Safari in the Serengeti

Ultimate Guide to Safari in the Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world. It offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the chance to witness the Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced safari-goer, here’s everything you need to know about planning a Serengeti safari.

1. About Serengeti National Park

• Location: Northern Tanzania, bordering Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

• Size: About 14,750 km² (5,700 mi²).

• Established: 1951, and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Ecosystem: Vast savannas, woodlands, riverine forests, and kopjes (rock formations).

2. Wildlife & The Great Migration

The Big Five & Other Wildlife

The Serengeti is home to over 2 million wildebeests, 250,000 zebras, 500,000 gazelles, and a large population of predators. Key animals include:

• Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

• Elephants & Rhinos: Found mostly in the northern and western parts of the park.

• Giraffes, Buffaloes, & Hippos: Easily spotted in different regions.

• Hyenas & Wild Dogs: Frequent scavengers in the Serengeti.

The Great Migration

The annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles, is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth.

• December – March: Calving season in the Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Plains.

• April – May: Migration moves northwest.

• June – July: River crossings begin at the Grumeti River.

• August – October: Dramatic Mara River crossings into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

• November: Herds return to the Serengeti.

3. Best Time to Visit the Serengeti

The Serengeti offers spectacular wildlife viewing year-round, but your experience depends on when you visit:

 June – October is best for classic game viewing & the Mara River crossings.
 January – March is perfect for calving season & predator action.
 April – May is the low season, but great for photographers & budget travelers.

4. Best Safari Routes & Regions in the Serengeti

Southern Serengeti (Ndutu & Kusini Plains)

• Best from December to March (calving season).

• Large predator activity due to the abundance of young prey.

Central Serengeti (Seronera)

• Best year-round for lion, leopard, and cheetah sightings.

• The highest concentration of big cats in Africa.

Western Corridor & Grumeti River

• Best in May – July for the Grumeti River crossings.

• Home to large crocodiles and migrating herds.

Northern Serengeti & Mara River

• Best from July – October for dramatic Mara River crossings.

• Fewer crowds compared to Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

5. Types of Safaris in the Serengeti

1. Game Drive Safaris

• Private or group safaris with experienced guides.

• Can be done in open-sided 4×4 vehicles or closed vehicles with pop-up roofs.

• Options for half-day, full-day, or multiple-day safaris.

2. Hot Air Balloon Safaris

• Experience a sunrise flight over the Serengeti with breathtaking aerial views.

• Usually lasts 1 hour, followed by a champagne breakfast.

3. Walking Safaris

• Available in selected areas (outside the national park boundaries).

• Led by armed rangers and offer an immersive experience with nature.

4. Mobile Camping Safaris

• Temporary luxury tented camps that move with the migration.

• Provides an intimate and exclusive wildlife experience.

5. Photographic Safaris

• Specialized safaris for photographers, with customized vehicles and expert guides.

• Best for capturing dramatic wildlife action and landscapes.

6. Accommodation Options

There are three main types of accommodation in the Serengeti:

Luxury Safari Lodges & Camps ($500 – $2000+ per night)

• Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

• Singita Grumeti Reserves

• &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas

• Sayari Camp

Mid-Range Tented Camps & Lodges ($250 – $500 per night)

• Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

• Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

• Asilia Africa Camps

Budget Camping & Lodges ($100 – $250 per night)

• Public & Special Campsites (DIY Camping)

• Serengeti Green Hills Camp

• Tanzania Bush Camps

7. How to Get to the Serengeti

By Air 

• Fly from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Seronera, Kogatende, or Grumeti airstrips.

• Domestic airlines: Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, Regional Air.

By Road 

• Drive from Arusha (7–8 hours).

• Possible stops: Lake Manyara, Tarangire, or Ngorongoro Crater.

8. Safari Costs & Budgeting

 Park Fees: $70 per adult/day, $30 per child/day.
 Best Value Tip: Book a mid-range lodge safari in the off-season for the best deals.

9. Travel Tips for the Serengeti

 Book Early – Especially during peak seasons (June–October).
 Pack Smart – Bring neutral clothing, a good camera, and binoculars.
 Stay Hydrated – Carry water, as it can get very hot.
 Respect Wildlife – Follow your guide’s instructions and keep a safe distance.
 Get Travel Insurance – Covers trip cancellations and medical emergencies.

10. Best Serengeti Safari Operators

Looking for a trusted tour operator? You can book with  MyAfricanWay all offering tailored safari experiences.

Plan Your Serengeti Safari Today!

Whether you want to witness the Great Migration, enjoy a luxury safari, or explore on a budget, the Serengeti is an unforgettable destination. Need help planning? Let me know your travel dates, budget, and preferences, and I’ll guide you!