Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is one of the most iconic and celebrated wildlife conservation areas in the world. Renowned for its vast savannahs, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking wildlife, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations.

Things to know about Serengeti National park

The Great Migration

The Serengeti is famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration, an extraordinary natural phenomenon where over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, migrate in search of water and fresh grazing. This spectacle involves dramatic river crossings, predator encounters, and an unmatched display of the circle of life.

Wildlife Diversity

The park is home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and many other species, including cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 species of birds. It has one of the highest concentrations of predators, especially lions.

Size and Landscape

Spanning 14,763 square kilometers (5,700 square miles), the park’s landscapes include open plains, acacia woodlands, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops called kopjes, which are a favorite resting spot for predators.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Nearby Attractions

Serengeti is part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem and is closely linked to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Visitors often combine a Serengeti safari with a trip to the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, or Mount Kilimanjaro.

Cultural Experiences

The park is also home to the Maasai people, who live around its borders. Visitors can experience their rich culture, traditions, and way of life.

Activities in Serengeti

Game drives: The most common way to explore and observe wildlife. Hot air balloon safaris: Offering a bird’s-eye view of the landscape and wildlife. Walking safaris: Led by expert guides, these offer an intimate way to experience the wilderness. Photographic safaris: The park’s beauty makes it a paradise for photographers.

Best Time to Visit

The park can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to see: June to October: Dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing. November to May: Green season, with lush landscapes, baby animals, and fewer tourists. The Great Migration typically occurs between June and July (river crossings) and late November to early December (calving season).

How to Access Serengeti

The park can be reached via small chartered flights or by road from Arusha, Tanzania’s safari hub.