Serengeti national park
Serengeti national park, tanzania
The world famous Serengeti National Park is the First Largest Park in Tanzania; occupying about 14,763 sq Km (5700 sq miles). The parks name Serengeti means Endless plains and is derived from the Maasai word Siringiti. The Park lies in high platens between the Ngorongoro highlands and Tanzania/ Kenya border, and extends almost to lake Victoria. Various types of vegetation grassy plains, Savanna with acacias wooded hills and mountains are the backdrop for an extraordinary concentration of animals found nowhere else in the world, About 35 species of plains animals can be seen here including the so called big five. Almost 1.5 million wildebeest undertake a circuit of 1000Kms, Searching for new pastures and watering –holes and 200,000 zebras and 300,000 Thomson’s. The brie f population explosion of wildebeest produces over 8,000 calves a day before the migrations Starts.
Location: Serengeti National Park is located 335 Km (about 208 miles) from Arusha, Stretching north to Kenya and bordering lake Victoria to the west. Best time to visit: To follow the wildebeest migration is December to July in the South of the Park and for Predators June to October to the west (western corridor) and to the north. Birdlife: The park is famous for over 500 varieties of bird to 100 types of dung beetle. Wildlife: The annual wildebeest migration, this spectacle sees more than 1 million wildebeest, 200,000 Zebra and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelles trek. As in all ecosystems the vegetation and types of animals you find are closely correlated. The principal feature of the park are the shirt and long grass open plains in the Southeast, the acacia Savannah in the Central area, the hilly, more densely wooded northern section. Access: From Arusha it is 6 hours drive, or 1 hour and 30 minutes charter flights. From Arusha, Lake Manyara and Mwanza Drive from Arusha you will pass through the entrance to Lake Manyara national Park and through the Ngorongoro Conservation area, the village in the heart of Serengeti is 335Km from Arusha Approaching from Mwanza and Musoma you take the road east and you will enter Serengeti through Ndabaka Gate in the West. To do: Hot air balloon safaris on Serengeti national park, Lake Natron to the north at the fort of Ol’doinyo Lengai volcano (2 to 3 days roundtrip) with the possibility of undertaking and visiting lake Victoria, the source of the ricle, to the west [2 to3 days roundtrip] from Mwanza, the regional capital a visit to the Rubondo National park located on an Island in the middle of the lake for fishing trip. Accommodation: Lodges, luxury tented camps and camp sites scattered through the park, lodges and tented camps just outside. Some of the Serengeti National Park lodges and campsite are Grumeti camp, Ikoma Bush camp, Kleins camp, Kusini, Lobo wildlife Lodge, Ndutu Safari Lodge, Serengeti Serene Lodge, Serengeti Sopa Lodge and Seronera wildlife Lodge. Others are Kirawira luxury tented, Ndasiata Migration Camp, Mbalageti camp. |
Serengeti National Park
The world famous Serengeti National Park is the First Largest Park in Tanzania; occupying about 14,763 sq Km (5700 sq miles). The parks name Serengeti means Endless plains and is derived from the Maasai word Siringiti. The Park lies in high platens between the Ngorongoro highlands and Tanzania/ Kenya border, and extends almost to lake Victoria. Various types of vegetation grassy plains, Savanna with acacias wooded hills and mountains are the backdrop for an extraordinary concentration of animals found nowhere else in the world, About 35 species of plains animals can be seen here including the so called big five. Almost 1.5 million wildebeest undertake a circuit of 1000Kms, Searching for new pastures and watering –holes and 200,000 zebras and 300,000 Thomson’s. The brie f population explosion of wildebeest produces over 8,000 calves a day before the migrations Starts. Location: Serengeti National Park is located 335 Km (about 208 miles) from Arusha, Stretching north to Kenya and bordering lake Victoria to the west. Best time to visit: To follow the wildebeest migration is December to July in the South of the Park and for Predators June to October to the west (western corridor) and to the north. Birdlife: The park is famous for over 500 varieties of bird to 100 types of dung beetle. Wildlife: The annual wildebeest migration, this spectacle sees more than 1 million wildebeest, 200,000 Zebra and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelles trek. As in all ecosystems the vegetation and types of animals you find are closely correlated. The principal feature of the park are the shirt and long grass open plains in the Southeast, the acacia Savannah in the Central area, the hilly, more densely wooded northern section. Access: From Arusha it is 6 hours drive, or 1 hour and 30 minutes charter flights. From Arusha, Lake Manyara and Mwanza Drive from Arusha you will pass through the entrance to Lake Manyara national Park and through the Ngorongoro Conservation area, the village in the heart of Serengeti is 335Km from Arusha Approaching from Mwanza and Musoma you take the road east and you will enter Serengeti through Ndabaka Gate in the West. To do: Hot air balloon safaris on Serengeti national park, Lake Natron to the north at the fort of Ol’doinyo Lengai volcano (2 to 3 days roundtrip) with the possibility of undertaking and visiting lake Victoria, the source of the ricle, to the west [2 to3 days roundtrip] from Mwanza, the regional capital a visit to the Rubondo National park located on an Island in the middle of the lake for fishing trip. Accommodation: Lodges, luxury tented camps and camp sites scattered through the park, lodges and tented camps just outside. Some of the Serengeti National Park lodges and campsite are Grumeti camp, Ikoma Bush camp, Kleins camp, Kusini, Lobo wildlife Lodge, Ndutu Safari Lodge, Serengeti Serene Lodge, Serengeti Sopa Lodge and Seronera wildlife Lodge. Others are Kirawira luxury tented, Ndasiata Migration Camp, Mbalageti camp. |
Serengeti National Park
Best time to visit Serengeti National Park
December to March: Calving season is the ideal time to witness the birth of thousands of young animals. It’s also when predators are most active, hunting vulnerable newborns.
