Serengeti

Overview

Serengeti National Park is the world's most famous wildlife reserve, and the annual great migration begins here.

History

Serengeti means endless plains in Maa. German explorers first described it to the West in 1913. A national park was established in 1951 and it became a natural World Heritage Site in 1981. Covering 14,763 square kilometres, it is one of Africa's largest national parks. The great migration route runs between the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara, involving more than two million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle, and is often called the last great migration still visible to humankind.

Highlights

• •Around half a million wildebeest calves born in the February calving season
• •Cheetahs at full sprint in pursuit of prey
• •Crocodiles ambushing the river crossings at Grumeti and the Mara River
• •Campfire dinners under brilliant stars
• •A bird paradise with more than 500 recorded species

Practical tips

• •Private camps are worth it if the budget allows
• •Check vaccination requirements

Practical information

Best time

January to February

Tickets

Park fee about USD 80 per day for foreign adults

Opening hours

Open all day; camps run sunrise and sunset game drives

Local food

Camp meals, grilled meat and ugali

Getting around

Reached from Arusha by light aircraft or four-wheel drive, with game drives led by a guide

Visa

A visa or visa on arrival is available. Book Serengeti and Zanzibar itineraries in advance and confirm yellow fever vaccination requirements.

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