Serengeti National Park

Home to one of the world’s greatest concentrations of wildlife and the majority of the Great Wildebeest Migration, Serengeti National Park is Tanzania’s flagship conservation area and a must-do for first-time and returning safari goers alike. Protected in part by the Moremi Game Reserve and numerous private concessions, the Okavango Delta is home to huge numbers of plains game plus unusual antelope like puku, sitatunga and red lechwe. It is a world-famous stronghold for predators as well as many sought-after bird species like Pel’s fishing owl, bee-eaters and kingfishers.

ORIGIN OF WORD SERENEGETI

The word Serengeti Translated from the Maa language as, Siriget which means ‘The Land that Moves on Forever’, the Serengeti’s vast rolling grasslands and golden savannah give travelers a soul-stirring sense of space and support millions of wildebeest, as well as sizable populations of zebra, buffalo, elephant and giraffe and myriad gazelle and antelope species. And where there are plains game aplenty, predators – like lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyena and wild dogs – are sure to follow. The Serengeti is definitely a photographer’s paradise!

WITNESS THE ANNUAL WILDEBEEST MIGRATION

The majority of the fascinating and dramatic Great Wildebeest Migration takes place in the Serengeti national park. From about January to March, they are in the far Southern Serengeti. In April and May, they usually begin to move to the Central Serengeti. The herds generally continue moving north and west in June and July. From approximately August to October, they are crossing rivers into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. By November and December, the forerunners are mostly back in the Serengeti, ready to start the circular cycle all over again.

1.EXCELLENT  GAME VIEWING

Such is the density of wildlife in the Serengeti that it provides a spectacular safari experience no matter what time of year you visit. Although some of the wildebeest, zebra and antelope migrate to fresh grazing, not all do and none of the predators move with the herds either. The open plains, wide grasslands and temperate climate mean that the vegetation is never too dense or thick to see the animals, and the weather is very seldom too inclement to venture out (short-lived thunderstorms generally occur in the late afternoon and the animals don’t move away when it’s raining).

2.BEST FOR FIRST-TIMERS AND RETURNING SAFARI EXPLORERS

The Serengeti national park is a bucket-list item and many first-time visitors to East Africa want to tick it off. But such is the diversity of the wildlife present here that the area is suitable for those who’ve travelled to Africa many times before. If you have already seen the Migration, then branch out into a different time of year or one the private concessions – travelling in Green Season, for example, will be lusher and quieter, with far fewer other visitors. More and more lodges are now able to offer vegetarian and even vegan meals so those with special dietary requirements can be accommodated.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK.

WHAT TO DO IN SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK?

Serengeti national park is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world. It is home to a large variety of wildlife and fauna, and also one of the ten natural wonders of the world: The Great Migration.

The Serengeti national park is stretched along 30,000 square feet of land and provide a wide array of things to see and do during a visit. As a company that operates in the Serengeti area, here are 10 activities we recommend doing in Serengeti National Park.

1. Game Drives

Lion King is a classic that is loved by all. Serengeti gives you the atmosphere to live the Lion King experience in real life. You can spot Zazu(s) flying around or sounders of Pumbaa galloping. Yes, I am talking about the African red-billed hornbill and Warthogs. Whether you are a fan of birds or an animal lover, Serengeti has got it all! The best way to see them close enough is through a game drive. As much as one would like to cover the park in its entirety, it is not possible due to its massive size. You will have to choose an area to visit or make multiple visits to see a different scene each time. 

Be sure to book the tour which fits your preferences. It is necessary to choose the correct guide and company. This is because some are better at spotting the animals than others. Your tour guide can make or break your Serengeti experience.

2. A Hot Air Balloon Safari Over the Serengeti

The excitement of watching animals in their natural form elevates the heart and lifts your feet off the floor! Why not try that practically? Safaris from the sky is a one of a kind experience that gives you a birds-eyes view of Serengeti. You should browse thoroughly and check reviews before deciding what company to go with on this journey.

The journey is no less than a miracle! As the balloon ascends, you will marvel at the vast plain of Serengeti. Endless acres of land inhabited by countless species. And as you descend, you will be able to look at the animals exactly how a bird views them. At the end of the ride, a delicious breakfast awaits you amid the Serengeti park.

Imagine sitting on luscious plains with soft winds blowing while delicacies are served. And as you reach for your water, you’ll notice hues of sparkle that the sun above gives. So, close your eyes, feel the surrounding, listen to the earth, and savor each moment.

3. Be A Part Of The Great Migration

The great migration is considered one of nature’s wondrous spectacles. It is a time when hooved animals such as Wildebeest, Zebras, and Gazelles cross over the Mara river in search of food and greener pastures. Many people flock to the Serengeti to witness this breathtaking scene.

