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 SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
(14,763 SQ.KMS) - is undoubtedly the best known wildlife sanctuary in the world, unequalled for its natural beauty
and scientific value. Within its boundaries are more than three million large mammals living in total freedom on the
"endless plains" (as Serengeti means in Masai language), scattered with rock outcrops, patches of acacia
bush, forest and occasional small rivers.
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 About 35 species of plains
animals can be observed here including the "big five" - elephant,
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 cheetah
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 zebra
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 leopard
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 and over 2000
lions.
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 During the months of late May
and early June, depending on the weather, huge herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle begin their spectacular migration
from the central plains to the permanent water in the north and west of the Park. Lines and columns of wildebeest
up to 40km long have been observed. At the tail end of this procession come the crippled and those too old to keep
up. Lion, cheetah and hyena follow, ensuring that only the fittest survive while vultures circle overhead, patiently
wait to scavenge.
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 Other common species to be found
in the Serengeti include hippo, giraffe, eland, impala, waterbuck, klipspringer, baboon, warthog, topi and a rich
selection of birdlife.
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