Serengeti National Park

Tanzania Safaris Destination

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti: One of Tanzania’s oldest national parks

When you think of a classic safari, you probably think of the Serengeti National Park. You are right to do so, as it is one of the most spectacular national parks on the planet.

The Serengeti National Park is located in northwest Tanzania. The park and bordering reserves allow for one of the last remaining wildlife migrations on the planet. This wildlife spectacle, the park’s vast numbers of wildlife and its diverse yet beautiful landscapes are a few of the reasons why the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.

The Serengeti National Park offers exceptional wildlife viewing all year round, where it is possible to witness the great wildebeest migration and see the Big Five.

The Four Areas of the Serengeti National Park

A glimpse of what to expect.

Central Serengeti

The Seronera Valley is the heart of the park and home to large numbers of wildlife. Spot lions and cheetahs snoozing on the plains in the shade of acacia trees. The Seronera River is lined with Palm, Sausage and Yellow Fever trees. The river attracts numerous birds and animals, including a high population of leopards. At the Retima Hippo Pool, you can see vegetarian giants in their natural habitat.

Southern Serengeti

On the southern plains, you will be amazed by the never-ending grasslands and the huge granite formations called kopjes, home to the whole food chain. Kopjes offer the perfect shady resting places, look-outs and nurseries for lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas to name but a few. Other interesting species to look out for, include the rock hyraxes and colourful Agama lizards. All of the kopjes are named. The most commonly known are Simba, Gol, Research and Moru. From January to February the wildebeest calving occurs around Lake Ndutu. Large numbers of predators can be seen during this time.

Western Serengeti

The Western Serengeti stretches almost as far as Lake Victoria. The vegetation changes to wooded savannah and black cotton soils that are impassible in the rainy season. The Grumeti Game Reserve and the Ikorongo Game Reserve border the park and within it run two large rivers: The Grumeti and the Mbalageti River, which both flow into Lake Victoria. The Grumeti River is famous for its river-crossings, huge crocodiles and the rare Patas Monkeys. From mid-May the wildebeest arrive in this area and the Grumeti river-crossing begins.

Northern Serengeti

Northern Serengeti is made up of open woodlands, riverine forests and ranges of hills. The majestic Mara River is located here and is famous for five-metre-long crocodiles and the iconic wildebeest river-crossing, which is at its most spectacular from mid-July. This area is a lot less frequented by visitors, making it a great place for an intimate safari experience.

Animals and birds of the Serengeti National Park

The park is home to the Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino. However, the Black Rhino can be difficult to spot. The Serengeti has a high population of lions, leopards and cheetahs. Buffalo and a growing number of elephants graze on the savannah.

~530 bird species including Secretary Birds, Egyptian Geese, Black Headed Herons, Grey Crowned Cranes, Kori Bustards and Tanzania’s largest populations of Ostrich can be found in the Serengeti National Park.

The Great Wildebeest Migration

To see ~1.5 million wildebeest in one place is breathtaking. A large number of herbivores attract numerous predators. The drama played out through the plains, and particularly the river-crossings is enthralling.

The wildebeest migration in a snapshot: Visit from June to October to experience the migration in the park. July is the best time to see the river-crossing at the Mara River. But be aware that it will get very busy in the park as well as at the crossing points. For a more intimate safari experience we recommend visiting during the low season or going to more remote areas of the park. The calving season takes place from January to February, whereas the wildebeest rut (mating season) occurs from May to June. Mid-May is the best time to see the river crossing at the Grumeti River. Discover more about our Migration Safaris.

When to go

Best time to go to the Serengeti National Park

You can visit the Serengeti National Park throughout the year. The period from June to October is the dry season, and it’s also when the wildebeest migration occurs. You’ll find it easier to spot wildlife during this time, and the weather is pleasant. However, it’s a popular time, so parts of the park can get busy. The short rains from November to December bring about a burst of green growth, followed by a brief dry spell in January and February. From March to May, long rains occur, and this is the ideal time if you prefer a lush green park with fewer visitors.

