Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti National Park is a prominent destination for Tanzania safaris. It is renowned for the breathtaking Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, an annual natural spectacle. Situated in northern Tanzania, the park shares its border with Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve, collectively forming one of the earth’s oldest ecosystems. This remarkable environment harbors diverse wildlife, some exclusive to this region. If you consider visiting this esteemed Tanzania safari park, rest assured that it promises you an unforgettable experience.

When considering a wildlife safari in Africa, it’s essential to acknowledge the unparalleled allure of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. As the largest national park in East Africa, Serengeti is home to many big and small wildlife. Situated in Tanzania, the park is integral to the Serengeti Masai Mara ecosystem, encompassing several game reserves such as Maswa Game Reserve, Grumeti Game Reserve, Loliondo, and Ikorongo Game Controlled Area. Moreover, it shares a border with a section of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the south, extending into the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya. For those seeking an exceptional safari experience, Serengeti National Park is an unparalleled destination in Africa.

Serengeti National Park History

Serengeti originates from the Maasai term ‘Siringet,’ which translates to “endless plains,” accurately encapsulating the expansive African savannah. Serengeti National Park was established during efforts for conservation when the Maasai and the Kuria, two major tribes, were relocated from the area. The Kuria tribe was resettled around Lake Victoria, while the Maasai were moved to the southern Serengeti and the highlands of Ngorongoro. In 1951, Serengeti was designated as a National Park.

Tanzania’s oldest park, the Serengeti National Park, stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. Encompassing an area of approximately 14,763 square kilometers of unending rolling plains, it extends to the Kenyan border and almost touches Lake Victoria. The park is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife and is revered as Africa’s most famous wildlife area. UNESCO has recognized two World Heritage sites and two Biosphere Reserves. Its extraordinary habitat has inspired creative professionals such as writers, filmmakers, photographers, and scientists.

The world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration occurs from November to mid-August in the Serengeti. This natural phenomenon witnesses a mass movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest alongside thousands of zebras and gazelles from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara in Kenya. They journey thousands of miles in pursuit of green pastures and water.

Although the Wildebeest Migration stands out as a spectacle, the Serengeti is a year-long abode to various resident animals and diverse birdlife. Beyond the migration herds, the park remains an exquisite destination worth exploring.

Best time to visit.

The best time to visit Serengeti National Park is all year round, but the most exciting time is during the Wildebeest Migration, typically from November to mid-August. During this period, the herds move from Tanzania’s Serengeti plains to Kenya’s Masai Mara.

The long rainy season starts in March or April and lasts until May, but visiting during this time is still possible. Experience the magic of the Southern Serengeti with lower prices and fewer crowds. Another incredible option is to see, from December to March, witnessing the herds in the Ndutu plains for calving and nursing.

In April and May, the central Serengeti plains and the Seronera area are good places to visit, while in June and mid-July, it’s best to be in the Western corridor and around the Grumeti River.

The park is home to various wildlife, including the African Big 5—lion, leopard, cape buffalo, African elephant, and the rare black rhino. There are also many other animals, such as topi, eland, impala, gazelles, hyenas, cheetahs, jackals, baboons, and various large birds.

Remember the following information:

You can book Serengeti safari packages, including other Northern Tanzania safari parks. Alternatively, you can exclusively go on a three-day or longer safari in the Serengeti. Various accommodation options are available, such as lodges, tented camps, and campsites. If you’re interested, you can also book hot air balloon rides in advance. Our team of safari experts is available to help you plan your trip according to your preferences and budget.

ANIMALS TO SEE IN SERENGETI

– Elephants

– More than 1 million wildebeest

– Leopards

– Lions

– Cheetahs

– Thompson’s gazelles

– More than 250,000 zebras

– More than 400,000 gazelles

– Rhinos

– Hippos

– Crocodiles

– Buffaloes

– Kudu and many more.

Here are the travel durations to Serengeti:

– Tarangire to Serengeti: 2 hours’ drive

– Ngorongoro to Serengeti: 2 hours’ drive

– Arusha to Serengeti: 5 hours’ drive

– Lake Manyara to Serengeti: 3-5 hours’ drive

– Flight from Arusha to Serengeti: 1 hour (approximately $299 per person, one way).