Serengeti National Park

Serengeti location and geography

Situated in the northern region of Tanzania, the golden plains of Serengeti National Park stretch for almost 15,000 square kilometres. The park is located completely in the northeastern part of the Simiyu region and the eastern Mara region.

The landscapes of the Serengeti Ecosystem are extremely varied. They range from savannahs and open grasslands to hilly woodlands and riverine forests. This diversity is because of the extreme weather conditions, in particular the combination of heat and wind.

The habitats of the Serengeti are believed to have originated from a series of volcanoes. The volcanic activity helped shape the features of the ecosystem by adding craters and mountains to the surroundings.

The Mara River flows through the Kenyan highlands to Lake Victoria, where terrific migration crossings happen. This is the only river in the Serengeti ecosystem that flows permanently.

The flora of the park isn’t just great to look at though, it offers the wildlife of the park life force. And, without flora, your Safari In Serengeti here will seem wholly different. Forget scenic views, the lush green cover of the park will just be dry lands.

Accessing Serengeti National Park

Even though Serengeti is situated in a rather remote corner, accessing the park is fairly easy. Your most suitable option would be to fly into the town of Arusha. There are seven airstrips in the park, so it’ll be very convenient.

Or you could go another way, which is to book a 4WD safari vehicle from Arusha to Serengeti. This way you’ll get an opportunity to visit a couple of other parks along the way. Naturally, you can also choose to combine both these options and book a one-way overland safari and fly back to Arusha.

Accessing Serengeti by Air

Getting To Serengeti National Park by air is the most convenient and quick option. You will have a couple of choices if you want to access Serengeti by air.

Accessing Serengeti by Road

If you’d like to skip taking a flight and take the road less travelled, then this option is for you.

Access Points of Serengeti National Park

There are four primary entry and access points in the Serengeti. They are referred to as gates.

History Of Serengeti National Park

Imagine never knowing about the Great Wildebeest Migration! But this was true at one point in time. Going back to the early 1900s, explorers described the unbelievable plains of the Serengeti and the enormous numbers of animals found there.

This seemed too amazing to be true. And it went on like that for a few years. But, in the 1920s, the first photographs of the region came out. And, everyone was left stunned at the sight of this spectacle.

In 1930, an area of over 2,000 square kilometres was set up as a game reserve. This land is now known as the Southern and Eastern Serengeti. In 1951, the national park was established. The headquarters of the park was based on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater.

The original park also included an area which is now called the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Though, the area was separated from the park in 1959. This was done so that the native Maasai communities could live and graze their cattle without any interference.

In 1961, the Masai Mara National Reserve was set up in Kenya. In 1965, a permanent corridor was created between the Mara River and Kenya border. It was called the Lamai Wedge. This allowed the herds to migrate from the Serengeti savannahs to the Loita plains in the north. Later on, the Maswa Game Reserve was established in 1962.

What was once an undiscovered treasure, is now renowned across our planet! The Serengeti was among the first places to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. Now you can have the pleasure of exploring the endless plains of the park on Safaris To Tanzania.

Weather And Climate Of The Serengeti

The extensive ecosystem of Serengeti National Park has many seasonal differences when it comes to weather and climate. The park experiences a cool and dry season from the months of May to August, a warm dry season in September and October, and a wetter hot season from November to April.

Temperatures

Everyone has a belief that Africa is mostly a very hot place, but the temperatures of the Serengeti are moderate and pleasant. It rarely gets uncomfortably hot and temperatures drop during the nighttime and early mornings.

The minimum and maximum temperatures vary according to the seasons. The wet season is generally considered to be the warmest. The following chart will show the average temperatures of Serengeti in more detail.

GOOD TO KNOW: The average maximum temperatures vary based on elevation: from 15 Celsius around the crater highlands to around 30 Celsius near Lake Victoria.

Rainfall Period

Two rainfall periods govern the climate of Serengeti National Park. The first to break the grip of the dry season is the short rains, in November and December. Long rains follow soon in the period from March to May.

