Northern Serengeti

Northern Serengeti – Complete Safari Guide 2026–2027

The Northern Serengeti is the most dramatic and remote region of Serengeti National Park, known for its rugged landscapes, untouched wilderness, and the breathtaking Mara River crossings — one of the most iconic events in the Great Wildebeest Migration. Stretching to the Kenyan border and connecting to the Maasai Mara, this area delivers some of the most exclusive and awe-inspiring safari experiences in all of Africa.

Wildebeest crossing Mara River in Northern Serengeti

About the Northern Serengeti

The Northern Serengeti covers the area between the Lobo Hills and the Mara River, extending to the Kenyan border. Unlike the busier central plains, this region offers a more secluded and pristine safari atmosphere, where sweeping savannahs, granite kopjes, and dense woodlands create a perfect habitat for wildlife.

Its centerpiece — the Mara River — is the stage for the famous river crossings, as massive herds of wildebeest and zebra face the challenge of powerful currents and waiting crocodiles. This is nature at its rawest and most unforgettable.

Why Visit the Northern Serengeti

For travelers seeking the ultimate safari adventure away from crowds, the Northern Serengeti offers exceptional wildlife viewing, cinematic scenery, and unmatched photographic moments. It’s the perfect destination for both migration chasers and those craving tranquility in the wild.

Highlights include:

Witnessing the Mara River crossings (July to October)
Rich year-round wildlife viewing with lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes
Secluded landscapes ideal for private safaris and photography
Scenic flights and hot-air balloon rides with breathtaking views
Easy access to the Maasai Mara for cross-border safari extensions

The Great Migration in the North

Between July and October, the Northern Serengeti becomes the heart of the Great Wildebeest Migration. During this period, over a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles converge on the Mara River, creating a thrilling and emotional spectacle as they battle crocodile-infested waters to reach greener pastures in Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

The intensity of this event, combined with the vastness of the landscape, makes it one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in the world. Even after the migration moves on, the Northern Serengeti remains teeming with resident animals.

Wildlife in the Northern Serengeti

This region supports a remarkable diversity of wildlife all year round. Beyond the migrating herds, visitors can expect to encounter:

Predators: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, and spotted hyenas hunting along riverbanks.
Large Mammals: Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and hippos thriving in the lush valleys.
Birdlife: Over 400 bird species, including eagles, vultures, herons, and weavers.

The Mara River ecosystem, with its dense vegetation and flowing water, ensures excellent game viewing even in the dry season. Full guide at Serengeti wildlife.

Best Time to Visit the Northern Serengeti

While the Northern Serengeti can be visited throughout the year, the best time to go depends on what you wish to see. See our best time to visit Serengeti guide.

Seasonal Overview:

July–October: Best for the Mara River crossings and the Great Migration.
November–March: Calmer period with lush green landscapes and excellent birdwatching.
April–June: Fewer tourists, scenic beauty, and a chance to enjoy peaceful game drives.

Thanks to permanent water sources, wildlife remains active all year, making it one of the Serengeti’s most rewarding areas for safaris.

Safari Activities in the Northern Serengeti

The Northern Serengeti offers a wide range of thrilling safari activities. Full list at things to do in Serengeti:

Game Drives: Morning and afternoon drives through the Lobo Valley, Kogatende, and Mara River areas.
Hot-Air Balloon Safaris: Watch the sunrise over endless plains — book your balloon safari.
Guided Nature Walks: Explore the wilderness on foot with armed rangers in select areas.
Photographic Safaris: Capture dramatic crossings, predators in action, and panoramic landscapes.
Bush Dinners & Sundowners: Enjoy fine dining in the wild as the sun sets over the Serengeti.

Getting to the Northern Serengeti

There are several convenient ways to reach the Northern Serengeti. Full details at how to get to Serengeti:

By Air: The fastest option is a scheduled flight from Arusha, Zanzibar, or Seronera to Kogatende Airstrip or Lamai Airstrip.
By Road: Overland safaris from Arusha take approximately 8–10 hours, with scenic drives through Central Serengeti and the Lobo area.

Many safari itineraries combine the Central, Western, and Northern Serengeti for a complete experience of the park’s diversity.