Top Places to Visit in the Serengeti
At Royal Climb and Safaris, we believe that every journey through the Serengeti is a story waiting to be written. From endless plains teeming with wildlife to hidden corners bursting with natural wonder, the Serengeti is not just a destination—it’s an experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re here for the Great Migration or just to soak in the magic of Tanzania’s most iconic national park, here are the must-visit spots in the Serengeti you don’t want to miss.
1. Seronera Valley – Heart of the Serengeti
Seronera is the central region of the Serengeti and one of the best places in Africa for game viewing all year round. It offers a high concentration of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and hippos. The Seronera River, which flows through the area, attracts animals even during the dry season. This is also where you’ll spot the elusive leopard lounging on acacia trees.
Best for: Year-round game viewing, big cats, and hot air balloon safaris.
2. Northern Serengeti – Great Migration Crossing Point
This remote and less crowded part of the Serengeti comes alive between July and October as hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras make their dramatic river crossings over the Mara River. The sight of crocodiles waiting and the thunderous sound of hooves hitting the riverbank is something you’ll never forget.
Best for: Witnessing the Mara River crossing during the Great Migration.
3. Western Corridor – Grumeti River Drama
The Western Corridor is where the Grumeti River winds through dense forests and open savannah. Between May and July, the migration herds pass through this area, and the river becomes a battleground between prey and predator. Giant crocodiles and large prides of lions make this area one of the most thrilling for safari lovers.
Best for: Crocodile encounters, unique landscapes, and early-season migration viewing.
4. Southern Serengeti – Ndutu Plains and Calving Season
From December to March, the Southern Serengeti, especially the Ndutu region, becomes the birthing ground for thousands of wildebeest calves. This is the calving season—an incredible time to witness newborns taking their first steps and predators like cheetahs and hyenas lurking nearby. The flat, open plains are picture-perfect and filled with wildlife action.
Best for: Calving season, predator action, and photography.
5. Moru Kopjes – Serengeti’s Rocky Outcrops
Moru Kopjes are large granite rock formations that break up the otherwise flat plains. These unique formations serve as lookouts and hiding spots for lions and leopards. The area is also home to some of the few remaining black rhinos in the Serengeti and contains ancient Maasai rock paintings.
Best for: Scenic views, black rhino sightings, and cultural history.
6. Lobo Area – Untouched Wilderness
Lobo lies in the northeastern Serengeti, near the Kenyan border. This is one of the most scenic parts of the park with rolling hills, woodlands, and open plains. It’s less frequented by tourists, making it ideal for those who want an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Best for: Privacy, scenic landscapes, and peaceful game drives.
7. Retina Hippo Pool – Close-Up Encounters
Located near Seronera, this hippo pool is a popular stop where visitors can safely get out of their vehicles to watch dozens of hippos wallowing and grunting in the water. The close proximity and unique setting make it a fun and interactive stop during your safari.
Best for: Hippo watching and picnic breaks.
Best Time to Visit the Serengeti
The Serengeti is a year-round safari destination, and every season offers something unique. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration, dreaming of predator sightings, or just soaking in the wild beauty of Tanzania, there’s no wrong time to visit. At Royal Climb and Safaris, we help you choose the best time based on what you want to experience.
December to March – Calving Season (Southern Serengeti / Ndutu Plains)
This is when the Great Migration settles in the nutrient-rich Ndutu Plains to give birth. Over 500,000 calves are born in just a few weeks, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. It’s dramatic, raw, and perfect for photographers.
Highlights:
- Thousands of wildebeest calves being born
- Intense predator activity
- Beautiful green landscapes
Recommended Area: Southern Serengeti / Ndutu
April to May – Green Season (Quiet and Lush)
This is the Serengeti’s rainy season, with fewer tourists and lush, green landscapes. Wildlife is still abundant, and prices are lower. While the migration starts moving west, this is a peaceful time to explore.
Highlights:
- Fewer crowds
- Great birdwatching
- Lush scenery and dramatic skies
Recommended Area: Central and Western Serengeti
June to July – Western Corridor & Grumeti River Crossings
This is when the herds head towards the Western Corridor, where dramatic river crossings occur at the Grumeti River. Crocodiles lie in wait as thousands of wildebeest push forward.
Highlights:
- Grumeti River drama
- Beginning of the dry season
- Perfect temperatures for game drives
Recommended Area: Western Serengeti
August to October – Northern Serengeti & Mara River Crossings
This is peak migration season in the north, where herds cross the Mara River—often facing strong currents and massive crocodiles. This spectacle is among Africa’s most iconic wildlife moments.
Highlights:
- Mara River crossings
- High predator density
- Fewer crowds in remote areas
Recommended Area: Northern Serengeti
November – Short Rains & Transition
The rains begin again, and the herds start migrating back to the south. Landscapes turn green, and the air feels fresh. It’s a time of movement, transition, and change.
Highlights:
- Lower rates
- Migratory movement
- Soft lighting for photography
Recommended Area: Central Serengeti
So When Should You Visit?
- For the Great Migration River Crossings: July to October
- For Calving and Predator Action: December to March
- For Fewer Crowds and Budget-Friendly Travel: April to May or November
No matter when you choose to visit, Royal Climb and Safaris will guide you to the right location at the right time. With our local expertise, professional guides, and deep understanding of the Serengeti’s rhythms, we ensure every safari is unforgettable.
