Handajega Gate

Handajega Gate is a lesser-known entrance to the Serengeti National Park located in the northern part of Tanzania. It is one of the newer gates, having only opened in 2006. The gate is situated in the Loliondo Game Controlled Area and provides access to the northeastern part of the Serengeti ecosystem.

The Handajega Gate offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for visitors to the Serengeti. Here are some things to know about Handajega Gate:

Location of Handajega gate:

The Handajega Gate is located approximately 40 kilometers from the town of Loliondo, on the Western side of the Serengeti National Park and 130 kilometers from Arusha. It is situated in a remote area and is only accessible via rough dirt roads.

1. Wildlife: The area surrounding the Handajega Gate is known for its large herds of wildebeest and zebra that migrate through the region. Visitors may also spot other wildlife such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.
2. Accommodations: There are several lodges and campsites in the area surrounding the Handajega Gate that offer comfortable accommodations for visitors. These lodges and campsites range from basic to luxury and offer a variety of amenities.
3. Guided tours: Visitors to the Handajega Gate can take guided tours with local Maasai guides who have extensive knowledge of the area and its wildlife. These tours can be arranged through the lodges and campsites in the area.
4. Permits: Visitors to the Handajega Gate must obtain a permit from the Loliondo Game Controlled Area Authority in order to enter the gate. These permits can be obtained in advance or on-site.

How to get there

By air or by vehicle, Ndabaka gate would be a better alternative if you were seeking to enter the park, as the route to Handajega passes through rural Mwanza. Although 4x4s are not preferred, they are more practical—especially during the rainy season.

There are airports nearby, but we’re not sure if they’re still in operation. As a result, using additional airstrips, such as Kirawira B airstrip or even Mwanza and Musoma airports, may be necessary to reach this site by air.

The Handajega Gate may not be as well-known as some of the other entrances to the Serengeti, but it offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for visitors who are looking for something different.