Serengeti National Park
Welcome to the soul of Africa, a place so vast and teeming with life it defies the imagination. Serengeti National Park is not just a destination; it is a living, breathing spectacle of nature at its most raw, powerful, and profoundly beautiful. Located in the heart of northern Tanzania, these legendary plains are the scene of one of the planet’s last great migrations and offer arguably the most extraordinary safari experiences on Earth. Covering an immense 14,750 square kilometres, this is a world of endless horizons, acacia-studded savannas, and wildlife in staggering numbers.
The name “Serengeti,” derived from the Maasai word Siringet meaning “the place where the land runs on forever,” is a perfect description. To stand here is to feel a sense of infinite space and timelessness. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Serengeti National Park is the heart of the greater Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, a protected wilderness that knows no borders. At Africa Holiday Safaris, we consider it a privilege to guide you through this iconic landscape, crafting unforgettable Serengeti tours that connect you with the untamed spirit of this incredible place.
How to Get to Serengeti National Park
Embarking on your journey to the Serengeti is the beginning of the adventure, and we ensure it is as seamless as it is scenic. As a leading Serengeti National Park Tour company, we handle all the logistics, whether you choose to arrive by air or land.
- By Air: The most efficient and spectacular way to arrive is by air. Imagine soaring in a light aircraft over the vast, patterned plains, witnessing the scale of the Serengeti from a breathtaking bird’s-eye view. Several reputable domestic airlines operate daily scheduled flights from key hubs like Arusha (ARK), Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), and even Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Zanzibar (ZNZ). These flights connect you to a network of airstrips strategically located across the park—such as Seronera in the centre, Kogatende in the north, or Ndutu in the south—ensuring you land as close as possible to the best seasonal wildlife action, maximising your time on the ground for what truly matters: the safari.
- By Road: For those who crave a classic overland adventure, the journey by road is an experience in itself. Our guided Serengeti National Park Safaris are conducted in custom-built, comfortable 4×4 Land Cruisers. The classic route from Arusha takes approximately 6-7 hours, but this is no mere transfer. The drive takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and includes a dramatic journey through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering spectacular views of the crater before you descend onto the legendary plains of the Serengeti. This overland journey is an integral part of the safari, a gradual immersion into the wilderness of northern Tanzania.
Attractions Found in Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is a destination of endless attractions, a dynamic stage where every day brings a new drama. Our Serengeti Safari Packages are designed to immerse you in the full spectrum of experiences this magnificent park offers.
- The Great Wildebeest Migration: This is the headline act, the very pulse of the Serengeti. It’s the relentless, circular journey of nearly two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle, driven by ancient instincts in search of fresh grazing and water. It is a year-round phenomenon, but we time our Serengeti tours to place you at the heart of the most dramatic moments: the thundering chaos of a Mara River crossing in the north, the vast plains of the south teeming with newborn calves, or the sheer spectacle of the herds on the move, stretching from horizon to horizon.
- Legendary Game Drives & Big Cat Encounters: Morning and afternoon game drives are the cornerstones of your safari. With an expert guide from our Serengeti National Park Tour company, you will explore the diverse regions of the park. We’ll navigate the Seronera Valley, renowned for its resident leopards and lions; search the iconic granite kopjes (rocky outcrops) for prides of lions basking in the sun; and scan the southern plains for the world’s fastest land mammal, the cheetah, on the hunt. The Serengeti is a predator’s paradise, and the opportunities to witness these magnificent animals are unparalleled.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: For a truly magical perspective, nothing compares to a hot air balloon safari at dawn. You’ll lift off as the sun begins to illuminate the plains, drifting silently over awakening herds and observing the landscape from a vantage point of pure serenity. The experience culminates in a celebratory champagne breakfast served in the heart of the bush, an unforgettable memory.
- Intimate Walking Safaris: To truly connect with the earth beneath your feet, a walking safari is a must. Led by highly trained and armed guides, these walks allow you to step out of the vehicle and engage all your senses. You’ll learn to identify animal tracks, discover the fascinating world of insects and plants, and feel the thrill of approaching wildlife on its own terms.
- Cultural Visits with the Maasai People: The lands of the Serengeti are inextricably linked with the Maasai people. We can arrange for authentic and respectful visits to a local village, where you can interact with the community, learn about their ancient traditions and their symbiotic relationship with the wildlife, and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural fabric of this region.
- Birdwatching and Photographic Safaris: With over 500 species of birds, from the colossal ostrich and the striking Secretary Bird to a dazzling array of eagles, rollers, and weavers, the Serengeti is a delight for birdwatchers. For photographers, the combination of incredible wildlife, dramatic golden light, and vast, open landscapes makes every moment a potential masterpiece.
