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Wildebeest herd crossing a river during the Great Migration in the North Serengeti, Tanzania.
National Parks & Safari

Northern Serengeti

Northern Circuit

Overview

Northern Serengeti

North Serengeti is one of the most captivating regions of Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania. Located near the border with Kenya and extending toward the Mara River and the Lamai area, this remote wilderness is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and connection to the annual Great Wildebeest Migration. Unlike the wide, open plains of southern and central Serengeti, North Serengeti features rolling hills, granite kopjes, acacia woodlands, riverine vegetation, valleys, and open savannah. This varied environment creates habitats for a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, topi, gazelles, hippos, hyenas, and numerous bird species. The region is especially famous for the Mara River, where migrating wildebeest and zebras may attempt to cross during their seasonal movement through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. These crossings are among Africa’s most dramatic wildlife spectacles, but they are entirely natural and unpredictable. Animals may gather at the river for hours or days, change direction, or decide not to cross at all. North Serengeti also includes the Lobo Valley, an area known for its rocky scenery, resident wildlife, and opportunities to observe large predators. The region’s relative remoteness can provide a quieter safari atmosphere, although visitor numbers may increase around popular migration periods. A North Serengeti safari is ideal for travellers seeking dramatic wildlife encounters, photography opportunities, remote landscapes, and a deeper exploration of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. TanzaLux Safaris can design a private safari that combines North Serengeti with Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, or other destinations according to the season and your interests.

  • Experience the remote wilderness of northern Serengeti
  • Explore the Mara River and its surrounding wildlife habitats
  • Witness the seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration
  • Search for wildlife around Kogatende and the northern plains
  • Explore the scenic Lobo Valley
  • Enjoy game drives through rolling hills, woodlands, and savannah
  • Look for large herds of elephants
  • Search for lions, leopards, and cheetahs
  • Explore dramatic granite kopjes and rocky landscapes
  • Discover a less-developed and more remote safari environment
  • Enjoy exceptional wildlife photography opportunities
  • Combine North Serengeti with a luxury tented-camp safari
  • Explore the northern section of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem
  • Experience a private safari away from the busiest safari routes
  • Enjoy a personalised safari experience with an experienced guide
Best time to visit

When to go

Low season

March to May generally overlaps with Tanzania’s long-rains period. Rain can affect road conditions and some safari logistics, but the landscape may appear green and vibrant. Visitor numbers may be lower in some areas, and the season can offer dramatic skies, fresh vegetation, and excellent photographic conditions. Travellers should choose accommodation and transport arrangements carefully during wetter periods.

Shoulder season

November to February includes the short-rains period and the beginning of the year’s greener season. Wildlife remains present throughout North Serengeti, although many migrating herds may be concentrated farther south during parts of this period. This season can work well for travellers combining North Serengeti with other regions of the Serengeti ecosystem.

Peak season

July to October is a popular period for northern Serengeti safaris because migrating herds may move through the region and approach the Mara River. The northern sector can become busier during periods of intense migration activity. Travellers should book accommodation early and allow several days for wildlife viewing, especially if the Mara River is a major priority.

Wildlife

  • Wildebeest
  • Zebra
  • Lion
  • Leopard
  • Cheetah
  • Elephant
  • African buffalo
  • Giraffe
  • Hippopotamus
  • Nile crocodile
  • Spotted hyena
  • Topi
  • Hartebeest
  • Eland
  • Impala
  • Thomson’s gazelle
  • Grant’s gazelle
  • Warthog
  • Baboon
  • Vervet monkey
  • Jackal
  • Serval
  • Oribi
  • Reedbuck
  • Kudu
  • Bushbuck
  • African rock hyrax

Activities

  • Private game drives through North Serengeti
  • Mara River wildlife viewing
  • Seasonal Great Migration safaris
  • Wildlife photography
  • Sunrise game drives
  • Sunset game drives where permitted
  • Exploration of the Lobo Valley
  • Game viewing around Kogatende
  • Exploring northern Serengeti kopjes
  • Birdwatching
  • Landscape photography
  • Elephant viewing
  • Big cat tracking with an experienced guide
  • Private luxury tented-camp experiences
  • Scenic flights to or from northern airstrips
  • Multi-day Serengeti safari journeys
  • Combining North Serengeti with Central Serengeti
  • Combining North Serengeti with Ngorongoro Crater
  • Enjoying a personalised Tanzania luxury safari
  • Hot-air balloon safaris may be available in selected parts of the Serengeti, depending on the operator, launch location, weather, and seasonal logistics. Availability in the far northern sector should be confirmed before promising this activity to a client.

