We never forget that you are at Serengeti Bushtops for the wildlife. Our goal is to ensure you enjoy a succession of unique, thrilling safari experiences. You can explore the natural dramas of the Serengeti in our state of the art 4×4 vehicles during morning, evening or full day game drives. Our excellent guides will help you pick out the action, but also the perfect secluded spot should you want to take a break during a day trip for a romantic bush picnic or go on a guided walking safari.
If you start first thing in the morning, you will find the Serengeti at its most active. This is when Africa can reveal its cool side, so you should wrap up warm (we aim to be on the road before the sun rises at around 6.00 am). Our open vehicles bring you as close as possible to the wildlife, just when the action is likely to be most exciting. Few predators hunt during the heat of the day, so the early morning is the best time to observe the thrill of the chase. It is also a magical time, with the subtle light dappling the landscape, the birds awakening and the sense of a great adventure beginning to unfurl. And just when your stomach starts to complain, we’ll give you a late breakfast in the bush, before further viewing leads you back at about 11.00 am, in good time for lunch at camp.
These full day safaris are the best way to see the full range of what this magnificent park has to offer. Each excursion departs at around 6.30 am, with your 4×4 fully equipped to cross the Serengeti in search of game. The early mornings are relatively cool, but by midday it can become very hot indeed and sun-block lotion and hats are advised. Lunch is served under the shade of an Acacia tree as you take a break from scanning the horizons, and realise that all is well with the world.
Our team of rangers and Kuria spotters apply their wildlife knowledge, tracking abilities and incredible eyesight to reveal the hidden wonders of the Serengeti: even we don’t always know how they do it!
One of nature’s great occasions is the annual crossing of the Mara river by migrating wildebeest. At Serengeti Bushtops we have a ringside seat, so if it happens when you visit, you can be sure of witnessing this stupendous natural event. Yet it is often in the lesser-known corners of the bush that we spot the highlights of your visit, such as a kill, amorous liaison, or lesser-known creature. A full day on safari gives you every chance of such unforgettable encounters.
Heading into the bush for an evening game drive has a level of excitement and character all its own, as predators begin their nightly search for prey. As the day cools and the sky is streaked by red, gold and orange hues, you may be surprised by the roar of a lion, a galloping giraffe, or the high pitched giggling of hyenas fighting over a kill. At a suitable vantage point, your guide will pause, allowing you to enjoy a sundowner in blissful comfort.
There is nothing quite like soaring high above the herds in a hot air balloon, as the sun rises over Serengeti. If this prospect appeals, and you decide to add a balloon safari to your itinerary, do let us know in advance, so we can arrange a booking with our local hot air balloon operator, based near Kogatende. You will be picked up from Serengeti Bushtops before dawn, ready to take off as the sun makes its appearance. The flight lasts an unforgettable hour, before your balloon is brought gracefully back to earth – and a celebratory Bush champagne breakfast. You can then head off on a full day’s day game drive, or return to camp for a more leisurely morning and even a return to bed, to catch up on lost sleep. Please note that a balloon safari lies outside your Serengeti Bushtops booking and our direct control: you should allow around US$550 per person for the flight.