Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of an African safari, Serengeti National Park should be at the very top of your list—and for good reason.

Located in northern Tanzania, this world-famous park is home to one of the most incredible natural spectacles on the planet: the annual great migration. Imagine watching millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thunder across the endless plains, crossing rivers filled with crocodiles and drawing in some of Africa’s most powerful predators.

This isn’t a scene from The Lion King—it’s real life, and it happens every year in the Serengeti ecosystem.

But the Serengeti is more than just migration season. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a vast and diverse wildlife refuge covering nearly 12,000 square miles (or around 30,000 square kilometers). It stretches from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the southeast all the way to the Masai Mara National Reserve along the Kenya border in the north. Along the way, you’ll find a stunning mix of grassland plains, rocky outcrops, riverine forests, and dramatic valleys like the Seronera River Valley and Grumeti River.

Whether you’re hoping to see big cats like lions and leopards, spot rare animals like the black rhino or African wild dog, or just experience the raw beauty of the open plains, Serengeti is the perfect place. It’s the kind of trip that changes the way you see the world. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your next travel adventure, from the best time to visit and where to stay, to how to get there and what animals you can expect to see.

You’ll also learn how different areas—like the northern Serengeti, southern plains, and western corridor—offer totally unique experiences depending on the time of year. Want to catch a dramatic river crossing at the Mara River? You’ll need to be in the right place at the right time (hint: late June through October is your best bet). Prefer baby animals and fewer tourists? The short rains of November or the low season in May might be ideal.

No matter your travel style or budget, there’s a best way to do the Serengeti—whether that’s staying in luxury lodges, budget-friendly camps, or mobile tents that move with the migration. This guide breaks it all down, with more specific information than most travel blogs, so you can plan with confidence and make the most of every game drive.

Let’s dive into everything the Serengeti National Park has to offer.

About Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti National Park isn’t just one of the most famous parks in Africa—it’s one of the most important wildlife reserves in the world. Covering nearly 12,000 square miles (about 30,000 square kilometers) in northern Tanzania, the Serengeti is part of a much larger Serengeti ecosystem that includes the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and surrounding game reserves. Together, this region protects the habitat for millions of animals and supports one of the last remaining mass animal migrations on Earth.

The word “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai word siringet, which means “the place where the land runs on forever.” It’s an accurate name: when you stand in the open plains of the central Serengeti or drive through the southern plains, the landscape feels truly endless. You’ll see vast grassland plains, dotted with iconic rocky outcrops (called kopjes), patches of riverine forest, and even lush valleys fed by the Seronera and Grumeti Rivers. This diversity of habitats is what makes the Serengeti so rich in wildlife.

In the late 1950s, the Tanzanian government declared Serengeti a national park to protect the massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and Thomson’s gazelles that move across these rich flat soils throughout the year. Today, it remains one of the few places on Earth where you can witness large herds of animals migrating across natural habitat on such a scale.

The park is carefully managed to protect both the animals and the land. Thanks to conservation efforts in recent years, the Serengeti continues to thrive as a safe haven for wildlife species ranging from the black rhino and elephant herds to smaller creatures like mongoose, servals, and dozens of bird species.

The Serengeti National Park is also a vital piece of East Africa’s ecological puzzle. It serves as a crucial corridor for the annual migration, a breeding ground for many endangered species, and a living classroom for researchers and conservationists. Its sheer scale and biological importance are why it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered by many the only place on Earth where you can see nature in such raw, uninterrupted motion.

This isn’t just a safari destination—it’s the beating heart of the animal kingdom, where every season brings a distinct changeover in landscapes, behavior, and wildlife patterns. And whether you’re here for a classic jeep safari, a hot air balloon safari, or a quiet stay at one of the different lodges, the Serengeti promises an experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

Where is Serengeti National Park?

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania, near the Kenya border in East Africa. It sits within the larger Serengeti ecosystem, stretching from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the southeast to the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya to the north. This prime location is part of what makes the Serengeti so special—it connects some of the richest wildlife areas on the continent and forms a vital migratory route for countless wildlife species.

To give you an idea of its size, the park covers roughly 12,000 square miles (30,000 square kilometers)—that’s bigger than the entire country of Belgium! Within this massive area are several distinct regions, each with its own landscapes and wildlife patterns:

• Central Serengeti (Seronera): Known for year-round wildlife viewing and great access to lodges.
• Southern Serengeti: Open grassland plains, ideal for calving season during the early months of the year.
• Western Corridor: Dense bush, wooded areas, and the Grumeti River, famous for dramatic river crossings during the migration.
• Northern Serengeti: Home to the Mara River, where late June to October offers a fair chance to witness the iconic wildebeest river crossings.

