Overview
The Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania covers about 14,750 sq km of plains, woodland and rocky outcrops called kopjes. It is best known for the Great Migration, when more than a million wildebeest, along with zebra and gazelle, move in a loop across the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, following the rains.
Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants and many bird species live here year-round, and game drives are the main activity, with options for hot-air balloon flights and walking safaris in some areas. Different parts of the park are best at different times of year, so a good operator will plan according to where the herds are.
Highlights
- The Great Migration, including river crossings in the north
- Lions and cheetahs on the central plains
- Hot-air balloon flights over the savanna
- Kopjes and acacia scenery
Best time to visit
June to October is the dry season and the best time for game viewing, with river crossings usually in July to September in the north. December to March is the calving season in the south, with large herds and predators. April and May are the wet months, with fewer visitors.
- JanJanuary: Good
- FebFebruary: Good
- MarMarch: Good
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Good
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Arusha, then take a small plane to an airstrip in the Serengeti, or drive about 8 to 9 hours from Arusha. Most travellers book a safari with a licensed operator, who arranges the vehicle, guide and park fees. Check park fees and rules in advance.
What to expect
Easy. Game drives are in vehicles, but days can be long and hot. Roads are rough, and facilities range from basic camps to luxury lodges. Book early for the migration season.
Practical tips
- Book lodging and your safari well in advance for July to September.
- Ask your operator where the herds are before choosing a region and dates.
- Take sun protection, a hat, binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens.
- Follow park rules and keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Great Migration?
It moves through the year. River crossings are usually between July and September in the north, and calving is in the south from January to March.
Can I see the Big Five?
Yes, with luck. Rhinos are the hardest to see in the Serengeti.
How many days do I need?
At least three or four days to see a good range of the park.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
