EXPLORING THE NORTHERN SERENGETI

The Northern Serengeti is one of the most beautiful and peaceful parts of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. This remote area, especially around Kogatende and Lamai, is full of wildlife, open plains, rocky hills, and the famous Mara River. It is a great place for travellers who want to see animals in a quiet, natural setting without many other tourists around.

From July to October, the Northern Serengeti becomes the center of the Great Migration, when thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. This is one of the most exciting and dramatic wildlife events in Africa. But the region is also full of life all year round, with elephants, lions, cheetahs, and many other animals. Whether you are watching the river crossings or enjoying a peaceful game drive, exploring Kogatende and Lamai gives you a true African safari experience in one of the most stunning places on Earth.

 

Where Is the Northern Serengeti?

The Northern Serengeti is the top part of Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, East Africa. It is close to the border with Kenya and shares the same wildlife ecosystem with Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. This region is far from the busy southern and central parts of the Serengeti, which makes it quieter and less crowded. The Northern Serengeti includes areas called Kogatende and Lamai, which are some of the best places to see wild animals. The famous Mara River flows through this area.

Every year, from July to October, thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River during the Great Migration, making this area very special for safari lovers. You can reach the Northern Serengeti by flying into the Kogatende Airstrip, which is the easiest way. There are also long driving routes from Arusha or the Central Serengeti, but these can take a full day or more. Even though it is remote, the Northern Serengeti has good safari camps and lodges. If you want to explore nature in a wild and peaceful place, far from the crowds, then the Northern Serengeti is the perfect destination.

 

What Makes the Northern Serengeti Special?

The most famous event in the Northern Serengeti is the Mara River crossing during the Great Migration.

The Great Migration and the Mara River Crossing: Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move in a giant circle across the Serengeti and the Masai Mara in search of fresh grass and water. This is called the Great Migration. From July to October, the herds arrive in the Northern Serengeti. To reach the green lands in Kenya’s Masai Mara, they must cross the dangerous Mara River. The crossing is full of action and danger. Big crocodiles wait in the water, and sometimes animals panic and drown. Watching the crossing is both exciting and emotional.

Not all the animals cross at once. Some wait for days, walking up and down the riverbanks. Sometimes they cross, then come back. This makes the Northern Serengeti one of the best places to spend several days watching nature’s greatest show.

 

What Animals Can You See in the Northern Serengeti?

The Northern Serengeti is home to many animals, both during and outside of the migration season.

1. Wildebeest and Zebras

From July to October, you can see huge groups of wildebeest and zebras. They graze in the grasslands and gather near the river.

2. Big Cats

The Northern Serengeti has many predators:

• Lions: Often seen hunting in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Leopards: Love the rocky kopjes and riverbanks where they hide and hunt.
• Cheetahs: Prefer the open plains where they can run fast to catch prey.

3. Elephants and Giraffes

Large herds of elephants and tall giraffes are common in this area. They can often be seen near the river or among the acacia trees.

4. Hippos and Crocodiles

The Mara River is full of hippos and crocodiles. You’ll see them lounging on the riverbanks or in the water.

5. Antelopes and Other Herbivores

Many types of antelopes, such as topis, impalas, and eland, live in this area. You may also see buffaloes and warthogs.

6. Birds

There are hundreds of bird species in the Northern Serengeti. Some birds to look for include:

• Secretary birds
• Vultures
• Eagles
• Ostriches
• Hornbills
• Storks

 

Attractions in the Northern Serengeti

The Northern Serengeti is one of the most special parts of Serengeti National Park. It is located near the border of Kenya and is far from the busier areas in the south. This region is peaceful, wild, and full of natural beauty. It offers amazing wildlife viewing, beautiful landscapes, and one of the most famous animal events in the world the Great Migration. Below are the top attractions in the Northern Serengeti.

1. The Great Migration and the Mara River Crossings

The biggest attraction in the Northern Serengeti is the Great Migration. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move through this area between July and October. They are following the rains in search of green grass and water. To reach Kenya’s Masai Mara, they must cross the Mara River, which runs through the Northern Serengeti.

Watching these animals cross the river is one of the most exciting safari experiences in Africa. The river is full of dangers crocodiles wait in the water, and lions may hunt nearby. Some animals do not make it across. But for many, it is a brave journey of survival. If you visit during this time, you might see thousands of animals running into the river together. It is loud, dramatic, and unforgettable.

2. The Mara River

The Mara River is more than just a place for crossings. It is an important water source for many animals in the area. Even when the migration is not happening, the river is full of life. You can often see hippos resting in the water or crocodiles sunbathing on the banks. Large animals such as elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes often come to the river to drink. You might also see birds such as storks, kingfishers, and fish eagles flying above the water or resting on tree branches.

3. Lamai Wedge and Kogatende Area

The Lamai Wedge is a beautiful, quiet area between the Mara River and the Kenya border. It has wide open grasslands and small hills called kopjes, which are great places for wildlife viewing. Many animals, such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas, live in this area. You can also find topis, eland, and other antelopes grazing in the open spaces.

The Kogatende area is another popular place in the Northern Serengeti. It is close to the Kogatende Airstrip, which makes it easy to reach by plane. This area also has good chances to see the river crossings and plenty of wildlife. Because this region is far from the main roads, it feels wild and untouched. There are fewer safari vehicles here, so your game drives feel more private and peaceful.

4. Big Cats and Other Wildlife

Even when the Great Migration is not happening, the Northern Serengeti is home to many animals. You can see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) though rhinos are rare here. The open plains and rocky hills make it easier to spot animals. Lions like to rest on kopjes, cheetahs hunt in the grasslands, and leopards hide in trees or thick bushes.