The Serengeti is relatively remote, but it’s still accessible with a bit of planning. The most common international arrival point is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha. From there, travelers can:

• Take a short domestic flight to one of several airstrips inside the park, such as Seronera, Kogatende, or Grumeti. This is the best way to save time.
• Opt for an overland journey by road, which can take 6–8 hours but gives you the chance to pass through the Ngorongoro Crater and visit local villages.

No matter how you arrive, you’ll quickly understand why the Serengeti is considered the perfect place for an African safari. With its open plains, dramatic rivers, and vast skies, it feels like stepping into another world—a world where the rhythms of the animal kingdom are still untouched by time.

Animals of the Serengeti

If there’s one thing that makes Serengeti National Park truly legendary, it’s the wildlife. This park is one of the most biologically diverse and densely populated areas in all of East Africa, home to over 70 species of large mammals and more than 500 bird species. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife photographer, the Serengeti ecosystem offers some of the best animal encounters in the world.

🐃 The Stars of the Serengeti: The Great Migration

The annual great migration is often called the greatest wildlife spectacle on Earth—and for good reason. Every year, around 1.5 million wildebeest, 300,000 zebras, and 500,000 Thomson’s gazelles travel in a massive loop across the grassland plains in search of fresh grazing. This journey takes them from the southern plains of the Serengeti, through the western corridor, and up to the Mara River in the northern Serengeti and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

One of the most dramatic scenes happens between late June and October, when these animals cross the crocodile-infested waters of the Grumeti River and Mara River. This is where you’ll witness true survival in motion—crocodiles lurking below, big cats waiting nearby, and herds of animals plunging into the current. It’s chaotic, primal, and unforgettable.

🦁 Predators: Big Cats and the Circle of Life

The Serengeti is one of the only places in Africa where you can reliably spot all three major big cats—lions, leopards, and cheetahs—in a single trip. The central Serengeti, particularly the Seronera River Valley, is an excellent location for lion sightings. You might see prides lounging on rocky outcrops (kopjes), scanning the plains for prey.

Cheetahs prefer the flat, open areas of the southern Serengeti, where they use bursts of speed to chase down gazelles. Leopards, meanwhile, are more elusive but often spotted in trees near rivers—especially in the western corridor and riverine forest zones.

Hyenas and jackals also play important roles in the food chain, often seen trailing behind predators or cleaning up leftovers. And don’t overlook the African wild dog, a rare and critically endangered species that’s made a quiet comeback in recent years, especially in more remote parts of the park.

🐘 Giants and Gentle Grazers

Beyond the carnivores, the Serengeti is packed with herbivores of all shapes and sizes. You’ll likely encounter:

• Elephant herds roaming near water sources
• Giraffes nibbling on acacia trees
• Buffalo gathering in groups
• Hippos submerged in pools along rivers
• Warthogs, zebras, and impalas grazing peacefully across the plains

In the more hidden corners of the park, keep an eye out for the black rhino, a rare and protected resident of the Serengeti. While sightings are less common, dedicated game drives increase your chances—especially with guides who know where to look.

🐦 Birds and Smaller Creatures

For bird lovers, the Serengeti is paradise. From colorful bee-eaters and rollers to massive ostriches and secretary birds, there’s always something in flight. You might also spot vultures circling above a recent kill or a fish eagle perched near a riverbank.

Look closer and you’ll find a whole world of smaller creatures—mongoose darting between rocks, curious hyraxes sunbathing on kopjes, and chameleons camouflaged in the brush. This diversity is what makes every safari in the Serengeti unique: no two game drives are ever the same.

🧠 Quick Tips for Spotting Wildlife

• Go early or late: Early mornings and late afternoons are best for spotting predators and activity.
• Be patient: Sometimes the best moments come after a long wait. Your guide knows how to read animal behavior—trust them.
• Binoculars and cameras: Bring binoculars for distant sightings and a zoom lens if you’re into photography.
• Know the regions: For the Great Migration, time your visit to the southern Serengeti (Jan–Feb), western corridor (May–June), or northern Serengeti (July–October).
• Stay longer if you can: More time = more variety. A 3-day safari is great, but 5+ days gives you a better shot at rare sightings.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti

The best time to visit Serengeti National Park really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Do you want to see the great wildebeest migration? Fewer tourists? Predator action? Baby animals? Different times of year bring distinct changeovers in landscapes, wildlife movement, and weather—so understanding the seasons is key to choosing your perfect time.

🗓️ Month-by-Month Snapshot

Month	What’s Happening
January–February	Calving season in southern Serengeti; predator activity is high
March–May	Wet season with lush landscapes and migratory birds; low prices
June	End of rains; wildlife gathers; migration starts moving north
July–August	Peak migration in western corridor and northern Serengeti
September–October	Mara River crossings continue; excellent predator sightings
November	Short rains begin; green scenery returns
December	Transition month—animals start heading back south for calving

Let’s break it down season by season so you can decide what fits your next travel adventure best.