You should know that the Migration is not a one-day event and takes place over a while. Always inform your Safari operator so that they can thoughtfully plan to optimize your chances of seeing the migration. The best feel and viewing of this epic move is through Aerial view. Hop on to one of the Balloons and watch the migration happen right below you.

4. Walking safaris in Serengeti.

Now that we have established two great ways to explore Serengeti, this one is for the brave and adventurous. Only 25% of Serengeti is open to tourism by going around in cars, which leaves 75% of the unseen territory. The way to explore these areas is on foot.

If you love camping and backpacking, read along! You can either have a base camp and explore the surroundings around this, have a moving base with a crew to help move and set up, or go on a full-out adventure and carry on with the minimum to survive. It is one of the best ways to feel one with nature!

5. Get A History Lesson At Olduvai Gorge

Known as the cradle of Humanity, Olduvai Gorge is a great place for a history lesson about the Evolution.

The crude stone tools and animal fossils found by Leakey are available at the gorge site, which dates back to 2 million years.

Furthermore, the site holds evidence of the earliest human existence, with the discovery of a fossil hominid named Zenjathropus. The gorge is towards the south of Serengeti and is a must-see for those heading towards the Ngorongoro crater.

6. Experience The wildlife At Night in A Tent/Lodge

Ever thought about what is like sleeping around so many wild animals? Enjoy the thrill from the safety of tented lodges in Serengeti. If you are lucky enough, you may awake to the sight of an animal right at your doorstep. It is the perfect way to experience life in an African bush. Do not forget to gaze at the sky and amp up your constellation skills. The pitch-black and serenity of the surrounding allows you to let yourself become one with nature and soak in all its marvels.

7. Visit The Bologonja Springs

We like to call this activity one of the hidden gems of the Serengeti simply because not many tourists seem to visit this area. These springs have a lot of attractive flora and fauna surrounding them as well as certain wildlife such as Giraffes, elephants, and antelopes. It is also a great place to go bird watching. You can get to enjoy all this with minimal human intrusion..

8.The Grumeti River

The Grumeti River offers one of the nail-biting moments of the Serengeti migration. Located at the border of Serengeti and Mara, it is a natural corridor to aid the migration between the two parks. It is not a place to miss for Avid nature lovers. This river is home to crocodiles, and the migration journey comes down to survival of the fittest. Due to its remote location, only a few lodges are available with a capacity of 60 guests at a time. It is the best way to enjoy the serenity from an exclusive location and service.

In other words, Grumeti is your private Serengeti! And it is probably one of the best locations in the territory to view lions.

9. View Wildlife At Seronera River Valley

This area is considered Serengeti at its natural best. Located in the central Serengeti region, the Seronera river valley has an abundance of unique flora and fauna. This abundance attracts plenty of herbivores such as gazelles, giraffes, and other wildlife. As you know, where there is plenty of prey, predators are present. You will never miss a thing when in this valley.

10. Explore the Retina Hippo Pool

Tanzania is well known for its abundance of Hippos. Serengeti houses plenty of hippos in different regions, but none can surpass the Retina Hippo pool. Here, Hippos gather to feed, soak in warm water, and fight territorial battles. Despite being known as the Hippo pool, it houses crocodiles too!

Enjoy The Serengeti!

Now that you know what Serengeti has in store for you, we would like to suggest getting an Aerial view of the park through a hot air balloon safari. Following this, a safari on the land, coupled with a few nights in the African Bush. Remember to bring along binoculars and good walking shoes

HOW TO VISIT SERNGETI NATIONAL PARK?

Even though Serengeti National Park is one of the few places left where nature’s ancient rules and seasonal cycles have been more or less unaltered, the Serengeti is fairly easy to access. The most convenient option is to fly from Arusha to one of the park’s seven airstrips. It is also possible to book an overland safari in a 4×4 safari vehicle from Arusha to Serengeti National Park and visit one or two other parks along the way. Of course it’s also possible to combine these options; book a one way Serengeti overland safari and fly back to Arusha. More information on the different safari possibilities may be found on going on a safari in Serengeti National Park.

GETTIG THERE BY AIRFLIGHT.

1.International air travel

The recommended point of entry is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) which lies between the towns of Moshi and Arusha. The airport is located about 200 miles / 320 kilometers from the park’s southern entrance. There are a couple of international flight options such as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (daily), Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines (a few of times per week). Kilimanjaro International Airport also has daily connections with Nairobi (NBO) in Kenya, which offers more international flight possibilities. Additional airlines such as British Airways, Emirates and others fly into Tanzania’s capital Dar es Salaam (DAR). Please note that arriving at Dar es Salaam may require an extra overnight and a domestic flight on a small regional airline with luggage restrictions. More information about flights may be reviewed on our Kilimanjaro Airport page.

