Serengeti Safari in January
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Written by our Arusha-based safari guides and private safari planners from first-hand experience in the Serengeti.
A Serengeti safari in January puts you on the southern plains as the Great Migration settles in. Over a million wildebeest, with zebra and gazelles, usually graze the short-grass plains around Ndutu and Lake Masek, and the first calves typically arrive late in the month. January falls in the short dry spell between the November–December short rains and the long rains, so days are warm, green and mostly sunny. This guide covers Serengeti weather in January, where the herds are, wildlife, costs, camps, tips and packing, so you can plan a private tailor-made safari with your own guide and 4x4.
Yes. January is one of the best times to visit the Serengeti. The migration herds are usually concentrated on the southern plains around Ndutu, predators follow them closely, and calving typically begins late in the month. Weather is warm and mostly dry, with short showers. It is high season, so book Ndutu camps early.
Why Visit the Serengeti in January
Is January a good time to visit the Serengeti? For most travellers it is one of the very best. The short rains have turned the southern plains green, the migration herds have usually arrived around Ndutu, and predators gather wherever the wildebeest graze. Days are warm and mostly dry, the light is clear for photography, and Palearctic migrant birds are still present. Late in the month the first calves are typically born. Here are six reasons January stands out for a private Serengeti safari. Each tab explains what makes it special this month.
Herds Concentrated on the Southern Plains
Where is the Great Migration in January? Usually on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, where the grazing is rich after the short rains. Because the herds stay in one broad area, finding them is normally straightforward, and you can spend whole days among wildebeest and zebra without long drives between sightings.
The First Calves of the Season
Calving usually begins in the last part of January, building towards the February peak. Newborn wildebeest stand and run within minutes, an extraordinary moment to witness from your private vehicle. Timing changes each year with the rains, so travelling late in the month and staying several nights in the south gives you the best chances.
Lions, Cheetahs and Hyenas Follow the Herds
Abundant prey on open, short grass makes January excellent for predator viewing. Lions, cheetahs and spotted hyenas shadow the herds, and hunts are easier to follow than in long grass. With your own guide and 4x4, you can wait patiently at a sighting for as long as you like, which often brings the best behaviour.
Warm, Mostly Dry Days
January sits in the short dry spell between the November–December short rains and the long rains that usually arrive in March. Days are warm and often sunny, with occasional short showers that freshen the air. Tracks are generally in good condition, so game drives run smoothly and photography benefits from clear, bright mornings. Lunch outdoors is usually a pleasure.
Green Plains and Clear Light
After the short rains the southern plains are fresh and green, with wildflowers, dramatic skies and herds stretching to the horizon. The clean air and soft early light make January a favourite month for photographers. Acacia woodland around Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek adds variety, with giraffes, elephants and birds among the trees. Bring a spare camera battery.
Rich Birdlife on the Plains
The Serengeti has over 500 bird species recorded, and in January Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia join the residents. Storks, rollers and raptors are common over the plains, while kori bustards and secretarybirds stride through the grass. Near-endemics such as Fischer’s lovebird and the rufous-tailed weaver are also worth looking out for. Ask your guide for a birding morning.
Serengeti Weather in January
Serengeti weather in January is usually warm, sunny and mostly dry. This is the short dry spell that follows the November–December short rains and comes before the long rains of March to May. Daytime temperatures are typically about 26–30 °C, as January falls in the hottest part of the year, while early mornings feel fresh, especially on the open plains. Short showers or an afternoon storm are possible, but they rarely last long or stop game drives. The park ranges from roughly 920 to 1,850 m, so evenings cool down. Pack light layers, a fleece and a rain jacket.
Where Is the Great Migration in January?
Where is the Great Migration in January? The herds are usually on the southern Serengeti plains and around Ndutu, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area on the park’s south-eastern edge. They arrive in December after the short rains and stay while the mineral-rich short grass lasts. Through January the wildebeest migration typically spreads across the plains between Lake Ndutu, Lake Masek and the Naabi Hill area, moving locally with showers and grazing. Calving usually begins late in the month. Exact positions vary every year, so our guides track the herds daily and adjust your private safari. Flexible plans pay off.
- Early JanuaryHerds on the southern plainsGrazing the short grass after the December rains
- Mid-JanuaryAround Ndutu and Lake MasekLarge herds spread across the plains, predators close by
- Late JanuaryCalving usually beginsFirst calves born on the short-grass plains
- Next monthFebruary calving peakBirths typically peak in the south
Serengeti Wildlife in January
Serengeti wildlife in January centres on the southern plains, where wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles gather in vast numbers. Wherever the herds graze, lions, cheetahs and spotted hyenas follow, and golden jackals and bat-eared foxes hunt in the open grass. The acacia woodlands around Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek add giraffes, elephants and, with luck, leopards. In the central Serengeti, Seronera keeps its resident lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos and topi all year round. Late in the month the first wildebeest calves appear, drawing predators even closer. Black rhino are rare here, so visit Ngorongoro Crater for rhino.