Dry Season

June to October Ideal for seeing the wildebeest migration and large numbers of animals. But it can be busy.

Green Season

March to May The best time to see a green park with fewer visitors.

Why book with us

Experienced Guides

With years of safari guiding across Tanzania, our team ensures every moment is rich with discovery, comfort, and local connection.

Experienced Guides

With years of safari guiding across Tanzania, our team ensures every moment is rich with discovery, comfort, and local connection.

Experienced Guides

With years of safari guiding across Tanzania, our team ensures every moment is rich with discovery, comfort, and local connection.

What Our Travelers Say

Nothing speaks louder than the voices of travelers who have explored Tanzania with us. Whether it’s a first-time safari or a return journey, our guests consistently highlight our expert guides, seamless organization, and the unforgettable moments we create together.

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Christian R 
 
 
 
 Verified Excellent experience, we happily recommend Jema Safaris.
Our Tanzania safari was a special trip, beautifully organized by Jema Safaris & Tours from start to finish, and we are delighted that we decided to go on a 3-day, 2-night group safari. Traveling with others turned out to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of the experience. We peacefully explored the famous Serengeti and the legendary Ngorongoro Crater. Our driver guide was very helpful and provided necessary information throughout the trip. As a short safari, our itinerary struck a wonderful balance between wildlife and adventure.
  
 
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   Davide B 
 
 
 
 Verified Great five days Safari in Tanzania
We just came back from an amazing 5-day safari in Tanzania, and it was the best trip ever. On our first day, we went to Tarangire National Park. It was so beautiful, with really big trees and lots of elephants right next to our jeep. For the second and third days, we visited the Serengeti. Having two full days there was great. The wide open spaces were beautiful, and we saw so many animals, including lions and leopards. On day four, we went to the Ngorongoro Crater. It felt like a completely different world, and there were so many animals living close together down there. Finally, on the fifth day, we finished our trip at Lake Manyara. It is a very green park with a big lake, lots of monkeys, and beautiful birds. It was a nice change from the other parks. The animals were great, but our guide, Allan, made the trip really special. He was fantastic! Allan knew so much and explained everything about the animals and nature to us in a simple way. He was always ready to help with anything we needed. The best part was that he was so friendly. During the long drives in the car or when we were just waiting, we could talk and joke with him easily. It felt like traveling with a good friend. If you want to go on a safari in Tanzania, this plan is perfect, and you should definitely ask for Allan to be your guide!
  
 
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   Elke 
 
 
 
 Verified Great experience in Tanzania with Tanzanians
My 12 year old daughter and me went on a 4-day safari with Jema Safaris & Tours. After our whole family had done already a safari in Tanzania with one of the big providers in 2023, we aimed for a truly local one this time. Jema Safaris & Tours turned to be a very good choice. Starting with an easy, but professional booking procedure, we felt comfortable and safe all the time. While aligning itineraries all our wishes were considered, response time was very quick and payment procedure was reliable and fair. The suggested accommodations were close to the parks we wanted to visit and thus helped to start game drives early in the morning without long transfers. Especially Osupuko Tarangire Lodge was amazing, with nice views from the dining area and swimming pool. On safari we focused on Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, which is a true paradise on earth. We had incredible wildlife encounters and even got to see 4 rhinos very close. Our guide, Allan K. contributed a lot to this unforgettable experience. He turned out to be a very knowledgeable, thus funny guide, excellent driver and most of all took great care of us and made us feel welcome and safe. Apart from all the information about wildlife and nature he shared insights about life and people in Tanzania, which we appreciated a lot. We can definitely recommend Jema Safaris & Tours. They provide very good service and are a truly local company run by experienced, dedicated and reliable people.
  
