Serengeti National Park
The Endless Plains of Africa
Stretching across the horizon as far as the eye can see, Serengeti National Park is the quintessential African safari destination. Renowned for its immense wildlife populations and the breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an unparalleled connection with nature. The name “Serengeti,” derived from the Maasai word “Siringet” meaning “endless plains,” perfectly captures the vast, untamed beauty of this 14,750 square kilometer ecosystem.
The Great Wildebeest Migration: A Planetary Spectacle
The annual journey of over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle is rightly called The Greatest Show on Earth. This continuous, circular trek in search of fresh grazing and water is one of the planet's last great animal migrations and a defining natural wonder.
Imagine a living river of animals thundering across the plains, stretching for dozens of kilometers. The most dramatic moments occur during the perilous river crossings, where herds brave the crocodile-infested waters of the Grumeti and Mara Rivers. This is a raw, unfiltered display of life, death, and survival.
When to Witness the Migration: The migration is a year-round, cyclical event. The timing is dictated by rainfall, but key highlights include:
Calving Season (Late January – February): A surge of new life in the Southern Serengeti as hundreds of thousands of wildebeest calves are born.
River Crossings (June – July): The dramatic Grumeti River crossings.
Mara River Crossings (August – September): The iconic and often treacherous crossings into the Masai Mara.
Our expert guides use their deep local knowledge to track the herds, maximizing your chances of witnessing this incredible phenomenon.
Popular Serengeti Tours
A Wildlife Paradise: Beyond the Migration
While the migration is a massive draw, the Serengeti’s wildlife viewing is exceptional year-round. The park boasts one of the highest concentrations of large predators in Africa.
The Big Five: The Serengeti is a premier location to spot the Big Five. While black rhinos are elusive, populations of lion, leopard, elephant, and Cape buffalo are thriving.
Apex Predators: The park is home to over 3,000 lions, often seen sunbathing on the iconic kopjes (granite rock formations). You also have strong chances of spotting sleek cheetahs on the hunt and the more solitary leopard resting in acacia trees.
Diverse Herbivores: Massive herds of elephants, towering giraffes, and countless antelope species like Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelle fill the landscape. The Retina Hippo Pool is a must-visit, home to nearly 200 hippos.
Exploring the Diverse Landscapes of the Serengeti
The Serengeti is far more than flat grasslands. Its beauty lies in its varied ecosystems, each with a unique character and resident wildlife.
The Southern Plains: Vast, open grasslands where the wildebeest calving occurs.
The Seronera Valley (Central Serengeti): A rich, riverine ecosystem known as the “Big Cat Capital,” offering fantastic lion, leopard, and cheetah sightings year-round.
The Western Corridor: Defined by the Grumeti River, this region is famous for its massive crocodiles and the first major river crossing of the migration.
The Northern Serengeti: A region of rolling hills and woodlands, home to the iconic Mara River crossings and quieter, more exclusive game viewing.
FAQs
1. What is the best time of year to visit the Serengeti?
The Serengeti is a year-round destination. For witnessing the Great Migration river crossings, target June through September. For excellent general wildlife viewing with fewer crowds, consider the dry season from late June to October. The green season (November to May) offers lush landscapes, excellent birding, and the wildebeest calving season in February.
2. How likely am I to see the Big Five?
Very likely for four of the five. Lions, elephants, and buffalo are commonly seen. Leopards are more elusive but frequently spotted in the Seronera Valley. The black rhino is the most challenging, with a small, shy population, but sightings do occur, particularly in the more remote areas.
3. Is the Serengeti safe for visitors?
Yes. When you are on a guided safari with a reputable operator, the Serengeti is very safe. Always follow your guide’s instructions, such as remaining inside the vehicle during game drives and being mindful of your surroundings at camp.
4. What should I pack for a safari in the Serengeti?
Pack neutral-colored clothing (khaki, green, beige), a wide-brimmed hat, sturdy shoes, binoculars, a high-quality camera, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cool morning game drives. Don’t forget your sense of adventure!
5. Can I witness the Great Migration at any time?
Yes, but its location changes monthly. The herds are constantly moving in a clockwise circle through the Serengeti and into Kenya’s Masai Mara. Consulting with a safari expert is the best way to ensure you are in the right place at the right time for your travel dates.
6. What is the difference between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara?
They are part of the same contiguous ecosystem. The Serengeti is much larger and located in Tanzania, while the Masai Mara is a smaller reserve in Kenya. The wildebeest migration moves between them, typically in the Serengeti from December to July and in the Masai Mara from August to November.