- Wildebeest
- Plains zebra
- Thomson’s gazelle
- Grant’s gazelle
- Lion
- Cheetah
- Spotted hyena
- Leopard
- Golden jackal
- Bat-eared fox
- Elephant
- Giraffe
- Eland
- Topi
Serengeti Birds in January
January is a rewarding month for Serengeti birding. Over 500 species have been recorded in the park, and Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia are present from roughly November to April. White storks and European rollers often feed among the herds, while vultures circle wherever predators have made a kill. On the open plains, look for ostriches, kori bustards and secretarybirds, and in the woodland around Ndutu watch for lilac-breasted rollers. Keen birders can search for near-endemics such as the grey-breasted spurfowl, Fischer’s lovebird, rufous-tailed weaver and Usambiro barbet. Bring binoculars and ask your guide for birding time.
- Ostrich
- Kori bustard
- Secretarybird
- White stork
- European roller
- Lilac-breasted roller
- Grey-breasted spurfowl
- Fischer’s lovebird
- Rufous-tailed weaver
- Usambiro barbet
- Lappet-faced vulture
- Tawny eagle
Where to Go in the Serengeti in January
Where you base yourself in January matters, because the herds are usually in the far south of the ecosystem. The best itineraries spend most nights around Ndutu and the southern plains, then add the central Serengeti for resident big cats and leopards. Moru Kopjes and the Gol Kopjes are close enough to explore from the south, while the Western Corridor and northern Serengeti are quiet this month. The tabs below rank the main Serengeti areas for a January safari, starting with the best. Each tab gives the reason to go and how long to stay.
Ndutu and the Southern Plains
Ndutu lies in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area on the Serengeti’s south-eastern edge, so NCA fees apply there. In January the migration herds usually graze its short-grass plains, Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek draw wildlife to their shores, and calving typically begins late in the month. This is where we place most of your nights. Allow at least three nights.
Explore Ndutu Safaris →
Seronera and the Central Serengeti
Seronera, in the central Serengeti, has resident wildlife all year round, so it is a superb addition to a January safari. The Seronera River valley is a big cat hotspot, and leopards often rest in sausage and acacia trees. One or two nights here add variety before or after your days on the southern plains.
Central Serengeti Guide →
Moru Kopjes, South-Central Serengeti
Moru Kopjes are dramatic granite outcrops in the south-central Serengeti, rising from the grassland between Seronera and the southern plains. In January herds can graze nearby, and the rocks give lions lookout points and shade. It is a beautiful, quieter area to explore, and makes a natural link between the south and centre. Bring binoculars to scan the rocks.
View the Serengeti Map →
Gol Kopjes and the Eastern Plains
The Gol Kopjes rise from the eastern short-grass plains and are known for cheetahs. When rain falls in the east, January herds can spill onto these plains, bringing predators with them. Vehicles must stay on the tracks here, which protects the fragile grassland, and the open horizons make for outstanding wide-angle photography. Ask your guide about the latest rainfall.
Eastern Serengeti Guide →
Western Corridor and Grumeti River
The Western Corridor follows the Grumeti River towards Lake Victoria and is known for large crocodiles. In January the migration is far away in the south, so the area is very quiet, with resident wildlife only. It shines from about late May to July, when the herds usually arrive and may cross the Grumeti River.
Western Serengeti Guide →
Northern Serengeti, Kogatende and Lobo
The northern Serengeti, around Kogatende, the Lamai Triangle and Lobo, is the home of the Mara River crossings, which usually take place from July to October. In January the herds are hundreds of kilometres south, so the north is peaceful, with resident wildlife only. We recommend saving it for a dry-season safari. It rewards travellers seeking solitude.
Northern Serengeti Guide →Things to Do in the Serengeti in January
January offers far more than a single game drive. The herds are close together, the plains are green and daylight is long, so a private safari can mix full days with the migration, early balloon flights and quieter birding or photography sessions. Walking safaris and cultural visits are possible in certain areas outside the national park. Your own guide and 4x4 let you set the pace each day. Here are the experiences we most often arrange for travellers in the Serengeti in January. Each tab shows where it happens and the best time of day.
Full-Day Private Game Drives
Game drives in the Serengeti run from sunrise to sunset, and January rewards full days on the southern plains with a picnic lunch. Your private vehicle means you decide how long to stay at each sighting. Night drives are not allowed inside the national park, so we plan early starts to catch predators at their most active.
Private Serengeti Safaris →
Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari
A Serengeti hot air balloon safari lifts off at dawn, drifting over the plains as the sun rises over the herds. Flights operate year-round in the central Serengeti, and seasonal launches may also be available in other areas depending on the operator. January demand is high, so we recommend reserving your balloon flight with your safari.