Types of Available Accommodation at Serengeti National Park
Where you stay is an integral part of your safari experience. Serengeti National Park offers a superb spectrum of lodging, from opulent luxury to authentic bush camping. We have personally vetted a selection of the finest properties to include in our Serengeti Safari Packages.
- Luxury Lodges & Premier Camps: For those seeking the pinnacle of comfort and service, options like the Four Seasons Safari Lodge or the exclusive Singita properties offer unparalleled luxury. Imagine private plunge pools overlooking a waterhole, gourmet dining under the stars, and world-class spas, all seamlessly integrated into the stunning wilderness.
- Mid-Range Lodges & Tented Camps: Offering a perfect blend of comfort, value, and authentic safari ambiance, lodges like the Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge and tented camps such as Kati Kati Tented Camp are excellent choices. These properties provide spacious rooms or en-suite tents, fantastic food, and prime locations within the park, ensuring you are always close to the action.
- Mobile Migration Camps: To stay on the heels of the Great Migration, mobile camps like &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas are a phenomenal option. These camps move several times a year to position themselves in the best possible locations, offering a luxurious yet intimate front-row seat to nature’s greatest spectacle.
- Budget-Friendly Camping: For the adventurous at heart, camping in the Serengeti offers the most immersive experience. Sleeping in a public campsite like Seronera allows you to fall asleep to the sounds of the African night—the distant roar of a lion or the whoop of a hyena—for an unforgettable, close-to-nature adventure.
Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is a spectacular year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see.
- June – October: This is the peak dry season and the prime time for classic Serengeti National Park Safaris. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around rivers and waterholes. This period is also when the Great Migration is typically in the Northern Serengeti, offering the chance to witness the dramatic and action-packed Mara River crossings.
- December – March: The action shifts to the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu). This is the calving season, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest give birth. The plains are filled with new life, which in turn attracts a very high concentration of predators, making for thrilling game viewing.
- April – May: Known as the “Green Season,” this period sees the famous “long rains.” The landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise, the skies are dramatic, and there are far fewer visitors. It’s a photographer’s dream and an excellent time for birdwatching.
Frequently Asked Questions About Serengeti National Park
- Where is Serengeti National Park located?
Serengeti National Park is situated in northern Tanzania and forms the heart of the vast Serengeti ecosystem. It shares its northern border with Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve.
- What animals can I see in the Serengeti?
The Serengeti is home to an astonishing density of wildlife. You can see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and the rare black rhino), along with vast herds of wildebeest and zebra, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 species of birds.
- When is the best time to visit the Serengeti?
This truly depends on your interests! For the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration, visit from June to October. For the calving season with lots of predator action, visit the Southern Serengeti from December to March. The park offers incredible resident wildlife viewing year-round.
- How do I get to Serengeti National Park?
You can either take a scenic flight from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar to one of the park’s airstrips, or embark on a classic road safari from Arusha, which typically includes a drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Our Serengeti Safari Packages can be tailored to include either option.
- Do I need a visa to visit Serengeti National Park?
Yes, most foreign visitors will require a visa for Tanzania. It is highly recommended to apply for an e-visa online in advance of your travels to ensure a smooth arrival.
- Are safaris in Serengeti safe?
Absolutely. Your safety is our highest priority. All Serengeti tours are conducted by highly trained, professional guides in robust, well-maintained 4×4 vehicles. By following park regulations and your guide’s instructions, you can enjoy the wildlife safely and responsibly.
- What types of accommodations are available?
The Serengeti offers a wide range of options, from ultra-luxurious lodges and intimate tented camps to mobile migration camps and budget-friendly public campsites, ensuring there is a perfect choice for every travel style and budget.
- Can I do a self-drive safari in Serengeti?
While technically possible, we strongly advise against it for first-time visitors. The park is immense, roads are often unmarked and rugged, and finding wildlife without an expert’s eye can be challenging. A guided safari ensures you are safe, stress-free, and have the best possible wildlife viewing experience.
- Are night safaris available?
Night game drives are not permitted inside the main Serengeti National Park boundaries. However, they are offered as a special activity in some of the adjacent private concessions and reserves, providing a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal animals.
- Can I visit Serengeti on a budget?
Yes, it is possible to experience the Serengeti on a more modest budget. Opting for a group safari, staying in public campsites, and travelling during the shoulder seasons can make the trip more affordable. We, as your Serengeti National Park Tour company, can design various packages to match your financial plans.
