Serengeti 

Imagine a million wildebeest during their migratory trek of 1000km crossing the Serengeti savannah. They risk plunging through crocodile-infested rivers to reach the northern territory where they mate – producing up to 8 000 calves daily.

Serengeti is a world-heritage site proclaimed in recent years as a world heritage site and 7th world-wonder. Following the vast herd of wildebeest are 200 000 Zebra and another 300 000 Thomson’s gazelles in search of fresh grazing. Outside of the migratory season the serene plains of Serengeti offer some of the best game viewing Africa can offer, ranging from buffalo, elephants, giraffe, eland and the indigenous topi, kongoni and Grant’s gazelle.
Here the lion is king as it hunts for prey. Leopards are often sighted in the forked branches of the Acacia trees along the Seronera River. If you are in luck you may see the fasted predator on earth, the cheetah, hunting an equally fast gazelle across the open plains. Amongst the smaller predators are the nocturnal hunters of the serval and civet cats. Waiting in line for their portion of the meal are three African Jackal species and the spotted hyena. Amongst the unusual smaller wild animals are the illusive aardvark and porcupines.

Birds are present in abundance and over 500 species have been recorded, ranging from the smaller reed warblers, the kingfisher to the fish eagle and black eagle. Secretary birds prance across the grasslands and one can see the inquisitive Ostrich stretching its neck to look around. There are many smaller species such as the agama lizard and dung beetles. All these and many more call the Serengeti savannah their home. In the dusty red-brown sands termites have over the years built their mounts that stand higher than the tallest man. At the end of a hot summer’s day waterholes attract many species for a refreshing drink and bath before the African sun sets and night falls.

Serengeti is indeed a place of serenity ideal to go on a Safari for 5 or more days. Whilst you are visiting this region consider also the neighbouring Ngorongoro Crater, Olduvai Gorge, Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano and Lake Natron with its magnificent flamingo flocks.