Safari Ngorongoro Crater
From$2,140/person
mid range
7-Day Great Migration River Crossing Safari in Tanzania
7D / 6NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Safari comparison
Serengeti National Park vs Ruaha National Park
Two of East Africa's most sought-after safari destinations — but which is right for you? Here's how Serengeti National Park and Ruaha National Park compare on wildlife, season, climate and price.
At a glance
FeatureSerengeti National ParkRuaha National Park
Country
Tanzania
Tanzania
Region
North Tanzania
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Best time to visit
<p>Serengeti National Park is a year-round safari destination. From January to March, visitors can witness the wildebees…
<p>Ruaha National Park is best visited during the dry season from June to October when wildlife congregates around the G…
Climate
<p>Serengeti National Park enjoys a pleasant tropical savannah climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the…
<p>Ruaha National Park experiences a tropical savannah climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. The dry season offers…
Terrain
Savannah Grasslands, Mixed Terrain
Savannah Grasslands, Mixed Terrain
Area size
—
—
Elevation
—
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Safaris from
$2,140
On request
Available safaris
8 trips
0 trips
Wildlife species
22
10
Lodges & camps
7
0
Wildlife
Key species at each destination. Gold = found at both.
Serengeti National Park
About Serengeti National Park
Discover the magic of Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations and home to the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration. Stretching across the heart of northern Tanzania, the Serengeti offers exceptional game viewing, breathtaking savannah landscapes, and unforgettable encounters with the Big Five. From luxury safari lodges and hot air balloon adventures to year-round wildlife experiences, the park provides the perfect setting for nature lovers, photographers, and safari enthusiasts seeking an authentic and unforgettable African wilderness adventure.
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Great Migration
- Walking safaris available
- River crossings
- Photography opportunities
- Big Five game viewing
About Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park is Tanzania's largest national park, covering more than 20,000 square kilometers of untouched wilderness in the heart of southern Tanzania. Famous for its large elephant herds, exceptional predator populations, diverse landscapes, and authentic safari experiences, Ruaha is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and over 570 bird species. The Great Ruaha River attracts wildlife year-round, creating outstanding game-viewing opportunities. With fewer visitors than northern Tanzania's safari parks, luxury lodges, and extraordinary biodiversity, Ruaha National Park offers one of Africa's most exclusive and rewarding wildlife experiences.
- Big Five game viewing
- Scenic landscapes
- Photography opportunities
Safaris in Serengeti National Park
Safari
Safari Serengeti National Park
From$2,647/person
mid range
9-Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
9D / 8NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Beach & Safari Ngorongoro Crater
From$3,000/person
mid range
8-Day Mid-Range Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
8D / 7NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
The verdict
Both Serengeti National Park and Ruaha National Park are world-class. Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is known for its hot air balloon safaris, while Ruaha National Park in Tanzania stands out for its big five game viewing.
Can't decide? Many travellers visit both on one multi-destination itinerary — we'll craft the perfect safari that includes the best of each.
Frequently asked
Is Serengeti National Park or Ruaha National Park better for a safari?+
Both are excellent. Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is known for hot air balloon safaris, while Ruaha National Park in Tanzania stands out for big five game viewing. The right choice depends on your interests, season and budget — and many travellers combine both.
When is the best time to visit Serengeti National Park?+
<p>Serengeti National Park is a year-round safari destination. From January to March, visitors can witness the wildebeest calving season in the southern plains. Between June and October, the dry season offers excellent game viewing and migration activity, including the famous Mara River crossings. N…
Can I combine Serengeti National Park and Ruaha National Park in one trip?+
Yes. Imara Africa Safaris can build a combined itinerary featuring both Serengeti National Park and Ruaha National Park, handling all transfers, lodges and logistics so you experience the best of each in a single seamless safari.