Tips for Going on a Safari in the Serengeti National Park

March 25, 2023

Ahh, the world-famous Serengeti National Park! If there is one African safari park that people know, at least by name, it is definitely this one. It is the foremost and oldest game reserve in Tanzania and hands down one of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa. Sprawling a massive 5,700 square miles, this is the place to be if you are looking for a truly unforgettable experience in the wild.

Here, you'll see thousands of animals or at least hear them: hyenas cackling, elephants trumpeting as they trample well-worn bush paths, hippos splashing in nearby watering holes, birds chirping merrily at every tree branch, and lions distinctly roaring in the distance. The scenery spreads out in an astounding mix of endless plains dotted with various wildlife, dazzling lakes and distant backdrops of rolling mountains and valleys. But that’s not all...not even by a long shot.

What is perhaps the Serengeti’s most jaw-dropping spectacle is the annual Great Migration during which the landscape is drowned by a sea of animals as millions of wildebeest, gazelles, and zebras traverse the plains in search of greener pastures. Now as with any other journey of a lifetime, it is important to be adequately prepared, so here’s a couple of helpful tips to ensure a memorable safari experience in the Serengeti National Park care of Serengeti Acacia Camps – https://serengetiacaciacamps.com/.

Getting there

The Serengeti National Park may be situated in a remote corner of Tanzania but it is still quite easy to access. For international travelers, the recommended point of entry is the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) located between the towns of Arusha and Moshi. If you’re already in Africa, you can fly into the Arusha Airport (ARK) since it only handles regional flights. From either airport, it’s a few hours drive to the park.

The road trip might make more sense since it lets you enjoy a more immersive experience as you ride through long winding roads, meet the locals and maybe sample some traditional delicacies along the way. However, if you’re pressed for time and would rather fly there directly, there are around nine airstrips serving the Serengeti National Park: 

• The Seronera airstrip serving the Central Serengeti
• The Kogatende, Lobo, and Kleins airstrips serving the North Serengeti
• The Grumeti, Sasakwa, and Kirawira airstrips serving the Western Corridor
• The Ndutu and Kusini airstrips serving the Southern Serengeti

Best Time to Visit the Serengeti

Like most African safari destinations, the best time to visit Serengeti is during the dry season, which usually runs from June to October. Of course, this is assuming you’re here mainly for the wildlife viewing activities. In reality, the Serengeti is a year-round destination so it’s simply a matter of choosing the right periods that match your interests. For instance, if you want to witness the calving season of the Great Migration on your safari, then you’ll want to make sure to plan your trip around January to early March.

Book early

As one of the most popular safari destinations on the planet, the Serengeti National Park tends to receive thousands of bookings every year. That’s why it’s important to plan ahead and make your reservation as early as possible. Some travel packages even need to be booked up to a year in advance. If you’re looking to arrive at a time when there are fewer crowds, then you can book during the off-peak season.

Plan your activities

Decide on the activities that you want to do while in Serengeti National Park as not all the camps and lodges actually offer them. For example, if you want to go for a night safari or ride a hot-air balloon, there are only a handful of places that offer this activity. The good news is that your tour operator should be able to provide you with a custom itinerary so you need to worry too much. Other activities you can do here include: 

• Bird watching
• Guided nature walks
• Cultural visits to a nearby Masai village
• Bush picnics
• Sundowners

What to Pack

Due to the weight limits on the small planes used to fly to the Serengeti, it is essential to pack light. Fortunately, you won’t actually need much outside of the usual khaki clothing (to blend in better with your surroundings), hats, insect repellents, binoculars, cameras, sunscreens, and a light jacket. Many camps and lodges across the park cater to just about every kind of traveler and are well-equipped with the necessary amenities to enjoy your time in the African bush.

If possible, go for a waterfront location

When choosing your accommodation in the Serengeti, waterfront properties are the ideal way to go since it means better and easier wildlife viewing. Imagine waking up to the sounds of giraffes and zebras eagerly lapping up water and seeing them just a few feet outside your camp. It takes the whole “stay in the wild” experience to a whole new level.

There you have it! Remember to be a responsible traveler as you embark on this incredible journey of a lifetime.