About
Located in northern Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is one of the world’s most famous wildlife destinations and among Africa’s greatest conservation success stories. The park covers approximately 5,700 square miles (14,763 sq km) of protected savannah, woodland, and river ecosystems.
Serengeti National Park borders Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the southeast and connects directly with Maasai Mara National Reserve to the north, forming one of the largest and most important wildlife ecosystems on Earth. The name “Serengeti” comes from a Maasai word meaning “endless plains,” a fitting description for the vast grasslands stretching toward the horizon. It is often a destination paired with Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.
Serengeti National Park is best known for the Great Migration, one of the most extraordinary wildlife events on the planet. Each year, more than a million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move across the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water. This continuous migration creates dramatic scenes of river crossings, predator encounters, and massive herds covering the plains.
Visitors from around the world travel to the Serengeti to witness lions stalking prey, crocodiles waiting at river crossings, and vast columns of animals stretching for miles. Beyond the migration, the park is renowned for classic African safari experiences that include sunrise game drives, balloon safaris, and breathtaking wildlife photography opportunities.
The geography of Serengeti National Park is remarkably diverse despite its reputation for open plains. Endless savannah grasslands dominate the southern and central regions, while rolling hills, rocky kopjes, acacia woodlands, and river systems create varied habitats throughout the park. The western corridor follows the Grumeti River and supports dense vegetation and aquatic ecosystems. Northern sections near the Kenyan border contain greener hills and river valleys shaped by seasonal rainfall.
The park’s famous kopjes, massive granite rock formations rising above the plains, provide shelter and lookout points for predators such as lions and leopards. Seasonal changes transform the landscape from lush green grasslands during the rainy season to golden plains during drier months.
Serengeti National Park supports one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife anywhere in the world. Lions are especially abundant and are among the park’s most iconic predators. Leopards, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, and African wild dogs also inhabit the region. Large herbivores include elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, gazelles, elands, and numerous antelope species.
Hippos and crocodiles thrive in rivers and wetlands while more than 500 bird species fill the skies and grasslands. Secretary birds, ostriches, vultures, eagles, and colorful lilac-breasted rollers are commonly observed throughout the park.
Serengeti National Park plays a critical role in preserving one of the last intact large-scale migration systems on Earth. The park protects vast ecosystems that allow wildlife to move naturally across international boundaries and seasonal habitats. It also safeguards endangered predators and vulnerable grassland species facing increasing pressure elsewhere in Africa.
Compared to other world-famous safari destinations such as Kruger National Park or Yellowstone National Park, the Serengeti is unmatched in scale, wildlife movement, and ecological spectacle. Its endless plains and thriving wildlife populations continue to symbolize the beauty and importance of African conservation. Serengeti National Park remains one of the planet’s greatest natural wonders and an enduring inspiration for wildlife protection around the world.
Photos
Things to See
Things To Do
Discovering the Serengeti
Serengeti National Park Trails
There are no trails for hiking in the Serengeti National Park, however, that does not mean you cannot explore this wildlife-rich environment on foot. There are guided walking safaris as well as even multi-day walking safaris which provide the more adventurous with an opportunity to explore the wildlife and wilderness on foot.
Park Protection
Serengeti National Park was created to protect the vast grasslands, savannas, woodlands, and river ecosystems of northern Tanzania, forming the core of one of the world’s most important wildlife conservation landscapes. The park provides critical habitat for several threatened and endangered species, including the endangered African wild dog, endangered black rhinoceros, and endangered hooded vulture.
It also supports globally significant populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and numerous antelope species. The park’s rich ecosystems sustain more than 500 bird species and an extraordinary diversity of mammals, making it one of Africa’s premier biodiversity strongholds.
The park is especially significant for protecting the largest terrestrial mammal migration on Earth. Each year, more than a million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move across the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water.
This remarkable migration supports one of the planet’s most intact predator-prey systems and represents an ecological process found nowhere else at such a scale. Together, Serengeti National Park safeguards endangered species, globally important wildlife populations, the Great Migration, and one of the most spectacular and ecologically significant savanna ecosystems on Earth.
FAQ’s
How large is the Serengeti National Park?
Serengeti National Park is one of Tanzania’s most famous national parks and spans an impressive area of approximately 14,750 square kilometers (5,700 square miles). This vast expanse of savannah and grasslands makes it one of the largest national parks in Africa.
It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its outstanding universal value and significance for biodiversity conservation.
How many wildebeests are in the migration?
The number of wildebeests involved in the annual migration can vary from year to year due to factors such as rainfall patterns and food availability.