Why Book a Balloon Safari →
Following the Herds and Early Calving
Following the wildebeest migration in January means reading the plains with your guide, searching for the densest herds and the predators that shadow them. Late in the month the first calves are usually born. Patient, unhurried viewing from your own vehicle gives you the best chance to watch births, hunts and young families. Binoculars help you scan the herds.
Migration Safaris →
Wildlife Photography in Green Season Light
January’s green plains, clean air and dramatic skies make the Serengeti a favourite for photographers. Big herds, predators on open ground and soft light at sunrise and sunset give endless opportunities. On a private photographic safari, your guide positions the vehicle for light and background, and you can stay as long as you need. A beanbag steadies long lenses.
Photo Safaris →
Guided Walks Outside the Park
Walking is not part of a standard game drive inside the national park, but walking safaris in certain areas outside the park, such as Ndutu in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or private concessions, can be arranged. On foot you notice tracks, plants and insects missed from a vehicle. Ask us what suits your itinerary. Comfortable closed shoes are essential.
Serengeti Walking Safaris →
Birdwatching with Your Private Guide
With over 500 species recorded and Palearctic migrants present, January is a fine month for birding in the Serengeti. Your guide can set aside a morning for the woodland around Lake Ndutu, the open plains and the Seronera River. Look for kori bustards, secretarybirds, rollers, raptors and several near-endemic species. Early mornings are when birds are most active.
Serengeti Birds →What to Expect on a Serengeti Safari in January
A Serengeti safari in January follows a relaxed but rewarding rhythm. You rise early, spend long hours with the herds and predators on the southern plains, and return to camp as the light fades. Warm days, occasional short showers and green grass shape each drive, and seasonal camps in the Ndutu area are open for the calving months. Park and conservation area rules guide where your vehicle can go. The tabs below explain a typical day, the roads, weather, rules, camps and animal behaviour you can expect this month. Read them before you travel so you arrive well prepared.
A Day on the Southern Plains
Most January days begin with coffee before sunrise and an early start, when predators are active and the light is soft. You may return to camp for brunch or stay out with a picnic lunch near the herds. Afternoon drives continue until sunset, and evenings are spent over dinner sharing the day’s sightings. Days are long and rewarding.
Your Private 4x4 on Serengeti Tracks
Your private safari uses a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof and your own guide. Roads to the southern plains are rough and dusty in places, and the drive from Arusha via Ngorongoro takes most of a day. After a shower, black cotton soil can become sticky, so your guide chooses the most reliable routes.
Warm Days and Passing Showers
January days are usually warm, about 26–30 °C, with strong sun on the open plains and little shade. Brief showers or an afternoon storm can roll in, then clear quickly, leaving fresh air and dramatic skies. A hat, sunscreen and water keep you comfortable, and a light rain jacket covers sudden downpours. Reapply sunscreen during the day.
National Park and NCA Rules
Inside Serengeti National Park, vehicles must keep to the tracks in most areas, and night drives are not allowed. Ndutu lies in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which has its own fees and regulations. Our guides follow these rules carefully, keeping a respectful distance from animals, especially mothers with newborn calves later in the month. These rules protect the wildlife.
Seasonal Camps Near the Herds
Seasonal and mobile tented camps move into the Ndutu area and southern Serengeti for the calving months, placing you close to the herds. Permanent lodges such as Lake Masek Tented Lodge offer another choice nearby. Because January is high season, the best-located camps fill early, so we advise booking well ahead. Ask us which camps suit your dates.
Herds, Predators and First Calves
In January the herds are relatively settled, grazing and moving locally across the plains as showers green new patches of grass. Predators stay close, and you may see lions resting near the herds or cheetahs scanning from termite mounds. Late in the month heavily pregnant wildebeest gather and the first calves usually appear. Every day brings something new.
Serengeti Crowds in January
January is high season in the Serengeti, but crowd levels vary greatly by area. The first days of the month are busy with festive travellers, then numbers ease slightly before rising again as calving approaches. Ndutu and the southern plains attract the most vehicles because the herds are there, and a cheetah or lion sighting can draw several cars. Seronera is moderately busy, while Moru Kopjes and the Gol Kopjes feel quieter. The Western Corridor and northern Serengeti are very quiet. A private vehicle, early starts and full-day drives help you enjoy peaceful sightings. Quieter tracks also help.
- Ndutu & southBusy
- SeroneraModerate
- Moru KopjesQuiet
- Gol KopjesQuiet
- Western CorridorVery quiet
- Northern SerengetiVery quiet
Is January the Best Time to Visit the Serengeti?
Is January the best time to visit the Serengeti? It is one of the best, especially if you want the migration herds concentrated in one area. Timing within the month matters. The first week overlaps with New Year, so demand and rates are at their highest. Mid-January offers settled weather, herds on the southern plains and slightly fewer visitors. Late January is ideal if you hope to see the first calves, as births usually build towards the February peak. For Mara River crossings, choose July to October instead; for the calving peak, consider February. Both months suit private safaris.
