Serengeti – when and where to go

The Serengeti is renowned for the Great Wildebeest Migration, the largest mammal migration in the world. It is also one of the few places in Africa where game viewing is spectacular year round. Predator numbers are high, and the Big Five is present as well. The Serengeti is a massive park that spans around 30,000 km2 (12,000 sq miles). So to get the most out of your visit, it is important to plan your safari well. Where you should go in the Serengeti depends largely on what time (season) you choose to visit this beautiful park.

Central Serengeti (Seronera region)

This area is rich in wildlife throughout the year because of the many river valleys. You can see an abundance of lions, leopards, elephants and many more. The Wildebeest Migration head for this part of the Serengeti from April till June and comes back in October, November and December. If the wildebeest migration is the main reason you visit the Serengeti, it’s important to be in the central part during these times. Our travel consultants can tell you more about the exact timing of the wildebeest migration and the best accommodation to stay. Since there is so much to see in this region, we recommend staying here at least one or two days.

Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area)

From December till March, these nutrient rich plains are home to the great wildebeest migration during the green season. In February, half a million calves are born on these southern plains. You can see hundred thousand of wildebeest and zebras. But also lots of predators, who are all waiting for the change to eat the placentas of the young calves. Because of all the placentas on the plain. The young calves are relatively safe. The calving season is an amazing spectacle that takes your breath away. We advise you to take your time and spend 2 days in the Ndutu Area at this time. Another option is to spend one day in South Serengeti, since it’s very common to enter the Serengeti from the south. Realize that the schedule will be tight if you only stay one day.

Northern Serengeti (Kogatende area)

The northern part of the Serengeti is the place to be from July to October, when de migration resides here. You can find the herds around the Mara River and witness the epic river crossings. The sights are impressive as well as dramatic around this time. The fast flowing water and crocodiles make this crossing extremely dangerous for the herds. This northern part of the Serengeti is beautifully remote and quiet, due to the fact that it is about 4-hour drive from the central part. So if you visit this part you will also need accommodation here. We recommend staying at least 2 days in the north to increase the chance of seeing the herds cross the river. It will also give you time to enjoy encounters with other wildlife.

It is important to plan your stay in the Serengeti well, so you don’t have to hurry to reach your lodge in time. Our travel consultants can help you get the timing and the accommodation right.

For more information, check: when and where is the wildebeest migration? Or check the best Tanzania Safaris, including the wildebeest migration.