Serengeti National Park: Complete Safari Guide

Serengeti National Park: Complete Safari Guide

Overview

The Serengeti is Tanzania’s oldest and most popular national park, spanning 14,750 square kilometers of endless plains. Its name derives from the Maasai word “Siringet,” meaning “the place where the land runs forever.” The park is famous for the Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular wildlife displays, and its extraordinary concentration of predators.

Key Facts

  • Size: 14,750 sq km (5,695 sq miles)
  • Established: 1951
  • UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site since 1981
  • Elevation: 920-1,850 meters above sea level
  • Location: Northern Tanzania, borders Kenya’s Maasai Mara
  • Nearest Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Wildlife Highlights

  • The Great Migration: 1.5+ million wildebeest, 200,000 zebra, and 300,000 gazelle in constant movement
  • Big Cats: Highest concentration of lions in Africa; excellent cheetah and leopard sightings
  • Other Mammals: Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, jackals
  • Birds: Over 500 species including ostriches, secretary birds, and numerous raptors

Best Time to Visit

  • December-March: Southern Serengeti for wildebeest calving season
  • May-July: Western and Northern corridors for river crossings
  • August-October: Northern Serengeti for Mara River crossings
  • November: Transition period with migration moving south
  • Year-round: Excellent for resident wildlife in Central Serengeti

Regions

  1. Central Serengeti (Seronera):
    • Most accessible area with year-round wildlife
    • Highest concentration of resident predators
    • Rich riverine habitat along Seronera River
  2. Western Corridor:
    • Migration passes through May-July
    • Grumeti River crossings
    • Less crowded than central areas
  3. Northern Serengeti:
    • Mara River crossings (July-October)
    • Spectacular landscapes with kopjes and rivers
    • Lower tourist density
  4. Southern Plains:
    • Calving season (January-March)
    • Vast open plains
    • Excellent cheetah habitat
  5. Eastern Serengeti (Loliondo):
    • Buffer zone with cultural experiences
    • Walking safaris possible
    • Private concessions with fewer restrictions

Activities

  • Game drives (morning, afternoon, full-day)
  • Hot air balloon safaris at dawn
  • Walking safaris (in designated areas)
  • Cultural visits to Maasai villages (outside park boundaries)
  • Photography safaris

Accommodation Options

Luxury Lodges

  • Four Seasons Safari Lodge
  • Singita Sasakwa Lodge
  • &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

Mid-range Lodges

  • Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
  • Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
  • Lahia Tented Lodge

Budget Options

  • Public campgrounds (Seronera, Lobo, Kogatende)
  • Special Campsite (booking required)
  • Serengeti Wilderness Camp

Mobile Camps

  • Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp
  • &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas
  • Serengeti Safari Camp

Practical Tips

  • Book accommodations well in advance, especially during migration periods
  • Plan for at least 3-4 days to properly experience the park
  • Consider combining with Ngorongoro Crater and other Northern Circuit parks
  • Bring appropriate gear for dusty conditions
  • Malaria precautions are recommended
  • Park fees: $70 per adult per day (non-East African residents)