Musabi Plains

The topography is defined by vast, open plains that are framed by verdant acacia woodlands. This mix of open savanna and sheltering forest creates a diverse habitat that supports a massive variety of herbivores. A unique and iconic feature of the Musabi landscape is the presence of countless termite mounds. These mounds are more than just insect architecture; they serve as critical vantage points for the region’s resident wildlife and are a central element of the “theatre of the wild” that plays out across these flats.

Musabi is a specialist’s paradise, offering unique behavioral sightings and impressive resident populations:

• Topi Antelope: Musabi is the favored breeding ground for the topi, and the Serengeti as a whole boasts the largest population of these antelopes in Africa. They are famously seen standing atop termite mounds to scan for predators or to advertise their territorial status to rivals—a quintessential Musabi photo opportunity.
• The Elephant Stronghold: The Western Serengeti, and Musabi in particular, is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in the park. Now numbering over 2,000, these graceful giants have seen a steady increase since the 1989 ivory ban. They are well-protected here due to rigorous anti-poaching patrols and are frequently seen moving between the plains and the surrounding woodlands.
• Resident & Migratory Harmony: While the Great Migration passes through in May and June, Musabi supports a massive resident population of wildebeest and zebra that never leave the area. This permanent food source sustains healthy numbers of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.
• The National Emblem: The surrounding woodlands are dominated by the Maasai Giraffe. Because acacia trees flourish here, these “National Emblems of Tanzania” are found in abundance, feeding on the tender upper leaves that other browsers cannot reach.
• Diverse Herbivores: Beyond the “Big Five,” you will find a rich tapestry of eland, impala, waterbuck, buffalo, and Thomson’s gazelle, making every game drive in Musabi a layered and rewarding experience.