☀️ Dry Season (Late June – October)

Best for: River crossings, predator sightings, fewer mosquitoes, excellent game drives

The dry season is the peak season in the Serengeti—and for good reason. From late June to October, the weather is sunny, the skies are clear, and the animals gather around remaining water sources, making them easier to spot. It’s also the time when you’re most likely to witness dramatic river crossings in the northern Serengeti—as massive herds of wildebeest brave the crocodile-filled Mara River on their way to the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

Expect cooler mornings (you’ll want some warm clothing), dusty roads, and high chances of spotting big cats on the prowl. The western corridor and Grumeti River may also offer migration sightings earlier in the season, especially around late May or early June.

🔍 Tip: Book early! Lodges in river crossing areas like Kogatende fill up fast during this time.

🌧️ Short Rains (November – Early December)

Best for: Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, lower rates

The short rains begin around early November and last just a few weeks. They bring a fresh green to the grassland plains, and the animals are still around, just more spread out. This is a low season—which means fewer tourists, more intimate game drives, and lower accommodation prices.

Though some roads may be muddy, safaris still operate daily, and it’s a good time for travelers who prefer solitude and dramatic skies over perfect conditions. Some camps also offer walking safaris during this period, especially in the southern regions.

🍼 Calving Season (January – February)

Best for: Baby animals, predator action, beautiful light

This is the calving season, when the great migration reaches the southern plains—particularly around Ndutu, located between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park. Around 500,000 wildebeest calves are born over just a few weeks. That’s a lot of babies—and where there are baby animals, there are predators close by.

This is an excellent time to see lion prides, cheetahs, and hyenas in action. The open plains make it easy to see everything from a distance, and the soft golden light in the mornings is perfect for photography.

🎒 Tip: Calving season is a favorite among wildlife photographers. If that’s you, consider staying in mobile camps in the Ndutu area for close access to the herds.

🌿 Long Rains (March – May)

Best for: Birdwatching, lush scenery, budget-friendly safaris

This is the wettest season of the year, and the long rains can be unpredictable. Some lodges close, and certain roads in remote areas become impassable. However, this is when the Serengeti National Park becomes a vibrant green wildlife refuge, alive with bird species, blooming plants, and animals enjoying the cooler air.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly safari and don’t mind a little mud, this could be the best option. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more exclusive experience, with fewer tourists and quiet evenings under dramatic stormy skies.

🌦️ Tip: Make sure your lodge or camp is open during this time, and consider bringing waterproof gear and waterproof bags for electronics.

Best Hotels in Serengeti National Park

Choosing where to stay in Serengeti National Park can feel overwhelming at first—there are different lodges and camps scattered across nearly 12,000 square miles, each offering something unique. The best option for you depends on your travel style, budget, and the time of year you plan to visit.

Whether you’re chasing the great wildebeest migration, dreaming of a hot air balloon safari, or just want a front-row seat to the animal kingdom, there’s a place for you. Below are the best places to stay in each region of the Serengeti, from high-end luxury to authentic, mobile camps that follow the herds.

Central Serengeti (Seronera Area)

Best for: Year-round wildlife viewing, first-time safari travelers, good access to airstrips

The Seronera River Valley is considered the beating heart of the Serengeti. It’s a great base for game drives in any season, with high densities of lions, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife species. It also offers easier logistics, thanks to the Seronera Airstrip and proximity to key attractions.

Top Lodges:

• Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
  Ultra-luxury lodge with private infinity pools, wine cellar, and panoramic views. Great for families or couples celebrating a special occasion.
• Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
  Upscale tented camp with spacious rooms, excellent food, and views of the open plains. Perfect for those seeking comfort without being overly flashy.
• Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
  A mid-range favorite with thatched rondavel-style rooms and reliable game viewing. Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of culture and wildlife.

Tip: Central Serengeti is ideal for first-timers or travelers visiting during the wet season or shoulder months, when migration activity is lower in the north and south.

Southern Serengeti / Ndutu

Best for: Calving season (Jan–Feb), photographers, fewer crowds

This is where the annual great migration begins—thousands of wildebeest calves are born on the southern plains during the green season. It’s an ideal time to see predator-prey drama and enjoy wide-open landscapes with fewer vehicles.

Top Lodges:

• Serengeti Safari Camp (Nomad)
  A mobile camp that moves several times a year to stay close to the herds. Rustic luxury, eco-friendly, and one of the best options for serious wildlife lovers.
• Ndutu Safari Lodge
  Affordable, well-located, and one of the oldest lodges in the area. Known for excellent guides and proximity to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
• Sanctuary Kusini Camp
  Secluded luxury camp on a rocky outcrop—great for spotting big cats and enjoying peaceful sunsets.

Tip: If you’re visiting between December and March, staying in the south is your best way to catch the start of the migration and maybe even a walking safari.

