0
items
$0
SERENGETI SAFARI: A TRAVELERS MOST WANTED GUIDE
Wildebeest gather during the Great Migration. You will be able to enjoy scenes like this on your next Serengeti Safari / Image: @kilosierra
The Serengeti is often referred to as Africa’s gem, which is not surprising considering it boasts magnificent scenery and landscapes. This national park is something you cannot miss when you book a trip to Tanzania. Including a Serengeti Safari in your itinerary is simply a must if you want to experience the best of Tanzania.
This national park is a picturesque spot where you will see glorious savannas and lavish grasslands. Its ambiance is magnificent and cannot be compared to anything you have seen in pictures or watched on the big screen. This awe-inspiring scenery needs to be felt and experienced in person to discover its true magic. Therefore, a Serengeti safari trip is an absolute necessity when visiting Tanzania or even Africa.
There are a lot of Tanzania and Serengeti activities to choose from, so it may be challenging to decipher which ones to go for first. We have created this helpful guide to assist you in planning your itinerary for a thrilling adventure!
AFRICAN LION SAFARI
Discover An African Safari With A Unique Perspective. Bridging Lion Conservation With Adventure Travel. Join us on our adventure!
A lone lion wanders through the Serengeti plains at sunrise. There is a high number of lions that reside within the Serengeti National Park - catch many sightings whilst you are there / Image: @jackyoung
Key Facts About the Serengeti to Help You Get Started
It's where much of the famous Great Wildebeest Migration takes place.
More than 500 bird species can be found within the park.
Regarded as one of the planet's oldest ecosystems, with 14,750 km2 of savannah, forests, grass, and woodland.
The name 'Serengeti' comes from the Maasai term 'siringit', which translates to 'endless plains.'
Has some of the largest amounts of mammals in all of Africa, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, hyenas, and more.
Where are the best regions to do a Serengeti Safari?
The Serengeti is one of the largest and most protected ecosystems in the world. Namely, different regions of the Serengeti are all spectacular to visit for a real African adventure. Every corner of the Serengeti is uniquely striking. Let us tell you about each region in full.
CENTRAL SERENGETI
If you decide to do a Serengeti Safari in its most central part, you will stay in the bustling heart of this amazing national park. This centralized region is a great spot with a variety of camps and lodges to choose from, which can also make it a busier location than the other parts of the Serengeti. It can be especially crowded during peak season - June to October.
However, Central Serengeti is known for having great access to the best Migration spots and Big 5 sightings. You will be surrounded by beautiful wooded hills and grassy plains - which is a magnet for other wild animals giving you optimum observations of wildlife. Opting for Central Serengeti is a great choice if a Serengeti Safari is at the top of your list.
NORTHERN SERENGETI
The northern part of the Serengeti is the most remote and the least crowded. It is an ideal spot to see amazing wildlife as well as enjoy the miraculous landscapes. What’s great about northern Serengeti is that it is on the border of Kenya which makes it a fabulous location to continue your adventure in another country. One of the highlights of Northern Serengeti is the Mara River as well as the Great Migration that happens right across it. Just make sure you are in town at the right time to see it.
The northern region offers you a chance to see one of the rarest animals in the world - the rhino. This region is a great place to spot it!
WESTERN SERENGETI
If you want a luxurious Serengeti safari, head to the west. Luxurious accommodations and camps are upon you in this upscale region of the park. The western part is also ideal for traditional safaris as well as an array of experiences to match, like photography safaris, sleeping under the stars and private group safaris. It's also an ideal spot to witness the Great Migration as well as visit the Grumeti River. This area is an ideal setting for a Serengeti Safari with outlooks and views to behold. This is why many of the more exclusive lodges and overnight stays are based here. It is a gorgeous part of the Serengeti.
EASTERN SERENGETI
The eastern part of the Serengeti is a good choice if you want to avoid tourist crowds. It is the least visited area of the park, and it is also the quietest one. If the idea of a Serengeti safari is your cup of tea but you want a quieter adventure - the eastern region is an ideal choice. It is also closer to Lake Natron as well as the Ngorongoro Crater too. If you love wild cat species, especially cheetahs - a larger number are found in east Serengeti. Here you will get to observe wild cats as well as wild animals in abundance. A quieter side of the Serengeti but amazing to visit.