Though it rarely rains for a whole day, it does rain on most days. These rains turn the landscapes of the plains into vibrant green. This is why the season is referred to as the green season.

Average Rainfall In The Serengeti

SOME INSIGHTS: Sometimes the rains fuse into a single extended period. This mainly happens in the northern region of the park. Also, the short rains may not occur entirely, particularly in the southeast region of the Serengeti.

Serengeti Safari Packing List

Choices on top of choices – this is the case when it comes to packing for Safaris In Tanzania. Boiling things down to the essentials is the way to go. But, figuring out what these essentials are is the main battle.

So, to offer you a conclusive idea of what to pack and not, the following Tanzania Safari Packing List has been created. Thus, make sure you include all the items below in your checklist.

Clothing Essentials – Light, comfortable, and breathable!

Colour, and Comfort! You should remember these words when packing for Tanzania Safaris. Moisture-wicking clothes and breathable fabrics are highly advised.

• Lightweight long-sleeved shirts for keeping the sun and insects out
• Fleece pullover
• Lightweight jacket
• Short-sleeve shirt
• Tank tops
• Hooded safari jacket
• Pullover jacket

Bottoms

• Long pants to protect you from insects and tick bites.
• water-resistant hiking pants
• Zip-off safari pants
• moisture-wicking boxers or briefs

Make sure you have these items in your safari clothing checklist. But, do not wear bright-coloured clothes while on safaris in Serengeti. Earth tones and neutral colours are a good idea. Laundry services are available at most of the Serengeti Accommodations, so don’t overpack your luggage with clothes.

Tech Items – Probably one of the most important ones for you!

Camera, Binoculars, adapters, and a high-capacity power bank are must-pack gadgets for safaris. If you plan to go on night safaris, then a headlamp or a flashlight is recommended.

Pro Packing Advice

For birdwatching enthusiasts, a pair of binoculars is highly advised. 10x50 magnification is recommended. For capturing the best pictures on your safari – you should have a zoom lens with a magnification capacity of 300mm or more.

Travel Documents

You should have all the necessary documents in your luggage before you leave for your Serengeti Safari journey. The following are some documents you should ensure are in your luggage:

• Passport and Visa
• Identification Documents
• Travel Insurance Papers
• List of Emergency contact numbers
• Medical Certificates
• Health Surveillance Forms
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
• Credit Cards
• Safari Itinerary

In Tanzania, there’s a risk of malaria in some areas. So, take all the essential safety precautions like taking anti-malaria tablets/tablets and having a DEET-based mosquito repellant.

What not to pack?

From the above list, you have gained some insights into packing essentials. But what not to pack for Serengeti safaris is just as important. So, below are some items you should not pack for safaris in Serengeti National Park.

• Camouflage and military-inspired clothing
• Drones. They are banned inside the premises of Serengeti National Park.
• Hairdryers. Most camps and lodges won’t be able to handle the power capacity of hairdryers or hair straighteners.

You should also keep in mind that plastic bags are banned in Tanzania. So, you should not bring them. Although zip-lock bags are permitted, if needed, you can pack them.

Serengeti Safari Areas

The entire ecosystem of the Serengeti is a region of amazing biodiversity. If you want to have a safari in the park, you must know what things all the different areas have in store. So, the following are the primary five safari areas in Serengeti National Park.

The Seronera Region

Ndutu Plains

Grumeti Game Reserve

Lobo Hills and the Northern Plains

The Western Corridor

Serengeti Wildlife

A place where the endless plains meet the horizon and the place where travellers witness the endless wildlife! This is the charm of Serengeti National Park. The primary reason for visiting the Serengeti is to see wildlife in an endless and unspoilt natural environment. And rest assured, you will achieve exactly this!

The golden savannahs of the Serengeti are considered one of the greatest wilderness regions on the planet. The clear changeover from the rich flat soils to the hilly soils leads to a varied diversity of vegetation and habitats across the park.

A distinctive habitat is the riverine forests, a preferred spot for crocodiles and hippos. Other common wildlife in the park is long-necked giraffes, and several hooved animals like zebras, topis, impalas, elands, Grant’s gazelles, etc.

