Serengeti
Serengeti National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in northern Tanzania, it covers about 14,763 km² (5,700 square miles) of vast, open plains, acacia woodlands, riverine forests, and rocky kopjes. The name comes from the Maasai word siringet (or serengit), meaning “the place where the land runs on forever” or “endless plains.”
Best Time to Visit Serengeti
Jan–Mar
Southern plains (Ndutu) — Calving season (thousands of wildebeest born daily); intense predator actionGreen, warm; moderate crowdsExcellent for predator drama & newborns
Apr–May
Moving through central/western areasLong rains; lush but some roads muddy; low crowds & pricesGood value “green season”
Jun–Jul
Western Corridor (Grumeti River crossings begin)Dry season starts; cooler morningsStrong wildlife, building excitement
Jul–Oct
Northern Serengeti (Mara River crossings peak Aug–Sep)Dry, clear skies; peak crowds & pricesClassic migration spectacle
Nov–Dec
Herds moving south through central areas Short rains; greening landscape; fewer crowds Shoulder season value
Key Highlights
Wildlife
Exceptional densities of large mammals, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino). High numbers of lions (one of the largest remaining populations), cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, and over 500 bird species.
Great Migration
The defining spectacle. Herds move clockwise around the ecosystem year-round, with dramatic river crossings (Grumeti and Mara Rivers) and calving seasons.
Landscapes
Endless short-grass plains in the south, woodlands and rivers in the west and center (Seronera Valley is a year-round wildlife hotspot), and more rugged northern areas.
Activities
Game drives (day and night in some areas), hot-air balloon safaris at sunrise, walking safaris (in designated zones), and cultural visits with Maasai communities outside the park.
