Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous and iconic wildlife reserves in the world, located in northern Tanzania, East Africa. It covers approximately 15,000 square miles (39,000 square kilometers) of pristine wilderness and is renowned for its vast, open plains, diverse ecosystems, and remarkable wildlife. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is particularly known for its large populations of wild animals, including the "Big Five" (lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses), as well as many other species like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
The great wildebeest migration of more than 1.5 million
accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and half a million Gazelles as well
as Elands with annual pattern seeking fresh grazing and water. Having a chance of
encountering this phenomenon gives you a life experience from nature.
The vast scenic and unspoiled landscapes among
others made this area recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. With its vast
plains, rolling hills and island of Kopjes contribute to the beauty of the park
All the classic big game animals of Africa are found in the Serengeti. Of
recent importance are re-introduction programs for black rhino and Cape hunting
dogs. The black rhino is being introduced in the north and south of the Park while
hunting dogs are beginning to spread throughout.
With more than 540 species recorded one quarter being those
migrating from other parts of the world, part from an ecological important bird area
and ideal place for bird lovers! Some of the species commonly seen are European and
abdim’s storks, Eurasian roller, barn swallows etc.
The Serengeti migration period spans the entire year as the Great Migration is a continuous cycle of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara ecosystems in search of food and water. Here's a month-by-month breakdown:
Where to Go: Southern Serengeti, Ndutu Plains, and parts of the Ngorongoro
Conservation Area.
Highlights:
o Thousands of wildebeest give birth, typically in February.
o Predators, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, are active, preying on young
and vulnerable calves.
o Lush landscapes and abundant birdlife.
Where to Go: Central Serengeti (Seronera) and the Western Corridor.
Highlights:
o The herds begin moving toward the central and western Serengeti as the rains
end.
o This is the low season, offering fewer crowds and lower safari costs.
Where to Go: Western Serengeti and the Grumeti Reserve.
Highlights:
o Dramatic river crossings as herds navigate crocodile-infested Grumeti River
waters.o Peak wildlife viewing as the dry season begins.
Where to Go: Northern Serengeti (Kogatende and Lamai areas).
Highlights:
o Iconic scenes of wildebeest braving the Mara River, with crocodiles and
predators lurking.
o Best time for dramatic action and photography.
Where to Go: Eastern and Southern Serengeti.
Highlights:
o The herds return south as the short rains rejuvenate the Serengeti plains.
o Large congregations of animals in the southern areas.
Summary
Best Time for the Migration: June to October for river crossings.
Best Time for Calving: January to March.
Year-Round Activity: The migration is always moving, so there’s always something
For visitors traveling from Zanzibar or other parts of Tanzania, flights land directly at
airstrips within Serengeti, ensuring seamless access. Key airstrips include:
1. Seronera Airstrip (Central Serengeti) – The busiest airstrip, central to most activities
and accommodations.
2. Kogatende Airstrip (Northern Serengeti) – Ideal for visitors during the Great
Migration and those traveling onward to Maasai Mara.
3. Ndutu Airstrip (Southern Serengeti) – Convenient during the calving season
(December–March).
4. Lobo Airstrip (Northern Serengeti) – Accessible for travelers exploring the less
crowded areas.
To visit the Maasai Mara from Serengeti:
The Kogatende Airstrip (Northern Serengeti) is the best starting point.
From Kogatende, charter flights connect directly to airstrips in the Maasai Mara, such
as Ol Kiombo or Mara North.
Alternatively, travelers can cross by road via the Bologonja Gate (border point),
though this option requires pre-arranged documentation.
(The "Elephant Paradise.")
(Home to a wide variety of wildlife)
( Famous for the Great Migration,)
(Known for its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and scenic beauty)
(Known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique ecosystems)
The highest peak in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world.
(Tarangire National Park & Ngorongoro Crater)
(Tarangire Np, Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti Np)
(Lake Manyara , Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro)