Serengeti National Park — Complete Travel Guide
Serengeti National Park Guide 2025/2026 — Safari, Tours & Tips
The Serengeti National Park is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world. Known for its endless plains, incredible wildlife, and the world-famous Great Migration, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the heart of Tanzania’s safari experience. If you’ve ever dreamed of watching millions of wildebeest and zebras moving across golden grasslands, or spotting lions resting under acacia trees, the Serengeti is where those dreams come true.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Serengeti National Park Tanzania—its history, wildlife, maps, tours, weather, and the best time to visit. You’ll also find practical travel tips, recommended safari packages, and answers to the most common questions.
Plan your dream adventure with Tanzania Safari Experience, where every safari is carefully designed to maximize wildlife viewing and give you unforgettable memories.
💡 What is Serengeti National Park Famous For?
The Serengeti is most famous for the Great Migration, the largest land animal migration on Earth. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles move in a circular pattern across the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing.
But that’s not all—it is also home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant) and countless other species. With its vast landscapes, rich history, and unique culture nearby, the Serengeti is a place that captures the spirit of Africa.
Serengeti National Park Photo Gallery
Explore our Serengeti National Park Photo Gallery, showcasing stunning views, adventurous climbs, and unforgettable wildlife moments from Tanzania’s most famous park.
Expert recommendation
If you are planning a safari in Africa, the Serengeti National Park should be at the very top of your list. This park is not only home to the Great Migration, the largest land migration on Earth, but also to over 70 species of mammals and more than 500 bird species. Nowhere else offers such a rich mix of wildlife, landscapes, and dramatic safari moments. From lions hunting on the plains to elephants roaming in family herds, every day feels like a live documentary. Choosing Serengeti means experiencing the true heart of Tanzania and creating memories you will never forget.
Laurent Karume
Tanzania Safari Specialist
Serengeti National Park Highlights
- Witness the iconic Great Wildebeest Migration
- Sensational game viewing and safari activities, including night drives
- Watch the sunrise on a hot-air balloon safari
- Stay in unique safari lodges and camps
- Create lifelong memories in the heart of nature
- Explore one of Africa’s richest ecosystems
- Experience authentic Maasai culture nearby
At a glance
- Tanzania
- Safari Destination
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History of Serengeti National Park
The history of Serengeti National Park is as fascinating as the park itself. The word “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai language, Siringit, meaning “endless plains.” For generations, the Maasai people lived in this region, coexisting with the animals and protecting the land as part of their culture.
In the early 20th century, explorers and conservationists began to recognize the Serengeti’s unique value. Hunting and human settlement were putting pressure on wildlife, so the Tanzanian government, with support from conservationists, took steps to protect the area. In 1951, Serengeti was officially declared a national park, making it one of the earliest protected areas in Africa.
Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1981, recognizing its global importance. Today, it is one of the best places on Earth to study and experience the natural balance between predator and prey. The history of Serengeti is not just about protection, but about respect for nature and the desire to preserve it for future generations.
Serengeti Map
Animals in Serengeti National Park
When travelers ask about Serengeti National Park animals, most want to know about the predators and the Big Five. The Serengeti is home to one of the largest lion populations in Africa. Lions are often seen in prides, resting under trees or hunting on the plains. Leopards are more secretive, usually spotted in trees, while cheetahs roam the open grasslands in search of prey.
But it’s not only the big cats that capture attention. Large herds of elephants, buffalos, and giraffes can be seen throughout the park. Hippos and crocodiles thrive in the rivers, while hyenas and jackals are common scavengers. Every safari in the Serengeti offers new surprises.
Bird lovers are also rewarded, as the park is home to over 500 bird species. The hornbill is one of the most recognizable, but you’ll also find ostriches, secretary birds, vultures, and colorful smaller species. From the smallest creatures to the largest mammals, Serengeti is alive with diversity.
Serengeti National Park Map & Regions
Looking at a Serengeti National Park map, the park can be divided into four main safari regions, each offering a unique experience.
Central Serengeti (Seronera)
Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)
Southern Serengeti (Ndutu)
Western Corridor
Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park
The best time to visit Serengeti National Park depends on what kind of safari experience you want to have. The park offers wildlife viewing all year, but different seasons bring unique highlights.
From December to March, the southern Serengeti becomes the stage for the wildebeest calving season. Around half a million calves are born within just a few weeks, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. This is the perfect time for travelers who want to see dramatic wildlife action, as predators hunt while herds protect their newborns.
Between April and June, the migration moves into the western corridor. During this time, thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Grumeti River, where giant crocodiles wait for their chance to strike. It is one of the most thrilling and heart-stopping safari spectacles.
From July to September, the migration heads north toward the Mara River. This is the season of the famous Mara River crossings, where animals plunge into crocodile-filled waters and fight the strong currents to reach Kenya’s Maasai Mara. The crossings are risky but also one of the most iconic safari experiences in the world.
Finally, from October to November, the herds return south as the short rains begin. Although it is considered a quieter period, it’s a wonderful time for birdwatching and enjoying fewer crowds. No matter when you visit, the Serengeti always delivers unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Migration Seasons
December - March Calving Season
Eastern & Southern Serengeti
April - June Mating Season
Central & Western Serengeti, (heading north)
July - November River Crossings
Northen Serengeti & Maasai Mara
Why visit Kogatende, Serengeti National Park
The Great Wildebeest Migration
The Great Migration happens every year when about 1.5 million animals like wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles travel together across the Serengeti looking for fresh grass. It’s the biggest group of large animals in the world. They start in the south and move in a circle to the north, where they must cross big rivers like the Grumeti and Mara — a very exciting and wild part of the journey.
How to Get to Serengeti National Park
Many travelers wonder how to get to Serengeti National Park, and the answer depends on your schedule, budget, and personal preference.
The most common way is to begin your journey in Arusha, the main safari hub in northern Tanzania. From Arusha, you can either drive or fly into the park. The distance from Arusha to Serengeti National Park is around 325 kilometers. By road, the journey takes about seven to eight hours, but it is filled with scenic views, Maasai villages, and the chance to pass through Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
For travelers who want to save time, domestic flights are available from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport. Small planes land at different airstrips inside the park, such as Seronera, Kogatende, and Grumeti. This cuts the travel time to about one hour and provides stunning aerial views of the plains.
The nearest airport to Serengeti National Park for international arrivals is Kilimanjaro International Airport, located near Arusha. From there, it is easy to connect to the park by flight or road. With Tanzania Safari Experience, we help guests arrange both transfers and flights to make the journey smooth and comfortable.
Serengeti National Park Tours & Safari Packages
When planning your adventure, you’ll find many Serengeti National Park tours packages, each designed for different types of travelers. At Tanzania Safari Experience, we offer personalized safaris that balance adventure, comfort, and authenticity.
5 Days Ndutu Migration Safari Calving Season
- Ndutu Calving Season Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
8 Days Tanzania Classic Safari Itinerary
- Tanzania Classic Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari
- Serengeti Wildebeest Migration
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
3 Days Ndutu Migration Safari Calving Season
- Ndutu Calving Season Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
Serengeti National Park Hotels & Lodges
The Serengeti offers a wide range of accommodations, from simple campsites to luxurious lodges. Choosing the right Serengeti National Park hotels depends on the type of experience you want.
For those seeking maximum comfort, there are luxury lodges with spacious rooms, swimming pools, and stunning views of the plains. These lodges often provide gourmet dining, spa services, and personalized safari activities, making them perfect for honeymooners or luxury travelers.
Another great option is tented camps. These combine comfort with an authentic bush atmosphere. Imagine sleeping under canvas while listening to the distant calls of lions and hyenas. Many tented camps are eco-friendly and offer an intimate connection with nature.
For adventurous travelers, budget campsites are also available. These provide a simpler experience but are ideal for those who want to be close to nature and explore the Serengeti on a tighter budget.
At Tanzania Safari Experience, we carefully select accommodations based on your needs, whether you prefer luxury, comfort, or adventure. Each option is chosen for its location, service, and the unique safari experience it provides.
💡 Why Visit Serengeti National Park?