A family of cheetahs cooling down in the shade of a bush. Cheetahs are famous for being the fastest land animal in the world / Image: @artemisdesign
What Month Is The Best Month To Visit The Serengeti?
The Serengeti is a marvelous place to visit throughout the whole year - you won’t go wrong with whatever month you choose to visit. When picking the season to visit this national park, you should consider your preferences and priorities. Ask yourself, “What do I want to see most on my trip to the Serengeti?” Below we have a few key insights in helping you pick the right month:
For instance, if you would like to witness the Great Migration, going on a Serengeti safari tour between July and September is ideal. On the other hand, January to March is perfect timing if you have the desire to watch the new born calves as well as spot birdlife. If crowds aren't your thing, then consider visiting the Serengeti during our winter months of October and November. These are two of the least crowded months, and you will still get exactly what you desire from your Serengeti safari adventure.
Take a look at our detailed month to month weather report to help you decide which month is best for you to travel here: The Ultimate Guide To Safaris In Tanzania
How to Get To the Serengeti
Kilimanjaro Airport is the main hub where most travelers fly to reach the Serengeti National Park. A handful of international airlines fly here directly, like Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Air France, KLM, and Ethiopian Airways. But even if you can't find flights straight to Kilimanjaro, there are lots of of connecting flights from Dar es Salaam and Nairobi with Precision Air and Air Tanzania. After you arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport, you can then take a regional flight to an airstrip in the Serengeti National Park with Coastal Aviation, Auric Air or Grumeti Air.
The distance between the Kilimanjaro Airport and the Serengeti National Park by road is around 320 kilometers, but it depends on the entrance you decide to go through. The journey here usually takes between 5 and 6 hours if you go by tourist minivan; seats for these usually start at around TZS 187418.98 ($72), but it depends on the availability that day.
What Is Special About The Serengeti?
The Serengeti is a captivating destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. It contains some of the most unique and spectacular landscapes and savannahs the world has ever seen. The Serengeti is unmatched by anywhere else in the world which is why it's so special.
The sheer variety and number of wildlife, wild bird species and wild animals is colossal and is humbling to witness them all in their natural habitat.
The Serengeti offers a multitude of incredible adventures, excursions and activities to enjoy. From sleeping under the stars to hot air ballooning, to nature walks, sunset safaris, natural phenomenons, rock formations, African lion safaris, wild camping and dinners al fresco - there really isn't much that the Serengeti can't offer. Even if you just opt for a traditional three day safari - the Serengeti will capture your heart and put you under its charms.
Zebras are a common sighting within the Serengeti National Park. Here you can see a collection of zebras basking in the Serengeti sun / Image: @ray30
What Months Are The Best For The Great Migration?
If you have your heart set on watching the Great Migration, this iconic phenomenon cycles clockwise between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. It stretches from the most southern part of the Serengeti to the most northern part of the Maasai Mara. The Great Migration takes place between May and December. Get in touch with our travel designers to get advice on where to go and which month to visit to get the best sightings.
How Many Days Is Enough For Serengeti?
The Serengeti is vast. The question is - How long do you have?
It's possible to get a taste of the Serengeti within a three day adventure, however some travelers choose to stay two weeks to experience everything the Serengeti has to offer. However long you decide to do your Serengeti safari, it will be a wonderful experience. We advise you to stay at least 4-5 days to really enjoy the region, wildlife and private jeep tours as well as relish in some fun excursions.
We offer 4 to 5 day Serengeti Safaris customizable and tailored to suit you and your budget
Let Us Plan Your Ideal Tanzania Safari
Tailored safaris in Tanzania, customized to your needs. Our team designs personalized experiences to match your preferences. Explore top destinations like Serengeti and Lake Manyara. Travel solo, with a partner, in a group, or with family. Contact us to start your adventure!
How Much Does It Cost To Enter Serengeti?
The entry fees to the Serengeti National Park are referred to as conservation fees because they are there to help fund the protection of this incredible park and its wild animals who roam within it.
The fees can vary depending on the season in which you visit. During peak season, the fees are the following:
$70 per person above 16 years old per day
$20 per person between 5 and 15 years old per day
The conservation fee is free for persons under the age of 5
What Would You See On A Safari Through The Serengeti?
