Solo 3-Day Offbeat Adventure: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

3 days

Serengeti National Park
Giraffes in the African savannah
Serengeti National Park
Group of backlit Ostrich at sunset
A migration of Wildebeest

About Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Experience the wild beauty of Tanzania with a visit to the Serengeti National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its annual migration of over 1.5 million white-bearded wildebeest and 250,000 zebras. The park is also home to the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Enjoy thrilling game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and walking tours. The Serengeti offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to tented camps, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the wilderness. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and diverse bird species, the Serengeti National Park promises an unforgettable African safari experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Hot Air Balloon Ride and Safari Tour

Morning

Start your day with a Sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti plains. This is a unique opportunity to see the park from a different perspective and spot wildlife from above.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch in the wilderness of the Serengeti. This is a great opportunity to take a break and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Afternoon

Embark on a Guided Safari Tour to explore the park's diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for the Big Five - lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalos.

Dinner

Enjoy a campfire dinner under the stars. This is a unique dining experience where you can listen to the sounds of the African night.

Evening

Spend the evening Stargazing. The Serengeti's remote location and lack of light pollution make it an excellent place for Stargazing.

Morning

Start your day with a guided Walking safari. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the park's flora and fauna.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Seronera River. This is a popular spot for wildlife viewing, especially hippos and crocodiles.

Afternoon

Visit the Retima Hippo Pool, a natural pool where you can observe hippos in their natural habitat.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian dinner at your camp. This is a great opportunity to try local dishes like ugali and nyama choma.

Evening

Spend the evening listening to Traditional Tanzanian music around the campfire. This is a great way to learn about the local culture.

Morning

Start your day with a game drive to the Ngorongoro Crater. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to see wildlife in Tanzania.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. The views here are breathtaking.

Afternoon

Explore the Ngorongoro Crater on a guided tour. This is a great opportunity to see a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and flamingos.

Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner at your camp. This is a great opportunity to reflect on your experiences and share stories with fellow travelers.

Evening

Spend your final evening in the Serengeti relaxing at your camp. This is a great opportunity to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the African wilderness.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

Sunrise hot air balloon ride

1
Sunrise hot air balloon ride

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Serengeti from above on a sunrise hot air balloon ride. This unique adventure offers a bird's eye view of the park's diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.

Tours
Entertainment
Guided Safari Tour

2
Guided Safari Tour

Experience the thrill of a lifetime with a guided safari tour through the Serengeti National Park. Witness the majestic wildlife in their natural habitat, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.

Tours
Cultural Experiences
Stargazing

3
Stargazing

Stargazing in Serengeti National Park is an unforgettable experience. The clear African skies, far from city lights, make it a perfect spot for astronomy enthusiasts and romantics alike.

Attractions
Entertainment
Walking safari

4
Walking safari

Get up close and personal with the wildlife of the Serengeti on a walking safari. Led by professional guides, this is a chance to learn about the flora and fauna of the park in a more intimate setting.

Tours
Sports
Cultural Experiences
Retima Hippo Pool

5
Retima Hippo Pool

Retima Hippo Pool is a popular tourist attraction in the Serengeti National Park, known for its large population of hippos. It is a unique opportunity to see these massive animals in their natural habitat.

Attractions
Parks
Traditional Tanzanian music

6
Traditional Tanzanian music

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania through its traditional music. A must-try for culture enthusiasts. The music is a blend of African rhythms, melodies, and instruments, creating a unique sound.

Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Ngorongoro Crater

7
Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. It's one of the best places in Tanzania to see the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Ugali

Ugali

A staple food in Tanzania, Ugali is a stiff, cornmeal porridge often served with a sauce of meat, fish, or cooked vegetables. It's a must-try for visitors to Serengeti National Park.

Chapati

Chapati

Chapati is a type of unleavened bread that is common in Tanzania. It is often served with stews, curries, or used to scoop up other dishes.

Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma, which translates to 'grilled meat', is a popular Tanzanian barbecue dish. It is typically made with goat or chicken and is a common food to enjoy while visiting Serengeti National Park.

Mishkaki

Mishkaki

Mishkaki is the Tanzanian version of skewered, grilled meat, similar to a kebab. It's a popular street food and a delicious treat for visitors to the Serengeti.

Mandazi

Mandazi

Mandazi is a sweet, deep-fried bread similar to a doughnut. It's a popular snack or breakfast item in Tanzania and a must-try for visitors to the Serengeti.