Serengeti in January: Pros and Cons
Every month in the Serengeti has trade-offs, and January is no exception. Its strengths are herds concentrated on the southern plains, superb predator viewing, early calving and warm, mostly dry weather. On the other hand, it is high season, so the best camps near Ndutu cost more and book out early, popular sightings can be busy, and calving dates shift each year. Weighing these points against your budget and dates helps you decide whether January suits your private safari, or whether February would be better for you. Here are the main points. Each tab includes four quick takeaways.
Herds Concentrated in One Area
The migration herds usually stay on the southern plains through January, so finding them is normally straightforward. You can spend whole days among wildebeest and zebra without long searches or drives. This reliability is a real advantage over months when the herds are on the move or spread across remote areas of the park. It also saves driving time.
- Reliable herd sightings
- Short drives between sightings
- Full days with the herds
- Ndutu and southern plains
Excellent Predator Viewing
Abundant prey, open plains and short grass make January excellent for watching lions, cheetahs and hyenas. Hunts are easier to see on open ground than in long grass, and late in the month the first calves draw predators even closer. Patience and your own vehicle give you strong chances of memorable behaviour. Bring binoculars and a long lens.
- Lions near the herds
- Cheetahs on open plains
- Hunts easier to follow
- Time to wait at sightings
Warm, Mostly Dry and Green
January’s short dry spell brings warm, mostly sunny days with occasional short showers. The plains are green after the short rains, the air is clear and tracks are usually in good condition. It also pairs perfectly with hot, sunny days on Zanzibar, so a private bush and beach holiday works especially well this month. Green scenery adds to every photograph.
- Warm, sunny days
- Green plains
- Clear light for photos
- Easy beach add-on
Higher Rates and Early Booking
January is high season, especially in camps close to the herds around Ndutu, so accommodation rates are higher than in the green season. The best-located seasonal camps fill many months ahead, particularly over New Year. Booking six to twelve months in advance gives you the widest choice of camps, flights and preferred dates. Flexible dates can also help.
- Higher camp rates
- Festive dates sell out
- Book months ahead
- Flexible dates help
Busier Sightings in the South
Because the herds are concentrated, Ndutu and the southern plains draw most safari vehicles in January, and a lion or cheetah sighting can become crowded. Starting early, staying out through the middle of the day and choosing quieter areas with your private guide greatly reduces the impact on your experience and on the animals. Midday sightings are often quieter.
- More vehicles at sightings
- Start before sunrise
- Stay out at midday
- Try quieter tracks
Calving Dates Vary Each Year
Calving depends on the rains and grazing, so the start date changes from year to year. In some years births are already common in late January, in others they begin closer to February. If calving is your main goal, travelling late in the month or in February and staying several nights in the south improves your chances.
- Start date varies
- Travel late in the month
- Allow three to four nights
- Consider February
How Much Does a Serengeti Safari Cost in January?
How much does a Serengeti safari cost in January? A private Serengeti safari in January typically costs from about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, depending mostly on your accommodation style. January is high season, so camps near the herds book early and rates are at their seasonal level. Your private vehicle, guide, park fees and meals are usually included, with exact inclusions confirmed in your quote. The ranges below come from our own price list and show what each safari style offers. Ask us for a detailed quote for your preferred January dates.
Budget Camping Safari
$200 – $390per person per day
A budget camping safari is the most affordable way to see the Serengeti in January. You stay at public campsites in sturdy tents, with a cook preparing fresh meals, and travel in your own private 4x4 with your guide. It suits adventurous travellers who want the herds and predators without paying for lodges. Simple camping keeps the cost down.
- Public campsites
- Private vehicle and guide
- Cook and fresh meals
- Best value option
Mobile Tented Camp Safari
$550 – $590per person per day
Mobile tented camps move to the Ndutu area and southern plains for the calving months, placing you close to the herds. They offer comfortable tents and a true bush atmosphere with the sounds of the plains at night. In January this style is popular, so we recommend reserving your preferred camp well ahead. Ask us about locations for your dates.
- Close to the herds
- Seasonal locations
- Bush atmosphere
- Book early in January
Lodge Safari
$590 – $750per person per day
A lodge safari uses permanent lodges in the Serengeti and on the way, such as in the central Serengeti or near Moru Kopjes. Lodges suit travellers who prefer solid rooms and set facilities. In January we plan your lodge nights so you can still reach the southern plains and the herds comfortably each day. It is a comfortable, reliable choice.
- Permanent lodges
- Solid rooms
- Central or south-central
- Good mid-range value
Tented Lodge Safari
$590 – $990per person per day
A tented lodge safari combines the feel of canvas with permanent comfort, and it is one of the most popular styles for January. Tented lodges near Lake Masek and Ndutu put you within reach of the herds, while others sit in the central Serengeti. Rates vary with location, season and level of comfort. Ask us to compare the options.
