Northern Serengeti, Tanzania - Image 1
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Northern Serengeti

4.8
·7k reviews·Thorn Tree Tented Camp, Tanzania

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June - October

Great Migration river crossings

CrowdHigh
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Northern Serengeti, Tanzania - Image 1

Northern Serengeti

Best Time

June - October

Great Migration river crossings

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(7k reviews)

"The Serengeti was way beyond our expectations and the animals were spectacular. Photos & videos do not do it justice."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Migration

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

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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Serengeti Safari

The Northern Serengeti is prime for the Great Migration from June to October, especially river crossings. Book accommodations and safari tours well in advance, as this is peak season. Consider shoulder months for potentially fewer crowds and better rates.

Packing for the Bush

Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors. Essential items include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera with extra batteries and memory cards. A mask is recommended for dusty dry seasons.

Best Times

When
June - October
Why
Great Migration river crossings
Crowd
High
When
July - September
Why
Prime wildlife viewing
Crowd
High
When
November - May
Why
Fewer crowds, greener landscapes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Safari on the Serengeti, checking in to my tent dude told me to stay in the short grass and not leave my room at night. I may hear lions roaring outside and in the morning elephants grazing outside my tent. WTF?
@jamarbates7
513.1K likes • 5.9M views

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:

Ive never been more scared in my life hahaha 🤣🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲 #safari #serengeti #lions #buffalo #glamping #gamedrive #africa #travellife #travelbucketlist #tanzania #kenya
@meglizabetjewellery
438.9K likes • 3.6M views
Amazing in Northern serengeti ❤️🐾❤️🐾❤️ #amazing #cute #lion #simba #kingofjungle #malelion #wild #wildlifephotography #video #malemale #lionlove #animal #wildlife #savelions #big5 #cat #marek_lion_tiger_love #bigcat #serengeti #lovenature #nature #lions #lionking #lioncubs #liontattoo #lionnation #bigcats 🎥Video👉@robertpeter186 credit or deletion thank you
marek_lion_tiger_love
284.7K likes • 8.8M views

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:

Wonderful sighting in Northern serengeti
robertpeter186
104.9K likes • 5M views

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

4.8
(7k reviews)

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

Spectacular wildlife sightings
Unforgettable animal encounters
Dream-come-true safari experience

What People Dislike

Dusty conditions
Guides too close to animals

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🦁 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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

Options range from luxury tented camps that offer an immersive bush experience to more permanent lodges. Many provide incredible proximity to wildlife. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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! Instagram+1

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. Instagram

The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful, soft illumination and long shadows. Instagram

Yes, many tented camps offer incredible views. You might even have animals grazing nearby! Just be mindful of safety and your guide's advice. TikTok+1

Generally, drones are NOT permitted in Tanzanian National Parks, including the Serengeti, due to wildlife disturbance and privacy concerns. Always check current regulations. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Northern Serengeti offers an unforgettable adventure for families. The thrill of seeing animals up close is captivating for children of all ages. Many safari lodges and camps are family-friendly, offering spacious accommodations and kid-approved meals. TikTok

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. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Northern Serengeti is a paradise. The abundant wildlife and dramatic landscapes provide endless opportunities. Focus on capturing the Great Migration river crossings for truly iconic shots, but don't overlook the incredible predator action. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

💍 Couples & Honeymooners

The Northern Serengeti offers a romantic and adventurous escape. Imagine private dinners under the stars, luxurious tented accommodations, and breathtaking wildlife encounters. It's the perfect setting for an unforgettable honeymoon or romantic getaway. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Great Migration: A Natural Wonder

The Great Migration is the largest overland animal migration on Earth, involving over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. In the Northern Serengeti, the focus shifts to the dramatic Mara River crossings, typically occurring between June and October. Witnessing thousands of animals bravely swim across the crocodile-infested waters is a truly breathtaking and primal experience. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

Luxury Tented Camp Experience

Staying in a luxury tented camp in the Northern Serengeti offers an unparalleled blend of comfort and immersion in the wild. These camps provide spacious, well-appointed tents with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and often private verandas. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the bush and enjoying your morning coffee while watching wildlife graze nearby. TikTok+1

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! TikTok+1

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. Instagram

Predator Encounters: The Thrill of the Hunt

The Northern Serengeti is a prime location for observing Africa's most iconic predators. Lions are abundant, and you might witness them hunting, resting in prides, or even engaging in territorial disputes. Keep an eye out for the elusive leopard, often found resting in trees or stalking through the undergrowth. Instagram+2

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. Instagram 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. Instagram

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. Instagram