Serengeti National Park

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is the world’s largest concentration of migratory game animals. In the Serengeti National Park, nearly 500 species of birds and 35 large plains animals can be found. Many lions live here; this is probably the best place on the continent to see them. Cheetahs are also frequently seen.

Serengeti National Park is derived from Maasai language and means “endless plain.” At 5,700 square miles (14,763 square kilometers), the park is larger than Connecticut. It has an altitude ranging from 3,120 to 6,070 feet (950 to 1,850 meters).

This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains most of the Serengeti ecosystem, along which wildebeest migrate. Additionally, the Serengeti ecosystem includes Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve to the north, and the Loliondo Controlled Area to the northeast. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area borders the southeast; the Maswa Game Reserve borders the southwest; and the Grumeti Reserves and the Ikorongo Controlled Areas border the northwest. Lake Victoria is within 5 miles (8 km) of the Serengeti National Park “Western Corridor.”

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Serengeti National Park likely that you will see excellent sightings of lions and cheetahs (and thrilling lion kills) in the Serengeti. Leopards are also regularly seen here. There are also serval cats, golden and black-backed jackals, African wild dog species, and spotted hyena species.
During the Great Migration, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrate northward into the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and then back into the Serengeti plains. As animals move in masse, predators pick off their kills, while the treacherous crossings of the mighty Mara River are the scene of dramatic fights and survival as animals confront strong currents and crocodiles.

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African Safari Wildlife

African Safari Climate

The Serengeti National Park climate is very pleasant and moderate, despite images that portray Africa as being mostly hot. The temperature rarely gets too hot, and it drops during the night and early in the morning. Seasonal variations affect maximum and minimum temperatures, with the wet season being the warmest. In the sunny months of the year, temperatures rarely rise above 37 °C on a hot afternoon; on a rainy or cold morning, they rarely dip below 13 °C.
From about 15°C near the crater highlands to about 30°C near Lake Victoria, the average daily maximum temperature varies with elevation. Serengeti National Park is a “cool island” within a much warmer climate, owing to its altitude.

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Throughout the year, the Serengeti offers the best bird watching, but during November through April, the activity Serengeti National Park is best. Serengeti National Park is not only the time when European and African migratory birds congregate but also when resident species begin to nest. As a result, it is easy to identify birds in their breeding plumage. When it comes to wildlife sightings, the dry season is best, which lasts from June to October.

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African Safari Birding

Local People

Many indigenous tribes live within the Serengeti National Park-Mara ecosystem. Within Kenya, the Kuria people live along the northern border of the Serengeti National Park of Tanzania down to Mugumu. South of Lake Victoria, the Ikoma replace the Kuria, who lived along the Western Corridor boundary. The Ikoma people, who live along the western border of Serengeti National Park, turn southwards to give way to the Sukuma people, a vast group living south along Ndabaka Road. Their livelihoods consist of smallholdings and livestock. The Maasai are the most famous of all local groups.

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African Safari Attractions & Activities

Game drives

Due to the size of the Serengeti, it’s challenging to cover the entire park within a few days. Consider what you would like to see before going for a game drive.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

Balloon safaris offer an alternative way to see the Serengeti’s splendor. From the sky, you can see the Serengeti in all its glory.

The Great Migration

One of nature’s most spectacular events is the Great Migration. Wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara river in search of food and greener pastures. This Migration is something that attracts many people to the Serengeti.

Serengeti Visitors Center

At Serengeti national park, visitors can enjoy many activities, including the visitors center Even though it may not compare to other items on this list, it can be entertaining for those eager to learn and discover. This center is located in Seronera and provides information on the Serengeti, its ecosystem, and wildlife.

Grumeti River

One of the most exciting moments of the Serengeti migration occurs along the Grumeti River. Avid nature lovers should not miss this place. During the Migration, wildebeest cross crocodile-infested rivers, and “survival of the fittest” prevails. There is no place to go if you are weak-hearted. Nonetheless, there are also quiet moments when animals lounge along the river’s edge for a drink.

Retina Hippo Pool

At the retina hippo pool in the Serengeti National Park, you can observe hippos. Tanzania is known for its abundance of hippos. Although there are hippos in other regions of the Serengeti, none can match the Retina Hippo pool. The hippos gather there for feeding, bathing in warm water, and fighting over territories. There are also crocodiles there!

African Safari Tanzania Deals

Examples of Itineraries

Please take a look at our sample African Safari below for inspiration. Every Safari you take can be tailored to meet your individual needs. You can choose any number of days. You can choose any departure date. Feel free to choose any experience.

Ruaha Safari Tours, Tanzania

Ruaha Safari Tours will reveal that this park was recently expanded by bringing together the…

4 Days

$2600/person

SHOW DEAL

Selous Game Reserve safaris, Tanzania

The Selous Game Reserve safaris tour will take you to one of our favorite wildlife viewing areas in Tanzania…

4 Days

$2600/person

SHOW DEAL

Migration safaris in Africa, Tanzania

Migration safaris in Africa allow you to view the largest migration in the Serengeti National Park because…

9 Days

$3000/person

SHOW DEAL

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Some Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates for Tanzania in 2021

You will be accepted if your Covid-19 PCR test is negative 72 hours before arrival, and you must complete and submit a Travelers Surveillance Form 24 hours prior to your arrival. At the airport, travelers will fill out a health form and will be screened for Covid-19 with a possible rapid test for $25 USD.

Safari in Tanzania - how many days is enough?

A Tanzania safari should last at least a week. It can take time to travel around wilderness areas that are larger than New Jersey. The wilderness offers a variety and abundance that can’t be found anywhere else. Tanzania can be explored in ten days if you follow the travel itinerary carefully.

Do I have a chance of seeing my favorite animal?

Although wildlife encounters are never guaranteed, Tanzania is famous for the amazing wildlife sightings it offers. The great wildebeest migration takes place in Tanzania every year, with almost two million animals marching around the Serengeti. As is the case with most Tanzanian parks, the Serengeti is full of big cats. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are in abundance, unlike anywhere else. You may see live hunting scenes because predators have so much prey available to them.

How Does a Day on Safari Look Like?

The daily experience varies depending on the park. During a game drive in the Serengeti or Ruaha, you’ll explore the park for the entire day with a packed lunch. Smaller parks have an itinerary similar to other safari regions, with different morning and afternoon activities. After lunch and rest at the camp, following are three activities in the afternoon: swimming, walking, and birdwatching.

Can I travel to Tanzania safely?

The country of Tanzania is one of the safest in Africa. The country has a stable government and no military involvement. As there is poverty and petty theft in towns and cities, you will need to take precautions regularly. A guide will always accompany you, and you will rarely be in an urban setting for an extended period of time. Especially in remote areas such as safari camps and lodges, small theft is virtually unheard of. There are no fences separating people from wildlife, so it is essential to follow the regulations imposed by guides and staff. There are usually restrictions regarding walking off camp and getting out of a safari vehicle unless instructed otherwise.

Travel Insurance

Now that you’ve booked your dream vacation, make sure you’re protected with travel insurance. Your vacation can be ruined by a variety of factors. Travel insurance coverage protects you against unforeseen disasters such as medical emergencies, inclement weather, and cancellations.

Tanzania Health Information

You are required to produce a certificate proving you have been vaccinated against yellow fever. Further, all necessary vaccinations must be documented by your health practitioner on an official vaccination record. This document must be carried throughout the tour. A malaria prophylactic drug should be taken by every visitor. Additionally, you should bring mosquito repellent. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for information on current requirements, inoculations, and personal recommendations!
Normally, you need the following vaccinations (but you should always consult your doctor):
-Yellow Fever (you must have this can even be checked on arrival, especially when flying within East Africa)
-DTP
-Hepatitis
-For Malaria you need to take tablets, Malarone or Lariam. Malarone is mostly used (please always consult a doctor).
-Because hygiene is not as high as in your home country, we recommend bringing disinfectant cream with you. Instead of drinking tap water, always drink bottled water.

Upon arrival

Our guide will be waiting for you at the airport when you arrive. In safari, we use specially made safari vehicles, allowing us to see the wildlife better. Safari vehicles (and small aircrafts) have limited luggage space. As a result, it is recommended to travel with light bags since bulky bags will overload and may be difficult to transport.

Tanzania Visa

If you need a visa, you can purchase one through the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your home country in advance. Alternatively, visas can be obtained at the Kilimanjaro / Dar es Salaam International Airport or at any overland border. A single entry visa costs USD 50 per person. You are responsible for arranging your visa(s) correctly and on time. If anything is unclear, we will be happy to assist. Please note that this information is subject to change! Whenever in doubt, you should contact the Tanzanian embassy in your country.

