Northern Serengeti : Tanzania Migration Safaris

Northern Serengeti Safaris: Overview

Northern Serengeti safaris are among the most captivating wildlife experiences in Africa, offering an unmatched blend of raw wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and extraordinary game viewing. Located in the remote northern region of Serengeti National Park, near the border with Kenya’s Maasai Mara, this part of the park is less crowded than the central and southern zones, making it ideal for those seeking a more exclusive and peaceful safari. The Northern Serengeti is best known for hosting the thrilling river crossings of the Great Wildebeest Migration as millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles risk crocodile-infested waters to cross the Mara River. This region is also teeming with predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, making every game drive a thrilling adventure. The scenery here is incredibly diverse, with rolling hills, kopjes, dense riverine forests, and open plains. A Northern Serengeti safari is not just about wildlife; it’s about solitude, raw nature, and witnessing one of the world’s last great animal migrations.

Why Choose Northern Serengeti for Safari

Choosing the Northern Serengeti for your safari offers the unique opportunity to witness the most dramatic scenes of the Great Wildebeest Migration, particularly the famed Mara River crossings. These crossings are considered the climax of the migration, as thousands of animals throw themselves into dangerous waters teeming with Nile crocodiles, all in search of greener pastures on the other side. This spectacle occurs seasonally, primarily from July to October, making these months the best time to visit. Beyond the migration, the Northern Serengeti is prized for its remote location, which means fewer safari vehicles and a more intimate experience with nature. This region is also home to permanent wildlife populations, so even outside of migration season, guests can encounter elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and an abundance of birdlife. The sense of untouched wilderness in this area is unparalleled. Compared to the busier Seronera region, Northern Serengeti safaris promise privacy, luxury tented camps, and a slower, more immersive pace of exploration.

The Great Wildebeest Migration in Northern Serengeti

The Great Wildebeest Migration is the most iconic event that defines Northern Serengeti safaris, particularly due to the Mara River crossings. Every year, over two million wildebeests, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, migrate in a circular route through the Serengeti and Maasai Mara ecosystems. In the Northern Serengeti, the highlight of this journey unfolds as the herds confront the dangerous and fast-flowing Mara River. The crossings are unpredictable and intense, with herds gathering on the riverbank before mustering the courage to cross, while predators lurk both on land and in the water. These crossings can last just minutes or stretch over hours, depending on the herd’s behavior and external threats. For photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, this is a bucket-list moment, one that combines the power of instinct, survival, and nature's drama in its purest form. Being in the right place at the right time is key, and Northern Serengeti offers this access during the dry season from July to October.

Wildlife Experience in Northern Serengeti

The wildlife experience in Northern Serengeti is diverse and thrilling, offering encounters with both migratory herds and resident game. While the highlight is undoubtedly the wildebeest migration, the region is also a haven for the Big Five such as lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and occasionally the black rhino, though the latter is rare here. Lions are often spotted lounging on rocks or tracking the migration, while leopards lurk in the riverine trees, especially near the Mara and Bologonja Rivers. The area also supports significant numbers of cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, elands, impalas, and warthogs. Birdlife is exceptional too, with species such as the lilac-breasted roller, tawny eagle, and secretary bird regularly seen. Unlike the central Serengeti, where wildlife is abundant year-round, Northern Serengeti offers a concentrated and explosive wildlife experience during the migration months, complemented by the tranquility and space that its remoteness provides. This balance between high-intensity drama and serene landscapes makes the Northern Serengeti stand out among Africa’s safari destinations.

When to Visit Northern Serengeti for Safari

The best time to visit the Northern Serengeti for safari is from July to October, coinciding with the dry season and the peak of the Great Wildebeest Migration. During these months, the Mara River crossings are in full swing, and the dry conditions drive animals toward permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is pleasant, with warm days and cool nights, and vegetation is less dense, which enhances visibility during game drives. July marks the arrival of the herds in the north, and by August and September, the crossings are at their most dramatic. October often sees the herds moving south again, offering a second chance to witness the action. While the Northern Serengeti can be visited outside of this window, wildlife sightings are more dispersed, and some camps may close during the wet season. Planning your trip between July and October ensures not only great wildlife viewing but also access to high-quality lodges and camps operating at full capacity.

Where to Stay in Northern Serengeti

Accommodations in Northern Serengeti range from luxury tented camps to eco-lodges, offering comfort and immersion in nature. Many camps are mobile or semi-permanent, moving with the migration to ensure guests are always close to the action. These include renowned names like Sayari Camp, Lemala Kuria Hills, and Serengeti Bushtops, which offer five-star service, gourmet dining, and private decks with sweeping views of the plains. For midrange travelers, there are excellent options like Kenzan Mara Tented Camp and Mara River Post, which provide en-suite tents, solar power, and excellent guiding at more affordable prices. What sets Northern Serengeti accommodations apart is their seclusion and strategic location near river crossing points. Staying in this area allows early morning game drives and the chance to witness dramatic wildlife scenes without the crowd. Whether you're looking for luxury, midrange, or mobile camp experiences, the Northern Serengeti offers accommodation that enhances the safari experience through exceptional service and proximity to nature.

How to Get to Northern Serengeti

Getting to the Northern Serengeti requires some planning but is well worth the effort. The most convenient way is by taking a scheduled light aircraft flight from Arusha or other parts of the Serengeti to airstrips like Kogatende or Lobo. These flights, operated by regional carriers such as Coastal Aviation and Auric Air, take approximately 2 to 3 hours and offer spectacular aerial views of the Tanzanian landscape. For those who prefer road travel, a drive from Seronera to the Northern Serengeti is possible and takes about 6 to 8 hours, depending on road conditions and wildlife sightings along the way. While longer, the road journey offers the chance to explore multiple regions of the Serengeti and witness the gradual change in landscape and animal density. In 2025, We offer fly-in/fly-out packages or road and air combination itineraries to suit various budgets and preferences. Regardless of how you arrive, the moment you reach Northern Serengeti, you will feel the magic of untamed Africa.

Cost of Northern Serengeti Safaris

Northern Serengeti safaris are priced higher than other Serengeti regions due to the remote location, exclusive accommodations, and access to the Great Migration crossings. In 2025, budget group safaris including road transport, basic camping, and shared guiding start from approximately $1,200 per person for a 3-day package. Midrange safaris with better lodging, semi-luxury tents, and fly-in options range from $2,000 to $3,000 per person for a 3 to 4-day experience. Luxury safaris, which include charter flights, top-end lodges, private vehicles, and personalized service, can range from $4,500 to over $7,000 per person for a similar duration. These prices include accommodation, game drives, meals, park fees, guiding, and local transfers. Due to the limited number of camps and high demand during the migration season, early booking is essential. While more costly, the Northern Serengeti offers one of the richest and most unforgettable safari experiences on the continent, making the investment worthwhile for nature lovers and photographers.