Western Corridor

Best for: May–June migration, river crossings, birdwatching

The western corridor is lush, green, and known for dramatic Grumeti River crossings in late May and June. It also offers excellent birdwatching in riverine forests and is home to some of the most luxurious properties in the park.

Top Lodges:

• Singita Sasakwa Lodge
  High-end luxury with elegant suites, private plunge pools, and a wine cellar. Ideal for honeymooners or travelers who want the best of the best.
• Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp
  Set right on the Grumeti River, this mid- to high-end lodge offers close-up views of river wildlife and excellent access to migration routes.

Tip: Lodges here are seasonal—make sure you’re booking in a window that matches your migration goals.

Northern Serengeti (Kogatende & Mara River)

Best for: River crossings (July–Oct), off-the-beaten-path luxury, fewer crowds

The northern Serengeti is remote and peaceful, known for its dramatic Mara River crossings during the peak season of the great migration. If you’ve seen National Geographic footage of wildebeest diving into crocodile-filled water—this is it.

Top Lodges:

• Lamai Serengeti
  Perched on rocky outcrops with stunning views over the Serengeti plains, this luxury camp is often rated one of the best in Africa.
• Mara Mara Tented Lodge
  A great mid-range option with large tents, solid food, and excellent access to migration routes near the Kenya border.
• Serengeti Bushtops Camp
  All-inclusive luxury with butler service, spa treatments, and customized safari vehicles. Great for couples or luxury honeymooners.

Tip: Direct flights to Kogatende Airstrip from Arusha or Kilimanjaro make getting here much easier than it used to be.

Other Things to Do in Serengeti National Park

While most travelers come to the Serengeti National Park for the classic game drives, there’s a whole world of adventure waiting beyond the jeep. Whether you want to see the vast plains from the sky, explore on foot, or learn about the land’s rich ecology and culture, the Serengeti offers more than just wildlife watching—it offers immersion.

Here are some unforgettable activities to add to your itinerary:

🎈 1. Hot Air Balloon Safari

One of the most magical ways to experience the endless plains of the Serengeti is from the sky. A hot air balloon safari typically launches at dawn, when the landscape is bathed in golden light and the animals are at their most active. You’ll float silently over herds of animals, spot elephant herds from above, and see the natural habitat from a totally different angle.

The balloon ride usually ends with a champagne bush breakfast in the middle of the savannah—an experience that feels straight out of a movie.

Where to do it: Central Serengeti (Seronera area) and northern Serengeti (Kogatende) are popular launch points.

Good to know: It’s not cheap—typically around $500 per person—but for many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience.

🚶 2. Walking Safari

If you want to get up close and personal with the landscape, consider joining a walking safari in designated areas. Led by armed rangers and expert guides, walking safaris teach you how to read animal tracks, identify bird calls, and appreciate the smaller creatures you might miss from a vehicle—like insects, plants, and reptiles.

You’ll learn how the rich flat soils, grasses, and terrain all support the delicate balance of the Serengeti ecosystem. It’s a slower, more intimate way to experience the animal kingdom, and it brings a whole new appreciation for the land under your feet.

Where to do it: The southern Serengeti (Ndutu area) and border zones of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are popular for guided walks.

📸 3. Cultural Visits (Outside the Park Boundaries)

While cultural visits aren’t offered inside the protected zones of the Serengeti, nearby areas—like Ngorongoro Conservation Area—offer immersive opportunities to meet and learn from local Maasai communities. You’ll gain background information about the region’s indigenous people, their traditions, and how they live in harmony with wildlife.

Tip: Choose a responsible tour operator that offers authentic experiences and supports local communities directly.

🌌 4. Stargazing in the Serengeti

Thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution, the Serengeti is one of the best places in East Africa for stargazing. On clear nights, the open plains transform into a cosmic theater—you’ll see constellations, shooting stars, and maybe even the Milky Way stretched across the sky.

Some lodges even offer guided night sky interpretation or telescope access.

🛶 5. Bush Breakfasts and Sundowners

Many luxury camps offer bush breakfasts or sundowners—outdoor meals set up in scenic locations during your game drives. Imagine sipping a gin and tonic while watching the sun set over the savannah, or having your eggs served in the shade of an acacia tree, with zebras in the distance. It’s the kind of moment that makes the Serengeti feel like the perfect place to unplug from the world.

🛁 6. Relax at Your Lodge

Let’s be honest—part of the magic of the Serengeti comes from your downtime too. Many of the different lodges in the park offer luxurious amenities like spas, plunge pools, outdoor showers, and open-air lounges. Some travelers even plan a rest day during their stay to enjoy a slow morning, sip coffee while watching the sunrise, or read a book with the sounds of the wild all around them.

Tip: Bring warm clothing for early mornings and evenings, even if the days are hot.