Home to the Great Migration — the largest overland animal movement on Earth. Two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle traverse the Serengeti's endless plains in an ancient cycle that has played out for millennia. This is nature's greatest show.
The Serengeti is the beating heart of East African safari. Its name comes from the Maasai word "siringet" meaning "endless plains" — and endless they are. This vast ecosystem stretches from northern Tanzania into Kenya's Masai Mara, forming one of the most important wildlife corridors on the planet.
The Great Migration dominates the Serengeti calendar. From January to March, 500,000 wildebeest calves are born on the southern plains near Ndutu — one of nature's most dramatic events. By June, the herds begin their epic northward journey, crossing the Grumeti and Mara rivers in terrifying crossings where crocodiles lie in wait. By October, they reach the northern Serengeti before turning south again in November.
But the Serengeti is far more than the migration. The central Seronera Valley is home to the densest concentration of big cats in Africa — lion prides, leopards in the kopjes, and cheetahs hunting on the open plains. Hot air balloon flights at dawn offer a perspective that is genuinely life-changing.
Click a species to read our in-depth field guide
Green months indicate peak safari season
Tropical. Two dry seasons (Jun–Oct and Jan–Feb). Short rains in November, long rains in March–May. Temperatures 15–30°C year-round.
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), then take a domestic flight to one of several Serengeti airstrips (Seronera, Grumeti, Kogatende). Road transfer from Arusha takes 7–8 hours.
Don't chase the migration. Instead, position yourself where the migration is coming to YOU. In June–July, stay near the Grumeti River. In August–October, the northern Serengeti (Kogatende) offers the most dramatic Mara River crossings. Your lodge manager will have real-time migration intelligence.
Let our experts craft a bespoke itinerary featuring Serengeti National Park and the best experiences Tanzania has to offer.