Getting there

North Serengeti can be reached by road or by scheduled and chartered flights, depending on the traveller’s itinerary and chosen accommodation. By road, visitors commonly travel from Central Serengeti toward the northern sector. The journey can take several hours and may be longer depending on road conditions, wildlife stops, weather, and the exact location of the camp or lodge. Travellers who prefer to save time can consider flying to northern airstrips such as Kogatende or Lamai, subject to airline schedules, aircraft availability, weather, and the location of their accommodation. A private safari vehicle is useful for travellers who want to enjoy game viewing along the route. A flight may be more convenient for visitors with limited time or those combining North Serengeti with other destinations. TanzaLux Safaris can recommend the most suitable transport arrangement based on your arrival point, safari duration, accommodation, budget, and travel preferences.

Where to stay in Northern Serengeti

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

  • 1. What is North Serengeti famous for?

    North Serengeti is famous for the Mara River, seasonal wildebeest migration, Lobo Valley, large elephant herds, big cats, scenic landscapes, and remote safari experiences.

  • Where is North Serengeti located?

    North Serengeti is located in the northern part of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, near the border with Kenya and the wider Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.

  • When is the best time to visit North Serengeti?

    July to October is commonly chosen for northern migration-focused safaris, but wildlife movements vary each year according to rainfall, pasture, and herd behaviour. North Serengeti can be visited throughout the year.

  • Can I see the Great Migration in North Serengeti?

    Yes. Migrating wildebeest and zebras may move through North Serengeti during parts of the year. The exact timing and location depend on environmental conditions and the movement of the herds.

  • Are Mara River crossings guaranteed?

    No. Mara River crossings are unpredictable natural events. Herds may gather, wait, turn back, or cross at a different location. Spending several nights in the region can provide more opportunities, but no crossing can be guaranteed.

  • What animals can I see in North Serengeti?

    Wildlife may include elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, topi, gazelles, warthogs, and many bird species.

  • Is North Serengeti good for a Big Five safari?

    North Serengeti supports several Big Five species, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes. Black rhinos are present in parts of the wider Serengeti ecosystem but are elusive, and sightings are not guaranteed.

  • How many days should I spend in North Serengeti?

    A stay of three to four nights can provide a useful opportunity to explore the region. Travellers focusing on Mara River activity may prefer a longer stay to allow for unpredictable wildlife movements.

  • How do I get to North Serengeti?

    North Serengeti can be reached by road from Central Serengeti or by flying to airstrips such as Kogatende or Lamai, depending on airline schedules, weather, and the location of your accommodation.

  • Is North Serengeti suitable for a luxury safari?

    Yes. North Serengeti offers luxury tented camps, seasonal mobile camps, and premium safari accommodation. TanzaLux Safaris can help match your accommodation to your preferred comfort level and travel dates.

  • Is North Serengeti crowded during the migration?

    Some areas may become busier during periods of strong migration activity, particularly near popular Mara River viewing locations. Other parts of the northern sector may offer a quieter experience.

  • Can I visit North Serengeti outside the migration season?

    Yes. North Serengeti supports resident wildlife throughout the year and offers scenic landscapes, predator sightings, elephant viewing, birdwatching, and excellent game drives outside the migration period.

  • What is the difference between North Serengeti and Central Serengeti?

    Yes. North Serengeti supports resident wildlife throughout the year and offers scenic landscapes, predator sightings, elephant viewing, birdwatching, and excellent game drives outside the migration period.

  • What is the difference between North Serengeti and Maasai Mara?

