Seronera Airport (SEU)

Seronera Airport (IATA: SEU, ICAO: HTSN) is the primary and busiest airstrip serving Tanzania's renowned Serengeti National Park. Functioning as a vital hub for the northern safari circuit, its main role is to provide convenient air access for tourists, significantly reducing travel time from major hubs like Arusha and Kilimanjaro. The airport's development is directly linked to the growth of safari tourism, establishing it as an essential piece of infrastructure for accessing one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. It is not a conventional airport but a classic bush airstrip, offering a unique and immediate immersion into the safari experience.

Located in the heart of the park in the Seronera region, the airstrip is situated amidst the vast, game-rich plains the area is famous for. Access to and from the airport is not facilitated by public transport, taxis, or rental cars. Instead, travelers are met directly upon arrival by guides in pre-arranged safari vehicles from their respective lodges or tour operators. This seamless transition from air to ground is a standard part of the fly-in safari model that defines travel in this remote region.

Operations at Seronera are exclusively domestic, consisting of scheduled and charter flights operated by regional safari airlines. Major carriers include Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, Regional Air Services, and Flightlink Tanzania. These airlines utilize small propeller aircraft, such as the Cessna Grand Caravan and de Havilland Twin Otter, to connect Seronera with Arusha Airport (ARK), Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Zanzibar (ZNZ), and a network of other airstrips in nearby national parks and game reserves. The unpaved gravel runway is a distinctive feature, and it is not uncommon for flights to be briefly delayed due to wildlife on the landing strip.

Facilities at Seronera are modest and functional, designed to meet the basic needs of travelers in transit. A small terminal building houses several check-in counters for the different airlines, a communal waiting area, and basic restroom facilities. Visitors will also find a small curio shop selling souvenirs and a simple café offering light snacks and beverages. There are no lounges, extensive retail outlets, or other amenities typical of larger airports.

For those traveling through Seronera Airport, it is advisable to arrive approximately 45-60 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The most critical consideration is the strict luggage allowance enforced by all safari airlines, typically limited to 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, including hand luggage. Bags must be soft-sided (duffel bags are ideal) to fit into the small aircraft holds. All onward transportation must be confirmed in advance, as your safari guide will be your sole transport option from the airstrip.