What are the activities in Serengeti National Park?
What are the activities in Serengeti National Park? The park is located in the North Eastern part of the country and covers an area of about 30,000 square kilometers, to the north of the park is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, to the west are two Game Reserves (Ikorongo and Grumeti) and to the Southwest is the Maswa Game Reserve. Serengeti means “Endless plains” among the Maasai. Serengeti National Park was established in 1952 and at that point included the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The Serengeti is now both a World Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site. The Serengeti is world famous and with good reason. Not only is the migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and other plains game through its plains and woodlands the most spectacular wildlife event on earth, but it abounds with other wildlife superlatives. The Serengeti is home to the world’s largest populations of wildebeest, zebra, Cape eland, lion, cheetah, hyena, gazelle (both Thompson’s and Grant’s), and no doubt much more. And on top of this it is scenically beautiful and has a wonderful sunny climate of cool nights and warm days.
Here are some of the exciting and unique the activities in Serengeti National Park
Day game drive
A day game drive in Serengeti National Park is an exciting way to see wildlife in their natural habitat. You’ll travel in an open safari vehicle, allowing for great visibility as you spot animals wildebeest, zebra, lion, gazelle, giraffe, spotted hyena, leopard, elephant, serval, agama lizard, rock hyrax, secretary bird, rhinoceros, buffalo. The experience is more than just watching animals; it’s about appreciating the stunning landscapes and learning from experienced guides who share insights about the ecosystem. Each drive can last several hours, offering chances for incredible photography, and you might even witness predator-prey interactions. Remember to bring binoculars and a camera, as you won’t want to miss capturing these unforgettable moments.
Witnessing the Wildebeest Migration
Witnessing the Wildebeest Migration is a bucket-list experience when visiting Serengeti National Park. Each year, millions of wildebeest and zebras follow the rain to find fresh grass and water, creating a spectacular movement across the plains. From July to September, you can see them crossing the Mara River, a dramatic sight with crocodiles lurking in the waters. The wildebeest migration attracts tourists to the Serengeti because it offers countless opportunities to witness the great battles between prey and predator. Travelers can also spend the whole day watching the wildebeest graze or give birth (calving). Experienced guides will help you find the best spots to watch this incredible event, making it an unforgettable highlight of your safari adventure.
Walking safaris
Walking safaris in Serengeti National Park offer a unique way to experience the wilderness up close. these safaris are unpredictable and you don’t follow specific tracks. This allows you to spot reptiles, birds, insects and other rare plants along the way. Most nature walks are organized by some of the accommodation facilities. You will be escorted by an armed ranger who is experienced in the terrain and knows about the different species in the park. This immersive adventure combines education with a deep appreciation of the Serengeti’s unique ecosystem.
Night game drive
A night game drive in Serengeti National Park allows you to witness the park’s wildlife under the cover of darkness. With a guide and spotlight, you’ll search for nocturnal animals like leopards, hyenas, civets, aardvarks, nightjars, bush babies and owls that are rarely seen during the day. Night game drives also offer travelers a chance to observe zebras, hyenas, impala, giraffes, jackals and foxes. The night brings a different atmosphere, filled with the sounds of wildlife and the cool night air. This unique experience can uncover behaviors that are hidden during daylight, giving you a different perspective on the animals’ lives. The thrill of finding these creatures in the dark adds a memorable twist to your safari adventure.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
A hot air balloon safari provides a breathtaking perspective of Serengeti National Park. As you float silently above the landscape at dawn, you’ll witness the stunning colors of the sunrise and get a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife below. Hot air balloon safaris are particularly popular during the wildebeest migration allowing travelers to observe them in the thousands. Hot air balloon safaris start in the morning and ends with champagne breakfast in the African wilderness. Hot air balloons can take between 12 to 16 people. After landing, a delightful breakfast awaits you in the bush, complete with sparkling wine to celebrate your adventure. This combination of serene flight and wildlife observation makes for an unforgettable way to appreciate the beauty of the Serengeti.
Visit the Lobo Valley
Visiting the Lobo Valley in Serengeti National Park is a must for those wanting to experience untouched scenery and wildlife. This area is less crowded, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature. Here, you can observe a variety of animals, including lions, baboons, elephants and giraffes well as the stunning landscapes characterized by rolling hills and acacia trees. Between July and November, the valley is the center of the great migration. Tourists flock the valley to observe zebras, wildebeest and gazelles enjoying the lush green grass in the area. The Lobo Valley is also known for its beautiful rocky outcrops, providing perfect spots for photography. A visit here allows you to enjoy the serenity of the wilderness away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded areas.
Camping
Camping in Serengeti National Park offers a unique and thrilling way to immerse yourself in nature. Staying at a campsite allows you to listen to the sounds of the wilderness at night, with the distant roars of lions and the calls of various birds. Many campsites are located in prime wildlife areas, making it easy to spot animals right from your tent. The experience of cooking and eating meals under the stars adds to the adventure. Guided night walks may be available, providing a new perspective on the park’s ecosystem. This adventure creates lasting memories in the heart of the Serengeti.
Meals in the Bush
If you are traveling with a partner or are planning to spend your honeymoon in the Serengeti, you will find having dinner in the middle of the African wilderness something to remember. Most of the good hotels can arrange dinner under the stars with well-set tables.
Visit the Maasai
Visiting the Maasai community near Serengeti National Park offers a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of this iconic African tribe. You can engage with local Maasai people, learn about their customs, and see their traditional villages. Often, they’ll share their ways of life, such as herding cattle and creating crafts. You might even get a chance to participate in traditional dances or listen to stories about their rich history. After visiting the individual homesteads, you can also visit one of the local schools, attend traditional dance performances and buy handicrafts. This cultural experience enhances your safari adventure by connecting you to the people who have lived in harmony with wildlife for generations.
Birding tours
A birding tour in Serengeti National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 500 species to discover. 100 of them are permanent residents of the park while 11 are endemic to the Serengeti. There are also migratory birds that visit the park between November and April. They come all the way from Europe and North Africa. Some of the bird species you may spot here while on a birding tour includes African Ostrich, vultures, Black-headed Heron, D’Arnaud’s barbet, Dark Chanting Goshawk, Decken-Toko Tockus, Grey-breasted spurfowl, Grey-headed sparrow, Purple Grenadier, Red-backed scrub, Rufous-tailed weaver, Secretary birds, The Kori bustard, Variable Sunbird, White-bellied go-away bird, White-crowned shrike and Yellow-throated sandgrouse among others.
What is the best time for Safari Trip to Serengeti National Park?
The ideal time for a Tanzania safari trip to Serengeti National Park is during the dry season period that is between the months of July to early October each year. this is when the wildebeests and Zebras migrate to the North plains the southern part of Masai Mara National Park to search for fresh vegetation and water and late October the rains will resume in Tanzania and the herds will start their journey back to southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro crater grassland plain areas.
Where to stay on Safari in Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park offers diverse accommodation options to cater to very visitor’s budget, this accommodation ranges from campsites to luxury lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst stunning natural landscape. You will choose what to stay in depending on your interests and budget. Lodge options in Serengeti National Park include Mwiba River Lodge, Mwiba Wildlife Reserve, Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge, Singita Sasakwa Lodge and Zawadi Serengeti Safari Lodge.
