Next to Serengeti National Park lies the Grumeti Game Reserve, a roughly 350,000-acre reserve home to many species of birds and animals. It is also part of the migration route in season, an integral piece of the Tanzanian ecosystem and a draw for travellers.
The Grumeti River is one of the largest and longest rivers in Tanzania. Home to large Nile crocodiles, it becomes a major obstacle for the migrating herds in June and July, when they must cross it.
Animals and birds at Grumeti
The wide grasslands hold a rich range of wildlife. On safari you can expect to see hoofed animals such as zebra and wildebeest, along with topi, gazelle and waterbuck.
Giraffe, buffalo and, less commonly, rhino are found here too. Among the carnivores, you may spot cheetah, lion, black-backed jackal and hyena on a drive through the reserve.
The reserve also has rich birdlife, and a patient birder can add many species to their list over a few days.
The Grumeti River crossing
The river crossing is a highlight for anyone visiting the reserve. It is a crucial and dangerous moment for the herds. They usually reach the south bank towards the end of June before crossing to the north, heading on towards the Masai Mara.
The crossing happens along the western corridor, on the way to the plains of the Mara. Here you can watch herds of wildebeest and zebra brave the fast-flowing Grumeti — a real spectacle.
Where to stay at Grumeti
The reserve has several places to stay, all comfortable bases for a safari.
Serengeti House
Serengeti House is built for those who want to be among nature in comfort, with wide views over the Tanzanian grasslands and attentive staff who look after meals, stays and itineraries. It has four suites with panoramic views, en-suite bathrooms, private terraces and outdoor showers, along with a swimming pool, a fitness room and a fire pit, and it arranges game drives from the property.
Faru Faru Lodge
Faru Faru Lodge sits in the heart of the Serengeti, with views over the rivers and plains around the grasslands. It offers guided game drives, wine experiences and community visits, along with a fitness room.
Sabora Tented Camp
Sabora Tented Camp offers a classic East African experience, its tents set close to the ground to give a real sense of the Tanzanian grasslands. It has nine private suites with their own dining areas, and a space for yoga and other quiet activities.
Sasakwa Lodge
Sasakwa Lodge has nine private cottages, each with its own infinity pool. The design blends modern comfort with old-world style, and there are wide views over the grasslands and the sunsets. Guests can enjoy dinners under the East African night sky, and each cottage comes with personal butler service.
If you loved reading this story, then subscribe to our blog here (it will ask to verify your email) to get inspiring travel stories and trivia delivered to your email. Stories about wildlife trivia, cultural experiences, curated luxury hotel lists, underrated places to travel, polar journeys and much more.