All of the big cats are easily witnessed. Lions are practically everywhere around the park. Whereas, cheetahs can be spotted on the southeastern grasslands and leopards are found lazing on top of acacia trees along the Seronera River.

The Big Five

The Big Five define the essence of what ultimate Tanzania Safaris are all about. The imposing cape buffaloes, the king of the African savannah – lions, the elusive leopards, the gentle giants – elephants, and the rare rhinoceros are all big five members.

A question that naturally arises is why these animals were categorized into the big five. This is because the term big five was coined by colonial hunters. It doesn’t refer to the size of the animals but because they proved to be the ones that were the most difficult to hunt.

Seeing the big five in their natural habitat is undoubtedly incredible. It’s going to be an experience that will penetrate your memories and make a home there so that you will never forget this amazing spectacle.

Lions – Kings of the golden savannahs!

Seeing a pride of lions is an experience that will leave you with an unforgettable memory. And, there’s some good news in store! The Serengeti is home to the largest density of lions across the whole African continent numbering around 3,500 in over 300 prides.

Lions tend to live in prides because they’re very sociable. In a group, the females hunt more than the males. A favourite activity of the lions is snoozing under a tree and you can see the tree-climbing lions in the Seronera region.

Prince of the darkness – Elusive leopards!

With a blend of classy grace and an amazing coat of fur, leopards are among the shyest and most elusive members of the big five. They would be brilliant at hide and seek, we think. Mainly because if they don’t want to be seen, they can be perfectly camouflaged.

But, the good news is that they can be seen on top of sausage trees in the Serengeti. Just head to the Seronera region and you’ll be set, just don’t forget to look up!

The imposing and mighty Cape Buffaloes!

Buffaloes can be seen around the different waterholes of Serengeti National Park. The gaze of cape buffaloes is something to wonder at. Their eyes will stare right into your soul. There’s a good chance of seeing these mighty beasts as there are herds of them in the Serengeti.

With size comes gentleness, the African gentle giants – Elephants!

The elephants of the Serengeti roam the endless plains and disappear into the dense woodlands. They can be seen across the park as there are over 7000 of them. You can even catch sight of them right from your Serengeti Accommodations, as they quench their thirst by drinking from waterholes.

Prehistoric heavyweights – the endangered rhinoceros!

Even though the population of rhinos in the Serengeti are less compared to other African destinations, sightings are still possible. Conservation efforts for the rhino population have gone a long way to protect this wonderful species.

Female rhinos only give birth every five years, this makes them one of the rarest species of wildlife on our planet. But alongside one of our experienced guides, you might get lucky and see them out on the Serengeti Bush.

Birdwatching Experience

Even if you’re not a fan of birdwatching, believe us, you’ll become an eager one after you have the Serengeti birdwatching experience. Home to more than 500 species of birds, the park is indeed a birdwatching haven. Some of the major highlights include the secretary bird, the Kori bustard, the green and yellow coloured Fischer’s lovebird, etc.

The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem hosts five endemic bird species that can’t be found anywhere else on the planet.

If you want to have the ultimate birdwatching experience in the Serengeti, then a visit between November and April is recommended. This is the nesting time for the resident species. Moreover, North African and European migratory birds are also present.

If you want to have an extensive birdwatching adventure on Safari In Tanzania, then combing your Serengeti Trip with Lake Manyara is a brilliant choice.

A bit of small talk!

No one is a huge fan of stinging and biting insects. But, they do play a critical role in the ecosystem of the Serengeti. Our guides will be more than happy to explain to you the role and importance of insects to the Serengeti ecosystem in more detail. Some primary insect groups are grasshoppers, termites, moths, butterflies, moths, dung beetles, and ants.

Going Beyond The Great Migration

Witnessing the greatest show on Earth will be an awe-inspiring sight, that’s for sure. But, many visitors overlook the fact that Serengeti National Park has many other things to offer too. Below are some examples.

