Serengeti National Park Safari Tour Packages

About Serengeti National Park

Visit Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, a true natural wonder you won't find anywhere else in the world. This African savannah hosts the largest annual migration, with over 2 million wild animals, including blue wildebeest, zebras, elands, Thomson’s gazelles, and the Big Five, constantly moving across the 15,000 sq km acacia plains.

Serengeti means "endless plains" in the local Maasai language. A regular feature on Discovery Channel, Serengeti National Park boasts untouched African wilderness that never ceases. This park is a dream for any wildlife photographer and a haven for adventurers. 

Here, you can experience thrilling game drives up close with wildlife or take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the park from a hot air balloon safari. Connect with the locals living a nomadic life or relax in comfortable lodges nestled amid the wilds. 

Excited for the adventure? Book a safari in Serengeti National Park and witness one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Where is Serengeti National Park Located?

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania, East Africa. It’s right next to the Maasai Mara in Kenya, making it part of a vast, interconnected Seregneti-Mara ecosystem—the oldest ecosystem on Earth, with some species staying unchanged for over a million years. 

Tour Serengeti National Park and Maasai Mara to explore the best of Africa. And, witness the highest concentrations of large mammals and the planet's most remarkable wildlife all at once.

Currencies Accepted in Serengeti National Park

When traveling around the Serengeti National Park, the primary currency you'll need is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). 1 USD equals approximately 2,675 KES. We advise you to always check the current exchange rate before making your visit.

While you'll get the best deals with local shops and lodges using shillings, US dollars are also widely accepted throughout the park. ATMs might be scarce, so it's a good idea to carry some cash with you. Fortunately, all main entry gates in the Serengeti accept credit cards.

Top Attractions in Serengeti National Park 

The Great Migration

Every year, the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem hosts the fascinating spectacle of the Great Migration. In May, when drought hits the Serengeti, millions of wildebeest, gazelles, zebras, and more animals start moving from southern Serengeti National Park in Tanzania towards Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of greener pastures. During this time, you can also witness thousands of calves born within a couple of weeks.

As the rains begin after mid-October, the herd migrates back into the Serengeti. This complete cycle of the journey continues year after year, showcasing the circle of life in its purest form—something you won’t witness anywhere else on the planet.

A Glimpse into a Forgotten Culture

A trip to Serengeti National Park takes you into the world of several indigenous tribes still living amid the wilderness of Africa. While on safari, you can meet and greet the local Maasai people, who are often seen in their bright, traditional costumes. 

The Maasai represent a semi-nomadic tribe that has lived in Africa for about four million years. Although they are well-versed in the ways of the modern world, they choose to follow their traditional customs, preserving the rich culture of Tanzania that you’ll love to discover.

An Unmatched Wildlife Adventure

The Serengeti National Park tour isn't just famous for the iconic Great Migration; it's also a sanctuary that captivates every wildlife enthusiast. The park is home to about 1.5 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebras, over 3,000 hyenas, more than 500 cheetahs, and hosts over 500 bird species. 

Alongside these African icons are the Big Five: African elephant, Cape buffalo, African lion, leopard, and rhinoceros. Serengeti also boasts a lion population exceeding 3,000, the largest in Africa. 

Whether you visit during the migration or not, you're guaranteed rare sights like chuckling hyenas, hippos hopping in water, birds echoing their calls, and lions poised to pounce. It's a journey that's truly worth experiencing for every nature lover.

Here are some popular areas within Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, where you can witness incredible wildlife encounters:

• Seronera River Valley: Located in central Serengeti, this area is renowned for its abundant wildlife and offers great campsites and accommodations for visitors.

• Grumeti River: Close to the Western Corridor, the Grumeti River is famous for its dramatic scenes during the Great Migration, where crocodiles eagerly await their prey.

• Naabi Hill: Situated in the eastern part of Serengeti, Naabi Hill is covered with acacia trees and serves as a primary entrance to the park. It’s perfect for walking trails and observing wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Lobo Valley: Found in northern Serengeti, Lobo Valley boasts stunning landscapes and excellent opportunities to spot big cats like lions, cheetahs, and leopards.

