About Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti National Park is synonymous with the Great Migration, one of nature's most spectacular events. Over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the endless plains in search of fresh grazing, followed by predators including lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The park's diverse ecosystems range from grassland plains to riverine forests and rocky outcrops called kopjes. These granite formations serve as vantage points for big cats and provide unique photographic opportunities. The Serengeti offers year-round wildlife viewing, with different areas showcasing various aspects of this incredible ecosystem.
Location & Geography
Covering 14,750 square kilometers, the Serengeti is Tanzania's oldest national park, established in 1951. The name 'Serengeti' comes from the Maasai word 'siringet,' meaning 'endless plains.' The park is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem, which includes Kenya's Maasai Mara. The Great Migration is a year-round phenomenon, with different areas of the park offering the best viewing at different times.
Conservation Efforts
The Serengeti plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation, protecting the world's largest terrestrial mammal migration. Anti-poaching efforts and community conservation programs help protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site for future generations.
History & Significance
The Serengeti has a long history of human presence, with evidence of early hominid activity in the Olduvai Gorge. The Maasai people have traditionally grazed their cattle in the area. The area was declared a game reserve in 1921 and later upgraded to national park status in 1951.
Climate & Weather
The Serengeti experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The area experiences two distinct seasons with varying rainfall patterns.
November to May - expect afternoon showers and lush green landscapes.
June to October - sunny days and cooler nights, ideal for wildlife viewing.
Getting There
The Serengeti is accessible by air and road. Several airstrips within the park receive domestic flights from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar. The park can also be reached by road from Arusha (325km, 8-10 hours drive).
Transportation Options:
- Domestic flights to Serengeti airstrips
- Road transfer from Arusha (8-10 hours)
- Organized safari packages from Arusha and other major cities
- Self-drive with 4WD vehicle (recommended)
- Combination road/air transfer
What to Expect
Expect vast open plains teeming with wildlife, dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration, and incredible predator-prey interactions. The Serengeti offers a classic African safari experience with diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Best Activities:
- Game drives
- Witnessing the Great Migration
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Bird watching
- Walking safaris
- Cultural visits to Maasai villages
- Photography safaris
- Night game drives
Photography Tips:
- Wildebeest river crossings
- Lions on kopjes
- Cheetahs hunting on the plains
- Sunrises and sunsets over the Serengeti
- Hot air balloons over the plains
- Wildlife silhouettes against the horizon
- Starry skies in the Serengeti
Safety & Guidelines
The Serengeti is generally safe, but standard safari precautions apply. Maintain safe distance from all wildlife. Follow guide instructions at all times. Malaria prophylaxis is essential. Be aware of the strong sun and heat.
Important Guidelines:
- Maintain safe distance from all wildlife
- Follow park rules and regulations
- Respect Maasai culture and traditions
- Use sunscreen and wear a hat
- Stay hydrated
- Dispose of waste properly
- Be aware of tsetse flies
Quick Facts
Duration
3-7 days
Group Size
2-8 people
Rating
4.9/5.0
Best Time
Year-round, migration timing varies by location
Location
Northern Tanzania
Temperature
20-30°C (68-86°F)
Difficulty Level
Moderate - long game drives on rough terrain
What to Pack
- Lightweight safari clothing in neutral colors
- Warm clothing for early morning and evening game drives
- Sunscreen and hat
- Binoculars
- Camera with telephoto lens
- Malaria prophylaxis
- Insect repellent
- Personal first aid kit
- Cash for souvenirs and tips
Cost Information
Park Fees
$70.80 per person per day for non-residents, $35.40 for East African residents. Vehicle entry fee: $295 per vehicle.
Estimated Budget
Budget camping: $100-200/day, Mid-range tented camp: $300-500/day, Luxury lodge: $700+/day per person including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Highlights
Wildlife & Nature
The Serengeti is famous for the Great Migration, where over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains. The park is also home to large populations of lions, cheetahs, leopards, and other predators. The diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of bird species.
Wildebeest
Over 1.5 million wildebeest participate in the annual Great Migration.
African Lion
The Serengeti has one of the largest lion populations in Africa.
Cheetah
The open plains provide perfect hunting grounds for cheetahs.
Must-Visit Attractions
The Central Serengeti (Seronera) offers year-round wildlife viewing. The Mara River is famous for the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. The kopjes are rocky outcrops that provide vantage points for big cats. The endless plains offer a classic African safari experience.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation options range from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget campsites. The luxury lodges offer stunning views and exclusive experiences. The tented camps provide a more immersive safari experience. Campsites are available for budget travelers.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge
Luxury lodge overlooking the Serengeti plains with infinity pool
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Traditional safari lodge built into a rocky outcrop
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