Serengeti National Park

Activities in Serengeti National Park

Game Drives

Game drives in Serengeti National Park are a quintessential experience for visitors seeking to observe its abundant wildlife. They commence early at 6:00 am, with afternoon sessions starting at 1:00 pm, and night game drives at 6:30 pm, offering breathtaking views of the sunset. Conducted in open-roof 4×4 vehicles and open-sided vehicles, these drives allow for excellent photographic opportunities.

Wildlife Circuits

During game drives, visitors traverse various circuits such as Naabi Hill Gate to Ikoma Gate, Kleins Gate to Ikoma Gate, and Naabi to Ndabaka Gate, each offering unique wildlife sightings. Expect to encounter a diverse range of animals including African hunting Dog, Spotted Hyenas, Bat Eared Foxes, large herds of antelopes, Zebras, Thompson’s giant gazelles, and the iconic wildebeests. Additionally, nocturnal species like bush babies, civets, Aardvarks, leopards, dik diks, bat eared foxes, scrub hares, jackals, and mongoose can also be spotted.

Great Migration

Witnessing the Great Migration is a highlight in Serengeti, occurring between December to March in the northern section and from mid-May to mid-October. This epic journey sees millions of wildebeests, gazelles, and zebras traversing the plains in search of greener pastures, making it a spectacle of unparalleled natural beauty.

Fishing

For those interested in angling, Serengeti National Park offers fishing opportunities at Lake Victoria, the second largest freshwater lake in the world. Anglers can try their luck catching the renowned Nile Perch and various other fish species. This activity not only provides a chance to indulge in sport fishing but also offers stunning views of diverse landscapes and water birds.

Walking Safari

Serengeti National Park invites visitors to experience the wilderness on foot through guided walking safaris led by park rangers. These safaris, conducted during the day, allow guests to explore the terrain outside the confines of a vehicle, offering a closer connection to nature and potential sightings of wildlife up close.

Filming and Photographic Tours

For photography and filming enthusiasts, Serengeti National Park presents unparalleled opportunities to capture extraordinary wildlife moments, from hunting scenes to interactions among various species. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist, the park’s rich biodiversity and dramatic landscapes provide endless inspiration for memorable shots and films.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Embarking on a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti offers an exhilarating and unique perspective of the park from high above, akin to soaring like a bird. This thrilling adventure promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors.

Locations and Schedule

Hot air balloon safaris are conducted in two picturesque regions of Serengeti: Grumeti and Seronera River. The safaris commence early in the morning, typically between 06:30 to 09:30 am, ensuring stunning views of the sunrise and the park’s sprawling landscapes. The flight lasts approximately one hour, culminating with a delightful bush breakfast served amidst the wilderness.

Experience and Cost

Participating in a balloon safari costs approximately $588 USD per person. The activity welcomes participants from a minimum age of 7 years to a maximum of 75 years. As the hot air balloon gently lifts off, passengers may experience sensations reminiscent of takeoff in an airplane, adding a touch of adventure to the serene journey.

Where to Stay in Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park offers diverse lodging options catering to various budgets, from budget-friendly choices to luxurious accommodations.

Luxury Accommodation

Luxury options include renowned lodges such as Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Acacia Seronera Lodge, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp, and One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti.

Midrange Accommodation

For those seeking midrange options, accommodations like Soroi Serengeti Lodge, Wellworth Ole Serai, Melia Serengeti Lodge, Lake Ndutu Camp, and Serengeti Mawa Tented Camp provide comfortable stays amidst the wilderness.

Budget Accommodation

Budget-conscious travelers can opt for Ikoma Tented Camp and Kobe House, providing affordable yet comfortable lodging options.

Planning Your Visit

Duration and Recommendations

Plan your visit to Serengeti for a minimum of 2 days to fully immerse yourself in the park’s wildlife and landscapes. Consider combining your Serengeti safari with visits to other iconic destinations in Tanzania, such as Ngorongoro Conservancy, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, and Ruaha National Park.

Cross-Border Safaris

Extend your safari experience by exploring neighboring Kenya, with visits to Masai Mara for the Big Five, Amboseli for majestic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Nakuru for its flamingoes, and Tsavo for its lion prides. These cross-border combinations offer a comprehensive exploration of East Africa’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park

The ideal time to visit Serengeti National Park depends on the season, which can be categorized into wet and dry periods. Wildlife can be observed year-round, but the volume and visibility vary.

Dry Season (Mid-May to Mid-October):

This period is recommended for optimal game viewing, as the vegetation is less dense and animals tend to gather around water sources, providing excellent opportunities for sightings.

Rainy Season (November to April):

While the rainy season sees fewer visitors, it offers a different experience with lush landscapes and migratory bird arrivals. However, heavy rainfall, particularly from January to March, can make some roads impassable.

Due to global warming, there have been shifts in rainfall patterns, influencing the timing and intensity of the wet and dry seasons. It’s advisable to check current weather patterns and consult with local guides for the most up-to-date information when planning your visit to Serengeti National Park.

How to Get to Serengeti National Park

By Road

Serengeti National Park is accessible through various entry points, with distances varying depending on the route taken. The main entry points include Naabi Hill Gate (272 km from Ngorongoro Conservancy), Ndabaka Gate (141 km from Mwanza), Kleins Gate (420 km from Arusha), Tabora B (430 km from Arusha), Ndutu Gate (265 km from Mwanza), Ikoma Gate (253 km from Mwanza via Mugumu district), Lamai Gate (67 km from Sirari), and Handajega Gate (149 km from Mwanza).

The roads leading to Serengeti are generally in good condition, although closer to the game reserve they may turn into gravel roads, often referred to humorously as experiencing the “African Massage.” It is advisable to use a 4×4 vehicle, with rental costs ranging from $200 to $350 per day, excluding driver allowances.

By Air

For those preferring air travel, Serengeti can be accessed via two main international airports: Julius Nyerere International Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport. Arusha Airport serves as a popular connecting hub for flights to Serengeti. Air transportation services are provided by various companies including Regional Air, Safari Air Link, Coastal Aviation, Air Tanzania, Zan Air, Auric Air, and Precision Air.

The flight from these airports to Serengeti generally takes about one hour. Flights may include multiple stops to drop off passengers at one of Serengeti’s seven airstrips: Serengeti International Airport, Mara North Conservancy, Kichwa Tembo, Olkiombo Airstrip, Sasakwa Airstrip, Kogatende Airstrip, and Seronera Airstrip. Air travel costs vary based on whether you opt for scheduled flights or charter a plane for your group.

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