Maasai Tribes

The culture inside the Serengeti National Park is just as rich as the wildlife. It is a blend of impacts. The impacts that the native tribal communities have had on the park for years. The culture isn’t just limited to humans, but also human ancestors (Australopithecus Afarensi), they lived around the area for almost 4 million years.

Today, the Serengeti is still home to many indigenous communities. One of the most famous is the Maasai people. The Maasais are popular and unique because of their long-preserved culture.

• The pastoralist Maasai communities inhabit the eastern region of the Serengeti ecosystem.
• This includes the Narok district and the Lolindo area.

The Maasai communities have stuck to their traditional way of life, making them a symbol of Serengeti and Tanzania’s culture. You too can experience their way of life on Serengeti safaris.

Cultural Tours

A safari in Serengeti National Park wouldn’t be complete without meeting the charming Maasai people. Tanzania Cultural Tours will let you immerse in the fascinating way of life of these noble communities. You’ll get opportunities to visit a traditional boma, village huts (known as manyattas), and perhaps even a local school or clinic.

Moreover, you’ll get to take part in other activities too. This includes the Maasai cultural dances, also known as the dance of seeing tomorrow.

The Bond between people and the land

Going back several years, the Maasai people lived in harmony with the wildlife and the surroundings of the Serengeti. And they have to this day followed in the same footsteps.

Although, along with the advancement of life, they have also adapted to the modern world. Today, they are learning how to trade their crafts, grow crops, enhance their skills and cooperate with the tourism sector of Tanzania.

The Maasai communities have rightfully established their place as drivers, trackers, guides, and cooks. This helps to bring in revenue for the government and provides training opportunities for the younger generation.

Conservation Efforts – To protect the natural ecosystem for generations to come!

The survival of wildlife is a matter of utmost importance! And to make sure that future generations will enjoy these precious inheritances, conservation is a must.

Tourism helps to generate international awareness of conservation issues. Whereas, the presence of tourists will also help in preventing illegal poaching activities and help park management with the game management work.

All the national parks in Tanzania are managed by TANAPA. In the Serengeti, TANAPA works closely with the Serengeti Conservation Project organization. Their primary goal is conservation. They are dedicated towards the preservation of the rich natural heritage of Serengeti National Park. They also provide secure breeding grounds where the diverse flora and fauna of the Serengeti can flourish.

Furthermore, ecotourism is also on the rise in Tanzania and TANAPA is committed to low-impact, sustainable visitation that will protect the natural environment from irreversible damage.

This includes closely monitoring human activities, regulating the development, disposing of waste in a controlled and careful manner, and dividing visitors and facilities. All of this combines to ensure that there’s a minimization of the human imprint on the environment.

Safari Activities In Serengeti National Park

Endless golden savannahs, majestic creatures, the greatest show on our planet, and some of the most gorgeous sunsets you’ll ever get the pleasure to witness! All of this and much more await you on Safaris In Serengeti National Park.

Going on a Safari In Serengeti is an intensely personal experience and you should indulge in experiences that excite you the most. So, to know and decide which ones you’d like to do, the following are the Serengeti Safari Activities you can do during your Safari In Tanzania.

Game Drives – The perfect way to witness the diverse wildlife and landscapes of the Serengeti!

Picture driving across the rich savannahs of the Serengeti on a safari jeep. While you’re surrounded by mountains and craters.

Right next to your safari vehicle, there’s a gathering of wildebeests. After driving for a while, you happen upon a pride of lions.

This scene looks right out of a movie. But, you get to experience this cinematic experience right on your safari in the wildlife kingdom of Serengeti National Park.

Get an aerial view of the rich savannah plains – on hot air balloon safaris!

As the name implies, the Serengeti is quite a massive area of land. So, to see a large portion and get an extensive view of the park, Hot Air Balloon Safaris are a great choice. They typically begin early in the morning and you will get an aerial view of the sunrise peeking out from under the mountains, and large herds of wildebeests walking underneath.

The panoramic view from up above is simply stunning. After your ride, you’ll get to also enjoy a glass of champagne and a delicious breakfast. Isn’t that some way to start your day?