• Moru Kopjes: Located in the central region, Moru Kopjes is known for its ancient rock paintings and is home to the Serengeti's only black rhino population.

• Retina Hippo Pool: A popular spot in central Serengeti where you can watch hippos interacting in their natural habitat, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

• Bologonja Springs: Nestled in the northeast corner of Serengeti, Bologonja Springs offers breathtaking views of lush vegetation and the refreshing waters of the Bologonja River, along with sightings of monkeys and other wildlife.

Adventure Activities to Do on a Serengeti National Park Tour

Game Drives

Discover the vast Serengeti plains and observe incredible wildlife up close, including the Big Five, from the comfort of a 4x4 drive vehicle. Don’t forget to go for a morning game drive to experience the African wilderness at its most vibrant, with animals and birds soaking in the early sunlight.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Aboard 12- or 16-passenger hot air balloons to soar high above the Central Serengeti at sunrise and enjoy the sweeping views of the landscape and wildlife below. Capture stunning photos from this unique vantage point that offers unparalleled perspectives of the park.

Camping 

Camping in Serengeti National Park adds an adventurous twist to your trip. This offers unmatched opportunities for wildlife viewing and a chance to reconnect with nature. Experience the tranquil beauty of Africa under the starlit sky, cherishing the time with fellow adventurers.

Guided Walking Safaris

Tie up your shoelaces for a trek across the golden savannah, where animals graze nearby and the earthy scent of nature fills the air. Join guided walking safaris led by experienced guides who reveal the secrets of the ecosystem, from plants to insects. Encounter wildlife up close, with an addition of a thrilling ground-level dimension to your safari adventure.

Bird Watching

Serengeti is a haven for bird lovers, boasting over 500 bird species. From the majestic red-necked Maasai ostrich to elegant crowned cranes, spotting these diverse birds amidst the park's scenic landscapes offers an exhilarating experience 9you won’t forget for a long time.

How to Get to Serengeti National Park

Despite its remote location, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is quite accessible. The journey begins with a flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha. From this airport, the park’s southern entrance is approximately 200 miles away. And, you can cover this distance either by air or by road.

By Air

You can opt for domestic flights from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), which will take you directly to one of Serengeti’s seven airstrips like Seronera, Grumeti, or Kogatende in 1 to 4 hours. From there, it’s a short hop to your lodge.

By Road

Alternatively, you can book a safari drive that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, with possible stops at popular Tanzanian attractions like Ngorongoro Crater. Starting from Arusha, the drive to Serengeti National Park takes approximately 7-8 hours.

If road safari isn’t your preference, you might consider the flexibility of self-driving by renting a sturdy 4x4 vehicle. However, this option is not recommended due to the rocky terrain. Guided safaris offer the best option for a safe and comfortable wildlife experience.

Serengeti National Park Entrance Gates

Serengeti National Park has three main entry and exit points. Depending on your accommodation, you can choose to enter through one of these gates. All three gates are open daily from 06:00 to 18:00, with the last entry allowed at 16:00.

• Naabi Hill Gate: The main entrance, easily accessible when arriving from Arusha or Ngorongoro.

• Ndabaka Gate: The western entrance, ideal if coming from Mwanza, known as the Rock City of Tanzania, is located on the southern shore of Lake Victoria.

• Klein’s Gate: The northern entrance, often used by those arriving from Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

Best Season to Visit Serengeti National Park of Tanzania

You can visit Serengeti National Park throughout the year. However, if witnessing the great migration is your main focus, plan your trip during the dry season from June to October. This is when millions of wildebeests start their journey from southern Serengeti to Maasai Mara. 

If you want to witness the thrilling spectacle of herds crossing the Mara River, plan your trip to Serengeti National Park in July for the best chance to experience this fascinating event.

If birdwatching is your passion, the best time to visit Serengeti is from November to January during the rainy season when migratory birds arrive. You can spot over 500 bird species adorning the golden savannah and skies.

Another unique phase in Serengeti is the calving season, occurring in January and February. During this time, thousands of newborn calves are born within a short period of 2-3 weeks—an incredible spectacle found nowhere else. Since this is outside the peak season, accommodation rates are lower and crowds are fewer.

