Things to Do in Serengeti National Park Safari Tours

Serengeti National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic and awe-inspiring destinations, renowned for its vast landscapes, incredible wildlife, and the world-famous Great Migration. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Serengeti National Park Safari tours offer countless opportunities for exploration. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the top things to do during your Serengeti safari adventure.

1. Witness the Great Migration

One of the most spectacular natural events on Earth, the Great Migration, is an absolute must-see in the Serengeti. Every year, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in a circular pattern between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grazing lands.

While the timing of the migration can vary due to rainfall patterns, it typically occurs from June to October. If you’re planning your Serengeti National Park Safari tour during these months, you’ll have the chance to witness dramatic river crossings, where herds of wildebeest and zebras brave crocodile-infested waters. It’s an unforgettable experience of nature’s raw power and beauty.

2. Go on Game Drives

Game drives are the cornerstone of any safari, and the Serengeti is one of the best places on the planet for them. With an incredibly diverse array of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), you’ll have ample opportunity to spot animals in their natural habitat.

Serengeti National Park Safari tours offer both morning and evening game drives, allowing you to witness the animals’ activities at different times of day. Early morning game drives are great for spotting predators, while evening drives allow you to catch the Serengeti’s breathtaking sunsets. Many tours also offer full-day game drives, which allow you to venture deep into the park’s more remote areas.

3. Hot Air Balloon Safaris

If you’re looking for a unique perspective on the Serengeti’s vast plains, a hot air balloon safari is an unforgettable experience. Floating silently above the landscape at dawn, you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife and the stunning scenery. It’s a peaceful and surreal way to observe the animals below as they begin their day.

After your balloon ride, many tours include a champagne breakfast in the bush, where you can savor a delicious meal amidst the serene surroundings of the park.

4. Visit the Seronera Valley

The Seronera Valley, located in the heart of the Serengeti, is one of the park’s prime wildlife viewing areas. Known for its abundance of big cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, this area provides excellent opportunities for up-close encounters with these majestic predators. The Seronera River, which runs through the valley, attracts a variety of animals, ensuring there is always something exciting to see.

If you’re interested in observing the behavior of big cats, Serengeti National Park Safari tours often spend time in the Seronera Valley, giving you ample time to capture photos and witness the intricate interactions between predator and prey.

5. Explore the Ngorongoro Crater

Although technically outside of Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater is a must-visit attraction that is often included in many Serengeti National Park Safari tours. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world and is home to a dense population of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and the critically endangered black rhino.

The crater floor offers some of the best game viewing in Tanzania, and the dramatic scenery—surrounded by the towering walls of the crater—makes it an unforgettable experience.

6. Cultural Visits to Maasai Villages

In addition to its incredible wildlife, the Serengeti region is also home to the Maasai people, a semi-nomadic tribe known for their distinctive customs, colorful dress, and warrior traditions. Many Serengeti National Park Safari tours include visits to Maasai villages, where you can learn about their traditional way of life, participate in their vibrant dances, and experience their deep connection to the land.

Visiting a Maasai village offers valuable insight into how these communities coexist with wildlife and maintain their centuries-old traditions in the modern world.

7. Bird Watching

While the Serengeti is most famous for its large mammals, it’s also a bird watcher’s paradise. The park is home to over 500 species of birds, including vibrant flamingos, ostriches, and various birds of prey like eagles and vultures.

If you’re interested in bird watching, many Serengeti National Park Safari tours cater to this niche, taking you to areas where different species congregate. The seasonal wetlands, riverine forests, and grasslands of the Serengeti provide diverse habitats that attract a wide variety of birdlife throughout the year.

8. Walking Safaris

For those looking for a more intimate and immersive experience, walking safaris in the Serengeti offer a unique way to explore the park. Accompanied by experienced guides and armed rangers, walking safaris allow you to explore the Serengeti on foot and gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystem.

You’ll learn about the smaller, often overlooked aspects of the bush, such as animal tracks, plants, insects, and the habits of smaller animals. It’s a more personal and hands-on way to connect with the Serengeti’s natural beauty.

9. Sunset and Night Safaris

While daytime game drives are the norm, night safaris offer a completely different experience. As the sun sets over the Serengeti, the park transforms, with nocturnal animals like hyenas, leopards, and aardvarks becoming active. Night safaris allow you to witness the behaviors of animals that are rarely seen during the day.

During a sunset or night safari, your guide will use a spotlight to help you spot the elusive creatures of the night. It’s an exhilarating and eerie experience, perfect for adventurous travelers looking to see a different side of the Serengeti.

10. Photography Safaris

With its dramatic landscapes and abundance of wildlife, the Serengeti is a dream destination for photographers. Many Serengeti National Park Safari tours are designed specifically for photographers, providing ample time for you to set up shots and capture the perfect moment. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, the Serengeti offers endless opportunities to snap incredible photos of lions, elephants, and the iconic African sunset.

Experienced guides often know the best spots for photography and can help position you for optimal lighting and proximity to the animals, ensuring you leave with stunning images of your safari adventure.