April to June: The migration begins, as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other species start moving northward across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
July to October: Peak migration season, especially notable for the dramatic and dangerous crossings of the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles.
November: Short rains signal the return of the herds to the Serengeti after months away, revitalizing the landscape and offering another spectacular wildlife display.
HOW TO GET TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
By Road: The Serengeti is accessible by a roughly 7-hour scenic drive from Arusha, allowing travelers to pass through various landscapes, including villages and countryside along the way. It’s a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to see more of the Tanzanian landscape before arriving at the park.
By Air: For a faster, more convenient option, regular flights operate from Arusha to multiple airstrips within the Serengeti. These flights significantly reduce travel time, offering stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.
TIPS FOR VISITORS TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
- Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially during extended game drives to stay refreshed.
- Respect Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid interacting with or feeding them.
- Follow the Rules: Listen carefully to your guide and follow all park regulations for both your safety and the preservation of the environment.
FAQS ABOUT SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
- What is Serengeti National Park famous for?
Serengeti National Park is world-famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of the largest wildlife spectacles on Earth. It’s also home to the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino and offers breathtaking savannah landscapes that attract photographers and nature lovers year-round.
- When is the best time to visit Serengeti National Park?
The best time to visit Serengeti depends on what you want to see.
- June to October: Ideal for game viewing during the dry season.
- December to March: Best for witnessing the wildebeest calving season in the Ndutu area.
Each season offers unique wildlife experiences.
- How do I get to Serengeti National Park?
You can reach Serengeti National Park by flight or road. Daily flights operate from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar to several airstrips inside the park. Alternatively, travelers can enjoy a scenic road safari through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
- What animals can I see in Serengeti National Park?
The Serengeti is home to more than 70 large mammal species and 500 bird species. You can spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, wildebeests, and zebras. It’s one of the few places where you can witness predator-prey interactions in real time.
- Is Serengeti National Park safe for tourists?
Yes. Serengeti National Park is very safe for visitors. Guided tours are conducted by professional safari guides who follow park regulations to ensure safety. It’s recommended to book through a licensed Tanzania tour operator for the best experience.
- How much does it cost to visit Serengeti National Park?
Park entrance fees vary depending on nationality:
- Non-resident adults: Around $70 per person per day
- Children (5–15 years): About $20 per day
In addition, there are costs for accommodation, transport, and park activities like game drives or hot air balloon safaris.
- What are the best safari lodges and camps in Serengeti?
Top-rated lodges include Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Lahia Tented Lodge, and Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti. For a luxury safari, these lodges offer stunning views, excellent food, and proximity to wildlife.
- Can I see the Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti?
Absolutely! The migration moves through different parts of the park throughout the year:
- December–March: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area)
- June–July: Central and Western Serengeti (Grumeti River crossing)
- August–October: Northern Serengeti (Mara River crossing)
Tracking the migration is one of the most popular safari experiences.
- What activities can visitors do in Serengeti National Park?
Besides traditional game drives, you can enjoy hot air balloon safaris, walking safaris, bird watching, and Maasai cultural tours. Photographic safaris are also popular for capturing the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
- How many days do you need in Serengeti National Park?
A minimum of 3 to 4 days is recommended to explore Serengeti National Park properly. This allows time to see major wildlife areas and possibly witness the migration. Longer stays (5–7 days) offer a deeper and more relaxed safari experience.
