Serengeti airports
The Serengeti is a vast ecosystem located in East Africa, spanning across northern Tanzania and extending into southwestern Kenya. It is renowned for its remarkable wildlife and serves as the stage for the annual migration of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores. While the Serengeti itself does not have airports within its boundaries, there are nearby airports that serve as gateways for visitors to access this iconic region. The main airports that facilitate travel to the Serengeti include Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Tanzania.
From these airports, travelers typically use smaller airstrips within or near the Serengeti for further transportation, such as Seronera Airstrip, Grumeti Airstrip, and Kogatende Airstrip, depending on the specific region they wish to explore. These airports and airstrips play a crucial role in connecting tourists to the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of the Serengeti.
serengeti airstrips
Serengeti airstrips play a crucial role in supporting safari tourism in the Serengeti by connecting visitors to different regions of the park, allowing for efficient access to the diverse wildlife and landscapes that make the Serengeti a world-renowned destination. Keep in mind that airstrips may have varying levels of infrastructure, and flights are often operated by regional airlines and safari companies like Active Wonders Safaris may hep you to book your flight.
Below is the list in detail about the Serengeti airports(Serengeti airstrips)
1. Seronera Airstrip
Seronera Airstrip stands out as one of the largest and most frequently utilized airstrips within Serengeti National Park. Positioned in the central Seronera Valley, it is conveniently located just a two-hour drive away from both Naabi Hill Gate and Ndabaka Gate. The airstrip features an airport building serving as a lobby and administrative hub.
The airstrip serves various prominent accommodations in the central Serengeti region, including Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Ikoma Tented Camp, Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge, Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp, And Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas, Serengeti Pioneer Camp, Namiri Plains Camp, Seronera Wildlife Lodge, Kati Kati Tented Camp, Serengeti Acacia Camps, Dunia Camp, Mbuzi Mawe Serena Camp, Serengeti Heritage Camp, Serengeti Sopa Lodge, and Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp.
- Location: Central Serengeti
- Significance: One of the primary airstrips in the Serengeti, providing access to the central region of the national park.
- Usage: Commonly used by tourists to explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes of the central Serengeti.
2. Kogatende Airstrip
Situated along the Mara River in the northern section of Serengeti National Park, Kogatende Airstrip offers convenient access to the park’s remote areas. Positioned strategically within the migration corridor, the airstrip becomes a crucial point for witnessing the spectacular Mara River crossings during the great migration, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeests traverse the river. Kogatende Airstrip is located merely 1 kilometer away from both Klein’s and Bologonja gates of Serengeti National Park.
- Location: Northern Serengeti, near the Mara River
- Significance: Strategically located for tourists interested in witnessing the Great Migration, particularly the river crossings in the northern Serengeti.
- Usage: Popular among visitors wanting to experience the spectacle of the Great Migration in the northern regions of the national park.
3. Lobo Airstrip
Positioned in the northeastern part of Serengeti National Park within the Lobo area, Lobo Airstrip is approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour away from the park’s main entrance. The airstrip is conveniently situated, being 6 kilometers from Klein’s Gate, 7 kilometers from Bologonja Springs, and 8 kilometers from Ngare Naironya Springs.
- Location: Northern Serengeti
- Significance: Provides access to both the northern and central parts of the Serengeti, offering a gateway to various wildlife-rich areas.
- Usage: Convenient for tourists exploring the northern and central regions of the national park.
4. Grumeti Airstrip
The Grumeti Airstrip is a landing strip located in the western part of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It serves as a vital point for air travel in the region, facilitating access to the park and its wildlife. Visitors often use this airstrip as a gateway to explore the beauty of the Serengeti and its diverse ecosystems.
- Location: Western corridor of the Serengeti
- Significance: Serves as an entry point for visitors heading to the Grumeti Reserves and the western Serengeti.
- Usage: Accessible for those interested in exploring the wildlife and landscapes in the western part of the Serengeti.
5. Serengeti Kusini Airstrip
Serengeti Kusini Airstrip is situated in the southern part of Serengeti National Park, specifically in the Kusini area. This airstrip serves as a key gateway to the southern regions of the park and provides access to the rich wildlife and landscapes in the vicinity.
Additionally, the airstrip is in proximity to significant water bodies such as Lake Ndutu, Lake Elemti, Lake El Dabsh, and Lake Masek. These lakes serve as crucial calving areas for wildebeests and zebras, particularly during the spectacular event of the great wildebeest migration.
- Location: Southern part of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.
- Significance: Vital transportation hub providing access to the diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes of southern Serengeti.
- Usage: Facilitates air travel for visitors, lodges, safari camps, and tourists exploring the unique ecosystems and wildlife in the region.
6. Fort Ikoma Airstrip
Fort Ikoma Airstrip is a small airport located in the northwest region of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Though it exists, it is not frequently used, as the nearby Seronera Airstrip is more commonly preferred.
7. Lamai Airstrip
Lamai Airstrip is located in the northern part of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It serves as an essential air access point for visitors to the Lamai Wedge, an area known for its scenic landscapes and wildlife. However, airstrip details and locations can change, so it’s advisable to verify the current information from local sources or authorities if you’re planning a trip.
Conclusion
For safari-goers in Tanzania especially in the northern part utilizing Serengeti’s airstrips, it’s crucial to be aware of the limited facilities at these locations, primarily serving as gateways to the national park. Airstrips such as Seronera, Klein’s, Lobo, Grumeti, and Kogatende offer basic amenities, and transportation to lodges or camps is typically arranged through safari operators. Given the seasonal variations in weather, especially during the wet season, flight schedules might be subject to delays or adjustments.
Travelers must adhere to baggage limitations on small aircraft. Moreover, the proximity of some airstrips to wildlife, particularly in the northern Serengeti, provides a unique opportunity for safari enthusiasts to begin their wildlife adventure right from the airstrip. Consulting with us to ensures a well-coordinated and informed safari experience, considering logistics, accommodations, and local regulations for a seamless exploration of Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