- Canvas with comfort
- Near Ndutu or Seronera
- Popular in January
- Range of standards
High-End Luxury Safari
$990 – $2,500per person per day
A high-end luxury safari pairs the finest camps and lodges with seamless travel, often including fly-in options to Serengeti airstrips. In January luxury mobile camps follow the herds in the south, offering exceptional service in prime locations. This style suits honeymoons, special occasions and travellers who want the very best experience. Every detail is arranged for you.
- Finest camps and lodges
- Fly-in options
- Prime herd locations
- Ideal for honeymoons
Park Fees and Optional Extras
Serengeti park and concession fees are charged per person per 24 hours, and Ndutu falls under Ngorongoro Conservation Area fees. These are normally built into your quote. Optional extras to budget for include a hot air balloon safari, domestic flights, tips for your guide and camp staff, visas and travel insurance. We show every item clearly in your quote.
- Park fees per 24 hours
- NCA fees at Ndutu
- Balloon and flights
- Tips, visas, insurance
Serengeti Safari Packages for January
The best Serengeti safari packages for January spend several nights near the herds on the southern plains, with time for the central Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. Each itinerary below is a starting point for a private tailor-made safari, which we adapt to your dates, budget and interests. Choose a calving-focused trip, a mid-range migration safari, a luxury escape or a bush and beach holiday with Zanzibar. Every package includes your own guide and 4x4. Each tab shows the duration and who the safari suits best, with a link to the full itinerary and details.
7-Day Ndutu Calving Season Safari
The 7-Day Ndutu Calving Season Safari focuses on the southern plains, where the herds usually spend January. It is ideal for travellers who want as much time as possible with the wildebeest, predators and, late in the month, the first calves. We tailor the camps and pace to your dates and preferred comfort level. Camps near the herds book early.
View This Safari →
8-Day Migration Calving Season Safari
The 8-Day Migration Calving Season safari is a mid-range itinerary designed for January to March, when the herds are usually in the south. The extra day gives you more flexibility to follow the wildebeest as they move with the rains. It suits first-time visitors who want value, comfort and plenty of game viewing. Mid-range camps keep it good value.
View This Safari →
7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari
The 7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari is a well-balanced choice for January, combining time with the herds in the south and resident wildlife in the central Serengeti. We adjust the route to where the wildebeest are grazing during your dates. It suits travellers who want the migration and the wider Serengeti in one trip. Zanzibar can be added at the end.
View This Safari →
Luxury Great Migration Safari
Our Luxury Great Migration Safari pairs the January herds with premium camps and lodges, chosen for their position near the wildebeest. Fly-in options can shorten travel time and add more days on the plains. It suits honeymooners and travellers celebrating a special occasion who want outstanding comfort throughout their private safari. We arrange every detail, from flights to transfers.
View This Safari →
12-Day Serengeti Calving Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
The 12-Day Serengeti Calving Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday combines the southern plains with time on the Indian Ocean. January is ideal for this pairing, as Zanzibar is hot and sunny while the herds graze around Ndutu. It suits couples and families who want wildlife and relaxation in one smooth private itinerary. It works well for a honeymoon too.
View This Safari →
6-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Family Safari
The 6-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Family Safari is designed around a relaxed pace that suits children and grandparents. In January we can focus game drives on the southern plains, where the herds are easy to reach, and add a day in the Ngorongoro Crater. Your own vehicle lets you stop whenever the family needs. Shorter drives keep children happy.
View This Safari →Where to Stay in the Serengeti in January
Where you stay in January makes a real difference, because the herds are usually in the south and long drives from the north or west would waste precious time. The best choices are seasonal and mobile tented camps in the Ndutu area, permanent tented lodges near Lake Masek, and well-placed lodges in the south-central Serengeti. High season means these fill early, so book well ahead. The tabs below show camps and lodges we often recommend for a January safari, with their location and style. Each tab gives the location and style of the property.
Lake Masek Tented Lodge
Lake Masek Tented Lodge overlooks Lake Masek in the Ndutu area, within reach of the plains where the herds usually graze in January. As a permanent tented lodge, it is a reliable base during the calving months. Its position means short drives to the wildebeest and more time watching predators and the first calves. Book early for January dates.
View Lodge →
Ndutu Kati Kati Tented Camp
Ndutu Kati Kati Tented Camp is a seasonal camp set up in the Ndutu area for the months when the migration is in the south. That timing makes it a natural choice for a January safari. Staying close to the herds lets you start early and reach the action quickly, with a true bush atmosphere at night.
View Camp →
Ndutu Under Canvas Tented Camp
Ndutu Under Canvas is a seasonal mobile tented camp in the Ndutu area, positioned for the calving months on the southern plains. In January it places you among the wildlife of the short-grass plains, with the sounds of the herds and predators around camp after dark. It suits travellers who want an authentic canvas experience.