 
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   steve 
 
 
 
 Verified Great Day
Today was a great day!! The guide picked me up at the hotel and we started our journey through the towns. Eddie provided lots of great information along the way. Once we got to the village we were joined by a local guide who knew everyone and lead us to the waterfall. The views along the way were amazing. What really made the trip was the time we spent talking and even after many hours the guide wanted to show the city of Arusha with bustling farmer district and shops. It true the guide can make it a good trip or a great one. Thank you for the memories!!
  
 
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   Mirian G 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing safari!
We were so lucky to have Dickson as our Spanish-speaking guide! He spoke the language very well, and was incredibly attentive, friendly, respectful, and responsible. He went above and beyond on the safari to make sure we had a fantastic time! He was very considerate of our personal wish to see big cats. He's also an excellent driver. We would choose him again without hesitation!
  
 
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   lauram06082026 
 
 
 
 Verified A Life Changing Safari with Jema
Jema Safaris provided us with an experience that went beyond our wildest expectations. We decided to book our safari ourselves and Jema worked with us from afar to customize our trip with attention to our budget and our interests. Our guide, Hassan, has proved invaluable: he is steady, thoughtful, good humored, well informed, and an excellent driver. It is a pleasure to spend a week with him. He has taught us so much both about nature and culture in Tanzania. We will certainly travel with Jema when we come back! Jema was fantastic from start to finish.
  
 
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   Harry M 
 
 
 
 Verified Coffee, culture, and the falls, the combination of all of this was truly a special experience for us.
Our visit to Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour in Tanzania was one of the most beautiful experiences The one that will be remembered for a lifetime. We began with a scenic walk through lush coffee farms and tiny villages, where everyone greeted us with smiles. Eddy was a perfect and professional as our tour companion. we joined the locals for a traditional coffee-making session, such a joyful and real experience. The aroma of the coffee was heavenly, and tasting our own cup felt so rewarding. Appreciate Jema Safaris and Tours for their hospitable service and to give the gift of an exciting, romantic trip.
  
 
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   Maraus 
 
 
 
 Verified The journey was truly special for us ❤️
We definitely respect Jema Safaris and Tours for their commitment. They have provided good service out of their sense of responsibility. Our day trip at Ngorongoro Crater was amazed by the sheer density of wildlife. Zebras grazed alongside wildebeests, buffalo roamed freely. Everything felt untouched, pristine, and perfectly balanced. George was a fantastic guide. He always laughed with us and explained to us about the animals. We kept thinking about how rare it is to see such harmony in the natural world. The Ngorongoro Crater a reminder of the rawness and beauty of nature.
  
 
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   Jhon Max 
 
 
 
 Verified Our day trip at Zanzibar & we felt pure paradise.
With Jema Safaris was the best journeys in our life. Zanzibar is a perfect blend of culture, nature, and pure beauty. We explored Stone Town's winding alleys, discovering hidden cafe and colorful markets. The local food was delicious 😋. And we tasted some traditional dishes. The beaches wast awesome, white sand, turquoise water, and gentle waves. Walking along Nungwi at sunset felt like a dream. It was a cultural journey that leaves we inspired.
  
 
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   Mcknig 
 
 
 
 Verified We enjoyed the wildlife and natural beauty of Tanzania.
Our family's trip to Tanzania was very peaceful. We connected with Said Hasan at Jema Safaris and Tours and after discussing the safari with him, we finalized the decision for 5 days. We 5 days exploring Tarangire, Serengeti, Lake Mayrana and the Ngorongoro Crater, and every day felt like a new adventure. Our guide ( Eddy and Kareem ) were very helpful and much explained about wildlife and culture. Tarangire was full of elephants and those amazing baobab trees that looked straight out of a movie. In the Serengeti, The most incredible moment was watching hundreds of zebras crossing the Mara River, absolutely breathtaking. We also explored the peaceful lake mayrana. And lastly explored Ngorongoro Crater we felt completely another hidden world. Jema Safaris team made this journey one of the best experiences of our lives.

Tanzania Safaris Destination