World Heritage Site

Serengeti National Park

Discover the endless golden plains where the land runs on forever. Home to the Great Migration, Big Five, and some of the largest concentrations of wildlife on Earth. Experience the ultimate Tanzania safari in Africa's most iconic wilderness.

Great Migration
Big Five Safari
14,763 sq km
UNESCO World Heritage

Serengeti Overview

The word iconic comes to mind when thinking of Serengeti National Park. Meaning "a place where the land runs on forever," the Serengeti is among the top wildlife destinations and probably the most remarkable natural wonders left on our planet. Home to the greatest show on Earth - the Great Migration - and some of the largest concentrations of animals and birds.

Size

14,763 sq km
Endless Plains

Great Migration

2 Million Animals
Annual Journey

Big Five

Lions, Leopards
Elephants, Buffalo, Rhino

Birdlife

500+ Species
5 Endemic Birds

Why Visit Serengeti National Park?

The Greatest Show on Earth: Witness the legendary Great Migration where over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles embark on their epic 800-kilometer journey across the endless plains.

Big Five Paradise: Home to the largest density of lions across the African continent (around 3,500 in over 300 prides), plus leopards, elephants, buffalo, and the rare black rhino.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981
  • Largest concentration of large mammals on Earth
  • Home to over 500 bird species including 5 endemics
  • Diverse ecosystems from grasslands to riverine forests
  • Mara River crossings - nature's greatest spectacle
  • Rich Maasai cultural heritage and traditions
  • Hot air balloon safaris with champagne breakfast
  • Night game drives in select areas
  • Walking safaris in private concessions
  • Year-round wildlife viewing opportunities
Serengeti Highlights
Wildebeest Migration
3,500 Lions in 300 Prides
Mara River Crossings
Kopjes & Rock Formations
Balloon Safari Adventures
Maasai Cultural Tours

Explore Serengeti Safari Areas

The entire Serengeti ecosystem offers amazing biodiversity across five distinct safari regions, each with unique wildlife experiences and landscapes.

Seronera Region - Predator Capital

The southeastern area of Seronera is the centre of wildlife viewing in the wet season, from December to April. Huge herds of wildebeests gather here making for amazing predator action. Seronera is widely known as the predator capital of Tanzania.

Wildlife Highlights: Lion sightings along the Seronera River are almost guaranteed. The riverbanks are home to some of the densest populations of leopards, often seen on sausage trees. Tree-climbing lions can also be spotted with patience.

Highest Lion Density
Leopards in Trees
Best For: Black rhinos, elephants, cheetahs around Kamuyo Hills, and guaranteed big cat sightings.

Northern Serengeti - Mara River Crossings

The northern plains stretch from the Lobo Hills to the Kenyan border and are characterized by rolling green hills. This landscape is beautifully scenic and remote compared to the Southern Serengeti. The region is famous for the dramatic Mara River crossings.

Great Migration: From August to September, witness the greatest battle for survival as migrating herds face the deadly Mara River crossings with thousands of crocodiles waiting. This is where the most iconic wildlife photography is captured.

River Crossings
Crocodiles
Rolling Hills
Photography Heaven: The Mara River crossings provide the most dramatic wildlife photography opportunities in Africa.

Western Corridor - Grumeti River

The Western Corridor follows the course of the Grumeti River from Central Serengeti towards Lake Victoria. The habitat is mostly a combination of woodlands, dotted with dense whistling thorns and open savannahs.

Migration Challenge: From May to July, the migrating herds face their first major challenge crossing the Grumeti River, where deadly crocodiles await. The Western Corridor supports substantial resident wildlife year-round.

Grumeti River
Woodlands
Year-round Wildlife
Wildlife Focus: Elephants, wildebeest, lions, zebras, and various antelope species in beautiful woodland settings.

Southern Serengeti/Ndutu Plains - Calving Season

The vast open grasslands of the Ndutu Plains represent the essence of classic Tanzania safaris. These plains are home to several animals and serve as the calving grounds for the Great Migration from January to March.

Circle of Life: Witness the birth of wildebeest calves during the calving season - over 8,000 calves are born daily during peak season. This attracts predators, creating incredible predator-prey interactions.

Calving Season
Simba Kopjes
Birdwatching: Woodlands around Lake Ndutu offer shelter to extensive birdlife including Fischer's lovebirds.

Grumeti Game Reserve - Exclusive Wilderness

Located in the remote western reaches of the Serengeti, this undiscovered gem offers heightened game-viewing experiences due to its remoteness. Limited visitor numbers create an exclusive, private safari atmosphere.

Unique Activities: One of the few areas in Serengeti offering walking safaris. Spend hours on foot with expert guides learning about birds and smaller animals while experiencing the African bush authentically.

Walking Safaris
Remote & Exclusive
Year-round Wildlife
Special Experience: Walking safaris allow intimate wildlife encounters and detailed ecosystem education.

Serengeti Wildlife & Great Migration

Home to the largest concentration of large mammals on Earth and the greatest wildlife spectacle - the Great Migration of over 2 million animals.

The Big Five

Lions: 3,500 lions in over 300 prides - the largest density in Africa. Tree-climbing lions in Seronera region.

Leopards: Over 1,000 leopards, commonly seen on sausage trees along Seronera River.

Elephants: Over 7,000 elephants roaming the endless plains.

Buffalo: Large herds around waterholes throughout the park.

Rhino: Rare black rhinos in Seronera region, protected by intensive conservation efforts.

The Great Migration

December-April: Calving season in Southern Serengeti/Ndutu Plains. Over 8,000 calves born daily during peak season.

May-July: Herds move to Western Corridor, facing Grumeti River crossings with deadly crocodiles.