Pilau

Pilau

Pilau is a spiced rice dish often cooked with meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices. It's a common dish in Tanzania and a delicious option for visitors to the Serengeti.

Ndizi Kaanga

Ndizi Kaanga

Ndizi Kaanga, or fried bananas, is a popular side dish in Tanzania. It's often served with meat dishes and is a tasty treat for visitors to the Serengeti.

Kachumbari

Kachumbari

Kachumbari is a fresh tomato and onion salad often seasoned with hot peppers. It's a common accompaniment to meals in Tanzania and a refreshing option for visitors to the Serengeti.

Wali na Maharage

Wali na Maharage

Wali na Maharage, or rice and beans, is a staple dish in Tanzania. It's often served with a side of vegetables or meat and is a hearty meal for visitors to the Serengeti.

Samosas

Samosas

Samosas are a popular snack in Tanzania. These deep-fried pastries are typically filled with spiced potatoes, lentils, or meat and are a tasty treat for visitors to the Serengeti.

Safari Lager

Safari Lager

Safari Lager is a popular Tanzanian beer. It's a refreshing drink to enjoy while exploring the Serengeti National Park.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, is during the dry season, which runs from late June to October. During this period, the weather is less humid and there are fewer mosquitoes. It's also the best time to witness the Great Migration of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle. However, if you're interested in bird watching, the best time would be during the wet season, from November to May, when migratory birds are present. Please note that the park is open and offers different attractions all year round.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 12

Fri

Zanzibar Revolution Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 7

Sun

Karume Day

April 10

Wed

Eid el Fitri

April 11

Thu

Eid el Fitri Holiday

April 26

Fri

Union Day

May 1

Wed

Worker's Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha

July 7

Sun

Saba Saba

August 8

Thu

Farmers' Day

September 16

Mon

Maulid

October 14

Mon

Mwalimu Nyerere Day

December 9

Mon

Independence Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Flights are available from Arusha to the Serengeti. There are several airstrips in the park that are serviced by regional airlines. This is the quickest but also the most expensive way to get to the park.

You can drive from Arusha to the Serengeti. The journey takes about 8 hours and you will need a 4x4 vehicle. This is a good option if you want to see the countryside and take your time getting to the park.

Guided safaris are the most common way to get around in the Serengeti. These are typically arranged by tour operators and include transportation, accommodation, and meals. The guides are knowledgeable about the park and its wildlife, and they know the best places and times to see the animals.

Hot air balloon rides are available in the Serengeti. These typically take place in the early morning and provide a unique perspective of the park and its wildlife. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many visitors highly recommend.

Game drives are the main way to get around and see wildlife in the Serengeti. These are typically done in 4x4 vehicles and are either private or shared with other visitors. Game drives can be done at different times of the day, but early morning and late afternoon drives are often the best for seeing wildlife.

Walking safaris are another way to explore the Serengeti. These are guided by professional guides and provide a more intimate experience with the park's wildlife and landscapes. However, they are not recommended for everyone due to the physical demands and potential risks.

Ridesharing is not commonly used in the Serengeti due to the remote nature of the park and the lack of infrastructure. Most visitors arrange transportation through a tour operator or hire a private vehicle.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyTSh TZS

Time zoneUTC+3

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phone112, 999

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type DPower socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Serengeti National Park, Tanzania as a first time visitor

1

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania and extends to southwestern Kenya.

2

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from late June to August, during the wildebeest migration.

3

The park's official language is Swahili, but English is widely spoken.

4

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, but US dollars are also widely accepted.

5

Credit cards are not widely accepted in the park, so it's advisable to carry enough cash.

6

The park is in a malarial zone, so it's recommended to take anti-malarial medication and use mosquito repellent.

7

The park's altitude ranges from 3,020 feet to 6,070 feet (920 meters to 1,850 meters), which can affect those with altitude sickness.

8

The park's climate is generally warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C).

9

During the rainy season (March to May), some roads may become impassable.

10

It's advisable to dress in layers, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.

11

It's important to respect the park's rules, such as not feeding the animals and not leaving the vehicle except in designated areas.

12

It's recommended to hire a local guide, as they are knowledgeable about the park's wildlife and can help spot animals.

13

There are several accommodation options in and around the park, ranging from budget campsites to luxury lodges.

14

It's advisable to book accommodation and tours in advance, especially during the peak season.

15

The park has limited medical facilities, so it's recommended to bring a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications.

16

Tap water is not safe to drink in the park. Bottled water is widely available.

