How to Get to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park, one of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations, is accessible by both air and road. Travelers can reach the park from major cities like Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and even Zanzibar, making it convenient to include Serengeti in any Tanzanian safari itinerary.

Cessna plane landing on Serengeti airstrip

By Air

Flying to Serengeti is the fastest and most efficient way to reach the park. Daily scheduled flights operate from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar to several airstrips within the Serengeti, including Seronera, Kogatende, Grumeti, and Ndutu. Flights typically last 1–2 hours depending on the departure location. Once landed, chartered vehicles or safari operators can transfer visitors directly to lodges, camps, or starting points for game drives, ensuring a smooth and comfortable arrival.

By Road

Road trips to Serengeti provide an adventurous and scenic alternative for travelers. From Arusha or Moshi, the journey passes through the Ngorongoro Highlands, Maasai villages, and open savannahs, offering a glimpse of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes. Depending on the route, the drive can take 6–10 hours, with well-maintained tracks leading to the central, northern, western, or southern regions of the park. Road safaris often include stops at cultural and natural landmarks, giving travelers a richer understanding of the Serengeti ecosystem before arrival.

Access from Nearby Safari Gateways

Serengeti is well-connected to northern safari hubs. Arusha serves as the main gateway for most safari operators, providing easy access to scheduled flights and overland transfers. For travelers coming from Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, or Kilimanjaro International Airport, chartered flights are the quickest way to reach the park, while overland options allow exploration of Tanzania’s countryside along the way.

Tips for Getting to Serengeti

When planning travel to Serengeti, consider the season and region of the park you wish to visit. Northern and western Serengeti airstrips are ideal during the dry season and migration periods, while central Serengeti is accessible year-round. Booking flights or road transfers in advance ensures availability, especially during peak safari months. Combining air and road travel can also create a flexible itinerary, allowing travelers to explore multiple regions efficiently. Learn more about the best time to visit Serengeti.

Final Notes

Whether flying or driving, reaching Serengeti National Park is an integral part of the safari experience. The journey provides an early taste of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes, local culture, and wildlife diversity, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure in one of Africa’s most celebrated national parks.