Self Drive in Central Serengeti ( Seronera Area)

DISCOVERING CENTRAL SERENGETI (SERONERA AREA)

The Central Serengeti, also known as the Seronera Area, is the heart of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It is one of the best places in Africa to see wild animals, especially the Big Five lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos (though rhinos are rare here). The area is famous for its beautiful grasslands, rivers, and rocky hills called kopjes. Seronera is a great place to visit all year round because many animals live here all the time. You don’t have to follow the Great Migration to enjoy amazing wildlife sightings. Lions sleep under trees, cheetahs hunt on the open plains, and leopards rest in the branches of sausage trees. The Seronera River brings water to the area, so many animals come here to drink and stay close. This means that visitors often see a lot of action like hunting, feeding, and even baby animals.

 

Where Is the Central Serengeti?

The Central Serengeti, also known as the Seronera Area, is located in the middle part of Serengeti National Park, which is found in northern Tanzania, East Africa. This area lies right in the center of the park, making it one of the most popular and important regions for safari visitors. Serengeti National Park is very large about 14,750 square kilometers (5,700 square miles). Because it is so big, it is divided into four main areas: Central, Northern, Western, and Southern Serengeti. Among these, the Central Serengeti is the easiest to reach and the most visited.

Many people who come to Serengeti enter through the Naabi Hill Gate, which is near the Central Serengeti. The area is well connected by road and also has an airstrip, the Seronera Airstrip, which makes it easy to reach by small plane. Because it is in the center of the park, it is easy to travel from here to the other areas of the Serengeti, like the south, west, and north.

 

Animals You Expect to See

Central Serengeti is one of the best places in Africa to see wild animals. You can see them throughout the year, not just during the Great Migration. This makes it a great place for people who want to see animals without chasing the migration.

1. Big Cats

Central Serengeti is famous for its big cats:

• Lions: There are many lions in this area. You can often see whole families (called prides) sleeping under trees or walking through the grass.
• Leopards: These shy animals are often seen in the trees, especially near rivers. Seronera is one of the best places in Africa to see leopards.
• Cheetahs: The open plains are perfect for cheetahs, who need space to run fast. You may see them hunting or resting in the shade.

2. Other Predators

• Hyenas: These animals are often misunderstood. They live in large groups and are strong hunters.
• Jackals and Servals: These smaller predators can also be seen if you’re lucky.

3. Herbivores (Plant-eating Animals)

• Elephants: Large families of elephants move through the Seronera area, especially near rivers.
• Buffalos: These strong animals are part of the “Big Five” and are found in big groups.
• Zebras and Wildebeest: Many are permanent residents, but their numbers grow during the migration.
• Giraffes, Impalas, and Gazelles: You can see these animals throughout the year.

4. Birds

Bird lovers will enjoy the Central Serengeti. There are over 500 species of birds. Some of the birds you might see include:

• Secretary birds
• Ostriches
• Eagles and vultures
• Kingfishers and bee-eaters near the rivers
• Kori Bustard

 

The Great Migration in Central Serengeti

The Great Migration is the movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles in search of food and water. While the most famous parts of the migration happen in the north and south, the Central Serengeti plays an important role too. From April to June, large herds move through the Seronera area as they head west toward the Grumeti River. This is a great time to see many animals in one place. The predators follow the herds, so you may also see hunting scenes. Even when the migration moves on, there are still plenty of animals in the area, making it a great place to visit any time of the year.

 

Attractions in the Central Serengeti

The Central Serengeti is the heart of Serengeti National Park. It is one of the best areas to see wildlife all year round. The land is a mix of grassy plains, rivers, rocky hills, and acacia trees. This mix of landscapes attracts many animals, making it one of the most popular places for safaris. Below are some of the most famous and interesting attractions in the Central Serengeti:

1. Seronera River Valley

The Seronera River is one of the main water sources in the Central Serengeti. Even in the dry season, this river still flows, so animals come here to drink, rest, and hunt. Because of this, the Seronera Valley is always full of life. You can see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and gazelles, but the biggest stars here are the big cats. This area is one of the best places in Africa to see leopards. These shy cats like to hide in the trees near the river. You can also see lions and cheetahs hunting in the grasslands around the valley. The Seronera River is also home to many hippos and crocodiles. If you want to see a lot of animals in a short time, this is the place to go.

2. Moru Kopjes

The Moru Kopjes are large, round rocks that rise out of the flat plains. They look like little hills made of stone. These kopjes are very old—some are millions of years old. Animals love to rest on or around these rocks. Lions often lie on top to watch for prey, while leopards use the rocks to hide. You may also see elephants and hyraxes near the kopjes.

