Solo 3-Day Offbeat Adventure: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
3 days
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 2
Walking Safari and Visit to Retima Hippo Pool
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.
Day 3
Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
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)
1Sunrise 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.
2Guided 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.
3Stargazing
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.
4Walking 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.
5Retima 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.
6Traditional 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.
7Ngorongoro 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.
Local Food and Drinks (11)
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 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, 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 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 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 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, 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 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, 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 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 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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Flight
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.
Drive
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 Safari
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
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
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.
Walk
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
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.
Important information
CurrencyTSh TZS
Time zoneUTC+3
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phone112, 999
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
A protected area and a World Heritage Site located 180 km west of Arusha in the Crater Highlands area of Tanzania.
Olduvai Gorge
A paleoanthropological site located in the eastern Serengeti Plains, which is a steep-sided ravine consisting of two branches.
Lake Victoria
Africa's largest lake by area, and it is the world's largest tropical lake.
Mount Kilimanjaro
A dormant volcano in Tanzania. It is the highest mountain in Africa, and rises approximately 4,900 m from its base to 5,895 metres above sea level.
Zanzibar
A semi-autonomous region of Tanzania. It is composed of the Zanzibar Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, 25–50 kilometres off the coast of the mainland.
Arusha National Park
A national park in northeastern Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border. The park has a wide range of habitats, from the string of crater lakes where many water birds can be watched, through the highland montane forest and on up to the imposing summit of Mount Meru.