However, estimates typically suggest that over 1.5 million wildebeests participate in the Great Migration across the Serengeti ecosystem, which includes Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
This massive movement of wildebeests, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and other antelope species, is considered one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth.
How many other animals are part of the migration?
In addition to the vast number of wildebeests involved in the Great Migration, hundreds of thousands of zebras and various antelope species also participate in the movement across the Serengeti ecosystem. Some estimates suggest that the total number of animals involved in the migration can exceed 2 million individuals.
These animals traverse vast distances in search of fresh grazing grounds and water sources, making the migration one of the most remarkable wildlife spectacles in the world.
What is the main reason people visit Serengeti National Park?
Serengeti National Park is primarily visited for the Great Migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, along with its exceptional Big Five safaris and abundant predator populations. Located in northern Tanzania, the park protects approximately 5,700 square miles (14,763 square kilometers) of grasslands, savannas, woodlands, river systems, and rocky kopjes. Visitors come to witness more than 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles moving across the ecosystem while observing lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and countless other species in one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations.
What animals can visitors hope to see in Serengeti National Park?
Serengeti National Park supports more than 70 large mammal species and over 80 reptile species, making it one of the richest wildlife ecosystems in Africa.
Some of the most notable animals found in Serengeti National Park include:
- African Lion
- Leopard
- Cheetah
- African Bush Elephant
- Black Rhinoceros
- African Buffalo
- Spotted Hyena
- Striped Hyena
- African Wild Dog
- Black-backed Jackal
- Side-striped Jackal
- Serval
- Caracal
- African Wildcat
- Honey Badger
- African Civet
- Large-spotted Genet
- Banded Mongoose
- Dwarf Mongoose
- Slender Mongoose
- White-tailed Mongoose
- Aardwolf
- Aardvark
- Hippopotamus
- Nile Crocodile
- Blue Wildebeest
- Plains Zebra
- Thomson’s Gazelle
- Grant’s Gazelle
- Impala
- Topi
- Coke’s Hartebeest
- Eland
- Defassa Waterbuck
- Bushbuck
- Bohor Reedbuck
- Oribi
- Klipspringer
- Steenbok
- Common Duiker
- Greater Kudu
- Giraffe
- Warthog
- Bushpig
- Olive Baboon
- Vervet Monkey
- Black-and-White Colobus Monkey
- Rock Hyrax
- African Hare
- Crested Porcupine
What birds can visitors hope to see in Serengeti National Park?
Serengeti National Park is home to more than 500 bird species, including both resident and migratory birds. It is considered one of Africa’s finest birdwatching destinations.
Some of the most popular birds seen in Serengeti National Park include:
- Secretary Bird
- Kori Bustard
- Ostrich
- Martial Eagle
- Bateleur
- African Fish Eagle
- Tawny Eagle
- Verreaux’s Eagle
- Wahlberg’s Eagle
- Lappet-faced Vulture
- White-backed Vulture
- Rüppell’s Vulture
- Hooded Vulture
- Marabou Stork
- Saddle-billed Stork
- Yellow-billed Stork
- Woolly-necked Stork
- African Openbill
- Grey Crowned Crane
- Black Crowned Crane
- African Jacana
- Spur-winged Lapwing
- Crowned Lapwing
- Egyptian Goose
- White-faced Whistling Duck
- Great White Pelican
- Pink-backed Pelican
- African Spoonbill
- Sacred Ibis
- Hadada Ibis
- Hamerkop
- Lilac-breasted Roller
- European Roller
- Purple Roller
- Carmine Bee-eater
- White-fronted Bee-eater
- Southern Ground Hornbill
- Red-billed Hornbill
- Yellow-billed Hornbill
- Grey Hornbill
- Giant Kingfisher
- Pied Kingfisher
- Malachite Kingfisher
- Woodland Kingfisher
- Superb Starling
- Hildebrandt’s Starling
- Fork-tailed Drongo
- African Paradise Flycatcher
- Yellow-billed Oxpecker
- Red-billed Oxpecker
Is Serengeti National Park worth visiting?
Yes, Serengeti National Park is absolutely worth visiting and is widely considered one of the greatest wildlife destinations in the world.
The park offers unparalleled wildlife viewing, the Great Migration, exceptional predator sightings, stunning landscapes, and world-class safari experiences. Few places on Earth can match the scale and diversity of wildlife found in the Serengeti.
The primary hesitation is that a Serengeti safari can be expensive due to transportation, park fees, and accommodations. However, many visitors consider it a once-in-a-lifetime destination that exceeds expectations.
