Quick Facts
About Serengeti National Park
Peak Time
June - October
Best Time To Go
Year-Round
Famous For
The Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras
Home Of
The Big Five and over 500 species of birds
Overview
The Serengeti is the most famous national park in Africa. It is known for its large number of wild animals and the Great Migration, where about two million wildebeest move across the plains in search of fresh grass and water.
The word “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai language and means “endless plains.” These wide grasslands provide excellent grazing areas and supports huge herds of animals and many predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
The Ultimate Safari Destination
The Serengeti is often called the “Mother of All Safari Parks.” Even without the Great Migration, it is considered one of the best wildlife parks in Africa.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing animals
- Big prides of lions
- Excellent leopard and cheetah sightings
- Beautiful open landscapes
- Famous river crossings during the migration
- High-quality safari camps
The Serengeti is surrounded by local communities such as the Maasai and Hadzabe people, making it an interesting place for cultural experiences as well as wildlife viewing.
The Great Migration
The Serengeti and nearby protected areas cover nearly 30,000 square kilometres. Every year, millions of wildebeest and zebras travel in a circular route across the ecosystem, following rain and fresh grazing land.
To see the migration, it is important to stay in the right area at the right time of year because the herds move continuously throughout the year.
Serengeti Migration Calendar
November – December
The short rainy season begins. The herds move to the short-grass plains in the southern Serengeti around Ndutu.
January – March
The animals remain in the south. February is the calving season, when most wildebeest calves are born. Around 8,000 calves may be born each day during the peak period.
April – May
The herds begin moving north in search of fresh grass and water.
June – July
The migration reaches the Western Corridor near the Grumeti River. The animals cross the river, where large crocodiles wait for them.
Late July – August
The herds continue north through different parts of the Serengeti. Some travel through the western areas, while others move through central Serengeti.
September
The migration reaches the northern Serengeti and the Mara River. This river crossing is one of the most exciting wildlife events in Africa.
October
The herds start moving south again through the Lobo and Loliondo areas, returning to the southern plains where new grass grows after the rains.
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Why Visit Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. Its amazing landscapes, rich wildlife, and the Great Migration make it one of the most unforgettable safari destinations on Earth.