If you’re asking yourself why visit Serengeti National Park, the reasons are endless. It is one of the few places in the world where you can witness the raw beauty of nature on such a grand scale.
The Serengeti is home to the Great Migration, the largest land migration in the world. It is also a place where the circle of life plays out daily, from predators hunting to herds grazing peacefully. For nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers, it is the ultimate safari destination.
Visiting the Serengeti also connects you with local culture. Nearby Maasai communities offer insights into traditional ways of life, adding cultural depth to your safari experience.
Most importantly, Serengeti provides a chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature. It is not just a holiday but an experience that changes the way you see the world.
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- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
- At Least 1 Pair Of Binoculars;
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
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Everything You Need to Know About Your Safari
Every safari adventure begins with a question. Whether it’s your first or second time, it’s natural to wonder about the best time to visit, what to pack, or how the journey works. Here, we’ve answered the most common questions travelers ask before booking their Tanzania safari, so you can plan with confidence and look forward to unforgettable memories.
The Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania, East Africa. It is part of the country’s world-famous northern safari circuit, which also includes Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. When people ask, what country is Serengeti National Park in, the answer is Tanzania — a destination celebrated for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and incredible wildlife. The Serengeti is also connected to Kenya’s Maasai Mara, creating one of the largest and most diverse ecosystems in the world.
Travelers often wonder, how big is Serengeti National Park? The park covers about 14,750 square kilometers (5,700 square miles), making it one of Africa’s largest protected areas. Its size is roughly equal to the entire country of Northern Ireland or the U.S. state of Connecticut. This massive scale allows for diverse habitats, from open plains and river valleys to wooded hills and rocky outcrops. Because of its size, different parts of the park offer unique safari experiences depending on the season and wildlife movements.
Many visitors ask, why was Serengeti National Park created? The park was officially established in 1951 to protect its exceptional wildlife, landscapes, and the unique phenomenon of the Great Migration. Before this, hunting and human expansion were threatening animal populations. Today, Serengeti is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best examples of successful wildlife conservation. The creation of the park ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy its incredible beauty and biodiversity.
The Serengeti National Park weather is generally pleasant year-round, making it a perfect safari destination. Days are warm with temperatures averaging between 25–30°C (77–86°F), while nights can be cool, especially from June to August. The park has two rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains in November. Even during the rainy periods, safaris are possible and often rewarding, with lush green landscapes and active wildlife. Because of its mild climate, the Serengeti is considered a destination you can visit at any time of the year.
The Serengeti tour cost varies depending on the length of your safari, the type of accommodation, and the level of comfort you choose. On average, budget safaris may start around $200 per person per day, covering park fees, basic camps, and game drives. Mid-range tours range from $350–$500 per day, while luxury safaris with high-end lodges, private guides, and hot air balloon rides can go upwards of $700 per day. At Tanzania Safari Experience, we offer a wide range of Serengeti National Park tours packages designed to fit different budgets while still providing unforgettable experiences.
The Serengeti National Park animals are what make the park so famous. You can expect to see the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. In addition, the park is home to cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and crocodiles. The Great Migration alone involves over 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebras, making it one of the most spectacular natural events in the world. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting over 500 bird species, including ostriches, hornbills, and secretary birds. No matter when you visit, the Serengeti offers some of the best wildlife encounters anywhere on Earth.
If you’re wondering, where is Serengeti National Park located, the park lies in northern Tanzania. It stretches from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the southeast all the way to the border with Kenya in the north, where it connects to the Maasai Mara. The distance from Arusha to Serengeti National Park is around 325 kilometers, which takes about 7–8 hours by road or just one hour by domestic flight. This location makes the Serengeti easily accessible as part of a broader Tanzania safari itinerary.
The Serengeti stands out because of its size, biodiversity, and the Great Migration. While other parks in Africa are also home to wildlife, Serengeti offers a unique combination of year-round game viewing, breathtaking landscapes, and dramatic predator-prey interactions. It is also one of the few places where you can witness animals on such a massive scale, with millions of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains. Its cultural connection with the Maasai people and its UNESCO World Heritage status further highlight its global importance. Choosing Serengeti means choosing the most iconic safari destination in the world.