"The Serengeti is the quintessential safari experience"
Imagine a vast golden plain stretching endlessly beneath an open African sky, where the rhythm of nature unfolds in its purest form. This is the Serengeti—a land of untamed beauty, where the pulse of the wild beats strong and free. Each morning the sun rises over the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues, the air fills with the distant echoes of a lion’s roar, the rustling of acacia trees, and the thunderous gallop of migrating wildebeest.
Here, time slows. You find yourself immersed in the raw, breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration—two million zebras and wildebeests surging across the savannah, pursued by stealthy predators in a high-stakes dance of survival. Leopards lounge in ancient fig trees, elephants move in silent majesty through the tall grass, and cheetahs streak across the plains with breathtaking speed.
The Serengeti safari is more than a journey—it’s a passage into a world where nature reigns supreme, where every sunrise brings a new story and sunsets close the chapter on a full and exciting day. It’s where the wild whispers its timeless secrets. It is adventure. It is wonder. It is Africa, in its most unforgettable form.
Why should I visit the Serengeti?
The Serengeti’s wild beauty enchants the senses, sparking a deep sense of wonder. The stunning views extend for miles, showcasing changing landscapes from sunlit grasslands to shaded forests. The gentle sounds of nature enhance the sights, creating a calming atmosphere that pulls you in.
Witnessing the great migration of wildebeest and zebra, their hooves thundering on the ground, inspires a deep sense of awe. It’s like waking up to a scene from a Nat Geo documentary. Every day!
Each wildlife encounter becomes a treasured memory, weaving a rich tapestry of experiences that stay with us. In the Serengeti, time seems to pause, allowing for a full experience of nature’s raw beauty. The spirit of the Serengeti remains long after leaving, inviting back all who long for its wildness.
But what makes this different to any other safari experience in Africa? Why the Serengeti?
- Vast Open Plains – If this is your first safari to Africa, you’ll most certainly have an image in your head, a degree of expectation set by watching nature channels, or movies like Out of Africa. Well, that image in your head of what Africa should look like – it will look a lot like the Serengeti! It’s iconic and will feel familiar.
- Mara River Crossings – Africa’s most famous wildlife spectacle takes place annually in the Northern parts of the Serengeti – the Great Migration crossing the Mara River. This could take place from as early as June and will continue through to October each year. It’s an event that every safari-lover should see at least once in their lifetime. The great herds consist of around 2 million animals, the majority being wildebeest.
- Great Herds Giving Birth – Similarly, the very same herds will congregate in the Southern Serengeti each year, and give birth to around 400 000 baby wildebeest. This incredible event takes place around February each year.
- High Predator Density – There a large density of predators across the Serengeti. It’s not uncommon to see lion, leopard, cheetah and hyena on the same day, a delight for nature lovers.
- Year-Round Game Viewing – Unlike some parks that experience seasonal wildlife fluctuations, the Serengeti offers excellent game viewing throughout the year due to its permanent water sources and resident wildlife.
- Variety of Accommodations – There’s accommodation options to suit every need. From ultra luxury safari villas to authentic tented camps, there’s something to suit almost every need, and budget.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris – A breathtaking way to experience the Serengeti from above, offering panoramic views of wildlife and landscapes at sunrise.
- Rich Cultural Heritage – The region is home to the Maasai people, who have coexisted with wildlife for centuries, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Maasai traditions and culture.
- Oldest Ecosystem on Earth – The Serengeti’s ecosystem has remained largely unchanged for millions of years, providing an unparalleled window into the ancient rhythms of the wild.
"If this is your first visit to Africa, you need not look any further than the Serengeti safari experience."
When should I Visit?
The Serengeti is a year-round safari destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. It’s important to consider this as it will deliver the experience you have in mind. Or not. If you make use of a reputable and experienced operator, like Tanda Afrika, you’ll be assured of the best time based on what you’d most like to see. Here’s some food for thought:
Seasons of the Serengeti: What to Expect Year-Round
Best for the Great Migration, July – October & January – March: This period is when the iconic Great Migration occurs, with millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores moving across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing.The Great Migration peaks during these months, with wildebeest crossing the Mara River (July–October) and calving in the Southern Serengeti (January–March), attracting predators and thrilling hunts.