During your Serengeti Safari, expect to see a whole lot of wildlife. This amazing national park is home to over two million hoofed animals, 4 thousand lions, 1 thousand leopards, 500 wonderful bird species, over 500 cheetahs and around 150 rhino. Not to mention all its other marvelous wild species. The Serengeti also offers historical and cultural intrigue, astounding rock formations, gorgeous rivers, the Great Migration, an array of fun excursions to enjoy and so much more! You will be spoilt for choice.
We have a fascinating guide on 7 Amazing African Wild Animals To See That Aren't The Big 5
The Kopjes Rock Formations are a famous attraction in the Serengeti that many flock to see. Here, sits a lioness atop of one of the towing rocks that looks over the Serengeti plains, perfect for finding prey / Image: @denisi_z
What Is The Most Common Animal In The Serengeti?
The most common animal in the Serengeti is the gnarly wildebeest, also named as the ‘Gnu.’ Wildebeests are prey to different kinds of predators, like lions and cheetahs. Wildebeest play a popular role in the Great Migration where you can see them hoofing through river and land crossings in their thousands. Both male and female Gnu’s grow horns which make them hard to distinguish apart from each other. Because of their shaggy appearance they may seem like they could be aggressive but the Gnu is one of the most gentle African animals you will find in the Serengeti.
A Serengeti Safari is not complete if you havent seen a gnarly wildebeest. These creatures are gentle yet noisy. A wonderful animal to meet on your next adventure / Image: @dennisgroom
Can I go solo on a Serengeti drive?
You can drive solo on a Serengeti Safari, but it is not recommended. If it is your first time within a wildlife environment of such vastness of the Serengeti national park, you might risk your safety due to a lack of knowledge. Namely, if you do not know the areas or routes, you might easily get lost among wild animals and put yourself in danger. Therefore, we do not advise solo Serengeti drives throughout the national park.
Can I step outside of my safari vehicle on a Serengeti Safari?
When going on a safari in the Serengeti, you will be accompanied by a guide who is knowledgeable of the surroundings. They will most probably not allow you to get out of the vehicle because it can be extremely dangerous, unless they have advised you and you are under supervision. The national park prohibits such actions unless you are accompanied by an armed ranger.
A lioness meanders through the grass amongst a fleet of safari vehicles. Read our tips on keeping safe throughout your Serengeti Safari / Image: @mattpunsplash
Best Things to Do in the Serengeti National Park
See the Great Migration
Come and see one of the largest animal migrations on the planet in the Serengeti. The Great Migration is a yearly event where more than a million creatures, including wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle, make their way through the park to try to find fresh grazings on an 800 km trail.
Go On a Game Drive
Experience the best of the Serengeti's wildlife from the comfort of a jeep on a game drive. Try to spot the Big Five, which includes rhino, buffalo, lion, elephant, and leopard, as well as some hidden surprises such as cheetahs, giraffes, and more.
Pay a Visit to a Maasai Village
Witness the tribal lifestyle of the Maasai people who populate much of the Serengeti National Park. See how this semi-nomadic group lives with a visit to one of their settlements and find out about their rich traditions, language, and cultural differences.
Spend Some Time Birdwatching
With over 500 species in the Serengeti, it's a birdwatcher's haven. There are plenty of excursions where visitors can explore the grounds with a licensed guide and try to spot some of the most fascinating types of birds, from flamingos to Fischer's love birds.
Spot the Moru Kopjes
In the southern part of the Serengeti, there are the famous Moru Kopjes, which are a series of granite rocks that poke out from the plains; you won't be able to miss them.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Rather than viewing the animals from the ground, why not get a bird's eye view of them from above? At certain times of the year, hot-air balloon rides are available throughout the Serengeti, giving visitors the chance to do some wildlife spotting from a whole new perspective.
What to Pack for Your Serengeti Safari
Fleeces
Jackets
Raincoats
Hats and gloves
T-shirts
Trousers
Hoodies
Turtleneck shirts
Water-resistant hiking trousers
Athletic leggings or tracksuit bottoms, depending on the gender
Multiple pairs of underwear and socks
Sunglasses
Headlamp
Sunhat
Hand sanitizer
Insect repellent
Toilet paper
Need a more in-depth breakdown? Check out our comprehensive safari packing list.