You may also see giraffes, warthogs, baboons, and different kinds of antelopes. Bird lovers will enjoy the many species flying around, including colourful bee-eaters, vultures, and eagles.

5. Beautiful Landscapes and Peaceful Environment

The landscapes in the Northern Serengeti are different from the southern parts of the park. Here, you’ll find green hills, rocky outcrops, river valleys, and endless savannahs. This variety makes the region very beautiful and interesting to explore.

Another big attraction is the peace and quiet. Because this area is far from most tourist routes, there are fewer vehicles and people. You can enjoy game drives without crowds, which makes your safari feel more personal and relaxing.

 

Activities in the Northern Serengeti

The Northern Serengeti is a wonderful place for people who love wildlife, nature, and quiet adventures. This remote part of Serengeti National Park is full of things to see and do, especially during the Great Migration. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another safari, there are many exciting and peaceful activities to enjoy.

1. Game Drives

Game drives are the main activity in the Northern Serengeti. These are guided trips in a safari vehicle to look for wild animals. You can go on morning, afternoon, or full-day drives. The best times to see animals are early in the morning and late in the afternoon when it is cooler and animals are more active.

During a game drive, you may see lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, leopards, hyenas, and many types of antelopes. In the dry season (especially July to October), you can also watch the Great Migration River crossings, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras jump into the Mara River. Game drives are safe, fun, and one of the best ways to explore this wild area. Your guide will help you find animals and explain their behaviour.

2. Watching the Great Migration

From July to October, one of the most exciting activities is watching the Mara River crossings. This is part of the Great Migration, where huge groups of wildebeest and zebras move between Tanzania and Kenya. They must cross the Mara River, which is full of dangers like crocodiles and strong currents.

Watching this happen in real life is an amazing experience. Sometimes it takes hours for the animals to decide to cross. Then, all of a sudden, they run into the river together. It’s wild, loud, and unforgettable. Your guide will take you to the best places along the river to wait for a crossing. It takes patience, but it is worth it.

3. Hot Air Balloon Safaris

A hot air balloon safari is a special way to see the Northern Serengeti from the sky. You rise early in the morning and fly above the plains just as the sun is rising. From the air, you can see animals moving below, the beautiful landscape, and even the Mara River.

Balloon safaris are quiet, peaceful, and very beautiful. The ride usually lasts about one hour, and when you land, you get a delicious bush breakfast served outdoors. This activity is more expensive than regular game drives, but many people say it’s one of the best parts of their safari.

4. Nature and Bush Walks (in private areas)

In some private camps or nearby conservation areas, you can take a guided bush walk. This is a walk in nature with a trained guide and sometimes an armed ranger. You will learn about animal tracks, insects, plants, and the smaller things that you may miss during a drive.

Bush walks are not common inside the Serengeti National Park itself due to safety rules, but some lodges near the park boundary offer this activity. It’s a great way to connect with the land and feel the wild up close.

5. Bird Watching

The Northern Serengeti is a great place for bird watching. There are hundreds of bird species, from small colourful birds like bee-eaters to large ones like eagles, vultures, and ostriches. If you enjoy birds, bring a pair of binoculars and a bird guidebook. Your safari guide can also help you spot and identify different species.

 

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Northern Serengeti?

1. July to October (Best Time)

This is the best time to visit the Northern Serengeti. The herds are in the area, and the Mara River crossings happen during this time. The weather is dry, and roads are in good condition.

2. November to June (Off-Season)

During this time, most of the migration moves south. Some camps in the north close from November to June. But if you go during the green season (November to March), the landscape is beautiful, and you can see resident animals and many birds. You’ll also find lower prices and fewer people.

 

Where to Stay in the Northern Serengeti

There are several types of places to stay in the Northern Serengeti. Most are luxury tented camps, and a few are mobile camps that move with the migration.

Popular Lodges and Camps

• Lamai Serengeti Lodge
• Mara Mara Tented Lodge.
• Sayari Camp
• Singita Mara River Tented Camp
• Nomad Lamai Camp

Mobile Camps

These camps move during the year to follow the migration. They are usually open from July to October in the north. Examples include:

• Lemala Kuria Hills
• Serengeti Under Canvas
• Ubuntu Camp

 

How to Get to the Northern Serengeti

1. Getting to the Northern Serengeti by Road: Traveling by road to the Northern Serengeti is possible but takes time. The region is remote and far from major cities. Most road safaris begin in Arusha, the gateway town for Serengeti and other northern parks.

• From Arusha to Northern Serengeti (Kogatende or Lamai area):
  • Distance: About 600 km
  • Driving Time: Around 10 to 12 hours, usually spread over 2 or 3 days
  • Route: Arusha → Lake Manyara or Karatu → Central Serengeti (Seronera) → Northern Serengeti

Most self-drive or guided road trips include overnight stops at places like Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, or Central Serengeti before reaching the north. Roads can be rough, especially in the rainy season, and a 4×4 vehicle is necessary.

 

2. Getting to the Northern Serengeti by Air: The easiest and fastest way to reach the Northern Serengeti is by domestic flight. Daily flights are available during the peak season (July to October) and land at Kogatende Airstrip, the main airstrip in the north.

• From Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
  • Flight Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Destination: Kogatende Airstrip (close to river crossings and lodges)

 

Conclusion

The Northern Serengeti, especially the Kogatende and Lamai areas, is a magical place full of wildlife, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments. If you want to see the Mara River crossings, enjoy peaceful game drives, and stay in some of the best camps in Tanzania, this region is perfect for you. Whether you are visiting during the Great Migration or in the quieter months, the Northern Serengeti offers a true African safari experience wild, beautiful, and full of life.