View Camp →
andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas
andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas is a luxury mobile camp that moves to follow the migration through the year. In January it is usually positioned to reach the herds in the southern Serengeti, so you wake close to the wildlife. It suits travellers who want premium comfort combined with the flexibility of a camp that follows the action.
View Camp →
Angata Migration Camp
Angata Migration Camp is a seasonal camp that moves location to stay near the herds. During the calving months it is set up within reach of the southern plains, making it a good fit for January. It offers a comfortable tented stay with the convenience of short drives to wherever the wildebeest are grazing. Ask us where it will be.
View Camp →
Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Serengeti Sopa Lodge lies in the south-central Serengeti near the Moru Kopjes, a sensible lodge base for January. From here you can explore Moru’s granite outcrops and drive south towards the plains where the herds gather. It suits travellers who prefer a permanent lodge while staying within reach of the migration in the south. It also works well for families.
View Lodge →Combine the Serengeti with Other Destinations in January
January is an excellent month to combine the Serengeti with other highlights of northern Tanzania. The Ngorongoro Crater lies on the road to Ndutu, Tarangire and Lake Manyara are green and quiet, and Lake Eyasi adds a cultural dimension. Zanzibar is hot and sunny for a beach finish, and Kilimanjaro is in its warm dry window for climbers. Choose from the options below, and we will link them with your Serengeti days in one private itinerary. Each option lists its highlight and how many nights to allow, so you can balance wildlife, culture and relaxation.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater sits on the road between Arusha and Ndutu, so it fits naturally into a January Serengeti safari. The crater floor is green and full of buffalo, zebra, lions and hyenas, and it is the best place in the region to look for black rhino. Nights on the forested rim are cool. Arrive early for quieter viewing.
Explore Ngorongoro Crater →
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is green and peaceful in January, with resident elephants, giraffes and lions among ancient baobabs. Many animals spread out when water is easy to find, so the park feels quieter than in the dry season, but birding is excellent. It makes a relaxed first stop on the way from Arusha. It also suits travellers who love photographing elephants.
Explore Tarangire →
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is lush in January, with groundwater forest, flowing streams and a lake shore busy with water birds. Elephants, baboons and giraffes are regular sightings. The park lies beneath the Rift Valley escarpment on the main road west, so a half or full day fits easily before or after the Serengeti. It suits a gentle first game drive.
Explore Lake Manyara →
Lake Eyasi Cultural Visit
Lake Eyasi lies south-west of the Ngorongoro highlands and offers a cultural contrast to your days with the herds. A visit to the communities around the lake gives insight into traditional ways of life in northern Tanzania. It can be added on the way to or from Ndutu, making a varied January itinerary. Ask us about suitable activities.
Explore Lake Eyasi →
Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Zanzibar is hot and sunny in January, with calm seas that suit swimming and snorkelling. After early starts on the plains, a few days on white-sand beaches are the perfect way to relax. A short flight from the Serengeti or Arusha links the island to your safari, and Stone Town adds history. Beach hotels fill early in January.
Explore Zanzibar Holidays →
Climb Kilimanjaro in January
January falls in Kilimanjaro’s warm short dry season, making it a good time to climb before or after your Serengeti safari. Mornings are often clear and trails mostly dry. Our Kilimanjaro in January guide explains routes, weather and preparation, and we plan every transfer between mountain, safari and beach for you. Allow six to eight days for the climb.
Kilimanjaro in January →Serengeti Travel Tips for January
A little preparation makes a Serengeti safari in January easier and more rewarding. Because this is high season, the most important step is booking early, especially for camps near the herds around Ndutu. It also helps to allow enough nights in the south, decide between driving and flying, plan your days around early starts, and pack for warm sun and the odd shower. These practical tips come from our Arusha-based guides, who lead private safaris on the southern plains every January. Each tab ends with four quick reminders to keep in mind.
Reserve Six to Twelve Months Ahead
Seasonal camps in the Ndutu area have limited tents and fill quickly in January, especially over New Year and late in the month. Reserving six to twelve months ahead gives you the widest choice of camps, flights and dates. If you can travel in the second half of the month, you also improve your calving chances.
- Book six to twelve months ahead
- Avoid New Year if flexible
- Secure Ndutu camps first
- Reserve balloon flights
Allow Three to Four Nights in the South
The herds move locally with the rain and grazing, so a single night in the south can leave you chasing them. Three or four nights around Ndutu and the southern plains give your guide time to find the best concentrations and predators. Add one or two nights in Seronera for leopards and resident wildlife. Leopards reward patient searching.
