Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary, is a timeless symbol of Africa’s untamed beauty. Spanning approximately 14,750 square kilometers, the park is celebrated worldwide for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Whether you’re an avid safari-goer, a photographer, or simply a nature lover, the Serengeti offers an experience unlike any other.
In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Serengeti National Park: how to access it, the top activities and attractions, available accommodations, and the best times to visit.
Accessing Serengeti National Park
Getting to the Serengeti is an adventure in itself, but it’s surprisingly accessible thanks to Tanzania’s well-developed safari infrastructure.
By Air
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Serengeti National Park is by air. Several domestic airlines operate scheduled flights from major Tanzanian cities such as Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar to various airstrips inside and near the park. The most popular airstrips include Seronera, Grumeti, Kogatende, and Ndutu.
Flying saves time and offers stunning aerial views of the savannah, rivers, and wildlife. Depending on your itinerary, you might land directly in the heart of the Serengeti or at an airstrip closer to specific regions of interest.
By Road
For travelers seeking a more immersive journey, accessing the Serengeti by road is a rewarding option. Most safaris begin in Arusha, about 325 kilometers from the park’s entrance. The drive typically takes 7 to 8 hours and passes through scenic landscapes, including the Rift Valley and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
It’s common for safari packages to include stops at Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater along the way, providing a multi-park experience.
Entry Gates
The main entry points to Serengeti National Park are:
- Naabi Hill Gate (southern Serengeti, from Ngorongoro)
- Ndabaka Gate (western corridor)
- Klein’s Gate (northeastern Serengeti)
Each gate leads to different regions of the park, so your entry point often depends on the migration season and the location of your lodge or camp.
Activities and Attractions in Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is synonymous with safaris, but there’s so much more to see and do beyond traditional game drives. Here are the top experiences awaiting visitors:
1. Witnessing the Great Migration
The Serengeti’s most famous spectacle is the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing. This cyclical journey is a year-round event, but the timing of river crossings, calving, and dramatic predator-prey interactions depends on the season.
Key migration highlights include:
- River Crossings (June – September): Watch wildebeest brave crocodile-infested waters at the Mara and Grumeti Rivers.
- Calving Season (January – March): Thousands of calves are born in the Ndutu area, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Each phase of the migration offers a different perspective on the circle of life in the wild.
2. Game Drives and Wildlife Viewing
Game drives are the heart of the Serengeti experience. Guided by expert rangers, visitors can explore various habitats, from open plains to riverine forests.
Wildlife highlights include:
- The Big Five: Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and black rhinos
- Cheetahs and hyenas
- Hippos in the Retina Hippo Pool
- Abundant birdlife with over 500 recorded species
Game drives are typically conducted early in the morning and late afternoon when wildlife is most active.
3. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies in a hot air balloon at dawn. Floating silently over the plains as the sun rises allows for breathtaking views of wildlife and landscapes. Balloon safaris conclude with a champagne breakfast in the bush – a quintessential luxury safari experience.
4. Visiting the Serengeti Visitor Center
Located near Seronera, the Visitor Center provides educational exhibits on the park’s history, ecology, and conservation efforts. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic, and gain deeper insights into the Serengeti ecosystem.
5. Cultural Visits
Some safari itineraries include visits to nearby Maasai villages. Here, visitors can learn about the Maasai’s traditional way of life, including their distinctive dress, homes (bomas), and cultural practices.
6. Walking Safaris
In certain zones and private conservancies bordering the park, guided walking safaris are available. These walks offer a thrilling, ground-level perspective on the bush, tracking wildlife footprints and learning about plants and smaller creatures often overlooked from a vehicle.
Accommodation Options in Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly campsites to ultra-luxurious lodges. Here’s an overview of what’s available:
1. Luxury Lodges
For travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity, the Serengeti’s luxury lodges provide world-class amenities, gourmet dining, and unparalleled wildlife viewing. Popular options include:
- Four Seasons Safari Lodge (Central Serengeti)
- Singita Sasakwa Lodge (Grumeti Reserves)
- &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas (mobile luxury tents following the migration)
These lodges often feature infinity pools, spas, and private game drives.
2. Mid-Range Lodges and Camps
Mid-range accommodations balance comfort and affordability, offering en-suite tents or chalets with excellent service. Notable choices include:
- Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
- Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
- Acacia Seronera Luxury Camp
These lodges are ideal for families, couples, and small groups.
3. Budget Campsites and Public Camps
For adventurous travelers or those on a tighter budget, public campsites offer basic facilities and the thrill of sleeping under canvas in the wild. Campsites are located throughout the park and are often used by overland safari operators.
Some camps provide tents and meals, while others require guests to bring their own equipment.
4. Mobile Camps
Mobile camps follow the migration, moving every few months to stay close to wildlife action. These camps range from basic to high-end and provide a more intimate, rustic safari experience.
No matter your budget, staying inside the park ensures proximity to wildlife and maximizes time on game drives.
Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you wish to see and do.
June to October: Dry Season
This period offers the most comfortable weather, with clear skies and less vegetation, making animals easier to spot. Highlights include:
- Wildebeest River Crossings at the Mara and Grumeti Rivers
- Excellent predator sightings
- Ideal conditions for photography and walking safaris
However, it’s the busiest season, so booking accommodations and flights well in advance is recommended.
November to March: Green Season
The landscape transforms into lush greenery following short rains in November. The calving season (January to March) is a unique time to visit, as thousands of newborn wildebeest appear in the southern plains, drawing predators.
Advantages of visiting during this time:
- Fewer crowds and lower prices
- Beautiful scenery and abundant birdlife
- Excellent photography opportunities with dramatic skies
April and May: Long Rains
These months mark the peak of the rainy season. While some camps close due to muddy roads, others remain open and offer significant discounts. Wildlife is still plentiful, and the park is vibrant with life, though access may be more challenging.
This season is best for travelers who prioritize solitude and budget savings over guaranteed dry weather.
Conclusion
Serengeti National Park is more than just a safari destination; it’s a living, breathing testament to nature’s grandeur and resilience. Whether you’re marveling at the thunderous hooves of migrating wildebeest, spotting a leopard draped over an acacia tree, or sipping coffee as zebras graze outside your tent, the Serengeti leaves an indelible mark on every visitor.
Planning your trip with an understanding of the park’s access routes, activities, accommodations, and seasonal highlights ensures a safari tailored to your interests and expectations.
No matter when or how you choose to visit, one thing is certain: the Serengeti will steal your heart and call you back again.
Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Contact Bunuli Africa Safaris for a memorable trip.