Western Serengeti: Everything You Need to Know
Western corridor of Serengeti is the remote area of the park that stretches out to touch the large Lake Victoria shared by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. The region is dominated by two rivers, Grumeti and Mbalageti, that run parallel to one another and drain into Lake Victoria. The rivers in turn have led to the creation of riverine forests in the West. But besides riverine forests, you can find the basic landscape features of Serengeti such as the plain savanna, woodlands, and floodplains out here in the West as well.
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Wildlife
Since it’s a part of Serengeti, you will find a lot of game throughout the year even in this far away region of the West. The riverine forests are enjoyed by giraffes and elephants, while hippos and buffalos are attracted to the rivers. The waters are of course infested with Nile crocodiles as well, so you can visit the river banks to see some of the crocodiles basking in the sun. The woodlands of this region also have the rare Colobus monkey and the nimble Patas monkey.
You will also find multiple ungulates such as the resident wildebeests, impalas, waterbucks, and a local antelope called Kongoni.
The Wildebeest migration passes through this area from June to July and has to take part in dangerous river crossings. Very similar to what takes place in the North, across the Mara river.
Because the region has a sizable population of herbivores, predators such as the big cats and the hyenas are attracted to the area as well.
Birding
The riverine forests and woodlands of this area attract birds like helmet shrikes, Rufus-tailed weavers, grey-breasted spur fowls, and of course the Fischer’s lovebirds, as they are quite common through the park.
Since the river crossings in this region lead to an accumulation of dead bodies, various species of vultures also soar above this region.
Vegetation
Vegetation will be similar to other regions of the park. Whistling Thorns, Fig Trees, Acacias, Finger grass, etcetera will be present here.
Things to Do
Western Corridor offers multiple activities, especially if it is the peak season.
Grumeti River Crossing
The river crossings that takeplacebetween June to July are a sight to behold, as thousands of animals gather on the banks, nervously eyeing the water. Eventually, one brave animal makes the leap, and the others follow, creating a frenzied scene of splashing hooves and swirling water.
To view the the river crossing, your designated guide will get in touch with other guides in the area to gather information about the river points where the Wildebeests are likely to congregate for crossing. You will then be taken to the location with the highest chances of spotting the river crossing. However, be prepared for a long wait, as the crossings can take a while to unfold. It's important to stay quiet and still so as not to disturb the animals, and to follow your guide's instructions at all times.
Watching the river crossing in the Western Serengeti is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. However, please do note that the Grumeti River crossing might not seem similar to what you must have seen in documentaries. Documentaries usually display Mara river crossings that take place in the north. While the Grumeti river crossing is dangerous and many animals lose their lives in the process, the river is not as deep or has the same strong flow as the Mara. This makes the crossing comparatively easier, so the event might not have that drama that you might have hoped for.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
The Western Serengeti is known for its vast, open plains, riverine regions, floodplains, and the spectacular wildebeest migration that takes place here every year.
During a hot air balloon safari, you'll float above the savannah and have a bird's-eye view of the wildlife below. You'll likely see a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, topis, hyenas and perhaps some colobus monkeys swinging from one branch to another.
The Hot Air Balloon Safari in the Western Corridor is conducted between June to October. So if you're really lucky, you might even be able to spot herds of wildbeests beginning to gather near the Grumeti river.
The safari typically starts early in the morning, before sunrise, when the air is still cool and calm. You'll meet your pilot and crew, who will brief you on the safety procedures and help you into the basket. As the sun rises, the balloon will slowly ascend into the air, and you'll be treated to a spectacular view of the Serengeti from above.
The safari usually lasts about an hour, after which you'll land and be treated to a Champagne breakfast in the bush. To mark this great occasion you will also be given a certificate, and then driven back to your lodge to prepare for the game drives.
Walking Safari
During a walking safari in the West Serengeti, you can expect to walk for several hours each day, exploring the bush and encountering wildlife up close. The pace is generally slow, allowing for plenty of time to observe the animals and learn about their behavior and habitat.
During the walking safari, you will have the opportunity to observe a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, and many more. You will also be able to learn about the plants and trees that are found in the area, and perhapseven learn about their medicinal properties.
The walking safaris are of two kinds: a short walk and a long walk. The short walk will last for four hours, whereas anything above it will be a long walk.
During the safari, please ensure that you are dressed in comfortable shoes and clothes. Your legs should be completely covered. Further, please refrain from wearing dark shades like blue and black as they attract the annoying tsetse flies.
Please ensure that you follow the rules set by your guide before the safari. This will ensure your protection out in the wild.
Weather and Climate
Serengeti has a moderate climate that is mostly pleasant. While the weather is pleasant in the afternoon, it does get cold during the night and early mornings so it is advisable to carry warm clothing with you.
The dry season is from June to October, and during this time temperatures can go as high as 25°C / 77°F, and as low as 14°C / 57°F.
The wet season is from November to May. Temperature can go as high as 26°C / 79°F and as low as 15°C / 59°F.
When to Visit
Game drives can be done in the region the entire year, as elephants, giraffes, hyenas, and many other animals are permanent residents of this region. However, the best time to visit Western Serengeti would be from the months of May to June as the migration will be in the region so you are likely to get the opportunity to see the river crossings.
Accommodations
Section to be updated.
Location and How To Reach
Serengeti is located in Northern Tanzania and is west of the city of Arusha.
You may choose to travel to Serengeti by road. You will be picked up from Arusha and it will take about 8 hours to reach Western Serengeti. However, you will be passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to reach Serengeti, so you will be required to pay the park fees for Ngorongoro as well.
Charter flights are also flown in and out of Serengeti regularly, so you have the option of traveling by air as well. Kirawira B and Fort Ikoma airstrips, both located west of Grumeti, give access to the Western corridor
Fees
Entry fee for Western Serengeti depends on the visitor's nationality and age. For foreigners, park fee is $82 per adult per day. This park fee is valid for 24 hours. However, you must note that the park fees will also expire if you step out of the park before completing 24 hours.
If your accommodation is inside then a concession fee of $70 per adult per night will also apply.
Safari Tours
We offer various itineraries that include safari tours to Western Serengeti. To view some of our popular tours, click here.
FAQs
In which months do we recommend this region?
We recommend visiting this region between May to June as the migration will arrive here and you will be able to see river crossings.
How far is this from Central Serengeti?
Central Serengeti is about 1 to 1.5 hours away from the West.
What do I see here apart from the Great Migration during the recommended months?
Besides the migration, you will find hippos, gazelles, lions, hyenas, colobus monkeys, and many more.
How many days do we recommend spending here?
2-3 days are sufficient for exploring the Western Corridor properly.
Is there a chance of seeing river crossings?
During the months when the migration is present in the region you are likely to spot the crossing about 3-4 times during the tour.