The famous Serengeti in Tanzania is one destination point that everyone should visit. It is an ecosystem that covers over 12,000 square miles of Tanzania’s territory and extends all the way to southwestern Kenya.
Serengeti is derived from the Maasai word ‘siringit” meaning ‘endless plains.’
Here are 10 facts that will make you visit Serengeti:
- Birdlife
With more than 500 bird species including Martial Eagle, Verraux’s Owl, Ostriches and Bateleur, Serengeti is a birdwatching hotspot. Listening to the hum of the birds in the golden sunshine under a tree gives you a calming and relaxing feeling.
- Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only active volcanic mountain in the region. The volcano ejects minerals and ash which helps fertilize the plains in rainy seasons. Its lava is the coolest lava in the world, and is black in color owing to its temperature.
- The Great Wildebeest Migration
Serengeti is home to the largest wildlife migration in the world. In this, about 2.5 million wildebeests, zebras, antelopes and other grazers move from Ndutu region of the southern Serengeti northward to Kenya’s Masai Mara. This is about a total of 800 km. This migration begins in March and ends when they return in January. The Great Migration is among the Seven Wonders of Africa.
- Almost 250,000 animals lose their lives during the Great Migration. The wildebeests and zebras are hunted down by crocodiles awaiting their return to the rivers after an entire year. Some of the crocodiles haven’t had a meal in one or two years!
- Hot air Balloon safari
Serengeti can be discovered through a hot air balloon! Heading to the sky where you can look below and see the ground with lions running around hunting for their prey is a dream come true. After the morning trip an English-style breakfast awaits you.
- Lobo Valley
Lobo Valley is in Northern Serengeti. One of the famous American conservationist Stewart White described it as “Paradise” back in 1913. It is a place where you will find all the three big cats- lions, cheetahs and leopards- wandering around. Many other animals can be found there as well.
- Serengeti is home to over 3,000 lions! You can spot them hunting down their prey and enjoying their delicious meal.
- Masai Village
Serengeti ecosystem is home to the Masai tribe. Some Masai villages welcome visitors to learn about their lifestyle and culture. You can also buy handmade handicrafts made by the villagers.
- Moru Kopjes (Central Serengeti)
Moru Kopjes is home to the only black rhino population. A small herd of these endangered rhinos still exists. The rhinos are not that friendly and are solitary animals but getting a glimpse of the black big fat rhinos is always fun.
- Retima Hippo Pool (Central Serengeti)
Imagine a giant swimming pool with even bigger hippos playing around and splashing water on one another! That’s the sight you get at the Retima Hippo Pool. More than 200 hippos bathe in this pool under the warmth of the sun. You may also spot crocodiles around the corner of the river banks.
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Serengeti and have a great time exploring the beautiful Park!
Don’t forget to check out these 8 Things You Must Know Before you Visit Masai Mara.
