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Serengeti NP
Overview
Wildlife
Birds
Best Time To Visit
Weather & Climate
Getting There
Malaria & Safety
Overview
Wildlife
Birds
Best Time
Climate
Getting There
Malaria & Safety
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience .
- Live Location
- View Photos
- Open Map
Best Time To Go
January to February and June to October (Different areas peak at different times)
High Season
July to March (Seronera area experiences crowding)
Size
14,763 km² / 5,700 mi²
Altitude
1,140–2,099 m / 3,740–6,886 ft
The Serengeti National Park is an iconic wildlife destination renowned for hosting the world’s most spectacular mammal migration. Over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle traverse an 800-kilometer (500-mile) circular route through the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, offering an unparalleled wildlife spectacle.
Beyond the migration, the park’s vast expanse has abundant wildlife year-round. Encounter the iconic Big Five (with the black rhino being less frequently sighted) alongside giraffes, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, black-backed jackals, warthogs, and a diverse array of antelope species. The Grumeti and Mara Rivers provide habitat for vocal hippos and massive crocodiles, offering dramatic scenes during the annual wildebeest river crossings. Whether you seek the thrill of the migration or the consistent wildlife encounters in other regions like the Seronera plains, the Western Corridor, or the Mara River, the Serengeti guarantees an unforgettable safari experience.
The Serengeti unfolds as a breathtaking masterpiece of nature. The vastness of the savannah stretches towards an endless horizon, painted with hues of gold and emerald. In the southeast, iconic kopjes rise like ancient sentinels from the grasslands, offering refuge to wildlife and panoramic views to visitors.
The Western Corridor, a lush ribbon of life, traces the meandering paths of the Grumeti and Mbalageti Rivers. Here, you’ll find a vibrant tapestry of forests and grasslands teeming with life. The Lobo Hills, a dramatic backdrop of towering granite formations, add a touch of grandeur to the landscape. In the north, the legendary Mara River flows, its waters a stage for the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration. Millions of animals gather here each year, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle.
The Serengeti enjoys a pleasant climate with moderate temperatures year-round. Daytime highs typically reach a comfortable 27°C (81°F), while nights can become cool, especially during early morning game drives. The dry season, spanning June to October, offers ideal conditions for safari activities with minimal rainfall. In contrast, the wet season, from November to May, brings occasional showers, with peak rainfall occurring in March and April. While rain can sometimes disrupt plans, it also nourishes the landscape and contributes to the park’s vibrant ecosystem.
The Serengeti is a year-round destination, with different regions offering unique experiences. The Central Serengeti, especially the Seronera area, offers year-round wildlife viewing. From January to February, the Ndutu region is highlighted by the wildebeest calving season, while June and July bring the migration through the Western Corridor. The iconic Mara River crossings, best viewed in August and September, are among nature’s most dramatic spectacles, and the Lobo area also peaks for wildlife viewing during these months.
Serengeti National Park is the epitome of an African safari, where the vast, open savannahs come alive with a mesmerising array of wildlife. Massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals march across the plains, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that stretches to the horizon. Predators like lions and cheetahs add a thrilling edge to this idyllic scene. Lions, the undisputed kings of the savannah, are often seen with ease, while cheetahs, renowned for their breathtaking speed, can be spotted in full sprints. Though leopards are more elusive, their tendency to rest in the large trees along the Seronera River provides a rare and unforgettable chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
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The Serengeti is renowned for its awe-inspiring annual wildebeest migration, a phenomenon that sees over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by 200,000 zebra and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelle, traverse the vast plains in search of fresh grazing. This extraordinary movement of life attracts an array of predators, creating dramatic opportunities to witness big cats like lions and cheetahs in action. The ever-present spotted hyenas and jackals further contribute to the Serengeti’s dynamic ecosystem, showcasing the interconnectedness of life and death in the savanna. The park also hosts diverse wildlife, such as giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and more, making it a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise.
The Serengeti offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. However, certain times of year present unique spectacles. June and July are ideal for witnessing the awe-inspiring Great Migration and potential Grumeti River crossings. If your focus is on the iconic Mara River crossings in the northern part of the park, target your visit for August or September. Plan your trip between January and February to experience the wonder of the wildebeest calving season. No matter when you choose to visit, the Serengeti promises an unforgettable safari experience.
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Notable Birds in Serengeti NP
Bird watching in the Serengeti is an extraordinary experience year-round, with the prime season from November to April. During these months, the park’s avian diversity is enriched by the arrival of Palearctic and intra-African migratory birds. This period also marks the breeding season for many resident species, allowing enthusiasts to witness them in their vibrant breeding plumages. For those interested in general wildlife viewing, January to February and June to October are particularly favourable. However, the optimal times can vary depending on the specific regions of the park you explore
Bird Species
500+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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Wildlife viewing in Serengeti is an extraordinary experience year-round, with different regions offering unique highlights at various times. The wildebeest migration, a major draw for visitors, unfolds in stages from January to October, providing numerous opportunities to witness this awe-inspiring natural event. However, the migration timing is influenced by rainfall patterns, making precise predictions challenging.
