Serengeti Travel Guide
Tanzania’s safari icon, and the home of Africa’s Great Migration
The Serengeti National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, stretched across 14 750 square kilometres (5695 square miles) of northern Tanzania.
Famous for its wide-open grassland savannahs, seasonal wetlands and acacia woodlands, it forms the heart of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem and supports one of the world’s most important natural migrations.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the Serengeti is perhaps most famous for the annual ‘Great Migration’ which sees more than a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelle migrate in search of fresh grazing. But even outside the peak of the migration, the park delivers outstanding year-round game viewing, with healthy resident populations of predators and plains game.
North (Kogatende and Lamai Wedge)
The northern Serengeti borders Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve and is the best place to witness the dramatic river crossings that occur between July and October. During this time, wildebeest and zebra attempt to cross the crocodile-infested Mara River, often under the watchful gaze of waiting lions. The topography here is more varied than that of the southern plains, with excellent sightings of elephants, giraffes, and resident predators outside of migration season. The far northern region is often less crowded than the central areas and offers a more exclusive safari experience.
South (Ndutu and Southern Plains)
The southern Serengeti is the starting point of the Great Migration, and calving season (late-January to March) sees the plains around Ndutu and Lake Masek come alive with hundreds of thousands of newborn wildebeest. The high concentration of prey draws in hungry predators, particularly cheetah and lion. Outside of calving season the area is quieter, but still scenic, with mobile camps shifting locations to follow the migration of the herds.
West (Grumeti Corridor)
The western Serengeti is characterised by wooded savannah, riverine forest, and the Grumeti River. Between May and July, this region sees the migration herds passing through, often crossing the Grumeti River where large Nile crocodiles await. Outside of migration months, the area remains rich in wildlife, including elephants, topis, and resident lion prides. The western corridor is also home to some of the park’s most exclusive safari lodges, many of which are involved in long-term conservation and community initiatives through private concessions.
East (Soit Le Motonyi and Barafu)
The eastern Serengeti is renowned for its open plains and relatively fewer visitors, providing a more remote atmosphere in a national park that can feel crowded during peak season. The open landscapes of this area make it especially productive for cheetah sightings. Accessing the eastern sector is best achieved through private mobile camps or longer overland safaris originating from central regions.
Dining in the Serengeti is provided entirely by your chosen lodge or camp. Luxury lodges here pride themselves on their culinary experience, with dedicated wine cellars and à la carte dining al fresco. Menus typically feature international cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, and dietary preferences can be accommodated with advance notice.
Cool, breathable clothing in neutral colours is best for your safari in Tanzania, where you’ll spend around six hours per day on game drives. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so layering with a warm thermal or jacket is essential. A good pair of binoculars and a sun hat are recommended, but most lodges offer small safari boutiques if you forget to bring your own. Due to the remote location, ensure you have a suitable supply of any necessary prescription medication.
The Serengeti has a generally mild climate. The dry season (June to October) offers the best overall game viewing and coincides with key migration events in the north and west. The short rains fall in November, while the long rains last from March to May, when some roads may become challenging to navigate. The green season (December to March) offers lush landscapes and excellent photographic conditions.
The Serengeti is in a malaria zone. Travellers should consult their travel doctor for suitable prophylaxis at least three weeks before departure. In the morning and evening, take precautions (long-sleeved clothing and insect repellent) to prevent getting bitten.
The Serengeti National Park is easily accessible by road from Arusha, the main gateway to the region. However, drive times may vary depending on your entry point and destination. Given the long distances, particularly to the north and central regions, it is advisable to fly into the park using scheduled or charter flights departing from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport.
Tanzania Travel Information
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