- The Dry Season, July – October: The dramatic river crossings of the Mara River in the Northern Serengeti, where wildebeest risk their lives against crocodile-infested waters. This is a peak season with excellent predator sightings and dramatic scenes straight from a Nat Geo documentary. The dry season offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around.
- The Calving Season, January – March: The calving season in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu region, where thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators in thrilling hunts. It’s a time to see the very same herds mentioned above in great density as they give birth to over 400 000 babies.
Best for General Game Viewing, June – October: The dry season (June to October) is ideal for spotting a wide variety of wildlife. As the grasses thin out and water sources become scarcer, animals gather around the remaining watering holes, making them easier to spot. The lack of foliage provides excellent visibility for game viewing, particularly for predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. With migratory herds still in the region, the Serengeti comes alive with activity, offering prime opportunities for photography and witnessing natural interactions.
Best for Fewer Crowds, March – May, November – December: These months are part of the low season, offering fewer tourists and lush landscapes, especially after the short rains. There’s no “bad” time to see the Serengeti. The animals, apart from the migratory herds, don’t go anywhere and you still stand a chance to see lions, leopard, cheetahs and more.
Rainy Season in the Serengeti:
- Short Rains: November – December (brief, light rains that freshen up the landscape).
- Long Rains: March – May (heavier rainfall, making some areas muddy and challenging for travel). This is the least popular time for safaris but offers dramatic skies, vibrant landscapes, and fewer tourists.
Differences Between Southern Serengeti, Northern Serengeti, and Ndutu
Southern Serengeti
- Best visited from December to March for the Great Migration calving season.
- Features vast open plains where wildebeest give birth, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
- Home to the iconic Moru Kopjes, ancient rock formations where leopards and lions can be found.
- Easy to combine the Ngorongoro Crater and the Southern parts of the Serengeti by road, without the need to fly or charter a plane.
Northern Serengeti
- Best visited from July to October for the Mara River crossings.
- More rugged and remote, with rolling hills and riverine forests.
- Excellent for seeing fewer crowds and dramatic predator-prey interactions. It does however get busier once the river crossings take place.
- The main stage for the dramatic wildebeest river crossings, where crocodiles lurk beneath the surface.
Ndutu (Part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, bordering the Serengeti)
- Famous for the calving season (December – March), when wildebeest give birth to over 400,000 calves.
- Open plains and seasonal alkaline lakes attract huge numbers of flamingos. It’s even possible to see large herds of wildebeest crossing these lakes.
- Offers off-road game driving, unlike most of the Serengeti where you have to stay on the road.
- Ndutu is well known for tree-climbing lions.
"The game viewing across the Serengeti, and across all seasons, is consistent and of high quality."
What animals will I see?
A safari in the Serengeti is an unforgettable journey into one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Visitors are immersed in a landscape teeming with life, where every game drive offers breathtaking encounters with Africa’s most spectacular animals. This counts for all seasons which makes it the ideal safari experience and wildlife destination.
The Serengeti is home to the legendary Big Five:
- Lions – The Serengeti has one of the highest concentrations of lions in Africa, with over 3,000. Watch them laze under acacia trees or witness thrilling hunts.
- Leopards – Elusive and graceful, often spotted draped over tree branches in the Seronera Valley, Ndutu, atop a rocky outcrop or in a long tree in the grassy plains.
- Elephants – Majestic herds roam freely, particularly in the Northern Serengeti.
- Buffalo – Massive, powerful, and often seen in large groups near water sources.
- Rhinos – The rarest of the Big Five, best spotted in the Moru Kopjes region and Ngorongoro Crater.
Beyond the Big Five, the Serengeti is also a paradise for predator enthusiasts:
- Cheetahs – The fastest land animal, best seen in the open plains hunting gazelles.
