Grumeti Game Reserve
The Serengeti is an awe-inspiring destination where wildlife viewing is prime. However, this famous park is sometimes crowded as a large volume of visitors come here to witness the Great Migration, the Big Five, or the highest concentration of predators. And with large crowds come strict park rules to protect this World Heritage Site. If you want a comfortable safari, why not stay in the private concessions bordering the Serengeti? And Grumeti Game Reserve is one of them. Sit tight as we explore this wildlife-rich game reserve.
Grumeti Game Reserve borders the Serengeti to the west, creating a buffer zone for the wildebeest migration in the Western Corridor. It was established in 1994 by the government with two aims: to protect the migration routes and resident wildlife. Grumeti covers a total area of 411 km2. And in 2002, Singita leased 350,000 acres from the Grumeti Fund (which has the right to manage Grumeti Reserve) in a move to bring low-impact, luxury tourism to this reserve.
Attractions in Grumeti Reserve.
Grumeti Reserve forms the wide, vast ecosystem of the Serengeti. With that being said, the reserve hosts an incredible wildlife concentration. Animals are also free to move from the main park. Here are some key attractions in the Grumeti Reserve.
The Great Migration.
The wildebeest and zebra herds reach the Western Corridor between May and June. Mega herds face the Grumeti River and cross it dramatically. After crossing it, part of the migration herds enters the Grumeti Reserve. Instead of scrambling for a river crossing on the crowded banks of the Mara River, Grumeti Reserve is the best place to view river crossings without the crowd.
Resident wildlife.
Apart from the wildebeest migration, Grumeti Reserve harbors resident animals. Here, you can find large prides of lions, an incredible number of elephants, wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes. In addition, you can find all the Big Five animals: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and black rhinos in this private reserve. And something to add, giraffes, impalas, waterbucks, and antelopes.
Birdlife.
The Serengeti has many bird species. These include Rosie-throated longclaw, secretary bird, grey-throated spurfowl, Fischer’s lovebird, Schalow’s wheatear, red-throated tit, African fish eagle, rufous-tailed weaver, grey-crested helmet shrike, and Schalow’s turaco.
Things to do in Grumeti Reserve.
A safari in this private reserve is a next-level experience. It offers adventures beyond normal game viewing trips. Here are some of the best things to do while in the Singita Grumeti Reserve.
Private safari drives.
This reserve prioritizes private wildlife experiences over budget, shared adventures. Game drives offered here are private and exclusive. A few guests go there, which means less strict rules when driving. Here, you can go off-road, allowing you to get close to animals for an intimate experience. Each of the exclusive-use villas – Singita Milele, Serengeti House, and Kilima offers secluded safaris as part of their services.
Night game drives.
A quick reminder: the main park doesn’t permit driving during the night. But this thrilling adventure is possible in the surrounding reserves. With this adventure, you will discover nocturnal animals, including lions, leopards, hyenas, and jackals. On top of nighttime wildlife views, you get the opportunity to gaze at the African blanket of stars when there’s low light.
Balloon safaris.
There’s something magical in watching the landscape and wildlife from atop. A balloon safari is an unforgettable aerial experience you can embark on to appreciate the wilderness and landscape early in the morning at sunrise. This safari starts at dawn with a pick up from the lodge to the launch site. The journey then goes swiftly over the plains and acacia woodlands, ending with a hearty bush breakfast. It’s the perfect way to witness the wildebeest migration.
Walking safaris.
Between drives, you go for a short walk in the bush to view nature up close. These peaceful strolls are often guided by expert guides and an escort of an armed ranger. You will discover different plants used for medicine as well as beautiful butterflies and reptiles.
How to get to Grumeti.
It’s much easier to get to the Singita Grumeti Reserve as it’s adjacent to Serengeti National Park. Flying is the most convenient way to get to Grumeti because it saves more hours of driving. The reserve has its very own airstrip – Sasakwa Airstrip, which receives both scheduled and charter flights. Alternatively, you can get there by driving from Arusha through Ngorongoro, then to the central Serengeti, and finally to the Grumeti Reserve.
When to go to the Grumeti Reserve.
Grumeti is open year-round for game viewing. However, June to October is always great as it offers clear visibility through the reserve and the main park. This is also perfect for trekking the Great Migration, especially during the Mara River crossings.
Where to stay in the Grumeti Reserve.
Only luxury lodges are available in this wildlife-rich reserve. All offer al fresco dining, private experiences like game drives, walking tours, stargazing, etc. Lodging options include Singita properties like Sasakwa Lodge, Sabora Camp, Faru Faru, Milele, Kilima, and Serengeti House.
The bottom line
If you’re seeking an exclusive safari in the Serengeti ecosystem, look no further than the Singita Grumeti Reserve. Here, you will see the value of your money – from private butler services, gourmet dining, and top-end facilities in the private camps to private safari vehicles and balloon adventure at your disposal, every dollar is valuable.
