Endless golden plains. Lions resting on kopjes, giant rocky outcrops shooting from the ground. Thousands of wildebeest moving across the savannah. This is Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Stretching across nearly 15,000 square kilometres in northern Tanzania, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the stage for the legendary Great Wildebeest Migration and home to an incredible variety of wildlife – from cheetahs scanning the open grasslands to leopards lounging in acacia trees, every game drive holds a new surprise.
Wildlife in Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is renowned for its extraordinary concentration of wildlife, especially predators. Lions are often spotted resting on so-called kopjes or watching the plains for their next meal, while leopards prefer a good nap in the trees. To spot cheetahs (pun intended), you should keep your eyes open in the grasslands, where their staggering speed gives them an advantage for the hunt.
But there’s even more to see: elephants move through the plains, giraffes pick yummy treats from the acacia trees and large herds of buffaloes graze on the savannah. Along rivers and pools, it’s hippos and crocodiles giving you goosebumps.
The Serengeti is also home to the Big Five, although black rhinos are particularly rare and sightings are not guaranteed.
With so many species sharing the same landscape, even an ordinary-looking stretch of grassland can suddenly become the stage for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
The Great Wildebeest Migration
Few wildlife experiences compare to the sight of millions of wildebeest moving across the Serengeti. Joined by zebras and gazelles, these enormous herds follow the rains in search of fresh grass and water, creating one of the world’s most remarkable natural spectacles.
The Great Migration is a continuous journey through the Serengeti ecosystem and Kenya’s Masai Mara. Depending on the season, you might witness newborn calves taking their first steps on the southern plains, vast herds gathering in the central Serengeti or dramatic river crossings in the north.
The exact movements change from year to year, making every migration safari unique. Choosing the right region at the right time can make all the difference, and of course, we are happy to help.
Want to see more? This video is worth watching
Information and facts
The name Serengeti comes from the Maasai word Siringet, meaning “endless plains”. And once you see the vast landscapes for yourself, you’ll understand why!
Most common animals
- Lions
- Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Giraffes
- Wildebeest
- Zebras
- Gazelles
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
Facts about Serengeti National Park
- One of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations
- Home to the Great Wildebeest Migration
- Excellent opportunities to see big cats
- Diverse landscapes, from open plains to river valleys and rocky kopjes
- Wildlife viewing throughout the year