- Hyenas – Often misunderstood, but a vital part of the ecosystem, seen scavenging or hunting in packs.
- Wild Dogs – Rare but sometimes spotted in the remote regions of the park.
- Smaller Cats – Smaller cats such as Serval, Caracal and African Wild Cat can also be spotted fairly often.
The Great Migration is one of nature’s most incredible events, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles traverse the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing. Depending on the season, visitors can witness these popular Migration Seasons:
- Calving Season (January – March, Ndutu & Southern Serengeti) – Thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators in dramatic hunting scenes.
- River Crossings (July – October, Northern Serengeti) – The heart-pounding Mara River crossings, where crocodiles lie in wait.
In addition to these iconic animals, there are many other animals you’ll encounter on a daily basis. Giraffe, zebra, warthog, topi, eland, hippo and many more.
Every moment in the Serengeti feels like stepping into a wildlife documentary—whether it’s watching a lioness teach her cubs to hunt, witnessing a herd of elephants march through the golden grass, or holding your breath as wildebeest brave the Mara River.
A Serengeti safari is not just about seeing wildlife—it’s about feeling the pulse of nature itself.
"Lion, leopard, cheetah, elephants and over 1.5 million wildebeest are some of the wildlife highlights to look forward to!"
What are the safari activities?
- Sunrise & Sunset Game Drives – Watch predators return from their hunts or wake up for the day. Follow behind the great migratory herds. Look for leopards sleeping in tree tops. Enjoy being out in the open plains, exploring and living the safari life to the fullest.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris – See the Serengeti from above and witness the vast plains stretch endlessly. This exciting morning activity can be booked in advanced, ensuring you have a spot reserved. If you are unsure, you can always book directly through the camp once you are there. The balloons have space for 8 – 16 guests at a time. The flight usually lasts for about an hour, followed by a breakfast in the open plains.
- Night Safaris (in Private Reserves only) – Encounter nocturnal animals like aardvarks, genets, and servals.
- Walking Safaris – Experience the thrill of tracking wildlife on foot with expert guides. Check with your operator or camp ahead of time to see if the camps offer this activity.
"There will never be a dull day on safari in the Serengeti. There's always something to do in the safari mecca."
Can I bring my family, especially children?
A family safari in the Serengeti isn’t just a vacation—it’s an unforgettable adventure that brings families closer while immersing kids in the magic of nature. From spotting lions on the prowl to learning about the Maasai culture, the Serengeti is a natural playground where children can experience the wild like never before.
Forget screen time on safari, kids get a front-row seat to the greatest wildlife show on Earth! Imagine their excitement as they see elephants grazing, cheetahs sprinting, and zebras crossing the plains. Every game drive is a new adventure, full of surprises and thrilling encounters.
Real-Life Nature Experience for The Whole Family:
✅ Up-close wildlife sightings – No zoo or documentary can compare! They will experience National Geographic, in person!
✅ The Big Five & more – Lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.
✅ Interactive learning – Guides share fun facts and tracking skills. It’s an exciting interactive experience that can’t be found on any other family getaway.
A Fun & Educational Journey for The Kids:
Safaris aren’t just about seeing animals; they’re a hands-on classroom in the most exciting setting possible. Kids learn about wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and African cultures in a way that sticks with them for life.
Enriching Family Safari Experiences: Learning & Adventure in the Wild
✅ Junior Ranger programs – Some lodges offer fun activities like animal tracking and bush survival skills. Enquire about this during the planning process with the camps, or your operator.
✅ Cultural interactions – Meet the Maasai and learn about their traditions.
✅ Stargazing & storytelling – Evenings around the fire under Africa’s brilliant skies. It’s something the family will never forget.
Family-Friendly Accommodations & Activities:
From luxury lodges to tented camps, the Serengeti has fantastic family-friendly stays designed for comfort and fun. Many lodges offer:
✅ Spacious family suites & tents – With room for everyone. Some villas are completely private offering experiences, including dining and hosting, as exclusive to the family.
