Safari Guide to Tanzania's Serengeti

The Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania is one of Africa's most iconic safari destinations, famous for its vast plains, abundant wildlife, and the spectacular Great Migration. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable Serengeti safari experience.

When to Visit

The best time to visit depends on what you want to see:

• December to March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti, with predator action
• April to May: Low season (rainy) with fewer tourists and lush landscapes
• June to July: Peak migration river crossings in the western corridor
• August to October: Dry season with excellent general game viewing
• November: Short rains begin, migration heads south

Safari Options

The Serengeti offers various safari experiences:

• Lodge Safaris: Comfortable accommodations with amenities
• Luxury Tented Camps: Canvas accommodations with high-end services
• Mobile Camps: Camps that follow the migration
• Fly-in Safaris: Avoid long drives with small aircraft transfers
• Balloon Safaris: Dawn flights over the plains for a unique perspective

Wildlife Highlights

The Serengeti is home to the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and much more. Key wildlife experiences include:

• The Great Migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebra
• Large lion prides and other big cats
• Over 500 bird species
• Rare black rhinos in protected areas
• Hippo pools and crocodile-filled rivers

Practical Tips

Make the most of your Serengeti safari with these tips:

• Book well in advance, especially for peak season (June-October)
• Pack neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors and blue)
• Bring good binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens
• Consider combining the Serengeti with other parks like Ngorongoro Crater
• Budget for park fees, which are significant but support conservation

A Serengeti safari is a bucket-list experience that connects you with nature in its most raw and beautiful form. Whether you're witnessing a river crossing during the migration or watching a pride of lions at sunset, the memories will last a lifetime.