    North Serengeti is known for rolling hills, rocky landscapes, the Mara River, and seasonal migration activity. Central Serengeti is widely known for the Seronera Valley, year-round wildlife viewing, and strong concentrations of resident predators.

  • Can I see wildlife from a safari vehicle near the Mara River?

    Yes. Visitors can observe wildlife from designated areas and safari vehicles. During migration activity, vehicles must follow park rules and avoid obstructing or disturbing animals.

  • Is North Serengeti suitable for photographers?

    North Serengeti is excellent for wildlife and landscape photography because of its varied scenery, rocky kopjes, riverine habitats, elephants, predators, and possible migration activity.

  • What should I pack for a North Serengeti safari?

    Pack lightweight clothing, warm layers, a jacket, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera, spare batteries, and any necessary personal medication.

  • Can I combine North Serengeti with Ngorongoro Crater?

    Yes. North Serengeti can be combined with Ngorongoro Crater, Central Serengeti, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, or other destinations on a private northern Tanzania safari.

  • Is North Serengeti suitable for families?

    North Serengeti can be suitable for families, depending on the children’s ages, travel duration, accommodation policies, and the family’s tolerance for long road transfers. A private itinerary allows the schedule to be adjusted to family needs.

  • Why should I visit North Serengeti with TanzaLux Safaris?

    TanzaLux Safaris can create a personalised North Serengeti itinerary with private transport, experienced guiding, carefully selected accommodation, and flexible planning based on the season, wildlife interests, and preferred travel style.

Trips that visit Northern Serengeti

View all tours »
7-Day Northern Serengeti Migration Safari – Mara River Experience
7 Days

7-Day Northern Serengeti Migration Safari – Mara River Experience

Price on request

You visit: Arusha (start), Northern Serengeti, Kogatende, Mara River (end)

8-Day Tanzania Signature Safari: Tarangire, Lake Eyasi, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
8 Days

8-Day Tanzania Signature Safari: Tarangire, Lake Eyasi, Serengeti & Ngorongoro

$2,000 per person (USD)

You visit: Tarangire National Park (start), Lake Eyasi, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (end)

Traveller stories

The proof should come from people who went.

Dorine M1 year ago
TripAdvisor

Grateful experience

As a solo female traveler, I felt super safe and well taken care of the entire time.

Read more
Dagmar P3 months ago
TripAdvisor

Private Safari 6 days

I can only highly recommend the young company Tanzalux for organizing a private safari.

Read more
Sylvanus T11 months ago
TripAdvisor

An unforgettable vegetarian journey with Tanzalux Safaris

I highly recommend Tanzalux for anyone wanting a special, personalized safari.

Read more
Lucas G4 months ago
TripAdvisor

Our 3-day camping safari with Tanzalux was simply fantastic! Everything was perfectly organized.

Read more
Victoria Goodluck5 months ago
★★★★★
Posted on Google

Back in April, I joined a day trip to Tarangire National Park with Tanzalux Safaris, and it was truly one of the best experiences I have ever had…

Read more
Danai Vicha7 months ago
★★★★★
Posted on Google

I've had an amazing experience with Tanzalux Safaris, would 1000% recommend! Thank you for making my trip so special🫶

Read more
ikigo simbila7 months ago
★★★★★
Posted on Google

I recently visited Meru Waterfalls in Arusha and got to do some of the activities there, honestly it was such a great experience and I really enjoyed it.

Read more
Hadija Shebe7 months ago
★★★★★
Posted on Google

Our guide Dullah Mr Rastaman had the best vibe. I would like to recommend other people not to miss it, Tarangire is the best national park.

Read more
Tumain Hope6 months ago
★★★★★
Posted on Google

Our tour guide Nasri was very friendly and welcoming from the first day we met him. He knows Tarangire very well and explained many things during the safari.

Read more
Linnah Kimaro6 months ago
★★★★★
Posted on Google

As a grandmother in the group, I would like to share my happiness with Tanzalux Safaris. Me, my daughters, and my grandson went on a short trip to Tarangire National Park…

Read more

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