✅ Private game drives – Tailored to family needs, at your own pace.
✅ Swimming pools – A refreshing way to relax between safaris.
✅ Special kids’ activities – Nature walks, arts & crafts, and junior safari adventures.
A Serengeti safari isn’t just a trip—it’s a bonding experience that will leave your family with incredible stories and cherished memories. Imagine your child’s face lighting up as they spot their first lion. Or, the excitement of tracking animal footprints in the sand or gathering around a campfire under a sky full of stars…
This is the magic of a family safari.
The accommodation options across the Serengeti are as vast as the open plains themselves, so many lodges to choose from."
Where can I stay in the Serengeti?
The Serengeti offers a wide range of accommodations, from ultra-luxurious lodges to budget-friendly campsites. The choice depends on your budget, comfort preferences, and the type of experience you seek.
1. Luxury Safari Lodges & Camps ($1500 – $3,000+ per night)
For travelers seeking exclusivity, comfort, and personalized service.
Luxury Safari Lodges & Camps Features:
- Spacious, beautifully designed suites or tents with en-suite bathrooms and other amenities.
- Fine dining with gourmet cuisine, premium wines, and private dining options.
- Private decks, plunge pools, and stunning views of the savannah.
- Exclusive game drives with expert guides, often in private vehicles.
- Some offer spa treatments, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural experiences and more.
📍 Examples of Luxury Lodges & Camps:
- Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti – A high-end lodge with infinity pools overlooking a waterhole.
- Singita Sasakwa Lodge – An ultra-luxury colonial-style lodge in the Grumeti Reserve.
- Lemala Nanyukie – A high-end tented camp in the Central Serengeti.
- Mwiba Lodge – A private luxury lodge offering unique off-the-beaten-path experiences.
2. Mid-Range Tented Camps & Lodges ($500 – $1250 per night)
A balance between comfort and adventure, offering excellent service without extreme luxury.
Mid-Range Tented Camps & Lodges Features:
- Spacious and comfortable tents or chalets with en-suite bathrooms. Tents are a room with canvas walls, not to be confused with tents you stayed in as a child.
- Excellent food, often with communal dining experiences.
- Daily game drives with professional guides.
- Stunning locations near wildlife migration routes.
📍 Examples of Mid-Range Accommodations:
- Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge – A classic lodge with great views and comfortable amenities.
- Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge – A stylish mid-range tented camp in the Central Serengeti.
- Ang’ata Serengeti Camp – A small, intimate tented camp with a personalized experience.
Lodges and camps are available in different regions depending on the season and wildlife movement.
- Central Serengeti (Seronera) – Year-round game viewing, plenty of accommodation options.
- Northern Serengeti – Best for the Great Migration river crossings (July – October), luxury and mid-range lodges.
- Southern Serengeti & Ndutu – Best for the calving season (December – March), with seasonal mobile camps being very popular.
- Western Corridor – Good for river crossings and remote experiences, fewer crowds with luxury safari camp and villa options.
If you’re planning a trip, your choice of accommodation should align with the season and wildlife movement to maximize your safari experience.
What to pack for the Serengeti?
Packing for a Serengeti safari requires thoughtful preparation to ensure comfort, protection from the elements, and the best wildlife experience. Whether you’re visiting in the dry season or the green season, here’s what you need:
Clothing – Lightweight, Neutral, and Layered
✅ Neutral-colored clothes (khaki, olive, beige) to blend into the environment and avoid attracting insects.
✅ Lightweight, breathable fabrics for hot days; warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings.
✅ Avoid dark colors (black & blue), as they could attract tsetse flies.
Essential Packing List for All Seasons:
- Long-sleeved shirts & trousers – Protects from sunburn, insect bites, and dust. Works great for the longer safaris in the Serengeti.
- T-shirts & shorts – Ideal for warm midday temperatures. Also great to wear back at the camp, keeping you cool and comfortable.
- Fleece or lightweight jacket – Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in winter (June – August).
