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Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen
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kid-landmark
Serengeti-Park in Hodenhagen, Lower Saxony, is Europe's premier safari and adventure park, spanning an impressive 220 hectares of diverse landscapes. Since its establishment in 1974, the park has allowed visitors to encounter over 1,500 exotic animals up close, with the safari route navigable by private car or specialized park buses. This unique environment houses giraffes, white rhinos, lions, and elephants in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Beyond the wildlife experience, the park features a 'Jungle Safari' area home to numerous primate species and an extensive leisure world with more than 40 rides and attractions. Highlights such as high-speed boat tours and live entertainment shows ensure a full day of excitement for families. As a certified zoological institution, Serengeti-Park also plays a crucial role in international species conservation and breeding programs for endangered animals, blending education with thrill-seeking adventures.
- Location: Lower Saxony, Germany
- Top sights: Bunkenburg · Serengeti Park · Schloss Ahlden
- Nearby: Walsrode (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 72 | 54 | 51 | 40 | 57 | 66 | 82 | 71 | 56 | 63 | 64 | 71 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen is a safari park that you drive through in your own car. You stay inside the vehicle the entire time and observe the animals from a safe distance.
Typical hours
The park opens during the main season (March to November) typically at 9:00 AM. Last entry is usually around 4:00 PM, exact times vary seasonally - check the website.
Photography
Photography through the car window is allowed and recommended, as you get close to the animals. Only open windows when instructed, to ensure safety.
Time needed
The safari drive typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Plan at least half a day if you also want to visit the attached pedestrian area and shows.
Combine with
The park is near Hanover and the Walsrode Bird Park. Combine your visit with a city tour of Celle or a trip to the Lüneburg Heath.
Getting there
By car, take the A7 motorway, exit Soltau-Ost, then follow signs. Parking lots are right in front of the entrance and free of charge.
Insider tip
Do not feed the animals with your own food - they get special park feed you can buy at the entrance. Keep a safe distance, especially from predators.
Geography
Facts
- The park was officially opened to the public on May 14, 1974.
- The safari route covers 10 km and leads through 17 different animal zones.
- It houses one of the world's most successful breeding groups for white rhinoceroses.
- The park is divided into three main areas: World of Animals, World of Monkeys, and World of Leisure.
- Over 20 different species of monkeys live in the extensive 'Jungle Safari' area.
- Visitors can stay overnight in specialized safari lodges located within the park.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive through the park in your own car?
Yes, you can drive through the Serengeti Safari in your own car or alternatively use the park's Serengeti bus.
Are there also amusement rides?
Yes, besides the safari, there is the Adventure World with over 40 rides and shows for all age groups.
Can you stay overnight at Serengeti Park?
Yes, there are various lodges (Safari, Jambo, or Masai) where you can stay overnight right in the middle of the park.
Which animals can you see?
Over 1,500 free-roaming animals such as lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and elephants call the park home.
Is the park open all year round?
No, the park has a winter break. The season usually runs from late March to early November.
Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen: where is it located?
Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen is located in Lower Saxony, Germany.
Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bunkenburg, Serengeti Park, Schloss Ahlden.
Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen: why is it worth visiting?
Serengeti-Park in Hodenhagen, Lower Saxony, is Europe's premier safari and adventure park, spanning an impressive 220 hectares of diverse landscapes.
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