeti Safari Tours?

When going on a Serengeti safari tour, it’s important to pack clothing that is comfortable, practical, and suitable for the wildlife and outdoor activities you’ll be experiencing, such as:

Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, green) that blends with the natureComfortable and durable long pants and shorts
Moisture-wicking long-sleeved shirts and blousesLightweight and breathable jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings
Rain gear (jacket or poncho) in case of unexpected rain showersWarm layers like fleeces for chilly winter mornings and evenings (June to August)
Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots or safari shoesGood grip and ankle support for walking and game drives
Waterproof shoes or sandals with a good grip for water activitiesWide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses with UV protectionSunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent creamGloves

Additional Tips

  • Avoid bright colors, especially white, as they may attract unwanted attention from wild animals.
  • Dress modestly and respect local culture.
  • Pack warm layers for varying temperatures and weather conditions.
  • Consider packing clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched.

Don’t forget to check with your reputable safari operator for specific dress code requirements or recommendations.

Serengeti Safari Tanzania Packing List

You can pack some of these safari essentials for a hassle-free Serengeti safari in Tanzania.

BinocularsCamera and chargerRechargeable batteries
Power bank for extra chargingMemory cards for the cameraWaterproof phone case/reusable bag (for carrying items during game drives)
First-aid kitDrinking water bottle or hydration packSnacks (energy bars, nuts, etc.)
Valid PassportTanzanian Visa (if required)Travel insurance documents
Driver’s license (if planning to rent a car)Prescription medications and copies of prescriptionsMalaria prophylaxis (if necessary)
Antihistamines (for allergic reactions)Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)Antacids (for heartburn/stomach issues)
Band-Aids/bandagesAntiseptic wipesGauze pads
Flashlight/headlampTravel pillow/neck pillowEarplugs/eye mask (for better sleep)
Guidebook/map of SerengetiJournal/notebookPocket change in local currency (Tanzanian shilling)

Endeavor to check with your reputable safari operator for specific packing recommendations and restrictions and leave some extra space in your luggage for souvenirs and other items you might acquire during your trip!

Best TZ Tour Operators

For you to have a remarkable Serengeti safari tour, it is best to use some of these tour companies offering the best customized and affordable safari packages:

Contact any of these for the best Serengeti safari packages!

Serengeti National Park FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

  1. How Big Is the Serengeti National Park?

Serengeti spans 14,763 square kilometers (5,700 square miles) in size, which is roughly the size of the state of Connecticut.

The park’s vast landscape is home to the largest annual animal migration in the world, with over 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebra zealously making their way across the park.

  1. What Is Serengeti National Park Famous For?

The Serengeti is famous for its massive animal migrations, including the Great Annual Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebra zealously migrate across the park.

This phenomenon makes the Serengeti the only place in Africa where such vast land-animal migrations still occur, earning its reputation as a premier wildlife destination.

Additionally, the park boasts an impressive array of fauna, including the largest lion population in Africa, as well as cheetahs, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephant families, and over 500 bird species.

  1. Why Was Serengeti National Park Created? Why Was Serengeti National Park Established?

Serengeti Africa was established in 1959 to protect and conserve the area’s diverse fauna, including the Great annual migration.

The park was created to preserve the natural habitat, protect fauna from harm, and provide a haven for animal species, as well as promote sustainable tourism and support local communities.

Conservationist Bernhard Grzimek also influenced the park’s creation and has since become a renowned wild animal destination and symbol of African conservation efforts.

  1. What Country Is Serengeti National Park In?

The Serengeti is located in Tanzania, East Africa. Specifically, it is situated in the northern part of the country, bordering Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Deep within Africa’s core, where the sun-drenched savannah unfolds in endless vistas, lies the Serengeti National Park—an unparalleled animal life paradise teeming with life.

As the Great Annual Migration’s eternal cycle of life unfolds across the park’s vast expanse, we’re reminded of our responsibility to safeguard our planet’s irreplaceable wildlife legacy.

Join us on a Serengeti safari adventure that will etch lifelong memories in your heart—contact us today to book your tour!

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