- Waterproof jacket or poncho – Necessary during the rainy seasons (March – May, November – December). Most of the safari vehicles can be covered incase of rain, and some of the high-end camps will be equipped with rain ponchos. Still, it is always great to bring your own to ensure you are protected from the elements.
- Hat with a wide brim – Protects from the sun. A cap works well too as many of the vehicles are covered protecting you from all-day sun exposure.
- Scarf or buff – Helps with dust protection, especially in open safari vehicles.
- Gloves & warm hat – If you get cold quickly, these will be needed for early morning game drives in cooler months.
Footwear:
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots – Useful for walking safaris and lodge areas. Also great to wear on daily safaris, keeping your feet safe and comfortable.
- Sandals or slip-ons – Convenient for relaxing at the lodge/camp. Since not much walking is done on the safari outings, these can also be worn on the jeeps.
✅ Pack light & efficiently – most domestic flights to the Serengeti have a 15kg (33 lbs) luggage limit in soft-sided bags. If you need more weight allowance, be sure to request additional luggage when you book your ticket, or perhaps purchase an extra seat on internal flights. Your travel operator will be able to assist with this.
✅ Dress in layers to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.
✅ Don’t overpack—lodges and camps offer laundry services.
With the right packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable Serengeti adventure!
The Serengeti is simply too beautiful not to photograph. It's an absolute must!"
What cameras do I bring for the Serengeti?
Capturing the magic of the Serengeti requires the right camera gear. It’s such a beautiful destination and it would be a shame to visit and not take a few great memories home to not only share with others, but to also remember well into the future. A good photograph will always take you back to that special day and memory.
Whether you’re using a smartphone, mirrorless camera, or any of the other great options out there, here are the best options for every skill level.
Smartphone Photography
Today’s smartphones have excellent cameras capable of taking fantastic, top quality photos and videos. Don’t think of it poorly. Many pro content creators and photographers use their phones on a regular basis when snapping pictures and videos.
Get to know your phone a little better before you arrive. Youtube has a wealth of tutorials on how to set your phone up for a photo safari.
Quick tips for the iPhone photography/videography:
- Film in 4K at 60fps
- Activate “Enhanced Stabilisation”
- Activate “Action Mode Lower Light”
- HDR Video enabled
- Lock White Balance
- Record Cinematic in 4k at 30fps
- Shoot in “High Efficiency” mode
- ProRAW gives you the best image quality and largest file size.
- Preserve the following settings – Camera Mode, Controls Menu, Creative Controls, ProRAW & Resolution Control.
- To get the angles looking better, use the grid line for easier composition.
- It also helps to shoot in 16:9 aspect ratio, as opposed to the standard 4:3 option.
Recommended iPhone Photography Accessories:
- Clip-on telephoto lens (like Moment or Sandmarc) for better zoom. Gets rid of any further digital zoom.
- Gimbal stabilizer (DJI Osmo Mobile) for smoother video. It has to be said though that today’s cameras have excellent capabilities.
- Portable power bank – Keeps your phone charged on long game drives. Please note that many Serengeti game viewers already have chargers within the vehicles.
Pros & Cons of iPhone Photography
👍 Pros: Lightweight, easy to use, and great for social media.
👎 Cons: Limited zoom, struggles with fast-moving animals. Not great in low light.
Beginner-Friendly Cameras
A compact camera with a good zoom lens makes a huge difference for wildlife photography.
- Sony RX10 IV (Bridge Camera) – 24-600mm zoom, great autofocus, no need to change lenses.
- Canon PowerShot SX70 HS – 65x optical zoom, lightweight, and budget-friendly.
- Nikon P1000 – Superzoom (125x) allows you to get close shots even from far away.
Recommended Accessories:
- Extra batteries – Safaris last all day, and you don’t want to run out of power. You can also bringing your charging dock to recharge on the safari vehicle.
- SD cards (64GB or higher) – Wildlife moments happen fast, and you’ll take a lot of photos.
Pros & Cons of Beginner-Friendly Cameras
👍 Pros: Easy to use, built-in zoom, compact.