The Great Wildebeest Migration – catch the thrilling moments of survival!

Nothing will make you stand in awe and appreciate the complexity of life more than the great show on our planet! The circle of life comes to the forefront and you’ll observe the natural course of life and the cruel beauty of nature.

The migrating herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles make their journey with predators patiently waiting for them. They face tough challenges from the deadliest crocodiles in the rivers and on land the king of the savannahs awaits their arrival.

Venture in search of adventure at the Moru Kopjes!

In the middle of the Serengeti, there’s a place where you can see enormous round rocks rising from the land. These are the Moru Kopjes and they are dispersed around the Serengeti. They provide water and shade for the wildlife across the park. The kopjes also serve as a vantage point for lions and other predators.

Game drives across this landscape will make you feel as though you’re in the Lion King.

Go on cultural tours and learn the way of life of the native communities!

Safaris In Serengeti aren’t just about game viewing! It’s also a glimpse into the lifestyle of the native tribes. Cultural excursions will take you across the attractions of the diverse heritage and will offer opportunities to interact with several of the native Maasai people.

Many of the bomas (settlements of the Maasai people) are happy to invite visitors and share their way of lifestyle and enriching stories. You will be able to learn about the Maasai customs and traditions. Or you may even purchase authentic arts and crafts made by the local communities.

Game Drives Experience In The Serengeti

Game viewing across the landscapes of the Serengeti is primarily carried out on game drives. This will be your front seat to catch the sight of the Great Migration and see animals up close from a 4WD safari vehicle.

Knowing about the different private concessions of the Serengeti is a must for optimal game drives. All of the safari areas of the park offer their unique share of experiences.

• The Ndutu plains capture the crux of classic game drives. The area is also a site of the calving season.
• The Seronera region is renowned for being the predator capital of the Serengeti and offers a great wildlife viewing experience.
• If you want exclusivity, then head to the remote corners of the park – the Northern Serengeti and Lobo.

Game drives in the park begin just as the first sunrays spread across the endless meadows, illuminating the surroundings. Morning game drives are an ideal way to start your day and explore the exciting possibilities that the endless plains offer.

You’ll see cubs plating with one another just as the sun rises, hippos lazing about by a pool of water, and a leopard slowly chasing after something, all in a span of 3-4 hours in the morning.

• Hot Air Balloon Safaris also start in the morning.
• This is an enthralling adventure that’ll let you gaze down across the surroundings and get amazing panoramic views.

Evening game drives in the Serengeti start just after a light afternoon snack. After, that, you’ll head out on a safari vehicle and see various animals preparing to go in their hides. A great feature of these game drives is the stunning backdrops. The gorgeous sunsets will make you feel like you’re in the Lion King and the skies will be bursting with bright orange hues.

To have the perfect game drive experience in Serengeti you need to know what itineraries are available. Thus, the following are some of our and travellers’ favourite and popular itineraries:

7 Days Big Five Safaris In Tanzania – This itinerary will help you conquer the quest of spotting the big five. You’ll be transported to the wildlife kingdom of Serengeti and Tanzania’s Biodiversity capital – Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, you’ll also get brilliant sightings of herds of wildebeests, zebras, and other antelopes.

10 Days Tanzania Closer To Nature – Embark on an up close and personal excursion in the lap of nature! This itinerary is close to our hearts and even closer to the splendid Tanzanian Bush. You’ll get to explore all of the national parks of the Northern Circuit, including the endless plains of the Serengeti.

Not satisfied yet? Then, explore our range of other fabulous Safari itineraries that’ll take you to the beating heart of Tanzania. Simply follow Tanzania Safari Tours and discover a whole other world of possibilities.

After your game drive, you’ll make your way to the accommodations. And look back on your dusty road experience with a sense of awe. These dusty roads had a story to tell, one that you’ll remember whenever you see a particle of dust in your life.