Essential Tips for a Serengeti National Park Tour

Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, and a good camera with extra batteries and memory cards. Remember, Kenya bans the use of plastic bags, so avoid carrying them. Also, keep in mind that scheduled flights to the Serengeti have a luggage restriction of 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, so pack light.

Travel Documents: When entering Tanzania, ensure you have a valid passport with at least one blank visa page, and it should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. You also need to obtain a visa.

Book in Advance: If you want to witness the Great Migration, make sure to book your tour well in advance as this is a peak season and accommodations fill up quickly.

Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on game drives.

Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and heed your guide's instructions to ensure the safety of both you and the animals. It's best to observe nature without interference. In Serengeti, you may witness intense scenes of animals crossing rivers with crocodiles nearby or predators like lions hunting herbivores. Respect the natural order and avoid intervening.

Cost of Serengeti National Park Tour Packages

The cost to visit Serengeti National Park depends on several factors, including:

• tour duration

• your group size 

• time of the year

• accommodation type

On average, the best Serengeti National Park Tanzania Tours cost between $2000 and $2800 per person. 

AdventureTripr offers a variety of Serengeti National Park packages at affordable rates, which include accommodation, transfers, and expert guides.

Serengeti National Park Tour Accommodation

In Serengeti National Park, you’ll have a number of accommodation options available depending on the package you choose, catering to different budgets.

Luxury Lodges

If you’re looking for top-notch amenities while enjoying the natural surroundings, luxury lodges offer a perfect stay. The facilities include awesome dining, swimming pools, and spacious rooms.

• Examples: Four Seasons Safari Lodge, NAmiri Plains.

Mid-Range Lodges

A more budget-friendly option as compared to luxury lodges. Perfect for those looking for a hotel setting with essential amenities, but at a more affordable rate.

• Examples: Lobo Wildlife Lodge, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge.

Tented Camps

The most popular accommodation option on the Serengeti National Park tour. Perfect for backpackers and wildlife lovers, these offer a perfect blend of comfort and adventure, with tents that have en-suite bathrooms and proper beds.

• Examples: Singita Mara River Tented Camp, Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp

Mobile Camps

These camps move seasonally to follow the Great Migration, from southern Serengeti in December - March to northern Serengeti in July - October. Such accommodations offer the closest encounter with the migrating herds in the park.

• Examples: &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas, Lemala Mara & Ndutu Mobile Camps.

Budget Campsites

Serengeti has many designated public campsites offering the best camping facilities where you can pitch your own tent or stay in simple tents provided by the camp.

• Examples: Nyani Campsite, Pimbi Campsite.

Bush Camps

These add a unique thrill to your Serengeti National Park safari experience. Usually, located in remote areas, bush camps offer a more intimate experience with nature.

Examples: Dunia Camp, Serengeti Tanzania Bush Camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Question 1: How many days are ideal for a trip to Serengeti National Park?

Answer 1: We advise you to stay for at least 4-5 days to fully enjoy the Serengeti National Park. This allows enough time to explore different regions of the park and see a variety of wildlife.

Question 2: What should I pack for a safari in the Serengeti?

Answer 2: Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, anti-malarial medication, and a good camera with extra batteries and memory cards. Remember that Serengeti National Park packages often have a luggage restriction of 15 kg (33 lbs) per person on flights, so pack light. Also, avoid plastic bags as they're banned.

Question 3: Are there any safety concerns or travel advisories for visiting Serengeti National Park?

Answer 3: Serengeti National Park Tanzania tours are generally safe, but it's always wise to stay updated on travel advisories. Follow your guide's instructions, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and take necessary health precautions like malaria prophylaxis.

Question 4: Do US citizens require a visa to visit Serengeti National Park?

Answer 4: Yes, US citizens need a visa to visit Tanzania, where Serengeti National Park is located. You can apply for an e-visa online before your trip or get a visa on arrival at the airport. Make sure to check the latest visa requirements before you travel.

Question 5: Can I go on a night safari during a Serengeti National Park trip?

Answer 5: Night Safari is generally not permitted within Serengeti National Park Tanzania. However, if requested, some lodges can arrange a 2-3 hour night game drive on the outskirts of the park.