Serengeti National Park

A Brief History of Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti's rich history traces back to a time before European exploration, where various African tribes inhabited its vast grassland plains. It wasn't until Austrian explorer Oscar Bauman's visit in 1892 that recorded observations shed light on this hidden gem. The region's protection began in 1913 when German colonial authorities declared it a game reserve, marking the first steps towards conservation.

Under British mandate post-World War I, the reserve expanded, and in 1951, it was officially designated as a national park. This status brought stringent regulations, including the relocation of Maasai tribes and a ban on human activities within the park, safeguarding its pristine landscapes.

Since its inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979, the Serengeti has evolved into one of Africa's most renowned parks, attracting over 400,000 visitors annually. This designation has been instrumental in preserving its unique ecosystem, allowing its abundant wildlife and vast landscapes to thrive. Today, the Serengeti stands as a testament to successful conservation efforts, captivating travelers worldwide with its mesmerizing beauty and unparalleled safari experiences.

While the Serengeti offers remarkable experiences year-round, the timing of your visit can greatly enhance your safari adventure.

For wildlife enthusiasts seeking the drama of the Great Wildebeest Migration, the dry season from June to September offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the epic river crossings and dramatic predator-prey interactions. During this time, the migrating herds congregate in the northern Serengeti, providing thrilling game viewing experiences.

Alternatively, the green season from November to May unveils a different side of the Serengeti, as the landscape bursts to life with vibrant colors and lush vegetation. This period is ideal for birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts, with migratory birds flocking to the region and stunning landscapes awash with greenery.

No matter when you choose to visit, each season in the Serengeti offers its own unique wonders, from newborn wildlife during the calving season to predator sightings against the backdrop of a golden sunset. With its timeless beauty and abundant wildlife, the Serengeti awaits, ready to enchant and inspire visitors with its untamed splendor.

Dry Season (June to September)Green Season (November to May)

The Serengeti transforms into a theater of thrilling wildlife encounters. Witness the spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration as vast herds cross crocodile-infested rivers in search of greener pastures.

World‑renowned for the Great Wildebeest Migration, the Serengeti’s endless plains host over a million wildebeest, vast herds of zebra and gazelle, and one of the highest densities of predators in Africa. Granite kopjes, acacia‑dotted savannah, and life‑giving rivers such as the Seronera create habitat for lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and the occasionally sighted rhino—delivering exceptional big‑game viewing throughout the year.

The Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Migration is a yearly event where 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and other ungulates gather into one enormous herd and traverse the national park in pursuit of greener pastures. This is the largest gathering of large mammals on the planet. Starting from the south and moving clockwise to the north, it peaks with the dramatic crossings of the Grumeti and Mara rivers.

Experience the Serengeti through classic dawn and dusk game drives, sunrise hot‑air balloon flights capped with a bush breakfast, and tailored photographic safaris. Birders can seek out 500+ species across varied habitats, while seasonal highlights like the calving around Ndutu reveal intimate wildlife moments. Longer itineraries let you follow the Migration through different regions for the best sightings.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

If you are not afraid of heights, we recommend taking a hot air balloon safari through the Serengeti. Balloon safaris provide a remarkable bird’s‑eye view of the plains and wildlife. Flights typically launch at sunrise and last about 45–60 minutes, drifting quietly over herds, river lines, and acacia‑dotted savannah before landing to a celebratory bush breakfast. It’s a serene, once‑in‑a‑lifetime vantage point—especially magical when the Migration is in the area.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris operate in three sectors: Central Seronera, Northern Maasai circuit, and the Southern Ndutu sector.

Bird viewing

Bird viewing is one of the most prominent activities in the Serengeti. The park harbours over 500 bird species across the endless plains, with the Ndutu area holding roughly half the bird population.