Serengeti National Park: the complete safari guide
The Serengeti is roughly the size of a small country, so where and when you stay matters as much as the park's reputation suggests.
Serengeti Safari · Tanzania safari packages · Tanzania safari holidays
Choosing where to stay in the Serengeti is as vital as the timing of your visit. At nearly 15,000 square kilometres, this vast ecosystem changes character significantly between regions and seasons.
Our guide identifies the four primary regions to help you match your travel dates with the best possible wildlife experience.
The four regions compared
| Region | Peak months | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Serengeti/Ndutu | January–March | Calving season, open plains |
| Northern Serengeti | July–October | Mara River crossings |
| Western Corridor | May–June | Early crossings, river forest |
Highlights
- Southern Serengeti and Ndutu
- Central Serengeti (Seronera)
- Western Corridor
- Northern Serengeti
- Strategy for the Best Experience
01
Southern Serengeti and Ndutu
These open short-grass plains host the migration calving season between December and March. Expansive views and intense predator activity make this the premier choice for that window, with January to March offering the most consistent action.
02
Central Serengeti (Seronera)
Resident lion and leopard populations make Seronera a reliable year-round destination. While often busy, visiting during the April, May, or November rains offers a quieter atmosphere and lush scenery.
03
Western Corridor
The Grumeti River’s forest attracts the migration during May and June. Expect dramatic river crossings and large crocodiles, with significantly fewer vehicles than the northern reaches.
04
Northern Serengeti
The Mara River area hosts iconic crossings from July to October. This remote region is in high demand; we recommend booking camps nine to twelve months in advance.
05
Strategy for the Best Experience
To avoid crowds, consider private concessions for night drives or visit during the green season. Splitting your stay between two distinct regions is far better than attempting long day-trips.
Dos
- Wear neutral colours — khaki, olive, sand
- Pack layers for cold early game drives
- Stay seated and keep voices low near animals
- Follow your guide's instructions at all times
- Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen
Don'ts
- Don't wear bright colours, white or camouflage
- Don't feed or call to animals
- Don't leave the vehicle unless your guide says so
- Don't use drones — they need special permits
- Don't bring plastic bags (banned in Kenya and Tanzania)
What's usually included
- Accommodation in your chosen level
- Meals as listed in your itinerary
- Game drives with a professional guide
- Park and conservancy entry fees
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Published fees to plan around
Sources checked 7 October 2026 · US dollars · fees only, not full safari prices
| Fee | Published amount | Who and when |
|---|---|---|
| Ngorongoro Conservation Area · adult entry | US$70.80 | Non-East African citizen aged 16 or above, per person. Published permit is valid for one entry within 24 hours. Accommodation and vehicle charges are separate.Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority tariffs |
| Ngorongoro · crater service | US$295 | Non-East African citizens, per vehicle per crater trip, not per person. This is additional to conservation-area entry.Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority tariffs |
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
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Frequently asked questions
How many nights should I plan?
Four nights is the minimum. Splitting time between two regions ensures you appreciate the park's true scale.
When is the best value?
April, May, and November offer lower-season rates at many luxury camps.
Will I see the Big Five?
Four are common, but black rhino are rare; Ngorongoro Crater is better for rhino sightings.