Serengeti Through The Famous Lens

As expected, the marvellous Serengeti has made its way into the hearts of many international leaders and celebrities. So, the following are some big names that have visited Serengeti National Park and enjoyed the wonders of the endless plains.

Lupita Nyong’o

Oscar Award winner and Hollywood actress, Lupita Nyong’o visited Serengeti National Park over the Easter holidays in 2021. She was indeed thrilled by the experience and game drives and she didn’t hold back one bit. She posted an image on Instagram of her and an enormous elephant in the backdrop. The caption was - “This is not a zoom background, I promise! #elphie in the Serengeti,”

She was also a part of the Discovery documentary titled ‘Serengeti’, where she played a significant role as a narrator.

Will Smith

Along with the company of his wife Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith visited Serengeti in 2019. He was shooting a National Geographic documentary titled – ‘Welcome to Earth’.

Barrack Obama

In 2018, the 44th President of the United States, Barrack Obama visited Kilimanjaro. He visited along with his wife and two children. They spent eight days in Tanzania and part of this trip was in Serengeti National Park.

Justin Timberlake

The honeymoon safari of American singer-songwriter Justin Timberlake was in Serengeti National Park. He along with his wife, Jessica Biel went on a hot air balloon ride.

Stephen Curry

In 2021, the American basketball player Steph Curry visited Tanzania. He along with his wife visited the pristine beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago and Serengeti National Park.

Key Takeaways Of The Serengeti

The endless plains of the Serengeti are teeming with all kinds of natural splendours that you can imagine. Want panoramic landscapes? You’ve got it! Some of the most diverse wildlife ever? No worries! Luxurious accommodations and amenities? It’s covered!

A welcoming place for couples, groups, backpackers, and families alike – the Serengeti is perfect for everyone! So, with that in mind, the following are some of the major takeaways of Safaris in Serengeti National Park:

• A place where wildlife flourishes, with over 2 million hooved animals, 400 lions, 1000 leopards, 500 cheetahs, and more than 500 species of birds.
• Picture the perfect destination for safaris – with exhilarating game drives, and walking safaris!
• The largest wildlife spectacle on our planet awaits – The Great Wildebeest Migration!
• A private and remote safari – in the undiscovered plains of Grumeti Game Reserve.
• Unparalleled aerial views of the surroundings of the Serengeti – On Hot Air Balloon Safaris!
• Visit the site of our ancient ancestors, the cradle of humanity- the Olduvai Gorge!
• See the lazy giants bathing, feeding, and relaxing – at the Hippos Retina Pool!
• The flowing rivers, towering mountains and gorges of the Seronera River Valley.
• Experience the way of life of the semi-nomadic Maasai communities – On cultural tours.
• Get transported right into the Lion King – on a visit to the Moru Kopjes.
• Witness the calving season in the Ndutu Plains – and appreciate the discovery of new life!
• Exceptional birdwatching experience – see several endemic birds along with the secretary bird and Kori bustards.
• Spot the wildlife of the Serengeti when it’s most active – on morning safaris!
• The life force of the wildlife – the rich flora of Serengeti. See acacia trees, sausage trees, as well as umbrella trees, and yellow-fever trees on game drives.

These are just the tip of the amazing takeaways of Serengeti National Park. Visit these endless plains and discover what lies in store for you! Archive them into your dream board and make cherished memories.

What The Endless Plains Of The Serengeti Mean To Us!

Serengeti National Park is a paradise of exhilarating wildlife and loads of exciting safari activities. It’s the perfect picture of nature at its wildest and untamed. Yet, it offers a range of experiences that will take you right back to the roots of life.

• The park has both the coming of new life (in the calving season along the Ndutu plains) and the circle of life (in the dramatic Mara River crossings) in one package.
• This is why we want visitors to experience the sensational surroundings and enthralling wildlife safaris of the Serengeti. So, this Tanzania National Parks will fulfil even your wildest dreams, time and time again.

A remarkable thing that Serengeti teaches us is how we have to fight for our survival. We want everyone possible to experience this enriching wonderland of Tanzania too so that they will have a memory that will last for years and experiences that will last a lifetime.