17

There is limited cell phone coverage in the park, so it's advisable to arrange communication methods in advance.

18

It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as the nearest major hospital is in Arusha, over 200 miles away.

19

The park's entrance fee is $60 per adult per day, and it's payable in US dollars.

20

Photography is allowed, but it's important to respect the animals' space and not disturb them.

Basic Swahili to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Habari

ha-ba-ri

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Kwaheri

kwa-he-ri

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Tafadhali

ta-fa-dha-li

Making a request

Thank you

Asante

a-san-te

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ndiyo

ndi-yo

Agreeing or confirming

No

Hapana

ha-pana

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Samahani

sa-ma-ha-ni

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Sielewi

si-e-le-wi

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

Unazungumza Kiingereza?

u-na-zun-gum-za kiin-ge-re-za

When you need to speak in English

Help

Msaada

msa-ada

When you need assistance

Bathroom

Choo

cho-o

When you need to use the restroom

Food

Chakula

cha-ku-la

When you're looking for something to eat

Water

Maji

ma-ji

When you need water

Where is...?

Wapi...?

wa-pi

When you're looking for a specific place or thing

How much?

Ni kiasi gani?

ni ki-a-si ga-ni

When you want to know the price of something

I'm sorry

Ninaomba radhi

ni-na-om-ba ra-dhi

When you want to apologize

Good night

Usiku mwema

u-si-ku mwe-ma

Saying goodnight

Good morning

Habari za asubuhi

ha-ba-ri za a-su-bu-hi

Greeting in the morning

I'm lost

Nimepotea

ni-me-po-tea

When you can't find your way

Can you help me?

Unaweza kunisaidia?

u-na-we-za ku-ni-sai-dia

When you need help

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Long-sleeved shirts

  • Long pants

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Rain jacket or poncho

  • Warm jacket or fleece for cool nights

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Soap or body wash

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Lip balm

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Emergency contact information

  • Cash and credit cards

  • Driver's license

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Camera

  • Extra memory cards

  • Binoculars

  • Mobile phone

  • Chargers for all devices

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or magazines

  • Travel guide or map

  • Notebook and pen

  • Torch or flashlight

  • Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Visiting Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is a thrilling experience, but it's important to be prepared for the weather conditions. The park experiences two main seasons: the dry season from late June to October, and the wet season from November to May. During the dry season, the weather is typically sunny and dry with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). This is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. However, it can get quite chilly at night, so it's advisable to pack some warm clothing. The wet season is characterized by heavy rainfall, especially in the months of March, April, and May. The temperatures during this season range from 61°F to 81°F (16°C to 27°C). The landscape is lush and beautiful, but the roads can be muddy and difficult to navigate. Therefore, it's essential to have a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to drive. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to pack a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong African sun. Also, don't forget to bring a good pair of binoculars for wildlife viewing and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. Remember, the weather can change quickly in the Serengeti, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before heading out for the day.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

32° / 15°

January is the middle of the short dry season with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 32°C. It's a good time to visit as the wildlife is easier to spot.

February

32° / 15°

February is the end of the short dry season, with temperatures similar to January. The Great Migration typically begins around this time.

March

32° / 16°

March marks the beginning of the long rainy season. The temperatures are slightly higher, but the rain can make some roads impassable.

April

30° / 16°

April is the wettest month in Serengeti, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 30°C. It's less crowded, but wildlife viewing can be challenging due to the rains.

May

29° / 15°

May is the end of the long rainy season. The temperatures start to decrease, and the park begins to dry out.

June

28° / 14°

June marks the beginning of the long dry season. The temperatures are cooler, and it's an excellent time for wildlife viewing.

July

28° / 14°

July is in the middle of the long dry season. The temperatures are similar to June, and it's a popular time for tourists due to the Great Migration.

August

29° / 15°

August continues the long dry season. The temperatures start to increase slightly, but it's still a great time for wildlife viewing.

September

30° / 15°

September is the end of the long dry season. The temperatures continue to increase, making it a hot but excellent time for wildlife viewing.

October

31° / 16°

October marks the beginning of the short rainy season. The temperatures are higher, and there are fewer tourists.

November

31° / 16°

November is in the middle of the short rainy season. The temperatures are similar to October, but the rain can make some roads impassable.

December

32° / 15°

December is the end of the short rainy season. The temperatures are similar to January, making it a good time to visit for wildlife viewing.

Did you know?

Did you know that Serengeti National Park is one of the oldest and most popular national parks in Tanzania, and it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

1 of 10

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