August-September: Dramatic Mara River crossings in Northern Serengeti - nature's greatest spectacle.

October-November: Return journey through northern plains and Lobo hills back to calving grounds.

Additional Wildlife Highlights

Cheetahs: 225 cheetahs on southeastern grasslands
Hyenas: 3,500 spotted hyenas across the ecosystem
Wild Dogs: Hundreds of African wild dogs in packs
Birds: 500+ species including 5 endemics
Zebras: Hundreds of thousands in migration herds
Gazelles: Thomson's and Grant's gazelles in vast numbers

Serengeti Safari Activities

Experience the endless golden savannahs through diverse safari activities designed to showcase Serengeti's incredible wildlife and landscapes.

Game Drives

Morning and evening game drives across diverse habitats. Witness the golden sunrise over endless plains and spectacular sunsets with Lion King-like backdrops.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Get aerial views of the vast Serengeti plains at sunrise. Includes champagne breakfast after landing. See the Great Migration from above.

Walking Safaris

Available in private concessions like Grumeti. Experience the African bush on foot with armed guides, learning about smaller wildlife and ecosystems.

Night Game Drives

Discover nocturnal wildlife in select areas. Spot leopards, lions, hyenas, and other creatures active after dark with specialized night vision equipment.

Cultural Tours

Visit authentic Maasai villages and learn about traditional pastoralist lifestyle. Experience cultural dances, visit traditional bomas, and support local communities.

Kopjes Exploration

Explore the iconic rock formations (kopjes) scattered across Serengeti. These granite outcrops provide water, shade, and vantage points for wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti

Dry Season (June - October)

  • Thinner vegetation for easier wildlife viewing
  • Animals concentrate around water sources
  • Perfect for Mara River crossings (August-September)
  • Clear blue skies and excellent photography conditions
  • Cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitoes
  • Peak safari season with guaranteed wildlife sightings

Wet Season (November - May)

  • Calving season in Southern Serengeti (January-March)
  • Lush, vibrant landscapes and green scenery
  • Excellent birdwatching with migratory species
  • Fewer crowds and discounted accommodation rates
  • Incredible predator-prey interactions during calving
  • Best time for photography with dramatic skies

Serengeti Accommodation Options

From authentic camping under the stars to ultra-luxury lodges, Serengeti offers accommodation for every style and budget.

Budget Camping

Embalaki Authentic Camp: Experience authentic wilderness with tented camping, night bushfires, and stargazing under millions of stars.

Tanzania Bush Camps: Basic but comfortable camping with modern tents and essential amenities.

Mid-Range Lodges

Serengeti Sopa Lodge: Comfortable rooms with excellent views and good amenities.

Wayo Africa Camps: Eco-friendly tented camps offering luxury touches with immersive safari experiences.

Luxury Lodges

Four Seasons Safari Lodge: Ultra-luxury lodge next to watering hole with spa services and champagne sundowners.

&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas: Mobile luxury camping following the migration.

Conservation & Community

Protecting the Serengeti Ecosystem

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Designated in 1981, the Serengeti is recognized as one of the world's most important natural heritage sites requiring global protection.

TANAPA Management: Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) works with international conservation organizations to protect this unique ecosystem for future generations.

Anti-Poaching Efforts: Advanced technology and community involvement help combat illegal hunting and protect endangered species like black rhinos.

Community Benefits: Tourism revenue supports local Maasai communities through employment, education, and healthcare programs.

Research & Monitoring: Ongoing scientific research helps understand animal behavior, migration patterns, and climate change impacts.

Conservation Impact
Protected since 1951
Local Community Employment
Ongoing Research Programs
Anti-Poaching Initiatives
Sustainable Tourism Practices

Explore Tanzania's Northern Circuit

Combine your Serengeti safari with other incredible Tanzania destinations for the ultimate East African adventure.

Ngorongoro Crater
Natural Wonder
World Heritage

Ngorongoro Crater

Often called "Africa's Eden" and the "8th Wonder of the World." This 100-square-mile volcanic caldera hosts the highest concentration of wildlife in Africa with incredible Big Five opportunities.

Highest Wildlife Density
Big Five Guaranteed
Volcanic Caldera
Explore Ngorongoro
Tarangire National Park
Elephant Kingdom
Baobab Trees

Tarangire National Park

Famous for its large elephant herds (up to 300 individuals) and iconic ancient baobab trees. The Tarangire River attracts diverse wildlife during the dry season creating spectacular game viewing.

Massive Elephant Herds
Ancient Baobab Trees
Diverse Ecosystems
Discover Tarangire
Lake Manyara National Park
Tree Lions
Bird Paradise

Lake Manyara National Park

Compact park famous for tree-climbing lions, massive flocks of flamingos, and incredible biodiversity. Over 400 bird species make this a birdwatcher's paradise.

Tree-climbing Lions
400+ Bird Species
Pink Flamingo Flocks
Visit Lake Manyara
Mount Kilimanjaro
Africa's Highest
5,895m

Mount Kilimanjaro

Africa's highest peak and one of the world's Seven Summits. Combine your safari with a climbing adventure to the "Roof of Africa" through diverse climate zones.

Africa's Highest Peak
Multiple Route Options
Safari + Climb Combo
Climb Kilimanjaro
Zanzibar Beaches
Spice Island
Beach Paradise

Zanzibar Beach Extension

Perfect way to end your safari with pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, historic Stone Town, and authentic spice tours on the exotic Spice Island.

Pristine White Beaches
Historic Stone Town
Spice Tours & Culture
Safari + Beach

Ready to Experience the Greatest Show on Earth?

Let our expert safari guides help you plan the perfect Serengeti adventure. Witness the Great Migration, spot the Big Five, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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