Serengeti National Park

Northern parks

Serengeti National Park

Region
Northern
Best time to visit
June - October (dry season), February - March (calving)
Key wildlife
Lions, cheetahs, leopards, wildebeest (1M+), zebras (200K+), gazelles, rhinos, elephants, crocodiles, hippos

Serengeti National Park is Africa's most famous park, home to the largest concentration of game on the continent and millions of migrating wildebeest. 'Serengeti' comes from the Maasai language meaning 'endless plains'—and the description fits. With almost 15,000 km² (6,000 sq miles), it is Tanzania's second-largest park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Main attraction: The Great Migration

The annual wildebeest migration of more than a million animals is Serengeti's signature spectacle. Herds thunder across the plains, crossing rivers in search of water and fresh grass. Mega herds stretch up to 40 kilometres long, covering some 1,000 kilometres. It is a dangerous journey—especially at the Mara and Grumeti rivers where crocodiles await. The Great Migration is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

You can witness the migration any time of year, as the animals move in a circle between Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara. Exact timing depends on rainfall patterns.

Wildlife in Serengeti National Park

Beyond the migration, Serengeti offers spectacular variety. The plains host more than 4,000 lions, 1,000 leopards, 225 cheetahs and 3,500 hyenas. It is one of the best places to see the Big Five—rhino, buffalo, elephant, lion and leopard—plus rare species like pangolin, East African oryx and wild dog.

Landscapes range from acacia savannas and grasslands to mountains, lakes and swamps. Each area has its own character.

Activities and experiences

  • Game drives (day and extended)
  • Hot air balloon safari
  • Walking safari
  • Birding

Travel times

  • Arusha to Serengeti: 5 hours
  • Ngorongoro to Serengeti: 2 hours
  • Lake Manyara to Serengeti: 3.5 hours
  • Tarangire to Serengeti: 4 hours
  • Flight Arusha to Serengeti: 1 hour

Ready to experience Serengeti National Park?

Plan Your Safari

Safaris visiting Serengeti National Park

3 Days / 2Nights Fly-In Great Migration & River Crossing in Serengeti
3D / 2NUSD 1,890+

3 Days / 2Nights Fly-In Great Migration & River Crossing in Serengeti

This 3-day fly-in safari in Northern Serengeti is tailor-made for those chasing the Great Migration river crossings. Taking place between July and early September, these dramatic scenes unfold as thousands of wildebeest and zebras plunge into the Mara River, facing strong currents and lurking crocodiles.

8-Day Tanzania Photography Safari
8D / 7NUSD 3,061+

8-Day Tanzania Photography Safari

Capturing the Soul of Africa — One Frame at a Time Experience Tanzania through a photographer’s lens — golden plains, vibrant wildlife, and dramatic landscapes await. Designed for both passionate photographers and discerning travelers, this safari blends adventure with comfort, featuring accommodations tailored to midrange and luxury clients.

Tanzania Wildebeest Migration Safari: 9 Days of Spectacle & Adventure
9D / 8NUSD 3,580+

Tanzania Wildebeest Migration Safari: 9 Days of Spectacle & Adventure

Witness one of nature’s greatest shows—the annual wildebeest migration—amidst the vast plains, hidden rivers, and breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania.

Tanzania Ultimate Safari: 8 Days of Wildlife & Wonder
8D / 7NUSD 2,290+

Tanzania Ultimate Safari: 8 Days of Wildlife & Wonder

Discover the wild heart of Tanzania, where vast plains, volcanoes, and hidden wildlife havens await, blending adventure with comfort and style.

Tanzania Opulent Safari: 10 Days of Wilderness & Elegance
10D / 9N

Tanzania Opulent Safari: 10 Days of Wilderness & Elegance

Private charter-style routing: northern Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, Ruaha & Selous — ultra-luxury lodges, boats, and bespoke experiences.

Zanzibar Beach Safari: 10 Days of Island Serenity & Wild Splendor
10D / 9N

Zanzibar Beach Safari: 10 Days of Island Serenity & Wild Splendor

An extraordinary journey from the crystal-blue waters of Zanzibar to the legendary wilderness of Northern Tanzania — a seamless fusion of beachside tranquility and safari adventure.

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