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Destination

Serengeti

Northern Circuit

Jun – OctBest For Migration
Northern CircuitRegion
2–4Recommended Nights
Ngorongoro, ArushaNearest Hub
Overview

Serengeti

The Serengeti is what most people picture when they imagine Africa — endless grassland, scattered acacia, and some of the highest wildlife densities anywhere on the continent.

At a Glance

FeatureDetails
LocationNorthern Tanzania (bordering Kenya's Maasai Mara)
Park Size14,750 km² (5,700 sq mi)
Name OriginDerived from the Maasai word Siringet ("Endless Plains")
UNESCO StatusWorld Heritage Site since 1981
Key WildlifeBig Five, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles
Main AccessRoad drive from Arusha (7–8 hrs) or fly-in via Seronera, Kogatende, or Ndutu airstrips

Exploring the Regions of the Serengeti

Understanding the park's distinct sectors is essential for building an accurate itinerary — each offers a unique landscape and seasonal highlight.

Central Serengeti (Seronera)

The year-round wildlife heartland. High concentrations of big cats — especially leopards along the Seronera River and lion prides lounging on rocky granite kopjes. Excellent for first-time visitors due to consistent resident game all 12 months.

Southern Serengeti & Ndutu

Open short-grass plains stretching toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Calving season (January to March) sees over 500,000 wildebeest calves born here within a 2–3 week period, driving intense predator interaction.

Western Corridor (Grumeti River)

Riverine forests and valley savannas stretching west toward Lake Victoria. The herds pass through from May to July, braving dramatic river crossings inhabited by giant Nile crocodiles.

Northern Serengeti (Kogatende & Mara River)

Rolling hills, riverine forests, and remote wilderness. Famous for the Mara River crossings (July to October) — thousands of wildebeest plunging off steep banks into torrents of water, the ultimate safari spectacle.

Where to Stay

Mobile tented camps relocate 2–3 times a year to stay directly ahead of the migrating herds. Permanent luxury tented lodges offer plunge pools and fine dining in high-density resident game zones. Public and special campsites suit adventurous, budget-conscious travelers.

Planning a Serengeti Safari

Dry Season (June to October) — best overall wildlife viewing around remaining water sources and peak Mara River crossings.

Calving Season (January to March) — best for birdwatching, lush green landscapes, lower rates, and newborn wildlife.

Green Season (April to May) — the quietest period with dramatic skies and budget-friendly rates, though some dirt tracks become muddy.

Thinking about Serengeti?

Tell us your travel dates and what you're hoping to see, and we'll recommend the right route into it.

+255 784 310 982 info@nanyoritours.com P.O. Box 1173, Arusha, Tanzania