Open-Sided Vehicle Game Drives in Serengeti

Open-Sided Vehicle Game Drives in Serengeti: A Unique Safari Experience

If you’re planning a safari in Tanzania, a game drive in Serengeti National Park using an open-sided vehicle is a thrilling way to explore the park’s vast landscapes and incredible wildlife. Serengeti is one of the best national parks in Tanzania to experience the Big 5 animals — lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceroses. Known for its diverse wildlife and spectacular scenery, Serengeti also offers experiences like hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and immersive cultural encounters.

One of the most remarkable attractions in the Serengeti is the Great Wildebeest Migration, a phenomenon that draws safari-goers from around the world. Whether you’re interested in seeing the migration or simply enjoying the park’s other wildlife, an open-sided vehicle provides an unobstructed view of the action, making for a memorable African safari adventure.

What to Expect on a Safari in Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is one of Tanzania’s oldest and largest parks, famous for its diverse ecosystems and the awe-inspiring Great Wildebeest Migration. It’s the most visited park in Tanzania and a top destination for those eager to witness nature at its rawest.

The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including herds of zebras, elephants, and giraffes. If you’re lucky, you may also spot the elusive cheetah or a pride of lions. The Serengeti’s expansive plains provide an ideal setting for these incredible creatures, making it one of East Africa’s premier safari locations.

The Great Wildebeest Migration: A Must-See Experience in Serengeti

The Great Wildebeest Migration is undoubtedly the highlight of any Serengeti safari. Occurring annually from June to October, this migration involves over 1.5 million wildebeests and thousands of zebras traveling from the southern plains of Serengeti to Masai Mara in Kenya, and then back again.

This arduous journey, which spans over 3,000 miles, is a life-and-death struggle for survival. The migration is a spectacle of nature, with predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs hunting the herds as they move through the park. The river crossings during this period are particularly dramatic, with animals braving the perilous waters while carnivores wait for an opportunity to strike.

The months of August and September offer the best chances to witness this dramatic event, with dry conditions and fewer obstacles between the wildebeests and their next destination.

Where to Stay in Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to all budgets and preferences. From budget to luxury lodges, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your needs. Popular lodges include:

• Mwiba River Lodge

• Mwiba Wildlife Reserve

• Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge

• Singita Sasakwa Lodge

• Zawadi Serengeti Safari Lodge

These accommodations provide a mix of comfort, luxury, and stunning views of the Serengeti, ensuring a relaxing stay during your safari.

Detailed Itinerary for Game Drives in Serengeti with an Open-Sided Vehicle

Day 1: Transfer from Arusha to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park via the scenic highlands of Karatu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As you descend into the Seronera region, one of the richest wildlife habitats in the park, you’ll begin your game drive. Enjoy your first afternoon of exploration in Serengeti, known for its Seronera River which attracts a diverse range of animals. Arrive at Serengeti Serena Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Meals: Dinner | Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge

Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti with Open-Sided Vehicle

Start your day early with a morning game drive, where you can observe nocturnal animals returning from hunting and lions waking up for the day. Spend the entire day in Serengeti, exploring various habitats and animal sightings, including wildebeests, lions, giraffes, zebras, elephants, and various bird species. Depending on the time of year, you may also witness the Great Migration and its incredible river crossings.
Meals: Dinner | Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge

Day 3: Morning Game Drive in Serengeti and later Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater

After an early morning game drive, travel to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. En route, stop at Olduvai Gorge, an important archaeological site. Later, head to Ngorongoro Serena Lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay.
Meals: Dinner | Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge

Day 4: Game Drives in Ngorongoro Crater and Transfer to Arusha

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its abundance of wildlife. You’ll see a variety of animals including wildebeests, zebras, and elephants, as well as predators like lions and hyenas. Visit Lake Magadi, a shallow alkaline lake home to flamingos and other waterfowl. After a full day of exploration, return to Arusha or head directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Meals: Lunch | Accommodation: None (Transfer to airport)

Explore Other Incredible Destinations to Combine with Your Serengeti Safari

Tarangire National Park

Located just a short drive from Arusha, Tarangire National Park is another must-visit destination in Tanzania, known for its spectacular wildlife and stunning landscapes. While Serengeti steals the spotlight, Tarangire comes in second when it comes to wildlife density, making it one of the best spots to see elephants in East Africa. The park’s scenic beauty, combined with its diverse habitats, provides a perfect complement to your Serengeti safari.

What to See in Tarangire National Park

Baobab Trees: Ancient Giants of the Park

One of the highlights of Tarangire National Park is its iconic Baobab trees, known for their impressive size and unique history. These trees are surrounded by fascinating myths, with local beliefs suggesting they were once “walking” creatures that moved across the earth. According to legend, they angered the Creator God, who then punished them by planting them upside down with their roots exposed. Visiting these trees offers an opportunity to learn more about their cultural significance and the rich stories tied to them.

Abundant Wildlife

Tarangire is renowned for its large herds of elephants, with some groups numbering up to 300 individuals. Apart from elephants, you’ll encounter a wide range of wildlife, including wildebeests, buffaloes, gazelles, zebras, and fringe-eared oryx. The park’s rich biodiversity provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and close-up encounters with these majestic creatures.

Where to Stay in Tarangire National Park

Tarangire offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget, mid-range, or luxury stay, you’ll find something that meets your needs. Popular lodges include:

• Tanzania Baobab Tented Camp

• Kwa Kuchinia

• Roika Tarangire Tented Lodge

• Tarangire Treetops

• Oliver’s Tented Camp

• Maramboi Tented Camp

• Tarangire Sopa Lodge

• Tarangire Safari Lodge

These lodges offer a range of experiences, from traditional tented camps to luxurious lodges, all offering stunning views and close proximity to the park’s wildlife.

Lake Manyara National Park: A Diverse Natural Wonder

Lake Manyara National Park, nestled between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley, is another gem to visit in Tanzania. The park features a mix of evergreen forests, woodlands, swamps, and grasslands, making it a haven for diverse flora and fauna. The park is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, and its scenery offers a striking contrast to the more expansive landscapes of Serengeti.

Where to Stay in Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara offers accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury, allowing you to select a lodge that fits your preferences. Some of the top lodging options include:

• Lake Manyara Tortilis Camp

• andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

• Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

• Lake Manyara Kilimanjaro Lodge

• Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge

Each of these lodges provides an excellent base to explore the park and enjoy its abundant wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry months of December to February and June to October. These months offer optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The rainy seasons, from March to May and November, tend to bring lush landscapes but can also make some areas harder to access.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Serengeti Safari

Trek Africa Expeditions is your trusted partner for unforgettable safaris in Uganda, Kenya, Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda. With years of experience, Trek Africa Expeditions has established itself as a leading tour operator in the region, offering expert-guided safaris and tailored experiences.

As members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and with strong ties to the Tanzania Tourism Board, we ensure you receive professional, reliable service throughout your safari. We are highly recommended on platforms like TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings, making us a trusted choice for travelers. Our website is regularly updated with the latest information to help you plan your perfect safari.

Owned and operated by a passionate team of Ugandans with firsthand experience exploring Tanzania, you can trust that we’ll offer you a safari experience that’s authentic, knowledgeable, and full of adventure. Whether you’re looking to experience game drives in Serengeti or explore other parts of Tanzania, we’ve got you covered.

Feel free to contact us to book your Serengeti safari or learn more about using open-sided vehicles for an unforgettable game drive experience.