Nyabogati Hippo Pool is a small man-made dam on the way to Fort Ikoma from Seronera in the Serengeti National Park. It is inhabited by a group of hippos known as a “bloat.” The dam is part of the Nyabogati river and is made of concrete, making it a bridge in the dry season, which may overflow with river water when it rains. It is easily recognizable as the only pool on the road, with a notable greenish color and a distinct smell caused by hippo excrement.
There is a viewpoint with a turning point on the right-hand side of the road after crossing the bridge when heading to Fort Ikoma, where visitors can safely view the hippos from their own car. The hippo pool is quite distant from the nearest towns of Lobo or Seronera, making it a well-deserved break for many after traversing the Serengeti roads.
The Nyabogati Hippo Pool is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Located in the central part of the park, this pool is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in observing hippos in their natural habitat.
Location of the Nyabogati Hippo Pool
Located in the northwestern part of Serengeti National Park in Northern Tanzania,when you are heading to Fort Ikoma from Seronera, central Serengeti in Northern Tanzania.
Getting to Nyabogati Hippo Pool
The Nyabogati Hippo Pool is located about 60 kilometers north of Seronera, the main visitor center in the Serengeti National Park. Visitors can reach the pool by car or safari vehicle, but it is important to note that the roads can be rough and bumpy.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is any time of the year, but the early months may enable visitors to see the wildebeest migration as well. It is recommended to have a 4×4 vehicle if intending to explore the Serengeti plains extensively during the rainy season.
The Hippo Pool
The Nyabogati Hippo Pool is a shallow pond surrounded by grassy plains and acacia trees. As the name suggests, it is home to a large number of hippopotamuses, which can often be seen lounging in the water during the day.
Watching the Hippos
Watching the hippos at the Nyabogati Hippo Pool is a unique experience that visitors to the Serengeti should not miss. The best time to see the hippos is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when they are most active.
Visitors can watch the hippos from a safe distance on the banks of the pond, but it is important to remember that hippos can be dangerous and visitors should not get too close.
Other Wildlife in the Area
The Nyabogati Hippo Pool is not just home to hippos. Visitors can also see a variety of other wildlife in the area, including crocodiles, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
Other Attractions in the Vicinity
There are several other attractions in the vicinity of the Nyabogati Hippo Pool that visitors may find interesting. These include:
- Retima Hippo Pool: A larger hippo pool located downstream on the same river
- Fort Ikoma: An old German fort that was used during the colonial period, now a museum
- Masai Mara: A wildlife reserve located just across the border in Kenya, home to the famous Masai Mara migration
- Grumeti Reserves: A private wildlife reserve located to the west of the Serengeti, home to some of the rarest and most endangered animals in Africa.
Accommodation
There are several lodges and campsites located near the Nyabogati Hippo Pool that offer accommodation for visitors to the Serengeti National Park. These include:
- Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
- Kirawira Serena Camp
- Grumeti Migration Camp
FAQs
- Is it safe to watch the hippos at the Nyabogati Hippo Pool? Yes, it is safe to watch the hippos from a distance, but visitors should not get too close to the animals.
- What is the best time to visit the Nyabogati Hippo Pool? The best time to visit the pool is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the hippos are most active.
- What other wildlife can be seen at the Nyabogati Hippo Pool? Visitors can see a variety of wildlife in the area, including crocodiles, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
In conclusion, the Nyabogati Hippo Pool is a must-see destination for any visitor to the Serengeti National Park. With its greenish color and notable smell caused by hippo excrement, it is not hard to spot on the road. The pool offers visitors a unique opportunity to view hippos in their natural habitat, and with several other attractions in the vicinity, visitors can make a day of it. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a break from the dusty roads of the Serengeti, Nyabogati Hippo Pool is a destination you cannot afford to miss.