Grumeti game reserve

The Grumeti game reserve is a protected area in Tanzania. The reserve is next to Serengeti National Park and is a fundamental extension of the greater Serengeti ecosystem. The reserve was created in 1994 to protect the great wildebeest migration route and the diverse impressive species of the area. It has an approximate coverage of 138,000 hectares.

In 2002, the non-profit organization Grumeti Community and Wildlife Conservation Fund acquired the right to manage the area.  After four years, the management rights of Grumeti were transferred to the luxury safari company Singita. Currently, Singita owns and operates as the leader of the property in the reserve.

Grumet is one of the secretly kept areas of Serengeti National Park. It is remotely located but favors exceptional game viewing with fewer crowds. Are you looking for a private experience without crowds? Grumeti Game Reserve is the best solution as part of Serengeti National Park.

Activities in Grumeti game reserve

Though Grumeti is an isolated part of Serengeti, it has several activities to offer for tourism and these include

Viewing the great migration at Grumeti game reserve

In late June and early July, the dramatic pattern of the annual great migration is the great gaze along the Grumeti River. Herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles are witnessed crossing the river as enormous crocodiles wait to feast on the young and weak ones.

Game drives

Since the reserve is privately governed, game drives carried out in this area are limited and allow less vehicles in the area. This prevents overcrowding thus providing an intimate safari. Game drives are carried out both during the day and the night. This is because the reserve is partially bound by the park rules and regulations.

As you explore the reserve, expect to see animals like zebras, elephants, bushbucks, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, waterbucks, elands, kudus, and antelopes among others. Unlike in the national park night game drives are carried out with off road game viewing which provides you an opportunity to see nocturnal animals like leopards, lions, and hyenas.

Guided walking safaris at Grumeti game reserve

In the Grumeti area, you can explore the reserve on foot together with a trained game guide. The guide will provide more information about different plant species you encounter, birds, insects, and some small animals that may not easily be seen on a game drive. With the walking safari, explore the terrain of the reserve and along the riverine forest a home to the beautiful black and white colobus monkeys and birds. Its an amazing experience.

Bird watching in Grumeti game reserve

Since the reserve is part of the Serengeti ecosystem, it shares the different bird species found in the area. The river’s woodlands, rivers, and savannas are home to both resident and migratory birds.  Some of the birds that can be spotted in this area include the African fish eagle, Saddle-billed stork, Malachite kingfisher, Martial eagle, African hawk-eagle, secretary bird, European bee-eater, White-throated robin, Grey-headed kingfisher, Speckle fronted weaver, vultures and scavengers.  Since night game drives are allowed in the reserve, spotting nocturnal birds like owls and nightjars.

Hot air balloon experience.

This is one of the best ways to enjoy the full extent of the Singita Grumeti Reserve as you marvel at its wonders from the sky. A hot air balloon safari gives you the chance to take flight and be more attracted by the rolling plains, its numerous feelings, and beautiful topography, at a specific time of the year, Enjoy the Great Wildebeest Migration across the Grumeti River.

Floating in the skies above the trees, you will easily be able to spot giraffes feeding on the acacia trees, leopards hunting in the tall grass, beautiful black and white colobus monkeys in the riverine forest, hippos and crocodiles in the river, and more of the reserve’s ecosystem.  This is one of the best experiences in the reserve.

Watching the beautiful sunrise in Grumeti game reserve

The accommodations in the Singita Grumeti reserve are strategically positioned in an area that provides clear views of the beautiful sunrise and sunset that can be enjoyed while taking a morning cup of coffee or evening wine toast on the balcony. The mixture of bright yellow, orange, and pink colours is spectacular for a memorable trip to the area.

Best time to visit the Grumeti game reserve

The Grumeti game reserve is a great pleasure that can be visited all year round. However, visits to the area largely depend on one chosen time of travel. The period between June and July is the best for watching the great migration as herds of wildebeests and zebras that have just crossed Grumeti River are seen approaching the Grumeti River to reach out for the greener pastures.

Since the reserve is less crowded, some travelers prefer to visit between September and October. Though the migration has already passed through the reserve, a few groups of wildebeests can still be seen roaming around the bush along with other animals.

For tourists interested in birding activities, the wet season between October to December and March to May is best for watching migratory birds, and many resident birds are breeding. Likewise, the dry season between June and October provides birding opportunities around water sources.

If you can’t fly out to Grumeti during these few months, this is not a problem. The reserve has a lot of wonderful sightings and expeditions to offer all year round.

Accommodation in Grumet game reserve

The reserve is well known for its luxurious accommodations most of which are operated by Singita and offer private and key spots for wildlife viewing. Some of the accommodations include:

Singita Sasakwa Lodge: It is a luxury lodge that offers extraordinary views of the Serengeti plains. The lodge has cottages and suites with a private water pool. It also offers activities like game drives, horse riding safaris, and guided nature walks.

Singita Faru Faru Lodge:  It has a modern outlook with a relaxed view of the surrounding environment. The accommodation is designed with 9 luxurious suites with spacious interiors, precious decor, in and outdoor showers, air conditioners, a mini-bar, Wi-Fi, two swimming pools, a boutique, a gallery, and provides meals of all cuisines.  The lodge offers activities like game drives, and walking safaris, birding safaris, cultural visits, hot air balloon experiences and provides a co-friendly environment that favours wildlife conservation.

Other accommodations in the area include Singita Sabora Tented Camp, Singita Serengeti House, Singita Mobile Camp (contains mobile tents moved based on the best wildlife viewing opportunities), and AndBeyond Grumeti Tented Camp, among others.

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