Best Things to Do in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

1. Witness the Great Migration

The Serengeti is famous for the annual Great Migration, when over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing.

• Best Time to Visit: June to October for northern migration, December to March for southern migration

• Highlights: Dramatic river crossings at Mara River, predator sightings, endless savannah landscapes

• Tip: Book guided safari tours for the best vantage points and wildlife insights

2. Go on Game Drives

Game drives are the heart of the Serengeti safari experience.

• Morning drives for predators like lions and cheetahs

• Afternoon drives to spot elephants, giraffes, and rhinos

• Sunset drives for photography with golden light

Tip: Use a professional guide with a 4×4 vehicle to increase chances of sightings.

3. Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Experience the Serengeti from above with a hot air balloon ride.

• Float over savannahs at sunrise

• Spot wildlife from a unique perspective

• Enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush

Tip: Early booking is recommended, as balloon safaris are highly popular.

4. Visit Seronera Valley

Seronera Valley is the Serengeti’s central hub for wildlife sightings.

• High density of lions, leopards, and cheetahs

• Panoramic views of rolling plains and kopjes

• Ideal area for photography and extended game drives

Tip: Spend at least two days in Seronera for maximum wildlife encounters.

5. Explore Western Serengeti

Western Serengeti features vast open plains and fewer tourists.

• Witness wildebeest and zebra herds during migration

• See hippos and crocodiles in Grumeti River

• Enjoy off-the-beaten-path wildlife encounters

Tip: Combine Western Serengeti with northern areas for a complete safari experience.

6. Bird Watching in the Serengeti

Serengeti is home to over 500 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

• Spot lilac-breasted rollers, kori bustards, and secretary birds

• Visit swamps and riverine forests for waterfowl and migratory birds

• Sunrise and early morning drives offer the best opportunities

7. Experience a Maasai Village

Learn about the traditions and daily life of the Maasai people.

• Visit a Maasai boma near the park

• Observe traditional dances and cultural rituals

• Engage in storytelling and beadwork demonstrations

Tip: Respect local customs and ask permission before taking photos.

8. Night Game Drives

Some areas of Serengeti allow night safaris, offering a glimpse into nocturnal wildlife.

• Spot hyenas, bush babies, and nocturnal predators

• Experience the savannah under starlit skies

• Learn from guides about night behavior and animal adaptations

Tip: Night drives are best done with experienced guides for safety and spotting efficiency.

9. Photography Safaris

Serengeti is a photographer’s dream.

• Capture wildlife in their natural habitat

• Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting

• Include landscapes, animal interactions, and cultural experiences

Tip: Bring a telephoto lens and extra memory cards for a complete safari photography experience.

10. Explore Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Nearby)

Combine your Serengeti safari with a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater.

• Home to the Big Five in a unique caldera ecosystem

• Stunning crater scenery with rivers and lakes

• Cultural interaction with Maasai communities

Tip: Plan at least a full day for Ngorongoro to maximize wildlife viewing and scenic opportunities.

Why Visit Serengeti National Park?

• Witness the world-famous Great Migration

• Spot Africa’s Big Five in their natural habitat

• Enjoy diverse landscapes from savannahs to kopjes

• Experience cultural immersion with Maasai communities

• Perfect destination for wildlife photography and adventure

FAQs About Serengeti National Park

1. When is the best time to visit Serengeti?
June to October for northern migration; December to March for southern migration and calving season.

2. Do I need prior safari experience?
No, guided tours cater to both first-time visitors and experienced travelers.

3. How do I get to Serengeti National Park?
Fly from Arusha or Kilimanjaro to Seronera, Kogatende, or Grumeti airstrips, or drive via safari road transfers.

4. What accommodations are available?
Options include luxury lodges, tented camps, and budget safari camps inside and outside the park.

5. Can Serengeti be combined with other Tanzanian safaris?
Yes, it can be paired with Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, or Zanzibar for extended trips.