Discover the Majesty of Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park, renowned for its vast wildlife and the iconic wildebeest migration, is Africa’s premier destination for experiencing nature’s grandeur. With its sprawling landscapes and rich biodiversity, the Serengeti is where some of the world’s most spectacular nature documentaries have been filmed. Its name, derived from the Maasai word meaning “endless plains,” perfectly encapsulates the park’s boundless savannahs. Covering nearly 15,000 square kilometers (6,000 square miles), Serengeti is Tanzania’s second largest park, offering unparalleled wildlife experiences.
Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration
The Serengeti’s annual wildebeest migration, featuring over a million wildebeest, is its star attraction. This awe-inspiring event involves massive herds traveling up to 1,000 kilometers across the plains and rivers in search of water and fresh pasture. The migration is fraught with peril, as predators like giant crocodiles and swift river currents in the Mara and Grumeti rivers pose significant threats. Recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the migration is a highlight for many visitors, offering a spectacle unmatched anywhere on the planet.
The movement of the wildebeest can be observed year-round as they journey between the Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, with patterns varying based on annual rainfall. Our experienced guides can provide insights on the migration’s timing, enhancing your viewing experience.
For detailed migration updates throughout the year, visit our wildebeest migration page.
Explore Diverse Wildlife in Serengeti National Park
Beyond the wildebeest migration, Serengeti National Park hosts a rich tapestry of wildlife across its varied landscapes. Home to over 4,000 lions, 1,000 leopards, 225 cheetahs, and 3,500 hyenas, the park boasts a high density of predators due to the abundance of prey such as wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and buffaloes. It’s also a prime location to spot the Big Five: rhino, buffalo, elephant, lion, and leopard. Additionally, rare species like the pangolin, East African oryx, and wild dog contribute to the park’s remarkable biodiversity.
The Serengeti’s diverse terrain includes acacia-dotted savannahs, expansive grasslands, mountainous regions, lakes, and swamps, each with its distinct charm. Its natural beauty and rich ecosystems have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Planning Your Visit to Serengeti National Park
Thinking of incorporating Serengeti National Park into your travel plans? Explore our Tanzania safaris for ideas, or contact us for personalized advice.
Activities in Serengeti National Park:
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Game Drives
Travel Times:
- Arusha to Serengeti: 5 hours by road
- Ngorongoro to Serengeti: 2 hours by road
- Lake Manyara to Serengeti: 3.5 hours by road
- Tarangire to Serengeti: 4 hours by road
- Flight from Arusha to Serengeti: 1 hour
Travel Tip: Guests are often amazed by the abundance of lions, leopards, and cheetahs, in addition to the incredible wildebeest migration.
How long to stay? A stay of at least 2 days is recommended, though many visitors find even a week insufficient to fully experience the park’s wonders.
Where to stay? For accommodation, consider Thorn Tree Camp, a luxurious tented camp offering an immersive nature experience.
Best Time to See the Wildebeest Migration: The timing of the migration varies with rainfall each year. Our expert guides can provide predictions to help you plan your visit accordingly. For more information on the migration schedule, read our detailed guide on when and where to witness the wildebeest migration.