Kogatende Airstrip

The Kogatende Airstrip is a small, murram runway located in the northern part of the Serengeti National Park. It’s only accessible by small planes, so if you’re flying in from Arusha or another nearby city, you’ll likely be flying on a small, propeller-driven aircraft. The airstrip is owned and operated by the Tanzania National Parks Authority, and it’s only open during the peak tourist season from July to October.

Are you planning a trip to the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania? If so, you’ll likely be arriving at the Kogatende Airstrip. This small airstrip is the gateway to the northern part of the park, which is known for its incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Kogatende Airstrip and everything you need to know before you arrive.

The Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world and for good reason. It’s home to the largest mammal migration in the world, as well as a wide variety of other wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and more. The northern part of the park, where the Kogatende Airstrip is located, is especially popular among tourists because it offers some of the best game-viewing opportunities.

Location of Kogatende Airstrip

Kogatende Airstrip is located on the southern banks of the Mara River, a few kilometers south of the border between Tanzania and Kenya. This area of the Serengeti National Park is known for being a popular crossing point for wildebeest and zebras during the annual migration north. The location of the airstrip makes it a convenient entry and exit point for visitors to the northern area of the park.

Getting to Kogatende Airstrip

There are two main ways to get to Kogatende Airstrip: by air or by vehicle. Several small airlines offer flights to the airstrip, including Coastal Aviation, Regional Air, and Auric Air. These flights typically depart from other airstrips in the Serengeti region of Tanzania. A short air safari is also an excellent way to experience the beauty of the park from above, particularly during the migration season.

If you prefer to take a more extended and scenic route, you can reach Kogatende Airstrip by road. Most visitors will enter the park through the southern gates, such as Naabi Hill or Ndabaka.

Once you arrive at the airstrip, you’ll likely be picked up by a representative from your safari company. If you haven’t booked a safari yet, there are several companies that offer tours of the park. You can also book a safari in advance online to ensure availability.

Kogatende Airstrip Facilities

The Kogatende Airstrip is a small, rustic facility that doesn’t offer many amenities. There’s a small hut that serves as the airport terminal, and there are a few benches and tables outside where you can wait for your flight. There are no restaurants or shops at the airport, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Kogatende Airstrip is a small but important airstrip in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. While it primarily serves as a gateway to the northern part of the park, it also receives a fair amount of air traffic from tourists and safari operators. Here are some of the airlines that operate at Kogatende Airstrip:

1. Regional Air – Regional Air is a Tanzanian airline that operates scheduled and charter flights to various destinations within Tanzania, including Kogatende Airstrip. They have daily flights to and from Kogatende Airstrip, making them one of the most reliable options for travelers.
2. Coastal Aviation – Coastal Aviation is another Tanzanian airline that operates scheduled and charter flights to various destinations within Tanzania, including Kogatende Airstrip. They offer daily flights to and from Kogatende Airstrip and are a popular choice for tourists.
3. Safari Air Link – Safari Air Link is a regional airline that operates scheduled and charter flights to various destinations in East Africa, including Kogatende Airstrip. They offer daily flights to and from Kogatende Airstrip and are known for their excellent service and reliability.
4. Auric Air – Auric Air is a Tanzanian airline that operates scheduled and charter flights to various destinations within Tanzania, including Kogatende Airstrip. They offer daily flights to and from Kogatende Airstrip and are a popular choice for tourists and safari operators alike.

These airlines provide convenient and reliable options for travelers looking to visit the northern part of Serengeti National Park. Whether you’re looking for a quick flight or an air safari, these airlines have got you covered.

Best Time to Visit Kogatende Airstrip

The best time to visit Kogatende Airstrip is during the dry season from June to October. During this time, you’ll have the best chance of seeing the wildebeest migration and other wildlife in the park. The rainy season from March to June is typically not recommended due to poor road conditions and the potential for closed airstrips.

The Kogatende Airstrip is only open during the peak tourist season, which runs from July to October. This is the best time to visit the Serengeti National Park because it’s when the wildebeest migration is in full swing. During this time, you’ll have the best chance of seeing large herds of wildebeest and other animals as they make their way across the plains.

What to Do at Kogatende Airstrip

The Kogatende Airstrip is primarily used as a convenient way to access the northern area of the Serengeti National Park. From there, visitors can embark on game drives to see some of the park’s most iconic animals, including buffalo, lions, and other big cats. The highlight, however, is witnessing the Mara river crossing during the wildebeest migration season. During this time, the area is teeming with herds of wildebeest and zebras, making it an unforgettable sight.

While there’s not much to do at the Kogatende Airstrip itself, it’s the perfect starting point for your Serengeti adventure. From here, you can embark on a safari and explore the park’s vast wilderness. You can see the Big Five animals, watch the wildebeest migration, and take in the stunning scenery. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even book a hot air balloon ride over the park for a truly unforgettable experience.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Kogatende Airstrip and the Serengeti National Park:

1. Q: What airlines fly to the Kogatende Airstrip? A: Several small airlines offer flights to the Kogatende Airstrip, including Coastal Aviation, Regional Air, and Auric Air.
2. Q: What should I pack for a trip to the Serengeti? A: It’s important to pack lightweight, comfortable clothing for warm weather, as well as a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. You’ll also want to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. If you’re going on a safari, binoculars and a camera are a must.
3. Q: Is the Kogatende Airstrip safe? A: Yes, the Kogatende Airstrip is considered safe for travel. However, it’s important to follow all safety instructions and guidelines provided by your safari company or airline.
4. Q: How long is the flight to the Kogatende Airstrip? A: The length of the flight depends on your starting location, but it typically takes around 1-2 hours from cities like Arusha or Dar es Salaam.
5. Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Serengeti? A: The best time to visit the Serengeti is during the dry season from June to October. This is when the wildebeest migration takes place, and you’ll have the best chance of seeing large herds of animals.
6. Q: What types of animals can I see in the Serengeti? A: The Serengeti is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and more. It’s also a great place to see birds, with over 500 species recorded in the park.