Moru is also special because of its cultural value. Here, you can see ancient rock paintings made by the Maasai people long ago. There is also a special rock called Gong Rock that makes a deep, drum-like sound when you hit it. These cultural sites give visitors a chance to learn about the human history of the Serengeti. Moru is also one of the few places in the Serengeti where you might see the black rhino. These animals are very rare and are carefully protected in this area.

 

3. Retima Hippo Pool

The Retima Hippo Pool is a great spot to see hippos up close. Dozens of them crowd together in the water to stay cool during the day. You might also spot crocodiles sunbathing nearby. This is one of the few places in the Serengeti where tourists are allowed to get out of the vehicle at a safe distance and watch the hippos from a viewing area. It’s a great place to take photos and enjoy a short break during your safari.

4. Wide Open Plains

The Central Serengeti is famous for its wide, open grasslands. These endless plains are the classic image most people have of Africa. In the green season, they are full of grass and flowers. In the dry season, they turn golden and dusty. These plains are perfect for seeing large herds of animals like wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. During the Great Migration (April to June), these plains fill with hundreds of thousands of animals. The sight is amazing, and it attracts many predators like lions and hyenas, who follow the herds for hunting.

5. Scenic Hills and Vistas

The Central Serengeti also has beautiful views. Some small hills and rocky outcrops give you a higher view of the land. From these spots, you can watch the sunrise or sunset over the savannah. The changing colours of the sky and land make it feel like you are in a dream. Photographers love this area for the light and scenery.

 

Activities in the Central Serengeti

There are many exciting things to do in the Central Serengeti. Some of the popular activities include:

1. Game Drives

Game drives are the main activity in the Central Serengeti. You ride in a safari vehicle with a guide and explore the open plains, rivers, and rocky hills. Morning and evening game drives are the best because animals are more active. You can see lions, elephants, cheetahs, leopards, zebras, giraffes, and many more. Some camps also offer full-day game drives with picnic lunches, giving you more time to explore far areas.

2. Hot Air Balloon Safari

hot air balloon safari is a special way to see the Central Serengeti. You take off early in the morning, just before sunrise. As the balloon floats quietly over the plains, you can see animals waking up, hunting, or moving in herds. It’s a peaceful and beautiful experience. After landing, you enjoy a bush breakfast with sparkling juice or champagne. It’s one of the most memorable activities in the Serengeti.

3. Wildlife Viewing Near the Seronera River

The Seronera River is a great place to watch animals because it has water all year. Many animals come here to drink, and predators come to hunt. It’s one of the best spots to see leopards, which like to rest in the trees. You may also see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and large herds of buffalo. Staying near the river gives you the chance to see wildlife even when you are relaxing at your camp.

4. Visit the Retima Hippo Pool

The Retima Hippo Pool is a special place near the Seronera River where many hippos gather in one spot. Sometimes, you can see 50 or more hippos lying close together in the water. They grunt, snort, splash, and fight, which makes it fun to watch. There are also crocodiles nearby. It’s one of the few places in the park where you can get out of your vehicle safely to take photos and enjoy the view.

5. Rhino Safari

Rhino Safari is a unique activity that only takes place in Central Serengeti. The region around Moru Kopje in the Central region is home to Serengeti’s only rhinos. Hence, the government initiated a Rhino Project in this region to protect and increase the number of Rhinos who were heavily poached for their horns in the past and are still under a grave threat.

For the Rhino Safari you will be taken to the special zone around Moru Kopje, and look for those magnificent creatures. Our vehicle will take you till the Moru Ranger Post, where you will be transferred into a government vehicle, which will be an open jeep. The ranger operating the jeep will visit the zone in the morning before the safari to look for areas where the rhinos will be present, and then take you to those locations during the tour. This will ensure that you will get to see the rhinos and the safari will be worth your money.

6. Visit the Moru Kopjes

Visiting the Moru Kopjes in the Central Serengeti is a unique experience that combines wildlife, culture, and scenery. These large granite rock formations rise from the flat plains and are famous for attracting lions, leopards, elephants, and other animals that rest or hide among the rocks. Moru is one of the few places in the Serengeti where you might spot the rare black rhino, thanks to a special protection program. The area is also rich in history, featuring ancient Maasai rock paintings and the famous Gong Rock, which makes a deep, echoing sound when tapped. With its mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural history, Moru Kopjes is a must-see highlight of the Central Serengeti.

