Serengeti Park
Niedersachsen
Serengeti Park, located in Hodenhagen, Lower Saxony, Germany, is the largest safari park in Europe, covering 220 hectares. Founded in 1974 with the vision of creating a vast safari experience, it features around 2,000 animals across three main zones: Serengeti-Safari, Jungle-Safari, and Adventure-Safari. Visitors can explore the Serengeti-Safari by car or bus, observing species from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas in open enclosures. The Jungle-Safari offers walk-through monkey enclosures and an off-road bus tour with special effects. Adventure-Safari provides over 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters and a Ferris wheel. The park is also known for its animal breeding successes, such as the first European-bred white rhinoceros released into the wild and the birth of the first African elephant calf in northern Germany in 30 years. Additionally, Serengeti Park hosts engaging shows like "Kumeka – The Awakening of the Jungle" and "Okavango – The Water Show." Since 2007, guests can stay overnight in safari lodges designed in African style, surrounded by wildlife. The park combines conservation, education, and entertainment, making it a unique destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Serengeti Park is during spring and summer months for optimal weather and animal activity. To avoid long queues, consider purchasing tickets online in advance. The park offers discounts for families, groups, and annual passes. Arrive early to enjoy the full safari experience and catch the scheduled animal shows. For a unique stay, book one of the African-style safari lodges on site. Check the official website for up-to-date opening hours and special events before your visit.
Interesting facts
- •Serengeti Park was the first in Europe to release a white rhinoceros bred in captivity back into the wild (1996).
- •The park covers 220 hectares, making it the largest safari park in Europe.
- •In 2006, the park saw the birth of the first African elephant calf in northern Germany in 30 years.
- •A 30-year-old rhinoceros named Kusini flipped a zookeeper's car in 2019, an incident caught on video.
- •The park acquired a decommissioned Airbus A310 from the German military to convert into a restaurant, planned to open in 2026.
History
Serengeti Park was conceived in 1972 by the Duke of Bedford and partners from America, opening in 1974 with an investment of about 20 million deutschmarks.
The park was extensively renovated in 1983 and expanded to include the Jungle-Safari and Adventure-Safari zones over time.
In 1996, it achieved a milestone by releasing the first European-bred white rhinoceros back into the wild.
The park received permanent zoological garden recognition in 2004 under EU guidelines.
In 2006, the park celebrated the birth of the first African elephant calf in northern Germany for 30 years.
Ownership transitioned within the Sepe family, who have continuously developed the park, adding new attractions and accommodations, including safari lodges opened in 2007.
Place Guide
Serengeti-Safari Zone
A vast 110-hectare area divided into 17 sections representing different continents and ecosystems, home to around 1,500 animals including giraffes, lions, white tigers, and African elephants. Visitors can explore by car or Serengeti Bus, experiencing a realistic safari environment.
Jungle-Safari Zone
Home to over 20 monkey species such as Barbary macaques, chimpanzees, and lemurs, some in walk-through enclosures. The Jungle Safari Tour starts here, featuring an open-top bus ride with off-road sections and special effects for an immersive experience.
Adventure-Safari Zone
A family-friendly area with over 40 amusement rides including roller coasters and a Ferris wheel. The Serengeti restaurant Manyara is also located here, providing dining options amid the fun attractions.
Safari Lodges and Accommodation2007
Since 2007, Serengeti Park offers overnight stays in African-style safari lodges surrounded by animal enclosures. The resort includes 80 holiday homes with over 200 beds and a conference room.
Contact
Phone: 05164 97990