Financial information

ATMs can be found in most large cities. Outside cities, it is extremely difficult to pay with a credit card or travelers’ checks because they are not widely accepted. The US dollar is traditionally the preferred hard currency. For your daily expenses and tips, we advise you to bring dollar bills. You should not use dollar bills older than 10 years.

Tanzania Currency Information

The Tanzanian Shilling is the currency. It is a good idea to check exchange rates before leaving for your destination. It is important to note that bigger cities will offer a better exchange rate.

AMREF Flying Doctors

Consider becoming a member of Flying Doctors. As a member, you have access to an air ambulance and medical care if needed. AMREF Flying Doctors offers two types of coverage (Annual and Tourist). You can choose between the Maisha Silver (Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar), Maisha Gold (Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi) or Maisha Platinum (Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and Ethiopia). Please check out the AMREF Flying Doctors website for more information and to become a member.

Language in Tanzania

Kiswahili is the national language of Tanzania, but English is widely spoken and is the main language used by tourists.

Tanzania Climate

Tanzania is a tropical country with high temperatures along the coast and at lower altitudes (especially in the south). In general, the Northern part is higher altitude (with the exception of Lake Natron and Tarangire). There is generally cooler air around the Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and Arusha.

When to visit Tanzania ?

Tanzania can be visited any time of year, though some places may be more difficult to visit during the rainy season. With the average day temperature of 30 degrees centigrade, the climate is tropical. The coast is hot and humid. In the central plateau, hot days are followed by cool nights. Around Arusha and Ngorongoro, the climate is temperate and cooler (especially) between June and September. It rains between March and May as well as between November and half-December. A rainy season means that it rains more frequently, but not every day and not all the time.

What to wear Tanzania ?

Temperatures are generally warm to hot during the day, so bring light clothing. The evenings can be chilly at higher altitudes, so carry a light sweater as well. Mountain hikers will be exposed to cold temperatures and should pack accordingly. Make sure you bring a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof jacket. Black and dark blue clothes (because they attract tsetse flies) should be avoided during safaris. If you are planning to walk in the forest, please wear a sturdy walking shoe, and if you intend to visit a community or local people, please wear appropriate clothing. An example would be a woman wearing a long skirt and a top that covers her shoulders.

What to bring ?

It is mandatory to travel with a valid passport (valid for at least 3 months after re-entry) and to check the visa requirements for all countries you are planning on visiting before you depart. When visiting game reserves and national parks, we recommend carrying binoculars and field guides. For wildlife photography, a zoom lens is necessary (70-300 or more). Ensure you have enough memory cards on hand. The city can provide you with toiletries and other necessities, and a torch (flashlight) can prove to be very useful.

Electricity in Tanzania

You should bring an international adapter with you for your electric equipment. Tanzania uses the British system. Most lodges allow you to charge your batteries.

Driving in Tanzania

Tanzanians drive on the left-hand side of the road. Traveling with a knowledgeable 4×4 driver/guide is advised for people with no prior experience of African roads, rather than self driving. All our guides are trained in “Defensive Driving”.

Stopover Points

It is important to keep in mind that washrooms along the road may not meet European standards, for example, squatting toilets, no flushing toilets, or no toilet paper. T.I.A. This Is Africa, as the locals say.

Facilities and accommodations

When traveling on a medium to low budget, bathroom facilities and accommodations may be more basic. It is important to note that the water reserves in eco lodges are limited and most rooms do not have power sockets; however, you can always charge your devices at the reception.

Tipping

The tip will always be appreciated. In hotels and restaurants, it is customary to tip 5-10%. The tips of guides, drivers, and carriers are always appreciated. Based on group size, number of days, and your satisfaction, carriers may charge USD 1-3 per day, and drivers/guides may charge USD 5-15 per day.

Further information about Tanzania

The most comprehensive guidebooks for Tanzania are Lonely Planet and Bradt Travel Guide. The best guidebooks for wildlife are the Lonely Planet’s ‘Watching Wildlife East Africa’ and the Bradt’s ‘East African Wildlife’. The best birding guidebook is ‘birds of East Africa’. It is advisable to get the most recent version.

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Serengeti National Park