Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge — Local services in Ikoma

A few things to consider while booking a Safari Lodge in the Serengeti: -Your Guide (and the Travel Agent who will organise everything for you - I highly recommend Talib from MakeMySafari-check my review) -Location and type of animals you want to see (it's so big and depending also on the time of the year) -Obviously price, comfort and quality of services.

We were told the 4 stars lowered their prices, after covid, although the 3 stars kept their prices high but lowered their quality of services. With 2 kids comfort was important to us so we decided to go with 4 stars. And a comfortable hotel.

For us, this hotel was suggested by our Travel Agent and we didn't know what kind of animals we would see (some ideas, of course, but not in particular) as it was our 1st Safari so if you are like us, if you don't know and you have the means go for it.

In Serena Lodge EVERYBODY is SO nice and welcoming and I really believe it comes from the heart. We bonded with each staff member we encountered. We have lovely memories there. From the comfort and the quality of the beds/rooms, to the view, the restaurant was also beautiful and the hotel is just so magnificent.

You have to know that when it gets dark you need to get escorted from your room to anywhere you want to go as you might encounter some wild animals as the lodge is not closed, it's in the Serengeti park.

Also, after following our doctors' advice we took some Malarone for the anti-malaria medicine. If you were advising the same stop right away and take Doxycycline instead. Once we arrive to the SerenaLodge we asked to see the doctor as we were all sick (6 people). He advised us to stop the Malarone (as it was what made us sick) and start Doxycycline again once we arrive in Zanzibar which was our next step in this trip and a malaria risk zone. Which was a good advice as the parc was not a malaria risk zone so we could stop the medicine and stop feeling sick in the car and enjoy our vacation more. I have to say this doctor was very good, and we were glad to find this quality of service within the park, and so very far from any hospital/health centre.

One of the experience we enjoyed as well was to have a private dinner (buffet) outside, under the stars where you can hear a lion attacking a thomson gazelle and roar. It's surreal and I recommend it if you want to enhance your stay.

About the Serengeti Park itself, you can have a look at my review, but you can't go wrong either it's just so beautiful and once again it's a memory for life. Go with your kids if you have some, bring snacks and toys and lots of patience but you can't regret it.

Overall, highly recommend SerenaLodge they...

I recently had the privilege of staying at the Serena Serengeti Lodge, and I can confidently say that it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I set foot on the stunning hotel grounds, I was captivated by the natural beauty and wildlife that surrounded this enchanting oasis.

The first thing that struck me were the adorable Dik-Diks, bush babies, and rabbits that seemed to be everywhere. It was like being in a real-life Disney movie. These charming creatures added an extra layer of magic to the already breathtaking landscape.

The highlight of each day was undoubtedly the mesmerizing sunset over the Serengeti. The view from the lodge is nothing short of spectacular. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm and golden glow over the vast plains, is a memory that will stay with me forever.

The culinary experience at Serena Serengeti Lodge was nothing short of exquisite. The high-quality food and buffet offerings left me spoiled for choice. Whether I was indulging in local delicacies or international cuisine, every meal was a gastronomic delight. The chefs here truly know how to tantalize the taste buds.

What truly sets this lodge apart, however, is its exceptional staff. The warmth and friendliness of the team made me feel like I was visiting family. They went above and beyond to ensure that my stay was comfortable and enjoyable. Their genuine passion for their work and the Serengeti's natural wonders was evident in every interaction.

For those looking to take their Serengeti adventure to the next level, the lodge offers a shop with authentic souvenirs and even a hot air balloon ride excursion. The balloon ride provided a unique perspective of the Serengeti's vastness and the opportunity to spot wildlife from the sky—a truly unforgettable experience.

Lastly, the location of Serena Serengeti Lodge couldn't be more perfect for safari enthusiasts. With wildlife at your doorstep and experienced guides at your service, you can spend your days exploring the wonders of the Serengeti up close. The proximity to the wildlife ensures that every day is an adventure, and every moment is an opportunity to witness nature's splendor.

In conclusion, my stay at Serena Serengeti Lodge was a dream come true. It's a place where nature, luxury, and warm hospitality seamlessly blend, creating an unforgettable experience. If you're looking for a unique and magical Serengeti adventure, this is the place to be. I can't wait to return to this paradise in the heart of...

We stayed at this Serena facility for two nights during our Serengeti safari. First the pluses, then the minuses.

POSITIVES: Nice rooms, each hut has 3 of them. Beautiful facilities

NEGATIVES Did not have the same positive feel as the other 3 different facilities that we stayed at during our trip, including another Serena lodge. At all the other lodges/permanent tents that we stayed at, we felt like the people there wanted to be there and were proud of their work. I would say half of the people we encountered gave us the impression that this was just a job and they were there primarily for tips. Shower smelled musty after use. Everything seemed clean, some very mild mildew but no obvious mold Now for the reason I gave the lodge a 3 vs 4 star review. If you wish to have water at dinner, they charge you for it. I have no problem with that but you need to inform me that it is not complimentary. Don't ask me what I would like to drink and if I say water, bring me two bottles and not tell me that there's a fee. Don't give me a look as if I am trying to steal that water when I stand up from the dinner table to leave. Finally, when I advise the front desk that they need to inform diners that there's a fee for water if they request it, your reply should not be that you provide two small bottles of water in the room for free.

Another lodge was recommended by the safari company but I selected the Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge instead. I arrived with high expectations and excitement but left disappointed and annoyed. I should have stayed with the company's recommendation. Thankfully, the other Serena Lodge we stayed at after this one did meet up to our...