Central Serengeti

The Central Serengeti, or Seronera area, sits at the core of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and is celebrated for its year-round wildlife and classic African savanna landscapes. This region offers iconic views of acacia-studded plains and rich wildlife diversity, including large populations of the Big Cats—lion, leopard, and cheetah—that make Seronera an exciting destination for game viewing and witnessing natural predator-prey interactions.

The Central Serengeti shines particularly from April to June and October to December, when the Great Migration sweeps through on its northward and southward journeys. The famous wildebeest herds, along with zebras and gazelles, traverse this region, attracting predators and offering thrilling wildlife encounters. The best places to observe these magnificent herds and game activity include the Seronera Valley and Seronera River, Moru Kopjes, Simba Kopjes, and Maasai Kopjes.

Wildlife and Migration Highlights

Seronera is a prime region for Big Cat sightings, with opportunities to witness thrilling predator hunts. Resident wildlife is abundant year-round, from elephants and buffalo to giraffes, hippos, and hyenas. The rainy seasons of April and May, and the dry seasons of June to October, bring an influx of wildebeests and zebras, enhancing the predator activity in this area.

Getting There

The Central Serengeti is conveniently accessible by both air and road:

• By Air: Regular flights operate from Arusha, Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Dar es Salaam to the Seronera Airstrip, which is located in the heart of Central Serengeti. The flight duration from Arusha or Kilimanjaro is about one hour, making it a quick and scenic journey over the plains.
• By Road: The drive from Arusha to Central Serengeti covers approximately 330 km (205 miles) and takes around 6–7 hours. Though longer, it’s an adventurous journey offering glimpses of Tanzania’s landscapes and smaller wildlife along the way.

Wildlife and Migration in Central Serengeti (Seronera)

Central Serengeti, or the Seronera region, is renowned for year-round game viewing, thanks to its consistent water sources that attract animals in every season. This area is ideal for spotting the Big Five—elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and rhinos—as well as large resident populations of giraffes, hippos, cheetahs, hyenas, and a variety of plains game. During April and May, and again in November, you’ll witness parts of the Great Migration as wildebeest and zebras pass through Seronera, creating thrilling scenes of predator-prey interactions.

Birding in Seronera

Seronera offers an excellent array of birdlife, with riverine forests, acacia woodlands, and grasslands that provide diverse habitats. Birdwatchers can spot species such as secretary birds, marabou storks, yellow-billed storks, lilac-breasted rollers, and numerous raptors. This region is ideal for bird enthusiasts, with more than 500 species recorded, especially around the Seronera River.

Vegetation

The Seronera Valley is dotted with acacia trees, riverine forests, and stretches of savannah grasslands. These lush areas provide year-round sustenance for resident animals and are uniquely suited for easy game spotting, as animals often gather in the open spaces near the river.

Things to Do in Seronera

Game Drives

Game drives in the Seronera region are highly rewarding, as the central location offers excellent viewing opportunities for the Big Five and other key species. Early morning and evening game drives are especially productive, as animals are more active during these cooler times of day.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

A hot air balloon safari over the Seronera plains offers a unique perspective on the Serengeti, with aerial views of animals roaming freely across the open landscape. The experience typically includes an early morning pickup from your lodge, a spectacular ride over the plains, and a bush breakfast upon landing. The balloon safari is available year-round, with peak demand during migration periods.

Guided Walking Safari

Guided walking safaris in Seronera provide an intimate way to explore the Serengeti. Accompanied by a park ranger, you’ll have the chance to observe animal tracks, learn about local flora and fauna, and experience the Serengeti’s wildlife up close. These walks are typically offered early in the morning and are suitable for visitors who want a more immersive experience in nature.

Climate and When to Visit

Seronera enjoys a mild, pleasant climate throughout the year. The dry season, from June to October, offers cooler mornings and evenings with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C (59°F) and 27°C (81°F). The short rains arrive in November, and the long rainy season lasts from March to May, with temperatures rising to around 28°C (82°F). The best time to visit for game viewing is during the dry season, although wildlife is abundant year-round.

Location and Access

Central Serengeti is easily accessible and is situated approximately 330 km (205 miles) from Arusha. Most visitors fly into Seronera Airstrip, which is served by daily flights from Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airport, making it a convenient choice for travelers. The region is about a 6–7-hour drive from Arusha.

Entrance Fees

The park entry fee for Serengeti National Park is $83 per adult per day, and visitors staying at private campsites are charged an additional $59 per person per night. The fees allow access to the Seronera region and nearby areas within the park.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Central Serengeti?
Seronera is ideal for wildlife viewing year-round. The dry season, from June to October, is particularly popular for easier spotting, but the rainy seasons (March to May and November) also attract migrating herds and offer lush landscapes for excellent photography.

What animals can I expect to see?
In addition to the migrating wildebeests and zebras, Seronera is home to a wide array of resident animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and hippos. You’ll also find cheetahs and hyenas, along with various antelope species.

How many days should I plan to stay?
To experience the Seronera region fully, a stay of 2–3 nights is recommended, allowing time for game drives, a hot air balloon safari, and potentially a guided walking safari.

How far is Seronera from Arusha and other regions of the Serengeti?
Seronera is approximately a 6–7-hour drive from Arusha and is centrally located within the Serengeti, providing easy access to Northern and Southern Serengeti regions. This makes it a perfect base for exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Are hot air balloon safaris available year-round?
Yes, hot air balloon safaris are offered throughout the year, but the experience is particularly popular from June to October and again during migration periods in April, May, and November.

What is the accommodation situation in Seronera?
Seronera offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges and tented camps to more budget-friendly safari camps. The central location and abundance of camps make it a convenient choice for travelers.