7. Bird Watching

Bird watching in the Central Serengeti is a wonderful activity, especially for nature lovers and photographers. The area is home to over 500 bird species, including colourful and rare birds like the Lilac-breasted roller, Secretary bird, Kori bustard (the heaviest flying bird in Africa), and superb starling. Along the Seronera River, you can spot kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles, while the open plains attract ostriches and different types of vultures and eagles. The mix of rivers, grasslands, and scattered trees creates the perfect environment for birds to live and nest. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, the Central Serengeti offers exciting chances to see both large and small birds in their natural home.

8. Wildebeest migration

The great wildebeest migration is a natural wonder which takes place annually in Serengeti national park and also in Masai Mara national reserve of Kenya as over 2 million wildebeest move across the Mara- Serengeti ecosystem in search of greener pastures. During the migration which takes place around April and June in the Seronera area, predators such as lions, leopards and cheetahs, hyenas can also be seen following the wildebeests and waiting for the chance to prey on the wildebeests. Other wildlife species such as zebras and gazelles can also be seen during the wildebeest migration.

9. Maasai people

The Maasai are part of the local communities in the surrounding areas of the national park. They are known for their unique culture and way of life and nomadic way of life. Maasai people also have local arts and crafts such as beaded necklaces, earrings, sandals, shukas, and belts among others. Tourists can enjoy interacting with the Maasai during their cultural experiences while on safari.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

The Central Serengeti is a great place to visit all year round, but the best time to go depends on what you want to see. Because the Seronera River provides water throughout the year, many animals stay in the area even when the Great Migration is elsewhere. This makes it one of the few places in the Serengeti where wildlife viewing is always good. From June to October, during the dry season, it’s easier to spot animals because they gather near water sources and the grass is shorter.

This is also a popular time for safaris, so expect more tourists. If you prefer fewer crowds and greener landscapes, the wet season from November to May is also a good time. During this time, the park is full of baby animals, especially around March, and predators are more active. Even though it rains sometimes, it usually doesn’t last all day. So, no matter when you go, the Central Serengeti always offers great wildlife experiences and beautiful views.

 

Where to Stay in Central Serengeti

There are many choices for places to stay in the Central Serengeti. The options range from simple camps to luxury lodges. Some are permanent buildings, while others are mobile tents that move with the migration.

Types of Accommodation

• Public Campsites: Basic, cheap, and popular with self-drive travellers. Bring your own tent and supplies.
• Tented Camps: Comfortable tents with beds and bathrooms. Meals and guides are often included.
• Lodges: Strong buildings with full comfort , good for families and older travellers.

Popular Camps and Lodges in Seronera

• Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
• Serengeti Safari Camp (Nomad Tanzania)
• Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
• Nyikani Central Serengeti Camp (formerly Chaka Camp)
• Serengeti Heritage Camp – Central
• Kati Kati Tented Camp
• Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

 

How to Get to the central Serengeti

By Road: The Central Serengeti is accessible by road from various parts of Tanzania. The drive is generally long, but it offers the chance to experience the landscape and wildlife along the way.

1. From Arusha:
   • Distance: Approximately 335 km (5–6 hours).
   • Route: The most common route is from Arusha to Seronera, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and entering the Serengeti via the Naabi Hill Gate.
   • Road Type: The road is mostly tarmacked until the Naabi Hill Gate, after which it is a mix of gravel and dirt roads.
2. From Ngorongoro Crater:
   • Distance: Approximately 140 km (3–4 hours).
   • Route: From the Ngorongoro Crater, follow the Lodungoro Road or Ngorongoro-Serengeti Road, leading directly to the Seronera area in the Central Serengeti.
3. From the Western Serengeti:
   • Distance: Around 200–250 km (5–6 hours), depending on your starting point in the Western Serengeti.
   • Route: You will drive on the Grumeti River Road or other local routes connecting the western part of the Serengeti to Seronera in the Central area.

 

By Airstrip: Several airstrips serve the Central Serengeti, making it convenient to reach the area quickly by air. Here are the main ones:

• Seronera Airstrip (SEU)
  • Location: The Seronera Airstrip is located in the heart of the Central Serengeti, just a short drive from the Seronera Lodge and other accommodations.
  • Flights: It is the main airstrip in the Serengeti and is served by multiple domestic airlines.
  • Flight Time: From Arusha to Seronera Airstrip, flights typically take around 45 minutes.
• Lobo Airstrip
  • Location: Located in the northern part of the Serengeti, closer to the Lamai area, it is about a 1–2-hour drive from Central Serengeti.
  • Flights: This airstrip is also served by domestic flights from Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airport.

 

Conclusion

The Central Serengeti, especially the Seronera Area, is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to see African wildlife. With its rich variety of animals, beautiful landscapes, and exciting activities, it offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you are going on your first safari or have visited Africa before, the Central Serengeti will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.