- Three to four nights in the south
- One or two in Seronera
- Flexible daily plans
- Time for patient viewing
Choose Between Driving and Flying
Driving from Arusha via Ngorongoro takes about a full day but lets you add Tarangire, Lake Manyara and the crater along the way. Flying from Arusha to the Ndutu or Seronera airstrips takes roughly one to two hours and saves time. Many January travellers drive in and fly out to combine both. We can arrange either option.
- Drive for more parks
- Fly to save time
- Ndutu and Seronera airstrips
- Soft bags for light aircraft
Head Out at First Light
Predators are most active in the cool early morning, and the soft light is best for photography. Leaving camp before sunrise also helps you reach the herds before most other vehicles. Take a picnic lunch to stay out through the middle of the day, when sightings near the herds are often quieter. Ask your camp for an early breakfast.
- Leave before sunrise
- Pack a picnic lunch
- Stay out at midday
- Rest in the afternoon if needed
Prepare for Sun and Passing Showers
January sun on the open plains is strong, and there is little shade along the tracks. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen, and drink plenty of water. Short showers can arrive in the afternoon, so keep a light rain jacket in the vehicle and a fleece for fresh early mornings. Lip balm with sun protection also helps.
- Wide-brimmed hat
- High-factor sunscreen
- Light rain jacket
- Fleece for mornings
Give Mothers and Calves Space
Late in January the first wildebeest calves are born, and mothers need space to bond with their young. Our guides keep a respectful distance, switch off engines at sightings and never crowd animals. Keeping voices low and following your guide’s advice helps protect the herds and gives you more natural behaviour to watch. Quiet patience often brings the best moments.
- Keep a respectful distance
- Engines off at sightings
- Keep voices low
- Follow your guide
What to Pack for the Serengeti in January
Packing for the Serengeti in January means preparing for warm, sunny days, fresh early mornings and the occasional short shower. Choose light, breathable clothing in neutral colours such as khaki, olive or beige, and avoid dark blue and black, which attract tsetse flies in some wooded areas. Add a warm fleece for early game drives and a packable rain jacket. If you are flying between airstrips, use a soft duffel bag and keep within the light-aircraft baggage limit. Our Serengeti safari packing list has the full details, and our team can advise on anything else you need. Pack light.
- Neutral, breathable clothing
- Warm fleece for early mornings
- Packable rain jacket
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- High-factor sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars
- Camera and spare batteries
- Soft duffel bag
- Personal medication
- Comfortable closed shoes
- Reusable water bottle
Events and Holidays in January
January in Tanzania begins with New Year’s Day on 1 January, a public holiday, and many travellers are still on festive trips during the first week, so the Serengeti is busy. Zanzibar Revolution Day on 12 January is another public holiday, marked mainly on the islands. In nature, the biggest event of the month is the start of wildebeest calving on the southern plains, usually late in January. Palearctic migrant birds are present throughout. Religious holidays such as Eid follow the lunar calendar, so their dates vary each year. Check them when planning your private safari dates. Book early.
- 1 JanuaryNew Year’s DayPublic holiday; busy festive week
- 12 JanuaryZanzibar Revolution DayPublic holiday, marked mainly on Zanzibar
- Late JanuaryCalving season beginsNdutu and the southern plains
- All monthMigrant birds presentStorks, rollers and raptors
How to Get to the Serengeti in January
Most January Serengeti safaris begin at Kilimanjaro International Airport, known as JRO, followed by a night in Arusha. From Arusha you can drive via the Ngorongoro highlands to Ndutu or the central Serengeti, which takes about a full day, roughly 7–8 hours to Seronera, with game viewing along the way. Alternatively, a light aircraft from Arusha Airport reaches Serengeti airstrips such as Ndutu or Seronera in about 1–2 hours. Naabi Hill Gate is the main southern entrance, while Ndutu is reached through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Many travellers drive in and fly out to see more along the way.
- Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO)International arrival; overnight in Arusha
- Meet your guide in ArushaBriefing, then start your private safari
- Drive via NgorongoroAbout a full day to the Serengeti, with game viewing
- Or fly from Arusha (ARK)About 1–2 hours to Ndutu or Seronera airstrips
Serengeti Health and Safety in January
Malaria is present in the Serengeti, and January’s warm, green conditions suit mosquitoes, so prevention matters. Speak to a travel clinic about antimalarials, use repellent and wear long sleeves at dusk. Tsetse flies occur in some wooded areas, mainly in the west and north, so avoid dark blue and black clothing. A yellow fever certificate is needed only if you arrive from or transit through a risk country. Drink bottled or filtered water, protect yourself from the strong sun, and always follow your guide around wildlife. Our guides are first-aid trained, and comprehensive travel insurance including evacuation is essential.
- Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials
- Use repellent and long sleeves at dusk
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Protect yourself from strong sun
- Follow your guide around wildlife
- Stay in the vehicle unless advised
- Avoid dark blue and black clothing
- Get insurance with evacuation cover
How to Plan and Book a Serengeti Safari in January
Planning a Serengeti safari in January is simple when you follow a few clear steps. Because this is high season and the herds are concentrated in the south, decisions about dates and camps come first. Our Arusha-based team then designs your route, confirms availability and handles every transfer, so you can focus on the experience. Follow the six steps below to move from first idea to confirmed booking, and contact us at any stage for honest, expert advice about your private safari. Each step includes four quick checks and a useful link.
Choose Your January Dates
Start by deciding when in January to travel. Early January overlaps with New Year and is the busiest period, mid-January offers settled herds on the southern plains, and late January gives the best chance of seeing the first calves. Choose dates with a little flexibility, as calving timing varies from year to year. Our best time guide explains more.
- Early, mid or late January
- Avoid New Year if possible
- Late month for calving
- Keep some flexibility
Pick Your Serengeti Areas
Next, decide which areas to include. For January, most of your nights should be around Ndutu and the southern plains, where the herds usually graze. Add Seronera for leopards and resident wildlife, and consider the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire or Lake Manyara on the way. Our Tanzania safari in January guide covers each park in more detail.
- Ndutu and southern plains
- Seronera for leopards
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Tarangire or Lake Manyara
Choose Your Camps and Lodges
Choose the accommodation style that suits your budget, from budget camping to mobile tented camps, tented lodges and high-end luxury. In January, seasonal camps in the Ndutu area place you closest to the herds. Tell us whether you prefer canvas or permanent rooms, and we will suggest camps that match your dates and style. Every option includes your own guide.
- Pick a safari style
- Seasonal camps near herds
- Canvas or permanent rooms
- Match your budget
Send Us Your Enquiry
Send us your preferred dates, number of travellers, interests and budget. Our Arusha-based planners reply with a tailor-made itinerary and a clear quote showing what is included. We are happy to adjust the route, camps or pace until it feels right, and we give honest advice on what works best in January. Questions are always welcome.
- Share dates and travellers
- Tell us your interests
- Receive a tailored itinerary
- Adjust until it is right
Confirm and Book Your Safari
When you are happy with the itinerary, confirm your booking so we can secure your camps, flights and balloon flight if you choose one. A deposit is payable as set out in your booking confirmation. Because January camps fill quickly, confirming early protects your preferred dates and the best-located accommodation near the herds. Your confirmation lists every detail.
- Approve your itinerary
- Pay deposit as confirmed
- Camps and flights secured
- Book early for January
Prepare and Pack for Your Trip
Before you travel, arrange your visa, travel insurance and any vaccinations or antimalarials recommended by a travel clinic. Pack light, neutral clothing, a fleece, a rain jacket and binoculars in a soft bag. We send you a final briefing with practical details, and your guide meets you on arrival in Tanzania. Then your Serengeti adventure finally begins.
- Visa and insurance
- Travel clinic advice
- Pack a soft bag
- Final briefing from us
Serengeti Safari in January: FAQs
Where is the Great Migration in January?
In January the Great Migration is usually on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and around Ndutu, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The herds graze between Lake Ndutu, Lake Masek and the Naabi Hill area, and calving typically begins late in the month. Exact positions vary each year.
Is January a good time to visit the Serengeti?
Yes. January is one of the best times to visit the Serengeti. The migration herds are concentrated in the south, predator viewing is excellent, the weather is warm and mostly dry, and the first calves usually arrive late in the month. It is high season, so book early.
What is the Serengeti weather in January?
Serengeti weather in January is warm and mostly dry, as the month falls in the short dry spell. Days are typically about 26–30 °C, early mornings feel fresh, and short showers or afternoon storms are possible. Pack light layers, a fleece and a light rain jacket.
Does the calving season start in January?
Calving usually begins in the last part of January, then peaks in February. Timing depends on the rains each year, so births may be common by late January in some years and start closer to February in others. Staying several nights in the south improves your chances.
How much does a Serengeti safari cost in January?
A private Serengeti safari in January typically costs from about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, depending mostly on accommodation style, from budget camping to high-end luxury. Your private vehicle, guide, park fees and meals are usually included, with exact inclusions confirmed in your quote.
Is the Serengeti crowded in January?
January is high season, so Ndutu and the southern plains are busy because the herds are there. Seronera is moderately busy, while the Western Corridor and northern Serengeti are very quiet. Booking six to twelve months ahead, early starts and a private vehicle help you enjoy quieter sightings.
What should I pack for the Serengeti in January?
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colours, a warm fleece for early mornings, a packable rain jacket, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen, insect repellent and binoculars. Use a soft duffel bag if you are flying, and avoid dark blue and black clothing.
Design Your Private January Serengeti Safari
Design your private Serengeti safari in January with our Arusha-based team. Tell us your dates and interests, and we will plan your camps near the herds, your own guide and 4x4, and any crater, Zanzibar or Kilimanjaro extension.
Plan My Private SafariView Serengeti Safaris