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Northern safari circuit

Overview

The Serengeti is the heart of a vast ecosystem whose species-rich animal world is unique in the world. Each year the great migration involves over 1.4 million wildebeest, nearly 300,000 Thomson’s gazelles and about 200,000 zebras. With about 3 million larger mammals — including some 3,000 lions, around 300 cheetahs and an estimated 400–700 leopards — the Serengeti is the national park with the richest wildlife worldwide.

The central Serengeti is where wildlife populations are largest and is especially good for all three big cats; in the quieter north you see wildlife in a beautiful setting with few other people around.

Highlights

  • The Great Migration
  • All three big cats in the central Serengeti
  • Quiet northern plains
  • Kopjes and flat-topped acacias

Where it is

Ngorongoro Conservation AreaLake Manyara NPArusha NPLake NatronLake EyasiL. ManyaraOl Doinyo LengaiMt MeruOlduvai GorgeKaratuMto wa MbuMakuyuniNamanga★Central Serengeti⚑Arusha50 km
  1. ★Central Serengeti
  2. ⚑Arusha
  • Drive from Arusha
  • National park / conservation area
Illustrative map — roads and distances are approximate.

Seasons

Dry season (June–October)

Short grass and animals gathered near water — the easiest game viewing.

Short rains (November–December)

Brief showers, green plains and fewer visitors.

Green season (January–March)

Lush landscapes, newborn animals and active predators.

Long rains (April–May)

Quiet and green; some roads are muddier.

Trips that visit Serengeti National Park

All safaris