Field Notes · Serengeti National Park

A Rough Guide to Serengeti National Park

Everything we've learned about visiting the ecosystem — fees, seasons, logistics and etiquette — kept as current as we can.

01 · Useful Information
Serengeti National Park Guide

Serengeti - Best Time To Visit

Loading Map Assets...

Following the Wildebeest migration from Serengeti National Park to Maasai Mara National Reserve, the best time is December to July and to see the predators the best time is June to October.

View as a standalone page →
02 · Useful Information
Serengeti National Park Guide

Serengeti - Distance

Loading Map Assets...

With the Serengeti only 335 km (208 miles) from Arusha it is still a very long drive due to the roads. If you are driving to the Serengeti National Park it is recommended to stop off on the way. We would like to point out that if you are interested in visiting the Ngorongoro Crater on the way, it is best to get to the rim the afternoon before and then spend the whole next day in the Crater.

View as a standalone page →
03 · Useful Information
Serengeti National Park Guide

Serengeti - Climate

Loading Map Assets...

The Serengeti is a vast ecosystem with many seasonal differences in terms of weather and climate. Serengeti National Park experiences a generally cool and dry season from May to August; a dry and warmer season in September and October; and a wetter and hot season from November to April.

View as a standalone page →
04 · Useful Information
Serengeti National Park Guide

Serengeti - Attractions

Loading Map Assets...
  • Wildlife
  • Bird species
  • The Wildebeest migration
  • Maasai people
  • Olduvai Gorge
  • Moru kopjes
  • Retina Hippo pool
  • Grumeti river
  • Seronera river valley
View as a standalone page →
Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common questions from first-time and returning Serengeti National Park visitors — answered honestly.

What vaccinations do I need?
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. A Yellow Fever certificate is only required if arriving from an endemic country. Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Tetanus are also commonly recommended — consult your travel health clinic.
How much should I tip?
Tipping guidelines vary by camp — ask your operator for current recommendations for guides, camp staff, and balloon crews.
What dietary requirements can be catered for?
Most camps can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other common dietary requirements with advance notice at time of booking.
What is the difference between a camp and a lodge?
Camps are typically canvas tented accommodations offering a closer-to-nature feel, while lodges are permanent brick-and-mortar structures. Both range from budget to ultra-luxury.
Can animals enter my tent at night?
Most tented camps are unfenced, so wildlife can pass through camp at night. Tents are secure, and staff escort guests between tents after dark as standard procedure.
Is travel insurance compulsory?

While not always a legal requirement, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment and air evacuation (e.g. AMREF Flying Doctors) is strongly recommended for any trip.

Africa