When people hear "Serengeti," they often think of the world-famous Great Migration—a natural spectacle that sees over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles traverse the vast plains of Serengeti National Park. While this phenomenon is undoubtedly one of nature's grandest displays, the Serengeti offers much more than just the migration. With an abundance of wildlife and diverse ecosystems, this iconic Tanzanian park is a year-round haven for wildlife enthusiasts and first-time safari-goers alike.
Stretching across 14,750 square kilometers, Serengeti National Park is one of the largest protected areas in Africa. Its name means "endless plains" in the Maasai language, and it's an apt description of the park's expansive grasslands. These plains form just part of a dynamic ecosystem that also includes acacia woodlands, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops known as kopjes.
This variety of habitats supports an incredible diversity of wildlife beyond the migratory species, making the Serengeti a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Tanzania’s natural beauty. The park's distinct regions cater to different wildlife experiences, from the northern woodlands teeming with elephants to the central Seronera Valley, where predators roam freely in search of prey.
While the Great Migration is a seasonal event, many species in the Serengeti are permanent residents, ensuring exciting wildlife encounters no matter when you visit. From the mighty "Big Five"—lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos—to smaller, lesser-known animals like servals, honey badgers, and aardvarks, the park's biodiversity is staggering.
The Serengeti is especially renowned for its predators. The park is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of lions, often seen basking on kopjes or stalking prey in the grasslands. The elusive leopard is frequently spotted in the Seronera area, lounging in trees, while cheetahs—famed for their speed—prefer the open plains, where they can sprint after their prey.
Hyenas, often unfairly labelled as scavengers, are highly successful hunters here, and their eerie calls are a familiar soundtrack in the park’s night-time ambiance. African wild dogs, though rare, can also be seen in parts of the Serengeti, particularly in the less-visited northern areas.
Beyond the famous wildebeest and zebra, the Serengeti hosts a wide variety of herbivores. Giraffes glide through the acacia forests, nibbling on treetops, while large herds of elephants traverse the park, often stopping near water sources for a refreshing drink. The sight of a family of elephants silhouetted against the Serengeti’s golden sunset is one of the park’s most magical experiences.
The Serengeti is also a birder's paradise, with over 500 species recorded. From colourful lilac-breasted rollers and majestic eagles to flamingos that flock to the seasonal soda lakes, the park offers something for everyone. Birdlife thrives throughout the year, adding yet another layer of wonder to the Serengeti safaris.
The Serengeti is often associated with the Great Migration, but its magic doesn’t end when the herds move on. The park is a living, breathing ecosystem that thrives year-round. Visitors who take the time to explore beyond the migration will discover a rich tapestry of life, from playful primates to rare predators.
For first-time safari-goers, the Serengeti offers an ideal introduction to Africa’s wildlife in Tanzania. For seasoned wildlife enthusiasts, it provides new surprises with every visit, as no two days are ever the same on these endless plains.
Whether you're witnessing the raw power of a lion hunt or marveling at the intricate dance of a weaverbird constructing its nest, Serengeti safaris deliver unforgettable moments at every turn. So, while the Great Migration is a bucket-list item, the Serengeti’s true magic lies in its ability to astonish and inspire—no matter the season.
Discover the Serengeti beyond the migration! Contact us to plan your personalized Serengeti adventure today.
Due to the recent Covid 19 worldwide pandemic, to keep our guests and indeed our staff safe, we have made some changes to Safari By Z that we would like to make you aware. We believe that with careful planning and consideration by our staff and guests we can continue to provide the best hospitality services on safari. For now, this may be our new norm.
New routines:
All our staff have received full training in health and safety-related to the COVID-19 virus and are required to be extra vigilant with their personal hygiene and daily routines.
Health condition of driver-guides will be monitored for not less than a week before being assigned to take clients on safari.
City transfer and safari vehicles will be regularly disinfected before picking up clients, especially the high-touch surfaces and seats.
Our meet and greet teams at airports will still be there to accompany guests into transfer vehicles. While our vehicles are already cleaned between transfers, they will now also be disinfected between each use.
To keep social distancing, safari vehicles with 4-window seats will be redesigned to take only 2 people in the passenger cabin. Safari vehicles with 6-window seats will still be available for families/group of friends wishing to travel together in one vehicle.
The driver-guide will be at hand to oversee guests observe the recommended physical distancing at park entry gates, picnic sites, and while checking in at accommodation facilities.
Each guest will receive their own adventure kit, which includes a Wildlife Guides' Journal, mini fan and hand sanitizers, as well as a pair of binoculars – all in cleaned before each new set of guests
The driver-guide will take necessary personal protection precautions at all times. Guests are encouraged to come with their own masks;
Please be assured that all our selection of partner properties we work with have their strict COVID-19 hygiene practises in place.
Tanzania wasn't Really affected by Covid 19 to the same extent as most other countries, especially those in Europe and South America.
However, we will keep the above measures in place for your peace of mind. Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to welcoming you to the Tanzania for your African safari holiday of a lifetime.