2.Regional air travel

The favoured route for a Serengeti fly-in safari is by flying from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From here it will take approximately 1 to 5 hours to fly to one of seven airstrips within the Serengeti National Park. All flights are operated by local airlines such as Grumeti Air or Coastal Aviation. Once landed at the airstrip, the lodge staff will pick you up and transfer you to your final destination where a cold drink will be ready and waiting (please allow another 45 minutes to 2 hours for road transfer – depending on the chosen lodge). More information about flights to Serengeti.

It is also possible to fly from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta Airport (NBO) or Wilson Airport (WIL) to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). When travelling from the Lake Victoria area, the favoured airport is Mwanza Airport (MWZ). There are also direct flights from the Serengeti to Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam and other national parks in Tanzania such Lake Manyara and Tarangire.

3.Serengeti fly-in safaris (private airstips)

Looking for a faster and even more convenient option to get to the Serengeti? A scheduled or private charter flight is the way to go. Some of the more exclusive lodges have their own airstrip and are able to arrange direct scheduled and/or private charter flights from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) to their airstrip.

Getting to Serengeti National Park by road

1.Serengeti drive-in safaris

The most popular way to travel to Serengeti National Park by road is by booking a drive-in safari. In general the drive-in safaris start from the town of Arusha. As it will take approximately eight hours to travel from Arusha to the Serengeti National Park, an overnight stay at one or more wildlife sites en route is usually part of your safari itinerary.

2.Serengeti self-drive safaris

Although not recommended, the Serengeti National Park is accessible when travelling by (rental) vehicle. Please keep in mind that careful planning is necessary when driving by yourself through the Serengeti National Park. A 4×4 vehicle is required to be able to access all roads throughout the year. Petrol is sold at Seronera in the Southern Serenget.

Serengeti National Park access gates

The Serengeti has four main entry and exit point:

Naabi Hill Gate

Serengeti’s main gate, and therefore also the busiest. Naabi Hills Gate is located approximately 45 kilometers from Seronera. Gate is open between 06h00 and 18h00 daily.

Ndabaka Gate

Main access gate for the Western Corridor area; approximately a 1.5 hours drive from Mwanza and 145 kilometers from Seronera. Gate is open between 06h00 and 18h00 daily but please note that last entry is at 16h00.

Klein’s Gate

Klein’s Gate is located in the far north-east of the Serengeti. Gate is open between 06h00 and 18h00 daily but please note that last entry is at 16h00.

Bologonya Gate

Bologonya Gate is located en route to or from Kenya, but the border is currently closed and unlikely to open soon.

Park fees Serengeti National Park

Upon entering Serengeti National Park through one of the above mentioned gates, you are required to pay park fees. These Serengeti park fees are usually included in the rate when booking an organized safari package. The following entrance fees apply:

1 JANUARY to JUNE 

• Per adult (16+ years old): US$ 70.80 per person per 24 hours.
• Per child (between 5 and 15 years old): US$ 23.60 per child per 24 hours.
• Children below the age of 5 years old: free of charge.

1 JULY to MARCH 

• Per adult (16+ years old): US$ 82.60 per person per 24 hours.
• Per child (between 5 and 15 years old): US$ 23.60 per child per 24 hours.
• Children below the age of 5 years old: free of charge.

15 MARCH to MAY 

• Per adult (16+ years old): US$ 70.80 per person per 24 hours.
• Per child (between 5 and 15 years old): US$ 23.60 per child per 24 hours.
• Children below the age of 5 years old: free of charge.

16 MAY to JUNE 

• Per adult (16+ years old): US$ 82.60 per person per 24 hours.
• Per child (between 5 and 15 years old): US$ 23.60 per child per 24 hours.
• Children below the age of 5 years old: free of charge.

Please note that:

• Reduced rates are applicable for EAC member state citizens (passport required upon entry.
• Proof of identification (for all visitors) is mandatory at the entry gate.
• Fees at the gates can only be paid by MasterCard, Visa or Tanapa (Tanzania National Parks) Smartcard. Cash or other cards are not accepted.
• All fees are for single entry.
• Serengeti park fee once paid is non-refundable.
• Expatriates / residents and their dependents living in Tanzania must have one of the following documents: resident permits Class A, B, C, exemption certificate, temporary pass attached with government receipt plus acknowledgement letter, diplomatic passport or ID.

Kindly note that all above rates and conditions are subject change without notice.

Immigration and visa information: Tanzania

Most international travelers require a visa when arriving in Tanzania, which can be arranged upon arrival at one of the major airports. However, queues for these visas usually entail wasted hours spent at the airport. Alternatively, you may download your visa application from your local Tanzanian embassy website and submit these via post. Applications require two passport-sized photographs, payment for visa fees and a stamped, self-addressed envelope for the return of your passport, visa and other materials. More information about the visa application can be obtained from your nearest Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate. The current Tanzanian visa rates are US$ 50.00 to US$ 100.00 for single entry – depending on your country of origin. Please note that these rates are subject to change.