January and February are exceptional in the Ndutu area, where the wildebeest calving season offers a remarkable spectacle. As the migration progresses, June and July bring the herds to the Western Corridor, making it an ideal spot for viewing. By August and September, the herds reach the northern part of the park, where the iconic Mara River crossings occur. These events, though spectacular, tend to attract large crowds. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, it is recommended to explore areas away from the main migration path. Even beyond the peak migration season, the Serengeti’s diverse ecosystem ensures rewarding wildlife encounters throughout the year, making every visit unforgettable.
Best Time
January to February and June to October are the best times to explore different areas.
High Season
From July to March, it's high season across various areas, but Seronera is usually crowded.
Low Season
April and May may offer lower rates, making them a more budget-friendly time to visit
Best Weather
June to October offers the best weather with little to no rainfall.
Worst Weather
March and April are the peak of the wet season.
- View Photos
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
The Serengeti National Park enjoys a moderate and pleasant climate year-round, with cool to cold nights and early mornings. Therefore, warm clothing is essential even during the warmer months.
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The park’s climate features a distinct dry season from June to October, followed by a wet season with two rainy periods: the short rains from November to December and the long rains from March to May. While it rarely rains all day during the wet season, afternoon thundershowers are common.
Dry Season – June to October
During the dry season, afternoon temperatures usually reach a comfortable 26°C/79°F under clear skies, while nights can drop to a chilly 14°C/57°F.
From June to September, occasional cold fronts may bring temperatures close to freezing, especially in the early mornings.
In October, there’s a slight chance of early short rains towards the end of the month.
The wet season in the Serengeti offers moderate temperatures, with comfortable afternoons around 27°C/81°F and pleasant nights at 15°C/59°F.
This season features distinct rainy periods:
November & December: The “short rains” bring about a month of unpredictable rainfall, typically not significantly affecting safaris.
January & February: A dry spell often occurs between the short and long rains, though the timing can vary.
March to May: The “long rains” mark the wettest months, with frequent showers and more cloudy conditions, though it’s rare for the rain to last all day.
- Live Location
- View Photos
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Most safaris to Serengeti National Park start in Arusha. The easiest way to reach Arusha is by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located about 50km (31 mi) away. Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and connect to a flight to either Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
From Arusha, you can take regular flights to several airstrips within the Serengeti, offering quick and convenient access. If you prefer a more scenic journey, consider driving to the park. The drive takes approximately 8 hours and covers about 325km (200 mi), offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife sightings, especially as you pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
You might combine flying and driving for a truly immersive experience. Fly one way and drive the other, with an overnight stop at the Ngorongoro Crater. From the crater, it’s about a 3-hour drive (140km/90 mi) to the Seronera area in the heart of the Serengeti.
- Main Park Location
Use Skyscanner for a comprehensive and detailed search to explore flight options and pricing for airlines serving Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).
As your tour operator, we typically handle the booking of domestic and charter flights between parks as part of your tour package. However, if you prefer to arrange your own flights to the Serengeti, several local carriers offer domestic options.
Auric Air (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Coastal Aviation(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Safari Air Link(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Air Excel(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Regional Air(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Precision Air(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Flightlink(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Tropical Air(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
As Salaam Air(Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Please refer to our FAQ—Tanzania page for detailed information regarding passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements.
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
A journey to Serengeti National Park is considered very safe. Crime within Tanzania’s parks and reserves is rare, and your experienced guide will ensure your safety throughout the trip. For the latest travel advisories on the Serengeti and Tanzania, please refer to the ‘Staying Safe – Tanzania’ section below.
Given the presence of malaria in the Serengeti, taking precautions is essential. Apply DEET-based mosquito repellent, take antimalarial medication as your healthcare professional advises, and cover exposed skin in the evening. Also, consult your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations before travelling to Tanzania.
Wildlife viewing is generally very safe, especially on an organised safari. Always heed your guide’s instructions and familiarise yourself with park regulations. If you’re on a self-drive safari, stay inside your vehicle unless in a designated area. For more safety recommendations, please refer to the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ section below.
Discover Serengeti Safari Tour
to
pp (USD)
Tanzania:
Private tour,
Luxury +,
- 13 days
- 6 places
to
pp (USD)
Tanzania:
Private tour,
Luxury +,
- 13 days
- 7 places
to
pp (USD)
Tanzania:
Private tour,
Luxury +,
- 13 days
- 6 places
