Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti ecosystem supports not only the largest herds of migrating ungulates but also the highest concentrations of large predators in the world. At a quick glance, the numbers are astonishing. Estimates put the wildebeest at about 1.7 million, zebras at 250,000 and Thomson’s gazelles at about 440,000. Hyenas are the most numerous of the large carnivores at about 9,000, lions at 2,800 and leopards at about 1,000. In general, cheetahs live at much lower densities than other large predators. However, the Serengeti boasts the highest density of cheetah in Africa (at certain times of year) with up to 40 animals per 60 square miles found on short grass plains during the wet season.

The Serengeti is the most famous national park in Africa and is the best place for wildlife viewing for a variety of reasons. First, the variety and abundance of animals you will likely encounter exploring the Serengeti is far greater than any other park in Africa. With a couple well-planned days (adjusted for seasonal wildlife movements), you will likely see representatives of just about every large and medium sized animal in East Africa. Every day, every game drive and every horizon brings new, exciting and unexpected wildlife encounters.Second, the Serengeti National Park offers exceptional year round game viewing. Though much of the wildlife in the Serengeti is migratory, abundant wildlife concentrations can be found throughout the year by basing yourself in the appropriate areas depending on your specific month of travel. Additionally, resident animals are plentiful. Regardless of when you travel, both resident and migratory animals can be found due to the size and nature of the Serengeti.

Third, the Serengeti encompasses a massive and pristine wilderness area. Thousands of square miles filled with plentiful wildlife beckon your exploration. Because of its large size, the Serengeti has retained a raw and wild feel that many of the other parks in Africa have lost. There are a few areas of the Serengeti including the Seronera Valley that may feel congested during peak travel months. Once outside these tourist areas and off the main arteries, you will likely encounter very few other visitors. The unpredictability of such a large area filled with so many large carnivores and herbivores makes for an adventure of the grandest proportion.
Fourth, the Serengeti ecosystem encompasses a variety of habitats providing for a diverse and well-rounded safari. There are short grass plains, long grass savannahs, riverine areas, open woodlands, thick bush, wetlands, mountains and lakes. The south and east are home to the famous Serengeti plains where over two million animals congregate in the wet season. The central areas are home to the Serengeti’s famous lion prides and resident leopards. The remote western and northern corridors are home to the woodlands and offer wild and off the beaten path game viewing.

Lastly, the Serengeti rests on huge plateau situated at an altitude ranging from 6,000 feet in the east to 4,000 feet in the west. This means that the strong equatorial sun is tempered and conditions are ideal for comfortable game viewing. The weather is generally pleasant and temperatures rarely exceed 85 degrees.