What is the best time to visit Serengeti National Park?
Weather and Climate
The best time to visit Serengeti National Park depends on the wildlife experience visitors seek.
Typical conditions include:
- June–October: 50–85°F (10–29°C)
- November–December: 60–88°F (16–31°C)
- January–March: 60–86°F (16–30°C)
- April–May: 60–82°F (16–28°C)
During the dry season (June–October):
- Wildlife congregates near water sources.
- Predator sightings are excellent.
- Vegetation is thinner.
- River crossings often occur.
During January–March:
- Calving season attracts predators.
- Thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily.
- Wildlife viewing remains exceptional.
How do you get to Serengeti National Park?
International Access
Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania.
The primary international gateways are:
- Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Julius Nyerere International Airport
Most safari visitors arrive through Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Regional Airport Access
The primary safari gateway city is:
- Arusha
Regional air access includes:
- Seronera Airstrip
- Kogatende Airstrip
- Grumeti Airstrip
Driving from Arusha
Travel time:
- Approximately 200 miles (320 km)
- About 7–9 hours by road
Most safari itineraries travel through:
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
before entering the Serengeti.
Main Safari Areas
Popular regions include:
- Seronera Valley
- Northern Serengeti
- Western Corridor
- Southern Serengeti
Travel Times
Typical travel times include:
- Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha: approximately 1 hour.
- Arusha to Serengeti by road: 7–9 hours.
- Arusha to Serengeti by bush flight: 1–2 hours.
- Seronera to Northern Serengeti: approximately 4–5 hours by vehicle.
Who is involved in protecting and supporting Serengeti National Park?
Several organizations help protect and support Serengeti National Park:
- Tanzania National Parks Authority – manages Serengeti National Park.
- Frankfurt Zoological Society – one of the park’s longest-standing conservation partners.
- Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute – conducts wildlife research and monitoring.
- Serengeti Conservation Project – supports ecosystem conservation and education.
- Local communities and conservancies surrounding the Serengeti ecosystem.
What is unique about Serengeti National Park?
Serengeti National Park is unique because it protects the world’s largest remaining terrestrial mammal migration. Each year, more than 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move across the ecosystem in a continuous cycle driven by rainfall and grazing opportunities.
The park also supports one of Africa’s highest concentrations of predators, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. Combined with its vast open plains, iconic kopjes, and remarkable biodiversity, the Serengeti represents one of the last great intact wildlife ecosystems on Earth.
Can you see the Big Five in Serengeti National Park?
Yes. Serengeti National Park is one of Africa’s premier Big Five destinations and supports:
- Lion
- Leopard
- Elephant
- Rhinoceros
- Buffalo
When can you see the famous river crossings in Serengeti National Park?
The most famous river crossings typically occur between mid-July and mid-October, when migrating herds cross the Mara River in the northern Serengeti. These crossings are among the most dramatic wildlife spectacles in the world and often involve encounters with large Nile crocodiles and predators waiting nearby.
Sources
Here are sources you can explore for more information:
- AllTrails. Serengeti National Park. https://www.alltrails.com/tanzania/mara/serengeti-national-park, retrieved July 2026.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica. Serengeti National Park. https://www.britannica.com/place/Serengeti-National-Park, retrieved July 2026.
- Frankfurt Zoological Society, Serengeti Conservation Project, https://fzs.org/en/projects/serengeti-conservation/, Retrieved July 2019.
- Protected Planet (UNEP-WCMC & IUCN). Serengeti National Park. https://www.protectedplanet.net/, retrieved July 2026.
- SafariBookings. Serengeti National Park. https://www.safaribookings.com/serengeti, retrieved July 2026.
- Serengeti National Park, https://www.serengetinationalpark.com/,retrieved July 2019.
- Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA). Serengeti National Park. https://www.tanzaniaparks.go.tz/national_parks/serengeti-national-park, retrieved July 2026.
- Tanzania Tourist Board. Serengeti National Park. https://www.tanzaniatourism.go.tz/, retrieved July 2026.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Serengeti National Park. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/156/, retrieved July 2026.
- Wikipedia. Serengeti National Park. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serengeti_National_Park, retrieved July 2026.
- Wilderness. Serengeti National Park. https://www.wildernessdestinations.com/africa/tanzania/serengeti-national-park, retrieved July 2026.
- World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). Southern Acacia-Commiphora Bushlands and Thickets. https://www.worldwildlife.org/ecoregions/at0716, retrieved July 2026.