Tanzania's Parks

Northern Serengeti

• January - March: Calving Season: Great Migration's wildebeest calving, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

• June - July: River Crossings: Wildebeest herds move northward, leading to dramatic river crossings in Grumeti and Mara Rivers. Crocodiles and big cats are often seen.

• August - October: Herds in Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara. Predators follow migration, offering excellent chances to see lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Western Serengeti (Grumeti Reserves)

• June - July: River Crossings: Wildebeest cross Grumeti River, attracting predators and providing incredible wildlife sightings.

Central Serengeti

• December - March: Wildebeest Calving: Herds give birth in southern Serengeti, attracting predators and offering circle of life sightings.

• June - July: Migration Arrival: Wildebeest move towards central Serengeti, bringing predators along.

• November - December: Short rainy season makes central Serengeti lush, attracting animals for grazing and water.

Southern Serengeti

• December - March: Calving Season: Wildebeest calving, offering spectacular wildlife viewing and attracting predators.

• April - May: Green Season: Area becomes greener after rains, drawing grazers and predators.

Throughout the Year

• Lions, leopards, and cheetahs present in various parts of Serengeti year-round.

• Elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and other animals often seen throughout the park.

Please note that this information is a general guide and wildlife behavior can vary due to various factors. Always consult with our tour operators for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Originally the Maasai people inhabited the land that currently comes under Serengeti National Park. After the British evicted the Maasai from the land, they oversaw the region. Today the park is under the authority of Tanzania National Parks Authority. 

• 1892: Oscar Baumann is the first European explorer to visit Serengeti.

• 1890: Serengeti faced ‘Rinderpest Epidemic’ and drought during 1890, which wiped out a majority of the animal population along with many Maasai people.

• 1913: As the Serengeti was recovering from these losses, Stewart Edward White, the first American Explorer to the region, came across the Serengeti. He described it as the ‘haunt of swarms of the game.’ During their stay in Serengeti, Stewart and his companions hunted and shot 50 lions.

• 1921: Due to big game hunting the population of lions declined, which led the British administration’s decision to establish a partial game reserve of 3.24 square kilometres. 

• 1929: Serengeti’s reserve status changed from a partial to a full game reserve.

• 1950: The reserve gained popularity when Bernhard and Michael Grzimek, a father-son duo, produced the documentary Serengeti Shall Not Die.

• 1951: The Serengeti Game Reserve was converted to National Park status and the British colonial administration gradually expanded the park to its current size of 14,763 square kilometres. 

• 1959: Up to 1,959 Maasai people lived on the land and shared it with the wildlife. However, they were evicted from the area so that the British administration could secure it for wild animals. The British displaced them to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which encompassed desolate lands and arid plains. 

• 1981: Serengeti National Park becomes part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

• 1991: Although the debate of whether the population of wild dogs became extinct or went missing still exists and there are currently no wild dogs in Serengeti National Park.

• 1994: The Canine Distemper Epidemic leads to the death of almost one-third of the lion population.

Serengeti National Park is known for its remarkable biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. 

The annual Serengeti wildebeest migration has made Serengeti National Park one of the most renowned safari destinations on the planet. Every year more than 1 million wildebeest, thousands of zebras, and gazelle start a journey from the Serengeti Plains towards Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Their journey for fresh grazing and water is full of danger from the predators that follow these herds. 

Here are some statistics that provide an overview of the wildlife in the Serengeti:

Mammals: The park is home to more than 70 large mammal species, including the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros).

Predators: The Serengeti has one of the largest populations of predators in Africa, including approximately 3,000 lions and a significant number of cheetahs and hyenas.

Herbivores: The park supports large herds of herbivores, including over a million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras, and antelope species such as Thomson's gazelles and impalas.

Birds: There are over 500 bird species recorded in the Serengeti, ranging from raptors, waterbirds, secretary birds, helmeted guinea fowls, crowned cranes, yellow-billed stork, southern ground hornbill, grey-breasted spurfowl, and everything in between. 

Reptiles: The park is home to various reptile species, including crocodiles in the rivers and several snake species.

Amphibians: The Serengeti also hosts amphibians such as frogs and toads, which contribute to the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem.

Insects: The insect diversity in the Serengeti is incredibly high, with a wide variety of butterflies, beetles, and other insects playing essential roles in the ecosystem.

The Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania, extending into southwestern Kenya. It covers an area of approximately 14,763 square kilometers (5,700 square miles).

The Serengeti is part of the "Northern Circuit" - a collection of world-famous national parks and conservation areas that offer an unforgettable safari experience. Key parks include: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and Arusha National Park.

The best time to visit Tarangire National Park in Tanzania depends on your specific interests and what you'd like to experience during your safari. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons and what you can expect:

Dry Season (June - October):

• This is considered the peak tourist season due to the dry weather and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Animals gather around the Tarangire River and other water sources, providing excellent chances to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and more.

• Vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot animals in the open landscapes.

• The park's iconic baobab trees stand out against the clear skies, offering excellent photographic opportunities.

• Temperatures are cooler and more comfortable during this time.

Green Season (November - May):

• This period includes the wetter months, with the heaviest rains falling in April and May.

• The landscape becomes lush and green, attracting migratory birds and a different array of wildlife.

• Fewer tourists visit during this time, resulting in a more serene and exclusive safari experience.

• The presence of water sources throughout the park means that animals are more spread out, making wildlife spotting a bit more challenging.

• Rates for accommodations and tours may be lower during the green season, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Calving Season (December - March):

• This period sees the arrival of newborn animals, including wildebeest and other herbivores. Predators are often drawn to the young animals, creating opportunities for dramatic wildlife interactions.

• The lush greenery provides a picturesque backdrop for wildlife photography.

• The green season also offers birdwatching opportunities, with migratory birds visiting the park.

The history of Tarangire National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is a tale of conservation efforts and natural wonders that have made it a vital part of the region's ecosystem. Here's an overview of its history:

Early Inhabitants:

• The area around Tarangire has a long history of human habitation, dating back thousands of years. The Maasai people, known for their traditional herding lifestyle, have lived in this region for generations, coexisting with the wildlife that call Tarangire home.

Wildlife Protection Initiatives:

• Tarangire's significance as a habitat for wildlife was recognized early on. In 1957, a portion of the land was set aside as a game reserve, primarily to protect the elephant population that had been facing threats due to poaching.

National Park Establishment:

• In 1970, Tarangire was officially designated as a national park, ensuring even stronger protection for its unique ecosystems and diverse wildlife. The park's boundaries were expanded, further enhancing its role in conservation.

Conservation and Tourism:

• Tarangire's conservation efforts have been instrumental in safeguarding its ecosystems and wildlife. The park has also become a popular destination for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts, offering them a chance to witness the incredible diversity of species in their natural habitats.

Today, Tarangire National Park stands as a testament to the power of conservation initiatives, showcasing the beauty of Tanzania's wildlife and landscapes while highlighting the importance of protecting and preserving these natural treasures for future generations.

Tarangire National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems. Here are some statistics that provide an overview of the wildlife in Tarangire National Park:

Mammals: The park is home to a variety of mammal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, waterbucks, elands, and more.

Birds: Tarangire is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 550 bird species recorded. These include various raptors, waterbirds, and endemic species such as the yellow-collared lovebird.

Elephant Herds: Tarangire is famous for its large population of African elephants, which can be seen in massive herds during the dry season as they gather around the Tarangire River.

Baobab Trees: The park is adorned with iconic baobab trees, offering a unique and picturesque landscape that's particularly striking during sunset.

Predators: In addition to lions and leopards, the park is also home to cheetahs, spotted hyenas, and smaller predators like servals and African wild cats.

Giraffes: Tarangire is known for its high concentration of Masai giraffes, making it an excellent place to observe these elegant creatures.

Migration: During the dry season (June to October), the park becomes a vital refuge for migrating wildebeests and zebras as they search for water and grazing areas.

The Tarangire National Park is part of the "Northern Circuit" - a collection of world-famous national parks and conservation areas that offer an unforgettable safari experience. Key parks include: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and Arusha National Park.

The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania depends on your preferences and what you'd like to experience during your visit. Here are the main factors to consider:

Dry Season (June - October):

• This is the peak tourist season due to the dry weather and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Animals tend to congregate around water sources, including Lake Manyara itself, making it easier to spot them.

• The park's famous tree-climbing lions are more likely to be seen resting on the branches of acacia trees.

• The clear skies and pleasant temperatures create ideal conditions for game drives and wildlife photography.

Wet Season (November - May):

• This period includes the rainy months, with the heaviest rainfall usually occurring in April and May.

• The landscape becomes lush and green, attracting migratory birds and offering a different perspective of the park's beauty.

• Fewer tourists visit during the wet season, allowing for a quieter and more exclusive experience.

• Birdwatching is excellent, with an abundance of bird species visiting the park.

• Although wildlife may be more dispersed due to the availability of water sources, you can still encounter animals.

Birding Season (November - April):

• These months are particularly good for bird enthusiasts, as many migratory bird species visit the park during this time.

• The park's diverse habitats, including the lake and surrounding woodlands, attract a wide variety of birdlife.

Flower Season (November - December):

• During these months, the park's wildflowers are in bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park depends on your interests. If you're focused on wildlife viewing, comfortable temperatures, and the chance to see tree-climbing lions, the dry season is recommended. If you enjoy lush landscapes, birdwatching, and a quieter atmosphere, the wet season might be more appealing. Regardless of the time of year, Lake Manyara's diverse wildlife and scenic beauty promise a rewarding safari experience.