Must Do Safari Experiences in Serengeti National Park

Must Do Safari Experiences in Serengeti National Park : The Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World heritage site and the most popular in Tanzania. It is located in the North Eastern part of the country and covers an area of about 30,000 sq. km. To the north of the park is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, to the west are two Game Reserves (Ikorongo and Grumeti) and to the Southwest is the Maswa Game Reserve. Serengeti means “Endless plains” among the Maasai. Serengeti National Park, a world-renown, World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve arguably has many unique attractions than any other National Park in Africa. The Great Migration of Wildebeests, The Big Five, Highest concentration of Carnivores and Herbivores, Rare and endangered species, Unique bird collections, Scenic and spectacular landscapes are some of the attractions one will encounter! Below, we explore some of the top experiences to make your visit to the Serengeti truly unforgettable.

1. Witness the Great Migration

One of the most extraordinary spectacles in nature is the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras move across the Serengeti in search of greener pastures. during this remarkable journey many of these incredible wildlife die due to exhaustion giving a chance to other carnivore animals to ease their search for food like Hyenas, Cheetahs and Lions.   This migratory journey typically occurs from June to October, when the animals travel from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara in Kenya. Being part of this event is like entering a live documentary, filled with breathtaking moments, including river crossings that showcase the predators’ chase and the animals’ survival instincts. Having a chance of encountering these phenomena gives you a life experience from nature.  Plan your trip during these months for a chance to witness this phenomenal event.

2. Go on a Game Drive

A game drive is arguably the best way to experience the wildlife in Serengeti National Park. Early morning or late afternoon drives are particularly rewarding, as many animals are most active during these cooler hours. You’ll have the chance to see the Big Five such as lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinoceros—as well as a plethora of other creatures such as Wildebeest, Zebras, Elands, Hippos and Waterbucks. Seeing these powerful predators hunting and sometimes fighting for their territories will makes your day.

3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a truly unique perspective of the Serengeti, consider a hot air balloon ride at dawn. Hot air balloon, which gives visitor a chance to see the park in a different perspective!  You will also get an aerial view of the plains and the animals that roam it. Hot air balloon safaris are particularly popular during the wildebeest migration, allowing travelers to observe them in the thousands. Hot air balloon safaris start in the morning and ends with a champagne breakfast in the African wilderness. After your flight, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the wild, celebrating the adventure you just had above the stunning landscape.

4. Visit a Maasai Village

Serengeti is home to many cultures from famous tribes of Maasai, Sukuma, Kurya and Ikoma. Indigenous Maasai and Ikoma used to live in parts of the park before they were resettled outside the park. The Maai are semi-nomadic pastoralists living in most parts of Southern Kenya and Northern Tanzania. They are arguably the most known East African tribal group. They have a tall stature and put on vibrant/colorful attire. The Maasai people are known for their rich traditions and vibrant clothing. Many villages offer guided tours where you can learn about their way of life, including traditional dances, rituals, and how they coexist with wildlife. This cultural experience provides a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and the importance of the Serengeti to the Maasai community.

5. Visit the Serengeti Visitor Center

Before diving into your adventures, stop by the Serengeti Visitor Center. It’s an excellent resource for understanding the park’s ecology and wildlife. The Centre contains exhibits and other detailed information about the Serengeti, the ecosystem and its history. Here, you’ll find informative exhibits, and you can chat with rangers who can offer tips on where to see specific animals and safely navigate the park. They can also help in planning your daily routes to maximize your wildlife sightings.

6. Experience a Night Safari

While most safaris are conducted during the day, some operators offer night safaris that present a chance to see different wildlife that only comes alive after sunset. during your game drive safari, you will have the chance to spot many nocturnal animals like civets, aardvarks, nightjars and bush babies. Night game drives also offer travelers a chance to observe zebras, hyenas, impala, giraffes, jackals and foxes. Lions, hyenas and Leopards are very active at night. It is the best time to spot them take down prey. The nighttime atmosphere in the Serengeti is enchanting, filled with unfamiliar sounds, adding an air of mystery to your safari experience.

7. Bird Watching

For bird enthusiasts, the Serengeti does not disappoint. The park is home to over 500 species of birds, including African Ostrich, vultures, Black-headed Heron, D’Arnaud’s barbet, Dark Chanting Goshawk, Decken-Toko Tockus, Grey-breasted spurfowl, Grey-headed sparrow, Purple Grenadier, Red-backed scrub, Rufous-tailed weaver, Secretary birds, The Kori bustard, Variable Sunbird and White-bellied go-away bird among others. This safari is best done between November and April when the migratory birds that visit the park.

8. Visit the Olduvai Gorge

Take a day trip to the nearby Olduvai Gorge, an important archaeological site that offers insights into early human history.   Here, fossils dating back millions of years have been discovered, including evidence of our early ancestors. The site is often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind.” It’s an enriching experience to learn about the past while surrounded by the stunning beauty of the African landscape.

Contact our trusted tour operators for information and inquiries about Must Do Safari Experiences in Serengeti National Park and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Salt Holidays who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Tanzania.