Built around an enormous rock outcrop, the Seronera Wildlife Lodge is in the heart of the Serengeti. It is only 2 minutes from the take-off point for hot-air balloon trips and 5 minutes from the airstrip for flights.
When we last visited Seronera Wildlife Lodge in August 2009, it was in the middle of being refurbished which has given it a much needed face-lift. This has helped lodge to feel less dated and though it still doesn't ooze style or luxury, it is now a comfortable and relatively nicely decorated hotel with very reasonable prices.
That said, though it is a low cost option we have heard recent reports that the service can be quite poor. So as long as you can accept that the service will be mediocre then you will find this a convenient, albeit slightly impersonal base from which to explore the Serengeti
The main facilities of the lodge include a large and bright restaurant dotted with tables and chairs, where buffet meals are served. There are also two bars and a lounge with comfortable sofas set around coffee tables. Natural rock forms part of the walls of these rooms and even the stairs leading between them. This results in a natural and rustic look with lots of character, though the imitation rock art could be considered a little over-the-top.
The Seronera Wildlife Lodge also has a stunning pool carved out of a kopjie looking out over the Serengeti plains, which is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the view and sunsets. It is also a favourite spot for families of rock hyrax to sunbathe! In addition guests have access to the gym, shop, spa and internet café – all of which are centered around a grassy courtyard.
The 75 bedrooms at Seronera Wildlife Lodge are also set around this courtyard, in a two-tiered terraced row. Each is quite comfortable and spacious, and decorated with lots of natural wood and terracotta colours. They have coffee-making facilities and an ensuite bathroom with toilet and hot-and-cold shower. There are no temperature controls in the rooms, but large sliding windows open up to allow the natural breeze to flow through.
Activities centre around exploring the park by 4WD. You can do this by arriving with your own private vehicle and guide, and heading out with them daily on your safari activities.
Alternatively, the Lodge can arrange specialist bird-watching and balloon safaris, with related talks in the evening. There are several waterholes around the Lodge which attract wildlife day and night. Furthermore, if you wish to see something of traditional local life, there are opportunities to visit local Masaai villages.
The Seronera Wildlife Lodge is a mid-range international style hotel, which has a really central location for exploring Seronera. With its recent renovations it is very comfortable but remains quite plain and functional. Regardless of this it is quite a good value choice for those travelling on a tighter budget.
Lodge overview
Lodge type: Safari
No. of bedrooms: 75 rooms
Season: Open Year Round
Ideal length of stay: To fully explore this area, it is worth spending 2 nights at Seronera Wildlife Lodge. However, spend any more time than this and you may find the driving routes a little repetitive.
Directions: Seronera Wildlife Lodge is 2 kilometers, or a 5-minute from the Seronera airstrip. Alternatively you can drive from Arusha – this is around 330kms and a 4 – 5 hour drive.
Accessible by: Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Food quality: The food at Seronera Wildlife Lodge is a combination of international and local dishes. It will often be served buffet style to cater for the number of guests at the lodge. It is only served a la carte if there are fewer than 30 guests.
Dining style: Inidividual Tables
Dining locations: Indoor Dining
Room service: There is no room service at Seronera Wildlife Lodge
Cost of meal e.g. lunch: Included
Drinks included: Drinks are not included. You can expect to pay US$3 for a beer and US$1.5 for a soda.
Children
Attitude towards children: Seronera Wildlife Lodge will happily accept children.
Age restrictions: There are no age restrictions at Seronera Wildlife Lodge.
Activities: Seronera Wildlife Lodge can provide babysitting on request. Though parents should be aware that the child minder will be a member of the house-keeping team, and may not be professionally trained.
Equipment: There are cot and highchairs.
Generally recommended for children: Yes.
Notes: Parents should be aware that this is a wildlife area and the hotel is not fenced. Children should be supervised at all times and should not walk around alone.
There are also lots of stairs here and so this hotel may not be suitable for very young children.
Central communications
Power supply: Generator
Communications: Seronera Wildlife Lodge has a telephone, radio and fax links.
TV & radio: Seronera Wildlife Lodge has a TV in the main lounge with cable and videos.
Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: There is a well-stocked dispensary at Seronera Wildlife Lodge and an on-site nurse. The lodge also has links to flying doctors.
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: There are Askaris (African guards) who escort guests around the lodge at night – there can be wildlife.
Fire safety: There are extinguishers in the corridors outside of the rooms and in the main areas, and the staff are trained to use them.
Extras
Disabled access: Not Possible
Laundry facilities: Laundry is an additional charge of between US$1 - 4
Money: Seronera Wildlife Lodge can exchange currency but will not give cash from cards.
Accepted payment: Seronera Wildlife Lodge will accept cash and Mastercard & Visa charged at 5%. Amex is not accepted.
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