What to pack for your Serengeti Safari? We have you covered. Here is a classic safari outfit that many travelrs love to wear on their game drive adventures / Image: @austindistel
How Much Does a Safari in the Serengeti Cost?
The price of a safari in the Serengeti varies greatly based on seven main components:
The time of year you travel
What accommodation you stay in
How many game drives you take
The number of people in your group
Duration of the trip
Entry fees into the park
Any additional activities you want to book
Everyone's safari package will cost different amounts. Ask yourself what the absolute musts are for your trip. You might want to do five-game drives as well as a hot air balloon ride, or you may just want to make a day trip to see Ngorongoro Crater; it all depends on the type of trip you're after.
From a view of price points, we run several safaris into the Serengeti that come with different price tags. Depending on the amount of time you would like to spend within the region as well as the type of accommodation you wish to stay in, can all affect the overall price - we generally advise our customers to be prepared to spend at least $400 per person per day upwards for a tailored private safari in Tanzania.
Types of Accommodation Available in the Serengeti
A range of accommodation options are available in the Serengeti, but how do you go about choosing the right one for you? Let's run you through what's on offer to help you pick.
Classic Lodges
Classic lodges are enclosed areas with permanent physical structures; they don't move at other times of the year; they stay put. This style of accommodation is on the higher end of the scale; think beautifully designed guest suites, swimming pools, and other high-end facilities.
Best Lodges in the Serengeti
Tented Lodges
Although not quite on the scale of classic lodges, tented lodge camps still have a lot to offer. They're built in resort-like areas, but they use tented structures to house guests to provide that rural feeling. Even though they sound a little rougher and ready, many of them provide the same level of luxury as physical lodges; it's just that the roofing on them is similar to a tent rather than a building.
Best Tented Lodges in the Serengeti
Public Camping
Public camping is allowed in the Serengeti for those who are on a tight budget. There are a few camps within the region that provide the basic necessities like bathrooms and kitchens. There are no supplies there waiting for you; instead, you bring everything with you and pitch your tent for the night.
Best Public Campsites in the Serengeti
Nyani public campsite
Ngiri public campsite
Pimbi public campsite
Serenora public campsite
A tourist taking pictures of an elephant on their safari game drive. Make sure you pack a good camera on your next adventure. These images will create incredible memories for you to remember / Image: @wade_lambert
Tips for Booking a Safari in the Serengeti
Book With Reputable Companies Only
The list of companies offering safaris in the Serengeti is never-ending, but that doesn't mean you should just book with the first one you see. Do plenty of research before putting down a deposit; check reviews, get in touch with past customers, and ask lots of questions. Safaris aren't cheap, so you'll want to make sure your money is going towards an excellent service, like what BornWild offers.
The Longer You Go, the Higher Chance You Have of Seeing the Big Five
Have the Big Five on your bucket list? Everyone does. But that doesn't mean you're guaranteed to see them all. However, the more days you book your safari, this gives you a higher chance of seeing all the animals, as you'll have more opportunities to explore different parts of the park.
Bring a Good Lens if You’re a Photographer
A solid lens is essential if you're into photography. While there might be some chances for you to get up close to the animals, a lot of the time, you'll be viewing them from afar. That's why a lens with great zoom capabilities will help you snap those dream shots you've been waiting for.
Follow the Camp Rules
All camps in the Serengeti will have a full list of rules that guests need to follow, just in case a wild animal enters your camp grounds. The staff will be able to advise you on what to do when and if this were to happen.
Never Approach the Animals
It might be tempting to approach an animal if you see one, but it's not advised. Remember, these creatures are wild and can be unpredictable. Be sure to keep your distance at all times and adhere to the safety advice from your guide at all times.
Make An Impact On Your Next Serengeti Safari!
Discover an African Safari with a unique perspective. We have developed one of the most extraordinary experiences that bridges Lion Conservation with adventure travel.
Our expedition takes us on a thrilling route through Tanzania - exploring one of the most extraordinary journeys in Africa.
Our African safari trip will highlight Lion Conservation and we will be exposing travellers to resources and experiences you will only encounter through this adventure. Experience lion conservation from the worlds best lion conservation experts and registered conservation charities to enable you to broaden your safari experience above and beyond your wildest dreams.
‘AFRICAN LION SAFARI’ Is Our Biggest Adventure Yet
