Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti offers rewarding safari experiences throughout the year, but the optimal time depends on your priorities and interests. The Great Migration Calendar; December to March (Southern Plains Calving Season) - This period offers extraordinary wildlife viewing as the migration concentrates on the southern plains and Ndutu area for calving. Approximately 8,000 wildebeest calves are born daily during the peak birthing period, attracting numerous predators. The weather is generally pleasant, though brief afternoon rains are possible. This represents one of the most spectacular periods for witnessing predator-prey interactions and dramatic wildlife events. April to May (Long Rains) - These months coincide with the long rainy season, when some camps close, roads may become challenging, and tourism is at its lowest. However, adventurous travelers willing to navigate occasional weather disruptions are rewarded with lush landscapes, excellent birdwatching (as migratory species arrive), dramatically reduced visitor numbers, and lower prices. The herds begin their migration northward during this period. June to July (Western Corridor) - The migration moves through the Western Corridor toward the Grumeti River. June offers a transitional experience as the herds spread across the western regions. By July, river crossings begin at the Grumeti, though these are typically less spectacular than the later Mara River crossings. Weather conditions are generally excellent with minimal rainfall. August to October (Northern Serengeti and Mara River Crossings) - This is peak safari season and often considered the best time to visit. The migration reaches the northern Serengeti and continues into Kenya's Maasai Mara. The Mara River crossings reach their dramatic peak, with thousands of animals plunging into crocodile-infested waters. Weather is dry and pleasant, vegetation is less dense for easier wildlife spotting, and animal concentrations are at their highest. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. November (Short Rains) - The short rainy season brings afternoon showers that typically clear quickly. The migration begins returning southward from Kenya. Rates drop compared to peak season, and fewer tourists visit, offering a good balance of wildlife viewing and value. The landscape begins to green up beautifully. Dry Season vs. Wet Season Dry Season (June to October) - Advantages include easier wildlife spotting due to sparse vegetation, animals concentrating around water sources, minimal rainfall, and optimal road conditions. Disadvantages include higher prices, more vehicles at popular locations, and dusty conditions. Wet Season (November to May) - Benefits include lush green landscapes, phenomenal birdwatching, dramatically lower prices, fewer tourists, and the spectacular calving season. Challenges include occasional difficult road conditions, some closed camps, and denser vegetation that can obscure wildlife. Best Time for Specific Interests Photography - The dry season (June to October) offers excellent light and clear skies, though the dramatic landscapes and newborn animals of the calving season (January to March) provide unique photographic opportunities. Big Cat Viewing - Year-round opportunities exist, but the calving season (December to March) provides exceptional predator action as cats take advantage of vulnerable newborns. River Crossings - July to October offers the best chances, with August and September being peak months. Birdwatching - November to April, when migratory species are present and breeding plumage is most colorful. Budget Travelers - April, May, and November offer significantly reduced rates and fewer crowds, despite occasional rains.

By Air International Flights - Most international visitors arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha. From these gateways, travelers take connecting flights to one of several airstrips within or near the Serengeti. By Road From Arusha - The road journey from Arusha to the Serengeti covers approximately 330 kilometers and typically takes 7-8 hours, though road conditions and routing affect timing. Most travelers combine the drive with visits to other parks en route, particularly the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Crater. The journey ascends the Great Rift Valley escarpment, passes through the Karatu farming region, enters Ngorongoro Conservation Area, crosses the spectacular crater rim with panoramic views, descends into the Ngorongoro Crater for game viewing, then continues through the Malanja Depression and Olduvai Gorge region before entering the southeastern Serengeti via the Naabi Hill Gate.

• Luxury Lodges options include: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti - This ultra-luxury property in the central Serengeti offers contemporary comfort with African design elements, featuring an infinity pool overlooking an active waterhole, a world-class spa, and spacious rooms with private balconies. The lodge provides excellent game viewing without leaving the property.
• Other luxury options include: Singita Sasakwa Lodge ,Sabora Tented Camp
• Mid-Range Options include; Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, Kati Kati Tented Camp, Serengeti Sopa Lodge