👎 Cons: Lower image quality than interchangeable-lens cameras.
Advanced Wildlife Photography
Serious photographers who want professional-level safari shots.
Full-frame cameras capture stunning details and perform well in low light.
Recommended Mirrorless Cameras:
- Sony A7R5 – 61MP, superb autofocus, and 4K video.
- Sony A93 – Best for action, equipped with 120 frames per second, 24MP photos, and class-leading autofocus.
- Canon R6 Mark II – Fast burst shooting (40fps) and excellent stabilization.
- Nikon Z8 – 45.7MP and top-tier wildlife tracking.
Recommended Lenses:
- Sony 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 – Perfect for distant wildlife.
- Sony 600 f4 – A top-class prime telephoto lens. Incredible image quality. Consider renting one if the price makes your eyes water
- Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 – Versatile and sharp.
- Nikon 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 – Excellent reach at a reasonable price.
Recommended Accessories:
- Monopod or beanbag – Helps stabilize long lenses. Beanbags will work best in the safari vehicles due to limited space.
- Rain & dust cover – Protects your gear from dust and rain. There are excellent options through LensCoat USA.
- Batteries – Be sure to have extra batteries for each camera body.
- Memory Cards – Memory cards are important. Use cards that offer enough space, as well as fast read and write speeds.
Pros & Cons of Advanced Wildlife Photography Gear
👍 Pros: Best image quality, fast autofocus, incredible zoom.
👎 Cons: Expensive, heavier, and requires experience.
"To make the experience extraordinary, it's essential to use an experienced travel company."
Why book through Tanda Afrika?
A Serengeti safari is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and choosing the right travel operator makes all the difference. Booking with an experienced, reputable operator—like us—ensures a seamless, safe, and unforgettable journey. Here’s why:
1. Expertly Designed Itineraries for a Seamless Experience
We craft tailor-made itineraries that match your travel style and interests. Whether you dream of witnessing the Great Migration, enjoying a luxury lodge safari, or embarking on an off-the-beaten-path adventure, we design your trip to maximize every moment.
✅ Best safari routes – We know the perfect locations for each season.
✅ Timing expertise – We ensure you’re at the right place at the right time for wildlife sightings.
✅ Exclusive access – Private reserves, hidden gems, and special experiences you won’t find on your own.
2. Stress-Free Logistics & Hassle-Free Travel
Planning a safari involves multiple logistics—lodges, park fees, domestic flights, transfers, guides—we handle it all so you don’t have to.
✅ All-inclusive organization – From airport pick-ups to game drives, we coordinate everything.
✅ Smooth border crossings & permits – If your safari includes Kenya or other destinations.
✅ Support with visas & travel requirements – We guide you through paperwork & health regulations.
3. Safety & Peace of Mind
A safari is exciting, but traveling in remote wilderness areas requires expert planning. Booking with us means you have 24/7 support, emergency response plans, and trusted accommodations for a worry-free journey.
✅ Well-maintained safari vehicles with GPS, radios & first-aid kits.
✅ Emergency assistance & evacuation plans – We partner with responsible operators who have all of these plans in place.
✅ Reliable accommodations & vetted partners – We only work with trusted lodges & camps.
5. Exclusive & Custom Safari Experiences
With a reputable operator like us, you get access to special, curated experiences beyond standard tours.
✅ Private game drives – More flexibility & personalized exploration.
✅ Hot air balloon safaris – Soar above the Serengeti at sunrise.
✅ Walking safaris – Up-close encounters with nature, led by expert guides.
✅ Cultural visits – Meet the Maasai people and explore their traditions.
Why Choose Us?
By booking with our travel agency, you’re guaranteed:
✅ Personalized service – Every safari is custom-tailored to YOU.
✅ Local expertise – We know the Serengeti inside and out.
✅ Trusted partnerships – We only work with the best lodges, camps, and guides.
✅ Unforgettable experiences – Your dream safari, crafted with care.
Book with us today and let’s plan your extraordinary Serengeti safari adventure!
