Northern Serengeti
Witness the epic Great Migration and abundant predators in the vast Northern Serengeti, a quintessential African safari destination.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Great Migration river crossings
Northern Serengeti
Best Time
Great Migration river crossings

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the epic Great Migration and abundant predators in the vast Northern Serengeti, a quintessential African safari destination.
"The Serengeti was way beyond our expectations and the animals were spectacular. Photos & videos do not do it justice."
Book in Advance!
Safari tours and accommodations, especially for the migration, fill up fast. Book months ahead! :ticket:
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from animals. Never feed them or provoke them. Your behavior shapes their future. :deer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Migration
Mara River
Witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras thundering across the plains and braving river crossings. A truly epic wildlife spectacle.

Predator Encounters
Northern Serengeti plains
Spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for dramatic hunts and family interactions.

Luxury Tented Camps
Various locations
Experience the magic of sleeping under the stars with wildlife sounds just outside your tent. A unique blend of comfort and wilderness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Serengeti Safari
Packing for the Bush
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book in Advance!
Safari tours and accommodations, especially for the migration, fill up fast. Book months ahead! :ticket:
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from animals. Never feed them or provoke them. Your behavior shapes their future. :deer:
Embrace the Dust
The dry season can be dusty. Bring a mask or bandana for comfort during game drives. :mask:
Camera Ready!
Bring extra batteries and memory cards. You'll want to capture every incredible moment. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book in Advance!
Safari tours and accommodations, especially for the migration, fill up fast. Book months ahead! :ticket:
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from animals. Never feed them or provoke them. Your behavior shapes their future. :deer:
Embrace the Dust
The dry season can be dusty. Bring a mask or bandana for comfort during game drives. :mask:
Camera Ready!
Bring extra batteries and memory cards. You'll want to capture every incredible moment. :camerawithflash:
Listen to Your Guide
Guides are experts. Follow their advice for safety and the best wildlife sightings. :man_detective:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the Serengeti being a top-tier national park, often exceeding expectations with spectacular wildlife sightings, including the Big Five. The sheer scale and the unforgettable experience of seeing animals in their natural habitat are frequently highlighted as dream-come-true moments. However, some mention the dustiness during dry seasons and express concerns about guides getting too close to animals.
"Best National park in Tanzania. About 10 times the size of Masai Mara National Park. So much too see. Who’s I had more time here.was able to see the big fives here plus much more. Very dusty during the dry season. Bring a mask if you wish."
Harry Zheng
"Serengeti was way beyond our expectations and the animals were spectacular. I've added a few, including a 'cheetah on the roof' as it became known!! Photos & videos do not do it justice. Loved it that much we're planning to return!"
M Glendinning
"I wish that everyone could have a chance to visit the world famous Serengeti. You can’t put into words the experience that you will have when you come, the animals, the people, the landscapes it’s all incredible. We saw everything from the wildebeest migration, elephants, lions, and much more. It could not have been more magical. 1,000,000/10"
Kyle McCollum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most visitors fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From Arusha, you can take a small bush plane directly to a airstrip in the Northern Serengeti, or arrange a road transfer with your safari operator. Road transfers can be long but offer a chance to see more of the landscape.
Game drives in 4x4 safari vehicles are the standard and most effective way to explore. These vehicles are designed for off-road travel and offer excellent viewing opportunities. Your safari operator will provide this.
Yes, it's possible to drive from parks like Tarangire or Central Serengeti, but these are long journeys. Many itineraries include flights between locations to maximize game viewing time.
A flight from Arusha to the Northern Serengeti can take around 1-2 hours. A road transfer from Arusha can take 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.
The Northern Serengeti is accessed via various airstrips depending on your lodge location. For road access, you'll typically enter through one of the park gates, with the Mara River area being a key focus for migration viewing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Park entry fees are typically included in your safari package. For 2024, expect fees to be around $70-$80 USD per person per day, plus vehicle fees. Always confirm with your tour operator.
Absolutely! Especially for the Great Migration season (June-October), booking your safari tour and accommodation at least 6-12 months in advance is highly recommended.
There aren't 'tickets' in the traditional sense. You book a safari package. For peak season, book as early as possible. For off-peak, you might have more flexibility but still, advance booking is wise.
Park fees are generally daily. Your safari operator will handle these. There are no specific 'passes' for different areas within the park for tourists; entry is per day of visit.
Packages usually include park fees, accommodation (lodge or tented camp), meals, and game drives with a qualified guide and vehicle. Flights to and from the park may or may not be included.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
The Northern Serengeti is famous for the Great Migration (wildebeest, zebras). You'll also see lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, and a vast array of birdlife.
The wildebeest and zebra herds are typically in the Northern Serengeti, crossing the Mara River, from June to October. July and August are often considered prime months for river crossings.
Options range from luxury tented camps that offer an immersive bush experience to more permanent lodges. Many provide incredible proximity to wildlife.
Yes, when staying at reputable camps, your tent will be secure. However, you are in the wild. Guides will advise you on safety, like not leaving your tent at night and being aware of your surroundings.
Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, green, brown). Layers are good. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid bright colors that can startle animals.
📸 📸 Photography
A telephoto lens (300mm+) is essential for wildlife. A wide-angle lens is useful for landscapes. Bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll be shooting a lot!
You can photograph most animals, but avoid using flash directly at animals, especially at night, as it can disturb them. Always respect your guide's instructions regarding photography.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful, soft illumination and long shadows.
Yes, many tented camps offer incredible views. You might even have animals grazing nearby! Just be mindful of safety and your guide's advice.
Generally, drones are NOT permitted in Tanzanian National Parks, including the Serengeti, due to wildlife disturbance and privacy concerns. Always check current regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations include choosing a reputable safari operator that specializes in family tours. They can tailor itineraries to shorter game drives and include educational elements. Emphasize the importance of listening to guides for safety and respecting the animals. The sheer wonder of the wildlife will create lasting memories for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Essential gear includes a good telephoto lens (300mm+), extra batteries, and plenty of memory cards. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light. Always follow your guide's advice to get the best angles while respecting the animals.
💍 Couples & Honeymooners
Consider booking a luxury tented camp for an intimate and immersive experience. Many camps offer special packages for couples. The serenity of the bush combined with the thrill of safari creates a unique and magical atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Great Migration: A Natural Wonder
This epic journey is driven by the search for fresh grazing lands. The herds follow the rains, moving in a vast, circular pattern across the Serengeti ecosystem. While the Northern Serengeti is famous for its river crossings, the migration's location shifts throughout the year, making it a dynamic spectacle.
Pro Tip: While the migration is a major draw, remember that the Serengeti is teeming with wildlife year-round. Even outside of peak migration season, you can encounter lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and more.
Luxury Tented Camp Experience
Many travelers find this experience to be a highlight of their safari. It allows you to feel truly connected to nature without sacrificing comfort. Some camps are even situated in prime wildlife viewing areas, meaning you might see animals right outside your tent!
Key features often include gourmet dining, attentive service, and guided bush walks or night drives (where permitted). It's a chance to experience the romance of the African wilderness in a safe and luxurious setting.
Predator Encounters: The Thrill of the Hunt
Cheetahs, the fastest land animals, can also be spotted on the open plains, often seen scanning for prey from a vantage point. Witnessing a cheetah chase is a rare and exhilarating experience. Remember that these are wild animals, and sightings are never guaranteed, but the sheer density of predators in this region makes it a photographer's and wildlife enthusiast's dream.
Important Note: While thrilling, it's crucial to maintain a safe distance and never disturb the animals. Your guide will ensure you have the best viewing opportunities while respecting the wildlife's space and natural behavior.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit